CHAPTER VI
THE KING'S GIFTS
When I awoke I was in mine own sleeping room, undressed and in bed. My servant was standing by my bedside. The sun was shining into my room, and it was evidently well on in the day. I had to think for some moments before I could tell where I was. Then it all came to me like a flash of light. I remembered that terrible ride; kneeling at the King's feet, and from that moment everything was a blank.
I asked my servant what hour it was.
"Upon the stroke of three, sir," he replied.
"Is Sir Frederick Harleston yet stirring?"
"I think not, sir."
"Go call him, and ask him to breakfast with me, in my sitting room."
I dressed myself as quickly as my stiff limbs would permit, and soon Sir Frederick joined me at breakfast.
Whilst we were yet at our meal a page brought us word that the King did desire to see us in his apartments. We hastily followed the messenger and soon found ourselves in the presence of his Majesty, who did receive us most cordially.