"I do not dislike them for adhering to the old religion," said Charles.
"Besides Chillington, they have another seat called White Ladies," pursued the earl. "Your majesty will understand what Boscobel is like when I mention that it is a secluded recusant's house, full of priests' hiding-places, so wonderfully contrived, that none concealed within them were ever discovered. I felt perfectly safe there."
"A good place of refuge, no doubt," remarked Charles. "'Tis well to know of it. But here come the Giffards."
As he spoke, the two brothers were ushered in by Careless. Both were handsome, stalwart young men, and their good looks and manly bearing very favourably impressed the king. A strong family resemblance existed between them. They were fully armed, as were all gentlemen at that distracted time. The king accorded them a most gracious reception.
"I am glad to see you, gentlemen," he said. "And since you have come to Worcester, I must, perforce, detain you till after the battle. I want recruits—above all, such recruits as you."
"We have come to offer our services to your majesty," replied Captain Giffard.
"I accept them," said Charles. "You shall serve under Lord Derby."
"Your majesty has anticipated the request we were about to prefer," observed Charles Giffard.
"My Lord of Derby," said the king to the earl, "you must take up your quarters here. For many reasons I desire to have you with me." The earl bowed, and Charles turned to the two Giffards and said: "Gentlemen, you will likewise find quarters here. The kindness and hospitality shown by you to Lord Derby demand some return. Nay, nay, good sirs, you will not incommode me. The house is large, and has plenty of rooms within it. Major Careless will see you comfortably bestowed."
It need scarcely be said that this gracious proposition was gladly accepted—indeed, it could not be declined. The Earl of Derby and the two Giffards were lodged that night in the old mansion in New-street with the king.