"Oh, my lord, messengers doubtless have galloped from post to post, and so have gotten before you. But tell me, I pray you," he added, anxiously, "is the king safe?"
"The king is here," replied the earl. "Come with me and you shall see him."
So saying he opened the door of a parlour panelled with dark oak, and fitted up with oak furniture. Charles was seated in the room, and Lord Wilmot, Captain Giffard, and Careless were with him.
Without any prompting, the huge forester immediately prostrated himself before the king, who gave him his hand to kiss.
"This is William Penderel, sire," observed the earl.
"I do not need the information," replied Charles. "I am right glad to see thee, William. I have already seen two of thy brothers."
"Then your majesty has seen two of your loyal subjects," replied the forester, rising. "We will defend you to the death."
"William Penderel," said the Earl of Derby, in a voice well calculated to impress his hearer, "I know thy fidelity and worth, and have answered for thee and for thy brothers to the king's majesty. A sacred duty now devolves upon you, and take heed you perform it well. You will have the care of the king. He is surrounded by enemies—cunning as foxes in quest of prey. Beware of their wiles and stratagems. Open foes may be guarded against—secret foes are most to be dreaded."
"I and my brothers will strive to guard his majesty against all foes, open and secret," replied William Penderel; "and with Heaven's help I doubt not we shall accomplish his deliverance."
"Help to conceal me—that is all I ask at present," said the king.