On the east, a range of hills shut out the view in the direction of Wigan.
Owing to the large tract of moss and moor, the country had generally a wild and sterile look—but portions of the prospect were extremely picturesque and beautiful. The parks contained much fine timber, and were well stocked with deer. Up to a late period the Lord of Lathom and Knowsley had been devoted to the chase.
For some time the queen remained gazing on this prospect—turning from one side to the other and questioning the earl as to any objects that interested her.
After studying the locality in this manner she came to the conclusion that no better situation for a stronghold could have been chosen.
The two nobles in attendance upon her majesty made few remarks, and held aloof while she was conversing with the earl.
In the evening a banquet, distinguished by as much splendour as had formerly characterised Lord Derby’s entertainments, took place in the great hall. In the centre of the dais, under a canopy, sat the queen, and all the most important personages then staying within the mansion were placed on her right and left. Lord Derby waited upon her majesty in person. Nearly a hundred persons sat down at the lower tables—all the officers of the garrison being present.
Thus filled and illumined with torches, the hall presented a magnificent sight. The richest liveries were worn by the servants, and strains of minstrelsy were heard from the galleries. Trumpets were blown when certain large dishes were set upon the tables, and many old and long-neglected customs were observed.
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IV
How Gertrude Rosworm arrived at Lathom House
THE Earl of Derby’s confident expectation that Captain Bootle would return at an early hour on the following morning was not realised.
Not till nearly noon did the messenger make his appearance. Nor had he been successful in his errand. Sir Alexander Radcliffe was absent from Ordsall, and, consequently, the money could not be procured.
The queen was greatly disappointed at the result of the expedition, and scarcely seemed satisfied with Bootle’s excuses. When he was gone she remarked to the earl:
“I do not like that man’s looks. I think he could have brought the money if he would.”
“He could only have obtained it from Sir Alexander himself, madam, and unfortunately he was absent.”
“But he would have returned to-night,” cried the queen. “The messenger ought to have waited.”
“Doubtless he would have waited, but for the special orders given him,” said the earl. “But if your majesty can be induced to prolong your stay I will send off another messenger at once.”
“It will be well to do so, my lord,” said the queen.
Just then, Captain Standish entered the cabinet wherein the foregoing discourse had taken place between the queen and Lord Derby.
“Pardon this intrusion, gracious madam,” said Standish, bowing. “A youth has just arrived at the castle from Manchester, who has a matter of the utmost importance to communicate to your majesty.”
“From Manchester, say you?” exclaimed the queen. “He may be from Sir Alexander Radcliffe.”
“No, madam, the youth is not from Ordsall,” said Standish.
“Ah! then you know his errand?” cried the queen.
“Of thus much, I am certain, gracious madam—he brings no message from Sir Alexander Radcliffe. His lordship is acquainted with the youth, who has rendered him some slight service.”
“Who is he?” demanded the earl.
“He calls himself Karl Rosworm,” replied Standish. “Your lordship will recognise him at once!”
“Rosworm!” exclaimed the queen. “Why that is the name of the famous German engineer, by whom Manchester has been fortified.”
“And if I am not wrong in my suspicions,” said the earl, a slight smile crossing his features, “this Karl Rosworm is a near relative of the engineer. But your majesty may safely see the youth.”
“He is without, gracious madam,” said Standish.
“Admit him, then,” said the queen.
In another minute, a youth of very prepossessing appearance entered the cabinet, and bowed deeply to the queen. His light locks flowed over his shoulders, and heightened the delicate and almost feminine character of his features. He was habited in a riding-dress, and the dusty state of his boots showed he had travelled far.