hen they determined to separate, and as the major
portion were from Scotland to make what haste they could back to that
country. And now Chaloner and Edward consulted as to their plans.

"It appears to me," said Edward, laughing, "that the danger of this
campaign of ours will consist in getting back again to our own homes;
for I can most safely assert that I have not as yet struck a blow for
the king."

"That is true enough, Beverley. When do you purpose going back to the
New Forest? I think, if you will permit me, I will accompany you," said
Chaloner. "All the pursuit will be to the northward to intercept and
overtake the retreat into Scotland. I cannot therefore go to
Lancashire; and indeed, as they know that I am out, they will be looking
for me everywhere."

"Then come with me," said Edward; "I will find you protection till you
can decide what to do. Let us ride on away from this, and we will talk
over the matter as we go; but depend upon it, the farther south we get
the safer we shall be; but still not safe, unless we can change our
costume. There will be a strict search for the king to the south, as
they will presume that he will try to get safe to France. Hark! What
is that? I heard the report of arms. Let us ride up this hill and see
what is going on."

They did so, and perceived that there was a skirmish between a party of
Cavaliers and some of the Parliamentary cavalry at about a quarter of a
mile distant.

"Come, Chaloner, let us at all events have one blow," said Edward.

"Agreed," replied Chaloner, spurring his horse; and down they went at
full speed, and in a minute were in the _melee_, coming on the rear of
the Parliamentary troops.

This sudden attack from behind decided the affair. The Parliamentary
troopers, thinking that there were wore than two coming upon them, made
off after another minute's combat, leaving five or six of their men on
the ground.

"Thanks, Chaloner thanks, Beverley!" said a voice, which they
immediately recognised. It was that of one of the king's pages. "These
fellows with me were just about to run if you had not come to our aid.
I will remain with them no longer, but join you if you will permit me."

"At all events remain here till they go away--I will send them off."

"My lads, you must all separate, or there will be no chance of escape.
No more than two should ride together. Depend upon it we shall have
more of the troops here directly."

The men, a