"The Queen's barge—in the service of her Majesty," was the reply.
The watchman who carried the lantern satisfied himself that this account was correct, and then asked if he could be of service.
"Tell me, fellow," said he who had landed, "hast seen one pass the bridge to-night astride of two wheels, one before the other, riding post-haste?"
There was a long pause as the watchman sought to comprehend this extraordinary question.
"Come—come!" cried the officer, who had remained on the boat. "Canst not say yes or no, man?"
"Ay, can I, master!" was the reply. "But you had as well ask had I seen a witch riding across the moon on a broomstick. We have no been asleep to dream of flying wheels."
"Well—well!" said he who had landed. "Go you now straight and stand at the bridge head. We shall follow anon."
The watch moved slowly away and Rebecca was helped ashore by the last speaker.
"Our speed hath brought us hither in advance, my lady," he said. "Now shall we doubtless come in before the fugitive."
"Well, I hope so!" said Rebecca. Then, with a smothered cry: "Oh, Land o' Goshen! I've dropped my umbrella!"