"Events have been stirring in the Low Country," said I, "as your lordship will be aware. The whole of the North is disaffected against his Majesty. It needs but to land," I said, "and your lordship knows what might happen."
"I think, sir, we were to come to quarters," said Jeffreys, in a low voice, but still in his imperious way.
Well, if he would take it, he was to have it then and there. "The Prince," says I, whispering, "is already landed."
He started before my eyes, but recovering himself, "I have had runners from Plymouth this afternoon," he said, "and there was no news of import."
"Nay," said I, "'tis not from Plymouth I come, my lord."
"If I were to ask you whence—" he began, after a pause.
"You would remember, my lord, ere you did so, that I have not yet delivered my message, and thus have had no reply," I said.
"You remind me of my duty," he exclaimed sternly. "Deliver this message, for I can tarry no longer."
"My lord," said I, "I would have come to it sooner were it not for your distrust. I am charged by the Prince himself, no less. I have ridden all day upon a circuit. Three noblemen were named, and your lordship also. The Prince lies on English soil to-night, and would confer with these four faithful subjects."