"In that case, your majesty must have slept for six or seven hours, for it is now not far from eight o'clock," replied Dick. I trust you feel refreshed."
"I feel equal to any amount of exertion," cried Charles, springing to his feet. "But what news do you bring me?"
"Not very good, my liege," replied Dick. "You must not go to Boscobel. Colonel Bloundel is still there."
"But I cannot pass the night here," cried Charles.
"I do not mean you should, my liege, I propose to take you to my cottage, Hobbal Grange, where I will try to lodge you, in my humble way."
"Hark ye, Dick, a plan has occurred to me while I have been here. I will try to get into Wales, where I have many subjects of proved loyalty. Once at Swansea, I can easily find means of embarking for France. Can you guide me to any place where I may safely cross the Severn?"
"At Madeley there is a bridge. It is about seven miles distant."
"Only seven miles!" exclaimed Charles. "Then I will go to Madeley to-night after refreshing myself at thy cottage."
"As your majesty pleases. But I am sorry you mean to abandon Boscobel."
"I may go there yet," said Charles.