"But that I knew Sir Aymer de Lacy and Sir Ralph de Wilton to be loyal subjects of Edward the Fifth, so long as he be King of England, I should be obliged to commit you both to yonder tower," said the stern, calm voice of the Duke of Gloucester behind them. Both Knights sprang to their feet and uncovered. De Wilton was confused and could make no reply. De Lacy, however, was not so easily disconcerted and, despite the censure in the words, he felt that they were not grave offenders. "If an honest desire to see the Duke of Gloucester King of England be a crime," he answered, bowing low, "then we both are guilty. Yet plead we in clemency, that we shall follow only where the White Boar leads." The severe lines of Richard's mouth relaxed a trifle. "Let me caution you," he said, and the chill was gone from his voice, "talk not treason so publicly; even stones have ears at times. I go now to the Council; await me here or in the inner chapel." "What think you of it?" asked De Wilton. "Enough to make me glad I refused your wager; there is something brewing." "Whatever it be I hope it will come quickly," said Sir Ralph with half a sigh. "This is not like the old days when Edward held his state here. Many is the time I have seen this great place bright with women's faces and ringing with their laughter; the ramparts crowded, and scarce a shady seat but held a fair dame and gallant lover. Where are now the sweet voices and the swishing gowns? Gone--maybe, forever; Elizabeth is in sanctuary a mile up yonder stream, and Edward is too young to mate at present." "Perchance the Duchess of Gloucester may come here and revive it all." De Wilton shook his head. "Richard seems to have small love for this old pile of stone; and besides he ceases to be Lord Protector when the King is crowned." "In truth!" exclaimed De Lacy. "What then will he be?" "Duke of Gloucester and uncle to His Majesty." The two men looked at each other and smiled. Neither had observed an elderly Knight in dusty riding dress and long boots hurrying down the courtyard, until he had passed them; then De Lacy sprang up and hastened after. "Sir John de Bury," he called; "stop and speak to a friend." The other whirled around. "De Lacy!" he exclaimed; "by St. Luke, I am overjoyed to see you, I seek the Duke--get me an audience at once." "Come," said Aymer, and they hastened to the White Tower. Just as they reached the upper landing the door of the great council chamber opened and Gloucester came out, followed by Buckingham. "Ha, De Bury! what brings you in such haste?" Richard demanded. "What is amiss in the North?" "It may be much and it may be little, so please you," said Sir John, removing his bonnet and bowing slightly. "Follow me," said the Duke, and descending to the second floor they entered the small room next the chapel, leaving De Lacy on guard without.