“On the Pretender’s business,” said Hilary sharply.
“I did not say so,” replied Sir Henry quietly. “But come, suppose we two enemies, in a political sense, leave off fencing and come, down to the matter of fact. Hilary, my boy, I am very grateful to you for your reticence the other day. You saved my life.”
“I am very glad I served you, Sir Henry; but I hope I shall never be placed in such a situation again. If I am, sir, I shall be obliged to give you up.”
“From a stern sense of duty,” said Sir Henry laughing. “Well, now I want to serve you in turn, Hilary. What can I do for you?”
“Have me immediately set at liberty, Sir Henry.”
“Ah! there you ask an impossibility, my boy. You know what you are supposed to have discovered?”
“Yes.”
“And if you are set at liberty you will of course bring the Kestrel abreast of a certain part of the shore and land your men?”
“Of course.”
“Then is it likely, my dear boy, that these people here will give you the opportunity? No; I am ready to help you in remembrance of old days; and if you will give your word of honour as a gentleman not to go more than five hundred yards in any direction from this old place I dare say I can get for you that length of tether.”