Without any prompting, the huge forester immediately prostrated himself before the king, who gave him his hand to kiss. "This is William Penderel, sire," observed the earl. "I do not need the information," replied Charles. "I am right glad to see thee, William. I have already seen two of thy brothers." "Then your majesty has seen two of your loyal subjects," replied the forester, rising. "We will defend you to the death." "William Penderel," said the Earl of Derby, in a voice well calculated to impress his hearer, "I know thy fidelity and worth, and have answered for thee and for thy brothers to the king's majesty. A sacred duty now devolves upon you, and take heed you perform it well. You will have the care of the king. He is surrounded by enemies--cunning as foxes in quest of prey. Beware of their wiles and stratagems. Open foes may be guarded against--secret foes are most to be dreaded." "I and my brothers will strive to guard his majesty against all foes, open and secret," replied William Penderel; "and with Heaven's help I doubt not we shall accomplish his deliverance." "Help to conceal me--that is all I ask at present," said the king. "We have more than one hiding-place at Boscobel," observed Penderel. "I can conceal his lordship as well as your majesty." "Mistake me not, William," said the Earl of Derby. "I shall not tax thy services--nor will any other. Thou must look to the king alone." "I understand your lordship," replied William Penderel; "and I promise you that my sole care shall be bestowed upon his majesty. But let me humbly counsel your lordship and those with you not to tarry here too long. A troop of militia under command of Colonel Bloundel, is quartered at Codsall, which is not more than three miles off, and as soon as they receive news of the battle, they will assuredly search all the houses hereabouts." "Thou art right," replied the earl. "We must not remain here long." At that moment the Duke of Buckingham and Roscarrock entered the room. "We have news for your majesty," said the duke; "news of Leslie." "What of the traitor?" cried Charles, frowning. "He has rallied with the whole of his cavalry on the heath near Tonge Castle," replied Buckingham. "A messenger has just arrived, saying that he waits there to conduct your majesty to Scotland." "What number of men has he with him?" asked Charles. "About three thousand, sire, so the messenger affirms," replied Roscarrock. "Three thousand men might have turned the battle yesterday," said Charles, bitterly. "Let those go with the traitor who list, I will trust him no more. If he would not stand by me when I had an army at my command, of a surety he will not stand by me now that I have none." The tone in which the king spoke showed that his resolution was taken. No one, therefore, attempted to dissuade him from his purpose.