hat was in
store for his dear relative and teacher.

The sun was now getting low, so we proceeded rapidly on our journey.

When we were yet about a mile from Northampton we were met by
Gloucester and Buckingham, attended by about a score of gentlemen of
their following. The sun had been for some time set, and the earth was
busily engaged with drawing on her black sleeping-robe. We rode almost
into the Prince's party ere we did recognize them. Rivers at once made
himself known, and thus addressed Gloucester:--"I must ask pardon from
your Royal Highness for having taken the liberty of sending the King on
to Stony Stratford, there to spend the night. I feared Northampton
could not accommodate his Majesty's retinue--which is large--together
with thy following, and his Grace of Buckingham's."

"No excuses are necessary from my Lord Rivers," said Gloucester; and he
smiled most graciously, and extended his hand to the Earl. Buckingham
followed his leader's example and welcomed Rivers as though he had been
a lost brother whom he loved. Then they both received my friend and me
in a polite, and but little less hearty manner.

"And now," said the Prince, "let us make haste and have our supper. By
Saint Paul! my innards this night seem most rebellious, and call out
loudly for more of life's ammunition. Follow me, gentlemen, and ye
shall not have long to wait." So saying he drove his spurs into his
horse's flanks, and dashed forward in the direction of Northampton. We
followed rapidly; but we had to urge our tired steeds to their utmost,
in order that we might keep the Duke in sight.

When we at length drew rein it was in front of the best inn that this
city could then afford; though, since that time, more pretentious ones
have been erected. The Royal banner of England floated lazily from its
support in the yard in front of the inn.

When we had entered Gloucester dismissed all the gentlemen of his
train. Buckingham--as was his custom in everything--followed the
example of the Prince. Harleston and I were about to depart with the
other gentlemen, but Gloucester stopped us with:--"No, by Saint Paul!
ye two shall sup with us; I have not yet forgot how speedy were my
messengers. Richard of Gloucester forgets not his friends. Why, if a
man sups not with his friends, with whom may he eat? What dost thou
say, my Lord of Rivers?"

"Indeed, my lord, thou dost honour us over much by calling us your
friends," said the