Still, the position was a very trying one, especially since the Jacobite army began to gather in force round Limerick.
She now felt that her troubles were comparatively over.

The troops caused no annoyance, and she heard but little of them, while she found in Captain Davenant and his officers pleasant guests.

The troops, on their part, were well satisfied.

Mrs.Conyers gave instructions that they were to be supplied with all they needed, and their rations of bread and meat were supplemented with many little comforts and luxuries from the house.
While Mrs.Conyers entertained the two elder officers, Walter naturally fell to the share of her daughter, and the two soon became great friends, wandering in the grounds, and sometimes riding together when Walter was not engaged with the troop.

The news came daily of the movements of William's army, and when it approached, Captain Davenant's troop went far out to observe its movements, and obtain an accurate idea of its strength.
It was late in the evening when they returned, and Captain Davenant said at supper: "This is our last meal with you, Mrs.Conyers.We leave at daybreak, and a few hours afterwards William's army will arrive before Limerick.