She made no direct reply, but after a moment's pause remarked:
"To-day may prove as eventful to you as yesterday. Has not the prince acquainted you with his intentions?"
"He has told me nothing. I am ordered to attend him after the levée—that is all."
"'Tis to meet my father, who, by his highness's command, will disclose certain matters to you. But pray ask me no more questions. I ought not to have told you so much. You will learn all in good time. And now I must relieve you from this irksome attendance."
"You know very well it is not irksome," he replied, with a look of reproach.
"At all events, you must have other duties to attend to. You have to prepare for the muster of your regiment. Jemmy Dawson is fully occupied, or he would be here with Monica. I really must set you at liberty."
"Pray let me see you safely from the ground?" entreated Atherton.
"Well, I cannot object to that."
Then turning to Monica, she said:
"Are you ready to depart?"