"Let me tell you of these Stuarts," I cried. "Let me relate to you what Charles I. and Charles II., as well as James II., have done for England."
I spoke eagerly; I told of the profligacy of the Stuart court, of the wanton extravagance, and of the corruption of the race. I had proceeded but a little way in my story, however, when I heard a quick footstep outside the door, and immediately after an old man stood in the room.
"Is anything the matter, Adam?" cried Mistress Nancy.
"Yes, dear lady," answered he; "Colman Killigrew, his son Otho, and others are nearing the house."
CHAPTER XXIII. IN WHICH IT IS SHOWN THAT UNCLE ANTHONY WAS MORE THAN A DROLL.
As may be imagined, Adam's message excited me much. What purpose had Colman Killigrew in coming to Restormel so late at night? And Otho, what was the meaning of his being present? Had either of them any suspicion of my whereabouts? For myself I had but little fear, but what of Nancy?
I looked eagerly into her face, but she was perfectly calm and composed. Evidently she knew no fear.
"Can you think of their reasons for coming?" I asked.