"What has become of the king since Worcester fight?" inquired the supposed groom.
"Thou canst keep a secret, Will Jones?—ha!"
"Ay, marry, can I," was the answer.
"But swear thou wilt not reveal what I shall disclose to thee."
"If an oath be necessary, I swear to keep silence."
"Then learn that his sacred majesty is in this house. He came here yesterday. I recognised him at once, and let him see that I did so."
"Did he admit his high rank?"
"Not exactly—but he didn't deny it. Thou thyself hast seen him and conversed with him!"
Will Jones expressed his astonishment.
"Yes, he went with thee to the stables this morning."