The falconer then retired, and Colonel Lane turned to bid Careless good morning—glancing significantly at the same time at the king, who stood respectfully aside with his cap in his hand.
"Maybe you don't know me, colonel," said Charles, with an awkward bow.
"Oh! yes, I know thee well enough, Will," replied Colonel Lane. "Thou art David Jones's son, and my sister's new groom. I hope thou wilt serve her well. Put down thy portmanteau and come with me to the stables."
Charles obeyed, and followed Colonel Lane and the others to the stables, which were very large, but there were not many horses in the stalls. Lutwyche came forward as his master entered with the others. He stared when he saw the king in his groom's attire, and a cunning smile lighted up his hard features.
"This is Will Jones, my sister's new groom, Lutwyche," said the colonel. "Explain to him what he will have to do."
"I should guess he has not had much experience, colonel," replied the old groom with a grin. "Mistress Jane, I understand, is going to Bristol, but she has not yet told me which horse she will ride. Her favourite steed has not been right since she returned from Worcester. She can't take him. The horse that came in last night is strong enough to carry double, and I think would do very well."
"Ay, he is a good horse," replied the colonel, in a doubtful tone. "But there are some objections to him."
"I don't see 'em," said the groom. "I wish your honour would just look at him. I fancy he did some hard work yesterday, but he seems quite fresh this morning."
The whole party then went to look at the horse, and he certainly seemed to deserve the groom's praises.
As Charles went into the stall and patted him, the horse turned round and whinnied gently, as if in recognition.