Their chargers having been brought round, Charles and his suite rode slowly past the front of the line--the prince halting occasionally to make a commendatory remark to the men, who responded to these gratifying observations by enthusiastic shouts. "I am glad the flag of the regiment has been entrusted to you, Syddall," said Charles to the new ensign. "No one, I am sure, could take better care of it." "I will defend it with my life," replied Syddall, earnestly. This hasty inspection finished, Charles quitted the churchyard with his suite, and rode back to his head-quarters. The Manchester Regiment soon followed. Elated by the commendations of the prince, which they flattered themselves were merited, the men marched through the market-place, and past the Exchange to St. Ann's square, in tolerably good order, and in high good humour, which was not diminished by the cheers of the spectators. Colonel Townley then gave them some necessary orders, after which they dispersed, and repaired to their various quarters. CHAPTER XXV. AN UNSATISFACTORY EXPLANATION. Having partaken of a slight repast, the prince again mounted his charger and rode out of the town in a different direction from any he had previously taken, being desirous to see the country. He was only attended by Colonel Ker and the Chevalier de Johnstone, having dismissed his guard of honour. At that time the environs of Manchester were exceedingly pretty, and the prospects spread out before him had a wild character of which little can now be discerned. Smedley Hall formed the limit of his ride, and having gazed at this picturesque old structure, which was situated in a valley, with a clear stream flowing past it, and a range of bleak-looking hills in the distance, he turned off on the left, and made his way through a heathy and uncultivated district to Kersal Moor. From these uplands he obtained a charming view of the valley of the Irwell, bounded by the collegiate church, and the old buildings around it, and after contemplating the prospect for a short time, he descended from the heights and returned to the town. Not being expected at the time, he passed very quietly through the streets, and reached his head-quarters without hindrance, having greatly enjoyed his ride. Immediately after his return a levée was held, which being more numerously attended than that on the preceding day, occupied nearly two hours. After this he had a conference with the magistrates in the audience chamber, and he then repaired to his private cabinet, where he expected to find Sir Richard Rawcliffe and the others, whose attendance he had commanded. Constance was there and Atherton, but in place of the baronet appeared Father Jerome. Repressing his displeasure, Charles graciously saluted the party, and then addressing Constance said: "Why is not Sir Richard here, Miss Rawcliffe?"