So it was settled, and in twenty minutes after they were in their saddles, and away beyond sight of the house, listening to the _hooha-ha-ha-ha_, the whistle and the whoop. CHAPTER FIFTY FOUR. A GLITTERING COHORT. It was getting late in the afternoon when a party of horsemen, numbering about two hundred, commenced the ascent of Cat's Hill, going in the direction of Ruardean. Soldiers they were, in scarlet doublets, elaborately laced; their standard flag, with the Royal arms in its field, and a crown upon the peak of its staff, proclaiming them in the service of the king. That it was no common cavalry troop could be told by other distinctive symbols. Beside the three or four subalterns in their places along the line, half a score other officers were at its head; in gorgeous uniforms, and with hats grandly plumed, as on the personal staff of a general. And such were they; the rank and file rearward being his escort. No ordinary general either, but the commander-in-chief of the King's armies--Prince Rupert himself. His own garb in splendour outshone all; a blaze of jewels and gold, from the _aigrette_ in his hat to the spurs upon his heels--costume more befitting court than camp. But he was not now on any war expedition; instead, on the way to seek conquest of other kind than by the sword. It was the day succeeding that night of revelry at his quarters in Bristol; and the words there exchanged between him and Colonel Lunsford will explain his presence on the Cat's Hill, with face turned towards Ruardean. For in that direction also lay Hollymead House whither he was proceeding. Quick work and a rapid ride had he made of it; evincing the strong passion of fancy with which the "bit of saucy sweetness" had inspired him. Lunsford was with him, by his side; the two some lengths in the lead, and apart from the others, conversing as they rode on. "You think, _mein_ Colonel," said the Prince, interrogatively, "we shall find the _frauleins_ at home this time!" "Pretty sure of it, your Highness. Since the Goodrich ferryman heard of their being at Hollymead yesterday, it's scarcely probable they can have taken departure since." "But the news from Monmouth will have reached them. How about that?" "It will affect them somewhat, I dare say. Still, Master Powell is not a man to be easily frightened. As your Highness will be aware, Ruardean is not under the Monmouth Commissioners. Sir John Wintour on the Gloucester side, is the one Powell has most reason to apprehend a visit from. And as he will know of Sir John's being held in check by Massey, he won't be much alarmed, just yet. Still, no doubt, he'll be for moving back again to Gloucester; though not in such hot haste, but that your Highness will have an opportunity of holding speech with him." "_Gott_! Sir Thomas; that should be the reverse of pleasant, from what you've told me about the old Roundhead's tongue. He may give it me as he did yourself."