Old Rowlie has taken rather a fancy to me," said the boy speaking with the same easy familiarity of his majesty as he would of a lap-dog.

"And what is better, so has Mistress Stewart--so much so, that Heaven forefend the king should become jealous.

This, however, is strictly entre nous, and not to be spoken of on any terms." "Your secret shall be preserved at the risk of my life," said Sir Norman, laying his hand on the left side of his doublet; "and in return, may I ask if you have any relatives living--any sisters for instance ?" "I see! you have a suspicion that the lady in white may be a sister of mine.

Well, you may set your mind at rest on that point--for if she is, it is news to me, as I never saw her in my life before tonight.

Is she a particular friend of yours, Sir Norman ?" "Never you mind that, my dear boy; but take my advice, and don't trouble yourself looking for her; for, most assuredly, if you find her, I shall break your head!" "Much obliged," said Hubert, touching his cap, "but nevertheless, I shall risk it.