But with this knee you have given me, I shall be fitter for garrison than field-duty--damn it.' 'You do not mean that his majesty has declared open war against the parliament ?' exclaimed Richard.
'Faithless puritan, I do,' answered Scudamore.

'His majesty has at length--with reluctance, I am sorry to hear--taken up arms against his rebellious subjects.

Land will be cheap by-and-by.' 'Many such rumours have reached us,' returned Richard, quietly.

'The king spares no threats; but for blows--well!' 'Insolent fanatic!' shouted Vaughan, 'I tell you his majesty is on his way from Scotland with an army of savages; and London has declared for the king.' Richard and his mare simultaneously quickened their pace.
'Then it is time you were in bed, Mr Scudamore, for my mare and I will be wanted,' he cried.

'God be praised! I thank you for the good news.