"He knows you, Will Jones," remarked Lutwyche.
"Ay, that's plain enough," replied the king. Then turning to Colonel Lane, he added, "Your honour seems to have some objections to this horse, or I would make bold to recommend him for the journey. Were I allowed the choice, I should prefer him to any other horse in the stable."
"Well, since you like him so much, Will, e'en take him," said the colonel. "My sister ought to have been consulted on the point, but I have no doubt she will be content."
"Here comes the fair lady herself," cried Lord Wilmot, as Jane entered the stable.
While saluting the rest of the party, she looked round for the king, and discovering him, greeted him with a smile.
Charles then came out of the stall, and making a rustic bow, inquired whether she had any commands for him.
"I am glad to find thou hast arrived safely, Will," she said. "But I have no special orders to give thee, except that thou must be ready to start soon after breakfast."
"I shall be ready at any moment you may require me," replied Charles.
"Will this horse suit you, Jane?" asked her brother.
"Perfectly," she replied. "I have been admiring him ever since I came into the stable. Since I cannot have my favourite steed, this will make an excellent substitute. Where did you procure him?"