"Rather through the heart, I should say," remarked the king, with a smile.
"Heaven preserve his majesty, and deliver him from his enemies!" exclaimed Father Huddlestone. "May their devices be confounded."
"Amen!" ejaculated Jane Lane, fervently. "Could I communicate with his majesty, I would counsel him to embark for France as speedily as may be."
"Such, I doubt not, is his design," remarked the priest. "But there is danger on every side," he added in a significant tone, and looking at the king as he spoke.
"I have heard no particulars of the battle of Worcester," observed Jasper. "His majesty has escaped, I know, but I would fain learn that his aide-de-camp, Major Careless, is safe."
"Rest easy on that score, Jasper," said the king. "I saw Major Careless this morning."
"Indeed!" exclaimed the page, unable to repress his emotion. "Oh, I am so glad. You have taken a great weight from my breast."
"You appear greatly interested in Major Careless," remarked Charles. "Have you known him long?"
"Only since his majesty arrived in Worcester. I hope I shall see him again."