Among the rest Sir Norman observed Hubert, lying very much at his ease wrapped in his cloak, on the ground, and chatting languidly with a pert and pretty attendant of the fair Mistress Stuart.

He cut short his flirtation, however, abruptly enough, and sprang to his feet as he saw Sir Norman, while George immediately darted off and disappeared from the palace.
"Am I late Hubert ?" said his hurried questioner, as he drew the lad's arm within his own, and led him off out of hearing.
"I think not.

The count," said Hubert, with laughing emphasis, "has not been visible since he entered yonder doorway, and there has been no message that I have heard of.

Doubtless, now that George has arrived, the message will soon be here, for the royal procession starts within half an hour." "Are you sure there is no trick, Hubert?
Even now he may be with Leoline!" Hubert shrugged his shoulders.
"He maybe; we must take our chance for that; but we have his royal word to the contrary.

Not that I have much faith in that!" said Hubert.
"If he were king of the world instead of only England," cried Sir Norman, with flashing eyes, "he shall not have Leoline while I wear a sword to defend her!" "Regicide!" exclaimed Hubert, holding up both hands in affected horror.
"Do my ears deceive me?
Is this the loyal and chivalrous Sir Norman Kingsley, ready to die for king and country--" "Stuff and nonsense!" interrupted Sir Norman, impatiently.