Riding by his side was an elderly personage, whom Juliana at once proclaimed to be Sir John Strangways. Charles regarded him with great interest, for he was a perfect specimen of an old Cavalier--his attire, hat, doublet, hose, and boots belonging to the days of his majesty's grandsire, James I. Turning his horse's head towards them, Charles awaited the approach of the pair, while Careless placed himself on his majesty's left. On being presented to the king by Colonel Wyndham, Sir John Strangways uncovered his white flowing locks, and bowed reverently. "I am glad to see you, Sir John," cried Charles. "Had it been safe for me to do so, I would have ridden up to your house." "I should have been greatly honoured by the visit, my liege," replied the old Cavalier. "But I would not have you incur any risk on my account. I render thanks to Heaven that you are in safety, and I pray that you may speedily be delivered from your enemies. Colonel Wyndham has explained your majesty's wishes, and it deeply grieves me that I am unable to procure a vessel to convey you to France. All the ship-masters whom I knew at Weymouth and Poole have been banished for their loyalty. Those left are rebels and Roundheads. Some trustworthy man may possibly be found at Lyme, but I have no acquaintance there, and might do your majesty more harm than good by making inquiries. Colonel Wyndham can serve you far better than I can." "It would seem so, Sir John," rejoined Charles, coldly; "and I shall therefore rely upon him." "I pray your majesty not to attribute my non-compliance with your wishes to want of zeal," said Sir John. "I dare not promise more than I may be able to perform, but I am quite ready to obey your behests." "I have no commands to give, Sir John," said Charles, still more coldly. "Colonel Wyndham led me to believe you had the power to assist me, but I find he was in error." "I have the will, but not the power, my liege. I can offer you a secure asylum at Melbury." "I am already provided with a secure asylum," said the king. "Possibly your majesty may require funds. I have brought with me three hundred broad pieces--all I have in my coffers." And as he spoke he took a leather bag from his saddle-bow. "Put back the bag, Sir John," said Charles. "I do not require the money." And he made a movement as if about to depart. "For Heaven's sake stay, my gracious liege, and say something kind to him," whispered Juliana to the king. "You will break the old man's heart if you depart thus. I will answer for it that he is devoted to your majesty." "Well, perhaps, I have been too easily moved," replied Charles in the same low tone. "I have bethought me, Sir John," he added to him. "I may need this money, and I will therefore borrow it from you. Take the bag, Careless. That you are sincere in your professions of zeal I nothing doubt, but I now want energetic action."