The Leaguer of Lathom by W. Harrison Ainsworth

“But you forget the distance,” he rejoined. “You could not ride from this place to Oxford.”

“I think I could,” she cried. “But I do not desire to go further than Wigan. Get me through the gates, and across the drawbridge, and I will soon find my way to my father.”

“I see your purpose,” he replied, “and will aid you. You shall pass out with me to-night. A horse and all equipments shall be found you.”

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III

How Gertrude accompanied Standish

Having made all necessary arrangements, Standish returned to the court-yard, where he found Engracia and her attendant Maria.

“I am sorry we shall soon lose you again,” she said. “I hear you are starting on another expedition to-night. How long shall you be absent?”

“I can scarcely tell,” he replied; “but I suppose three or four days. Should I not return, I hope you will think of me.”

“Do not trifle with me,” she rejoined, with emotion. “I shall never cease to think of you. But when you do return, I hope you will stay here.”

“I know not,” he replied. “I must obey orders. But unless shut up, I shall not stay here long. When I return from my mission I shall be posted with my lord at Warrington.”

“Is Warrington far from this castle?” she inquired.

“Not much more than an hour’s ride. If the rebels will let me, I shall often come and see you.”

“You must not expose yourself to risk on my account,” she said, tenderly. “But pray inform me of your return. The time will pass wearily till then.”

“That it will, I am sure, señorita,” remarked Maria. “Ah, señor, my young lady thinks only of you.”

“Fie, Maria!” cried her mistress. “You should not betray secrets.”

“But it is right the caballero should know how much you care for him,” said Maria. “It will console him.”

“You are right,” cried Standish.

In such discourse as this they passed away the time, and so engrossed were they by each other, that they were quite unaware they were watched by the jealous Gertrude.

In obedience to the earl’s injunctions, Standish did not prepare to start on his perilous journey till it became dark.

He had already chosen five attendants, but it was not till the last moment that the sixth made his appearance.

The youth had a slight figure, and scarcely looked equal to the journey, but was well mounted.

Standish had taken leave of the earl and countess, so that no delay occurred. The gate was thrown open, the drawbridge lowered, and Standish rode forth with his attendants, and took his way along a lane leading to Skelmersdale.

Thence they galloped across Holland Moor to Pemberton, which was nothing more than a small collection of cottages and an old hall.

From this place a narrow lane brought them to a high road, when Standish came to a halt, and said in a low tone to the youthful attendant we have mentioned:

“This is your road to Wigan. It is not much more than a mile off. Adieu!”

Without waiting for a reply he dashed off on the right, followed by his other attendants.

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IV

How Gertrude found her Father at Wigan

THE youth remained stationary for a moment, and then rousing himself, took the course indicated by his leader.

Very shortly he came in sight of a large town, which, even in the gloom, he could see was surrounded by partly-demolished fortifications.

Presently he was challenged by an advanced guard stationed in front of the gate.

“Who are you?” demanded a hoarse voice.

“A friend,” was the reply.

“Are you alone?” demanded the guard.

“Yes—alone.”

Two musketeers then stepped forward to reconnoitre the stranger, and the foremost inquired:

“What is your business here at this hour?”

“I desire to see Colonel Rosworm,” replied the youth. “I pray you take me to him.”

“It is too late,” replied the musketeer, gruffly. “You cannot enter the town. Go your way. Return to-morrow morning if you list.”

“It is important that I should see Colonel Rosworm to-night. Will you take a message from me to him?”