“Hadst thou but told this gentleman, my good and honoured friend, that the hand that brought thee to such a pass was Hildebrand Clifford’s,” resumed Hildebrand, “thou hadst been safe in Neville Grange, Sir Edgar. But, never care, Sir: all will go well now.” “I knew neither his name, nor thine, my friend,” answered Sir Edgar, pressing his hand. “Mine I have told thee,” said Hildebrand. “This worthy cavalier is Sir Walter Raleigh.” At these words, both Sir Edgar and Evaline, in spite of the conflicting feelings by which they were agitated, turned a glance of earnest curiosity on the face of Hildebrand’s companion; and, by the respect manifested in their looks, showed that fame had truly reported to them, in common with the world at large, the honourable reputation of that distinguished name. And the man whom suspicion had regarded as a paltry adventurer, or insinuated to be a spy, with whom no person of character could safely associate, was the friend and companion of Sir Walter Raleigh--one of the chief luminaries of the age. A glow of pride suffused itself over Evaline’s cheek, as if she had received a personal honour, apart from the share in the passing scene, in such a vindication of Hildebrand; and when Sir Walter advanced to accost her, she made a step forward to meet him, and presented him her hand unasked. “Things cannot but go well,” said Sir Walter, pressing her hand in his, “with so noble a lady, and so honourable a knight.” “Will there be much delay, Sir?” asked Evaline, anxiously. “Will there be any?” said Sir Edgar. “It may be all arranged to-morrow,” answered Sir Walter. “Our friend here has, in the presence of two credible witnesses, made oath to a statement in my hands, which quite clears up the whole affair. But should there be any impediment in respect to Master Shedlock, who, I fear me, bears thee no good will, I will undertake to overrule it, and set thee at large on mine own responsibility. Furthermore, I will lay a true report of the matter before the Lord-Treasurer, and put a stop to all farther proceedings.” “Oh, thank you! thank you!” murmured Evaline.