at I intended to do. I wanted a friend to advise me."

"And you have found one, Beverley. I owe my life to you, and I will
repay the debt as far as is in my power. You must not conceal your name
to your sovereign; the very name of Beverley is a passport; but the son
of Colonel Beverley will be indeed welcomed. Why, the very name will be
considered as a harbinger of good fortune. Your father was the best and
truest soldier that ever drew sword; and his memory stands unrivalled
for loyalty and devotion. We are near to the end of our journey; yonder
is the steeple of Bolton church. The old ladies will be out of their
wits when they find that they have a Beverley under their roof."

Edward was much delighted at this tribute paid to his father's memory,
and the tears more than once started into his eyes as Chaloner renewed
his praise.

Late in the evening they arrived at Portlake, a grand old mansion,
situated in a park crowded with fine old timber. Chaloner was
recognised as they rode up the avenue by one of the keepers, who
hastened forward to announce his arrival; and the domestics had opened
the door for them before they arrived at it. In the hall they were met
by the old ladies, who expressed their delight at seeing their nephew,
as they had had great fear that something had happened to him.

"And something did very nearly happen to me," replied Chaloner, "had it
not been for the timely assistance of my friend here, who,
notwithstanding his Puritan attire, I hardly need tell you is a Cavalier
devoted to the good cause, when I state that he is the son of Colonel
Beverley, who fell at Naseby with my good father."

"No one can be more welcome, then," replied the old ladies, who extended
their hands to Edward. They then went into a sitting-room, and supper
was ordered to be sent up immediately.

"Our horses will be well attended to, Edward," said Chaloner; "we need
not any longer look after them ourselves. And now, good aunts, have you
no letters for me?"

"Yes, there are several; but you had better eat first."

"Not so; let me have the letters; we can read them before supper, and
talk them over when at table."

One of the ladies produced the letters, which Chaloner, as he read them,
handed over to Edward for his perusal. They were from General
Middleton, and some other friends of Chaloner's who were with the army,
giving him information as to what was going on, and what their prospects
were supposed t