When the presentation had taken place, Colonel Wyndham remarked:
"Major Careless brings us very good news. The rumour we have heard of the king's death at Worcester is utterly unfounded. His majesty is safe and well."
"I can vouch for that, since I only left him this morning," added Careless.
Joyful exclamations arose from all. Juliana clapped her hands together, and called out:
"I knew it! I knew the king was safe. Nothing would persuade me to the contrary. And I am just as sure now that he will escape his enemies, and regain the throne."
"His majesty will be delighted to find he has such a zealous partisan," observed Careless, smiling at her vivacity. "You must give him the assurance from your own lips."
"I should like to have an opportunity of doing so," she rejoined.
"Then your wish will be speedily gratified, Juliana," said Colonel Wyndham. "You will very soon have an opportunity of conversing with the king."
His wife and Lady Wyndham were greatly surprised by the announcement, and questioned him as to its meaning by their looks; but Juliana called out:
"You are jesting with me, Frank."