CHAPTER V.
"Monarch and ministers, are awful names: Whoever wear them, challenge our devoir." YOUNG.
Our plan does not require an elaborate description of the residence of Sir Wycherly.

The house had been neither priory, abbey, nor castle; but it was erected as a dwelling for himself and his posterity, by a Sir Michael Wychecombe, two or three centuries before, and had been kept in good serviceable condition ever since.

It had the usual long, narrow windows, a suitable hall, wainscoted rooms, battlemented walls, and turreted angles.

It was neither large, nor small; handsome, nor ugly; grand, nor mean; but it was quaint, respectable in appearance, and comfortable as an abode.
The admirals were put each in possession of bed-chambers and dressing-rooms, as soon as they arrived; and Atwood was _berthed_ not far from his commanding-officer, in readiness for service, if required.
Sir Wycherly was naturally hospitable; but his retired situation had given him a zest for company, that greatly increased the inborn disposition.

Sir Gervaise, it was understood, was to pass the night with him, and he entertained strong hopes of including his friend in the same arrangement.