"Colonel Gunter, of course, can be relied upon, or you would not propose him," observed Charles.
"He is thoroughly loyal, exceedingly active, and will spare no pains," said Colonel Philips.
"From my own personal knowledge, my liege, I can confirm this description of George Gunter," added Careless. "Your majesty may depend upon his fidelity."
"Then I place myself in his hands. Make any arrangement with him you please."
"Since your majesty approves the plan, I will set out for Rackton forthwith."
"Nay, thou shalt not depart to-day, Robin," cried the king. "To-morrow will be quite time enough. I must have some further talk with thee. The sight of thy honest face cheers me. Thou shalt lodge in my room."
"Nay, your majesty shall not be put to inconvenience. I can find him a room," remarked Colonel Wyndham.
It was then arranged that Colonel Philips should remain at Trent till the following day. His company was a great pleasure to the king, and helped to dissipate the ennui under which his majesty had been labouring of late. They had some further discussion as to the proposed embarkation from the Sussex coast, and the more he considered the plan the better the king liked it.
That night, Charles supped with the family party in the dining-room, Colonel Philips, of course, being present, and the improvement in his majesty's spirits was noticed by all the ladies. Supper was just over when Harry Peters rushed into the room, with a very anxious countenance, and said that Mr. Meldrum and some of the villagers—notorious fanatics—were coming to search the house immediately. They had witnessed Colonel Philips's arrival, and felt certain he was the king—the report, of his majesty's death at Worcester having been authoritatively contradicted.
On this alarming intelligence, Charles immediately hurried up-stairs to conceal himself in the secret closet, while Colonel Philips and Careless followed more leisurely, and sat down in the king's room. The searchers were not long in making their appearance, and Mr. Meldrum demanded that Charles Stuart should be delivered up to them.