ld in the least.

Sam Donny's wound progressed favourably; but the hospital-room was
occupied as well by three more men, all suffering from cuts and
contusions, caused by the flying chips of stones when a ball struck the
edges of the crenelles.

The routine of the defenders was becoming monotonous, mounting guard,
firing a little, and drilling a great deal; for Ben gave the men no rest
in the way of practising them in the management of their weapons.

The result was that the condition of the garrison improved day by day,
while Lady Royland grew more hopeful as she listened to her son's words.

"It can't last much longer, mother. Either they'll get tired of trying
to drive us out, or some of the king's forces will come and relieve us."

Lady Royland shook her head the first time, but the second, Roy added--

"Look here, mother; the news is sure to reach London that we are being
besieged. Then father will hear it; and do you suppose he will stand
still? Either he will come himself, or see that help is sent."

Roy repeated his encouraging words one day at dinner, in the presence of
the secretary, a full three weeks after the enemy had sat down before
the castle, and Master Pawson laughed and rubbed his hands.

"They must give in," he said. "They'll never take the place."

"Never!" said Roy, triumphantly; "But I say, Master Pawson, I'm going to
ask a favour of you."

"What is it?" said the secretary, eagerly.

"I want you to take a turn at the watch-keeping now and then."

"Keep watch?" said the secretary, staring.

"Yes, just now and then, so as to relieve a man and give the poor fellow
a good sleep."

"Master Pawson will, I am sure," said Lady Royland, gravely. "He has
said that he would do anything he could to help us in our time of need."

"Of course, Lady Royland, of course," he replied, hastily. "I only
hesitated because I am so helpless--such a poor creature over matters
like this."

"It doesn't want anything but to keep awake, and a sharp lookout. You
ought to be able to do that, sir. You've had plenty of sleep lately,
going to bed at nine, and sometimes at eight."

"Yes, I--I often go to bed very soon, Roy. My head seems to require a
great deal of sleep. I suppose it's from studying so much. But I'll
come and keep watch--after to-night. You will not want me to-night?"

"Why not to-night?"

"I don't feel prepared for it. My head is bad, and I fear that I should
not be of much use.