“‘Can such eyes ever weep without a comforter? But farewell; I must not be found with thee. To-morrow I depart for London; we shall meet again.’ “As soon as the door closed on Redgill, the bride rose, and pacing the room, said— “‘Selfish, selfish; how could I ever trust him? Yet I dare not brave Sir Charles alone. Surely it was his step that disturbed us in our yesterday’s interview. Nay, I will fly, I can never want a companion.’ “She clapped her hands. “A young page appeared. “She threw herself on her seat and wept bitterly. “The page approached. “And love was mingled with his compassion. “‘Why weepest thou, dearest lady?’ said he; ‘is there aught in which Conrade’s services—services—ah! thou hast read his heart—his devotion may avail?’ “Sir Charles had wandered out the whole day alone. “His vassals had observed that his brow was more gloomy than was its wont, for he usually concealed whatever might prey within. “Some of the most confidential of his servitors he had conferred with, and the conference had deepened the shadow of his countenance. “He returned at twilight; his young wife did not honour the repast with her presence. “She was unwell, and not to be disturbed. The gay Redgill was the life of the board. “‘Thou carriest a sad brow to-day, Sir Charles,’ said he. ‘Good faith! thou hast caught it from the dull air.’ “‘I have something troubles me,’ answered Sir Charles, forcing a smile, ‘which I would fain impart to thy friendly bosom. The night is clear, and the moon is up, let us go forth alone into the garden.’ “Redgill rose. “And he forgot not to gird on his sword as he followed the knight. “Sir Charles led the way to one of the most distant terraces that overhung the lakes. “‘Redgill,’ said he, pausing, ‘answer me one question on thy honour. Was it thy step that left my lady’s bower yester eve at vesper?’ “Startled by so sudden a query, the wily Redgill faltered in his reply. “The red blood mounted to Sir Charles’s brow. “‘Nay, lie not. These eyes have not witnessed, but these ears have heard from others of my dishonour.’ “As Sir Charles spoke, Redgill’s eye resting on the water, perceived a boat rowing fast over the lake. “The distance forbade him to see more than the outline of two figures within it. “‘She was right,’ thought he; ‘perhaps that boat already bears her from the danger.’ “Drawing himself up to the full height of his tall stature, Redgill replied, haughtily, “‘Sir Charles, if thou hast deigned to question thy vassals, obtain from them only an answer.’ “‘Enough,’ cried Sir Charles, losing patience, and striking Redgill with his clenched hand. ‘Draw, traitor, draw!’ * * * * * “Alone in his lofty tower, Lord Edward Warbeck watched the night deepen over the heavens, and communed mournfully with himself.