"You must, remember, Winifred, that Master Arthur is a soldier, and used to dangers and narrow escapes. We cannot expect him to look upon such things as we do. I doubt not he does in his heart give earnest thanks to his Heavenly Father for this deliverance." "Indeed I do, dame!" said Arthur, more gravely. "I am, as you say, a soldier, besides being an outlaw and an exile, and one becomes used to danger as to other things, such as cold, hunger, and home-sickness. Nevertheless, I do, as you well say, give earnest thanks to God for His mercies, and not least for raising me up such kind friends at my utmost need. And I trust, if He delivers me from this present peril, to serve Him more faithfully than I have ever done before." "It is well spoken, and may He who giveth grace send you strength according to your need!" said Dame Sprat. "But, Winifred, it is time you were on your way home. Your good mother will be uneasy at your delay." "If Mr. Carew will give me the message for my lady," said Winifred. "Oh, aye! Tell my good sister to run no risk upon my account, and to make no move till Sir Edward has gone up to London. After that, if she can in some way furnish me with a horse, a small quantity of ready money, and a suit of clothes, I can easily find friends, who will aid me to escape from some of the western ports. I would gladly see Margaret if it could be managed, but I would not risk bringing her into trouble or danger." "I do not think it is her own trouble or danger which my lady fears," said Winifred; "and I am sure she has no lack of affection for you." "I know, I know!" interrupted Arthur. "My sister cannot do as she would, and I like you the better for being so ready to defend her. But you will come again before long, Winifred?" "The day after to-morrow," said Winifred, smiling. "You have abundance of provisions till that time, so you will not miss me." "It is not the provisions I am thinking of, but yourself, my saucy little maid, as you well know," said Arthur, smiling in his turn. "Your face is a medicine for home-sickness." "Now I will not have the child's head turned with your courtier's compliments, Master Arthur," interposed Dame Sprat. "Thank your mother for her gifts, Winifred, and also good Mrs. Alwright. Stay, my child, one word more! If you go to the Hall again while he is there, I would have you endeavor carefully to avoid Colonel Kirke. He is a bold, bad man, and not one to do you any good; nor do I think him likely to pay much respect to Sir Edward's family. Keep you close to my lady or Mrs. Alwright, and do not by any means stray in the park or gardens by yourself. You may not understand me, nor is it needful you should, but I have reasons for what I say. Now once more good-night, and may the Lord bless thee!" "That is a marvellous little maid!" said Arthur, after Winifred had departed. "It is no wonder that my sister loves her."