The enamoured earl, therefore, felt at liberty to devote himself exclusively to the object of his affections. To enjoy greater freedom, the young pair separated themselves from the troop, and pursued their course along the turf that skirted the road--halting, occasionally, to gaze at the sea. Attracted by Dunstanborough Castle, they galloped towards the grand old ruin, and after a brief survey of the gateway and towers were hastening back across the plain, when Anna's horse stumbled and fell. Before the earl could dismount and come to her assistance, she had regained her feet, but her horse had sprained his shoulder so badly that he could scarcely move. Deeming it the best thing that could be done, Lord Derwentwater proposed to ride as quickly as he could after the party, and bring back another horse for her. “Dare you remain here alone till I return?” he said. “I am not in the slightest degree afraid,” she replied. “I shall not be away many minutes,” he cried, dashing off at full speed. By this time, the party had disappeared, but he soon overtook them, and in less than five minutes returned with one of Lord Widdrington's grooms. But Anna was not there. The poor disabled horse had never stirred from the spot. But its mistress was gone. Lord Derwentwater gazed anxiously in every direction, but could see nothing of her. Thinking she might have gone to the castle, he hurried thither, followed by the groom, dashed through the gateway, and through an inner gate into the court. Here he gazed distractedly around, but could see no one. Nor was any answer returned to his cries. V.--HOW THE PRINCE WAS LODGED IN THE OLD FORTRESS. |Meanwhile, the prince and his attendants had proceeded tranquilly on their way to Bamborough Castle, which is not more than an hour's ride from Dunstanborough. But nearly double that time was consumed on the present occasion, for the prince made several halts, being greatly struck by the imposing aspect and commanding position of the old stronghold. No uneasiness was felt at the non-appearance of the earl and his betrothed. It was known that an accident had befallen the young lady's horse--and all were aware that a groom had gone back with his lordship to Dunstanborough--but no importance was attached to this circumstance. On his arrival at Bamborough the prince was ceremoniously received by Mr. Forster who had ridden on in advance with Dorothy. He was first ushered into the hall of the modern mansion which was thronged with servants, who bowed reverently as he appeared, and everything looked so cheerful and comfortable, and so like the abode of a country squire--all the doors were wide open--there were so many dogs about--and such an air of free and easy hospitality pervaded the place--that he would fain have taken up his quarters there, had it been judged prudent.