And she struggled to get free, but the king held her fast.
At this juncture an interruption was offered by loud roars of laughter proceeding from a couple of troopers standing at the kitchen-door. Having approached unawares, they had witnessed the occurrence, and were highly diverted by it. On beholding them Bridget instantly calmed down, and the king released her. The troopers then stepped into the kitchen, and the cook having set the jack going again, asked them what they wanted.
"We have come in search of this young man," said one of them, designating Charles. "We thought he might be a malignant, or, as you would say, a Cavalier in disguise, but we now think we must be mistaken."
"He a Cavalier!" exclaimed Bridget, scornfully, "no more a Cavalier than I am. Go about your business directly, or I'll spoil your red coats."
And she flourished the greasy ladle menacingly.
"Nay, nay, good Bridget," said Charles, trying to appease her. "Treat them civilly; they have found out their mistake. Draw them a jug of ale. They may give us trouble," he added, in a whisper.
This consideration brought the cook to reason, and she left the kitchen, and presently returned with a foaming jug of ale. During her absence the troopers had seated themselves at a table, and as it was clear they would not depart without some refreshment, Bridget went back for some cold meat and bread, while Charles poured out the ale. By the time they had finished the cold meat the hot joint was ready, and they insisted on having a few slices. Bridget did not dare to refuse, and was also obliged to draw them another jug of ale. Charles waited upon them and pleased them so much by his attention, that they went away at last declaring he was a very honest young man, and had nothing of a malignant about him.
Shortly afterwards, Mr. Tombs entered the kitchen, accompanied by Jane Lane. Great consternation had been caused by the visit of the troopers, but as the men conducted themselves so quietly and made no disturbance, Mr. Tombs hoped they might be got rid of without any interference on his part. At last he yielded to Jane's entreaties, and they went to the kitchen together, and were greatly relieved by finding that the enemy had departed.
"Look here, sir," cried Bridget, "here's a joint to send to table! But it's not my fault. The rogues forced me to carve it for them."