"My lord, when did you last see Roger Fuller?"
Shrewsbury shivered; he stammered painfully.
"I—I—do not know—the fellow——"
"I take your word, my lord," said William gravely.
He dropped his sword, and laid his hand with a gentle dignity on the young man's heaving shoulder.
"Remember I trust you," he added quietly.
"Sir," cried Shrewsbury, through pale lips—"what is your meaning—do you think——"
"I think that you are a man of honour," said William. "You have given me your word, and I trust you. Remember it."
"Your Majesty," began the Duke wildly, "I never meant——"
"Hush," interrupted the King. "I know nothing. Take care of your health, my lord."