"My watch has stopped," he remarked. "I have neglected to wind it up."
"It has been struck by a bullet," said Careless, examining it. "Look how deeply the case is dinted, sire. This watch has saved your majesty's life."
"Then I will bestow it on the best friend I have," said the king. "Wear it for my sake, Will."
"I will wear it next my heart," was the fervent reply. "Your majesty could not have bestowed upon me a more precious gift."
Just then Lord Wilmot, Colonel Roscarrock, Colonel Blague, and some others came in, and almost started back on seeing how strangely the king was metamorphosed.
"You see, gentlemen, to what a state I am reduced," he observed, with a sad smile. "I must commit these ornaments to your custody," he added.
"I hope we shall soon be able to restore them to your majesty," said Lord Wilmot, who received the George.
"What has been decided?" inquired Charles. "Do you all join Leslie?"
"The majority have so determined," replied Lord Wilmot. "But I shall take another course. Perhaps I may attempt to reach London. I shall not be far from your majesty," he added, in a low tone.
"What is to be done with your horse, my liege?" asked Colonel Lane. "Have you any further occasion for him?"