"I am wholly at a loss to conceive whence your royal highness has obtained this information respecting me," he said, at length.
"No matter how it has been obtained," remarked Charles, sternly. "Is it true?"
"It is correct in the main," replied the baronet. "Although I would gladly be excused from giving any further explanation, I shall be willing to do so at some more convenient opportunity."
"The explanation cannot be deferred," said the prince, authoritatively. "After the levée this morning you shall have a private audience."
"I will not fail to attend upon your royal highness," replied Sir Richard, evidently much relieved.
But his brow again clouded, when the prince said:
"You will be pleased to bring your daughter with you."
"My daughter!" exclaimed the baronet. "She has nothing whatever to do with the explanation I have to offer."
"You have heard my injunction, Sir Richard. Both Miss Rawcliffe and Captain Legh must be present at the audience."
"I make no objection," replied the baronet; "but it pains me to find that I am viewed with suspicion by your royal highness, to whom I have given unquestionable proofs of my zeal and devotion."