ught it better that I should be more prepared to
show you that you may do yourself and me harm, and can do no good to the
king. I will now show you that I do put confidence in you; and if you
will read these letters, they will prove to you that I am correct in
what I assert."

The Intendant handed three letters to Edward, by which it was evident
that all the king's friends in England were of opinion that the time was
not ripe for the attempt, and that it would be only a sacrifice to stir
in the matter; that the Scotch army raised was composed of those who
were the greatest enemies to the king, and that the best thing that
could happen for the king's interest would be that they were destroyed
by Cromwell; that it was impossible for the English adherents of Charles
to join them, and that the Scotch did not wish them so to do.

"You are no politician, Edward," said the Intendant smiling, as Edward
laid the letters down on the table. "You must admit, that in showing
you these letters I have put the utmost confidence in you?"

"You have indeed, sir; and thanking you for having so done, I hardly
need add that your confidence will never be betrayed."

"That I am sure of; and I trust you will now agree with me and my
friends that the best thing is to remain quiet?"

"Certainly, sir, and for the future I will be guided by you."

"That is all I require of you; and after that promise you shall hear all
the news as soon as it arrives. There are thousands who are just as
anxious to see the king on the throne again as you are, Edward--and you
now know that I am one of them; but the time is not yet come, and we
must bide our time. Depend upon it, that General Cromwell will scatter
that army like chaff. He is on his march now. After what has passed
between us this day, Edward, I shall talk unreservedly to you on what is
going on."

"I thank you, sir, and I promise you faithfully, as I said before, not
only to be guided by your advice but to be most secret in all that you
may trust me with."

"I have confidence in you, Edward Armitage; and now we will drop the
subject for the present: Patience and Clara want you to walk with them,
so good-bye for a while."

Edward left the Intendant, much pleased with the interview. The
Intendant kept his word, and concealed nothing from Edward. All turned
out as the Intendant had foretold. The Scotch army was cut to pieces by
Cromwell, and the king retreated to the Highlands; and Edw