g against the King?"

Curiosity made him try to be communicative, and he turned to his silent
companion.

"Think there really will be any fighting?" he said.

Andrew turned to him sharply.

"Why do you ask?" he said.

"Simple reason: because I want to know."

"You have some other reason."

"Because I want to send word to the Prince that you are a rebel, and
intend to go and join the Pretender's followers, of course," said Frank
sarcastically. "Don't be so spiteful, Drew. We can't live here like
this. Why don't you let bygones be bygones?"

"What interest can it be to you?" said Andrew, ignoring the latter part
of his fellow-prisoner's remark.

"Do you suppose such a rising can take place without its being of
interest to every one? There, we won't talk about it unless you like.
Look here, I can't sit still doing nothing; it gives me pins and needles
in my hands and feet. I'll ring and ask Captain Murray to let us have a
draught board if you'll play."

"Pish!" cried Andrew contemptuously; and Frank sighed and gave up again,
to take refuge in staring out of the window for some time.

Then his tongue refused to be quiet, and he cried to his silent
companion:

"There is something going on for certain. I've counted twelve officers
go by since I've been standing here."

There was no heed paid to his remark, and at last the boy drew a breath
full of relief, for he heard steps on the stairs, the sentry's piece
rattled, and then the key turned in the lock, and Captain Murray
entered, looking very stern.

"Frank Gowan," he said, "you give me your _parole d'honneur_ that you
will not do anything foolish in the way of attempting to escape?"

"Oh yes, of course, sir," said the boy. "I don't want to escape."

"That's right. And you, Andrew Forbes?"

"No; I shall make no promises," was the reply.

"Don't be foolish, my lad. You ought to have cooled down by this time.
Give me your word: it will make your position bearable, and mine easy."

"I shall give no promises," said Andrew haughtily. "I have been
arrested, and brought here a prisoner, and I shall act as a prisoner
would."

"Try to escape? Don't attempt to do anything so foolish, my lad. I
will speak out like a friend to you. There has been some important news
brought to the Palace; the guard has been quadrupled in number, double
sentries have been placed, and they would fire at any one attempting to
pass the gates without the word to-night.