"Father Jerome will explain the cause of his absence," she replied. "I had no conversation with him before his departure."
"Then he is gone!" cried Charles, frowning. "I trust your explanation of his strange conduct may prove satisfactory," he added to the priest.
"The step I own appears strange," replied Father Jerome, in a deprecatory tone; "but I trust it may be excused. Sir Richard has gone to Rawcliffe Hall to procure certain documents which he desires to lay before your royal highness."
"But why did he not ask my permission before setting out?" observed Charles, sternly.
"Unquestionably, that would have been the proper course," rejoined the priest. "But I presume he hoped to be back in time."
"He could not have thought so," cried Charles, sharply. "The distance is too great. He shrinks from the interrogations which he knows would be addressed to him. But I will not be trifled with. I will learn the truth. If he does not come I will send a guard for him. I will not detain you longer now, Miss Rawcliffe," he added to Constance. "Possibly, I may require your attendance again, and yours, also, father."
On this intimation Constance made a profound obeisance, and retired with the priest.
As soon as they were gone, the prince's countenance assumed a very singular expression, and he said to Atherton, "What think you of all this?"
"My opinion is that Sir Richard Rawcliffe does not mean to return, and has sent Father Jerome to make these excuses for him," replied Atherton.
"I have come to the same conclusion," replied Charles. "He has set my authority at defiance, but he shall find that I can reach him. You must set out at once for Rawcliffe Hall, and bring him hither."