Page:The Children of the New Forest - 1847 - Marryat.djvu/245

 "Nothing very particular," replied Edward, "I know that General Cromwell is over in Ireland, and they say very successful; but I have cared little for particulars."

"They say a great deal more, Sir," replied Oswald; "they say that the King is in Scotland, and that the Scotch have raised an army for him."

"Indeed!" replied Edward, "that is news indeed! The Intendant has never mentioned it to me."

"I dare say not, Sir; for he knows your feelings, and would be sorry to part with you."

"I will certainly speak to him on the subject," said Edward, "at the risk of his displeasure; and join the army I will, if I find what you say is true. I should hold myself a craven to remain here while the King is fighting for his own, and not to be at his side."

"Well, Sir, I think it is true, for I heard that the Parliament had sent over for General Cromwell to leave Ireland, and lead the troops against the Scotch army."

"You drive me mad, Oswald! I will go to the Intendant immediately!"

Edward, much excited by the intelligence, went into the room where he usually sat with the Intendant. The latter, who was at his desk, looked up, and saw how flushed Edward was, and said very quietly—

"Edward, you are excited, I presume, from hearing the news which has arrived?"

"Yes, Sir, I am very much so; and I regret very much that I should be the last to whom such important news is made known."

"It is, as you say, important news," replied the Intendant; "but if you will sit down, we will talk a little upon the subject."

Edward took a chair, and the Intendant said—

"I have no doubt that your present feeling is to go to Scotland; and join the army without delay?"