"All chance of our gaining London is over," replied Atherton. "The prince has retreated from Derby, and is now returning to Scotland."
"Without a battle?" cried Constance.
"Ay, without a battle," he replied, sadly.
"I can scarcely believe what I hear," cried Monica. "I would rather a sanguinary engagement had taken place than this should have happened."
"The prince was forced to retreat," rejoined Atherton. "The Highland chiefs would proceed no further."
"Will Jemmy retire from the regiment?" cried Monica.
"No, he will proceed with it to Carlisle. I shall go there likewise. I have obtained leave from the prince to pay this hasty visit. I must return in the morning. We may yet have to fight a battle, for it is reported that the Duke of Cumberland is in hot pursuit, and Marshal Wade may cut off our retreat."
"I will not say that all is lost," observed Constance. "But it seems to me that the prince has lost all chance of recovering the throne. His army and his friends will be alike discouraged, and the attempt cannot be renewed."
"Such is my own opinion, I confess," replied Atherton. "Nevertheless, I cannot leave him."
He then addressed himself to Mrs. Butler and Father Jerome, who had been looking anxiously towards him, and acquainted them with the cause of his unexpected return. They were both deeply grieved to hear of the prince's retreat.