Page:The Children of the New Forest - 1847 - Marryat.djvu/279

 you, Master Chaloner, that this attire of mine is not the one which I would wear, if I had my choice."

"I believe that," replied Chaloner; "and I cannot help thinking you are bound north on the same business as myself, which is, I confess to you honestly, to strike a blow for the King. If you are on the same errand, I have two old relations in Lancashire, who are staunch to the cause; and I am going to their house to remain until I can join the army. If you wish it, you shall come with me, and I will promise you kind treatment and safety while under their roof."

"And the names of these relatives of yours, Master Chaloner?" said Edward.

"Nay, you shall have them; for when I trust, I trust wholly. Their name is Conynghame."

Edward took his letters from out of his side pocket, and handed one of them to his fellow traveller. The address was, "To the worthy Mistress Conynghame, of Portlake, near Bolton, county of Lancashire."

"It is to that address that I am going myself," said Edward, smiling. "Whether it is the party you refer to, you best know."

Chaloner burst out with a loud laugh.

"This is excellent! Two people meet, both bound on the same business, both going to the same rendezvous, and for three days do not venture to trust each other."

"The times require caution," replied Edward, as he replaced his letter.

"You are right," answered Chaloner, "and you are of my opinion. I know now that you have both prudence and courage. The first quality has been scarcer with us cavaliers than the last; however, now, all reserve is over, at least on my part."

"And on mine also," replied Edward.

Chaloner then talked about the chances of the war. He stated that King Charles's army was in a good state of discipline, and