"That is well," said the prince. "I owe Captain Legh a large debt of gratitude, and am anxious to pay it. I shall begin by setting him right. That done, I shall use all my influence to effect a reconciliation between—— You understand my meaning, I am quite sure."
"No more on that subject, I implore your highness," she rejoined, blushing deeply.
"I hope I have said enough to prove how much interested I am in the young man, and how anxious I am to promote his happiness," he said. "Why, here he is!" he exclaimed, as Atherton was seen riding towards the spot. "If I had summoned him, he could not have appeared more à propos. I hope Miss Rawcliffe will not continue to look coldly upon him."
"I am bound to obey," she rejoined, demurely.
"I wonder what message he brings me?" remarked the prince.
"I dare say your royal highness could give a shrewd guess," she rejoined, with an almost imperceptible smile.
At this moment Atherton came up, and, removing his hat, delivered a letter to the prince.
"From Lord George Murray," he said, still remaining uncovered.
"'Tis not very important," observed Charles, opening it, and glancing at its contents. "But I am glad you have brought it, since it gives me the opportunity of placing you in attendance upon Miss Rawcliffe, who may want an escort when she quits the ground."
"I shall be charmed with the office," rejoined Atherton; "but I am not sure that Miss Rawcliffe will be equally well pleased."