"But the rain prevented the rebels from searching this wood," observed Dick. "I followed them unobserved, and undoubtedly they were coming hither, but when they found it so wet they gave up the quest, and proceeded to Boscobel." "'Tis strange, indeed!" said Charles, gravely. "I see Heaven's hand in it quite plainly!" ejaculated Elizabeth, crossing herself devoutly; "and so will good Father Huddlestone." "Father Huddlestone!" exclaimed Charles. "You will have to confess to him." "Ah! you need not fear him, sire," cried Elizabeth. "The good priest is devoted to your majesty. He has taught us all to fear God and honour the king." "Father Huddlestone has made us what we are, sire," said Dick. "But we must not tarry here longer. I will come again at night-fall." "Not till then?" cried Charles. "Have you seen aught of Major Careless?" "No, sire," replied Dick. "He has kept out of the way of the rebels. And I must again caution your majesty not to stir forth till I return, as some of the enemy may be lurking about." By this time Elizabeth had packed up her basket, and the pair departed. It was still raining steadily, but cheered by the hearty meal he had made, the king did not heed the discomfort so much as he had previously done. Wrapped in his blanket he couched beneath the trees, and soon fell fast asleep, nor did he awake till he was roused by a voice, and found Trusty Dick Penderel standing near him. "What's the hour, Dick?" he demanded, yawning and stretching himself. "It seems growing dusk. I have slept ever since you left me." "In that case, your majesty must have slept for six or seven hours, for it is now not far from eight o'clock," replied Dick. I trust you feel refreshed." "I feel equal to any amount of exertion," cried Charles, springing to his feet. "But what news do you bring me?" "Not very good, my liege," replied Dick. "You must not go to Boscobel. Colonel Bloundel is still there." "But I cannot pass the night here," cried Charles. "I do not mean you should, my liege, I propose to take you to my cottage, Hobbal Grange, where I will try to lodge you, in my humble way." "Hark ye, Dick, a plan has occurred to me while I have been here. I will try to get into Wales, where I have many subjects of proved loyalty. Once at Swansea, I can easily find means of embarking for France. Can you guide me to any place where I may safely cross the Severn?" "At Madeley there is a bridge. It is about seven miles distant." "Only seven miles!" exclaimed Charles. "Then I will go to Madeley to-night after refreshing myself at thy cottage." "As your majesty pleases. But I am sorry you mean to abandon Boscobel." "I may go there yet," said Charles. They then quitted the coppice and issued forth into the more open part of the forest.