stle
built by William the Conqueror. He conferred it upon Robert de Torri who
took the name de Stafford from whom, as thou dost well ken, our family
hath sprung. Art thou weary, girl?"

"Yes, father, but the journey hath nevertheless been full of delight,"
returned Francis brightly though her drooping body spoke of the fatigue
by which she was almost overcome. "Yet right glad am I that we are come
to Stafford. And on the morrow it may be that I shall see Queen Mary."

"Mayhap, child. But now put from thee all thought save that of rest. Let
the morrow bring what it will, this night shall be devoted to quiet and
repose."

Putting spurs to his horse the tired animal renewed his speed, and they
were soon within the gates of the city.

CHAPTER VI

A GLIMPSE OF MARY

Francis' wish of beholding the Queen of Scots was gratified in a most
unexpected manner.

"Do you remain here, my child," said Lord Stafford the next morning. "I
would behold for myself if what I have heard of Mary's keeper, Sir Amyas
Paulet, be true. If he be not so strict as report hath it, access to Mary
may be easy. I would rather, if it be possible, that the matter be
dispatched without employ of thee."

"But thou wouldst still let me see Mary, father?"

"By my troth, I would. Thou hast well merited it. But now farewell for a
season. When I return we can tell better how to conclude this business."

"My father, what shall I do until thy return? Could I not go forth to the
place where stood the castle of our ancestors? I would fain examine
it."

Lord Stafford hesitated for a moment before replying, and then said
thoughtfully:

"Thou mayst, if thou wilt. I know that I need not tell thee to remember
that though thou dost wear a man's habit thou art still in truth a maid,
and to demean thyself in accordance therewith. But still as thou dost
wear the habit, more of liberty may be given thee than otherwise thou
couldst enjoy. Yes; go to Castle Hill, an thou wishest, but say to none
what and for why we tarry in the town."

"I am thy daughter, sir," said Francis proudly. "Thou dost deem me worthy
to abet thy enterprises. I will so bear myself that thou couldst ask no
more of me than if I were thy son."

"No more," said Lord Stafford smilingly. "Thou leavest me with no regret
that thou art not my son. A son could do no more."

He kissed her and left the chamber. Francis followed after him to the
courtyard of the inn where she stood watching