The eyes of the Scotch flashed fire; and, as often happens on such
occasions, from shame they passed to effrontery and two heads of clans
advanced upon the king.

"Yes," said they, "we have promised to deliver Scotland and England from
him who for the last five-and-twenty years has sucked the blood and gold
of Scotland and England. We have promised and we will keep our promise.
Charles Stuart, you are our prisoner."

And both extended their hands as if to seize the king, but before they
could touch him with the tips of their fingers, both had fallen, one
dead, the other stunned.

Aramis had passed his sword through the body of the first and Athos had
knocked down the other with the butt end of his pistol.

Then, as Lord Leven and the other chieftains recoiled before this
unexpected rescue, which seemed to come from Heaven for the prince they
already thought was their prisoner, Athos and Aramis dragged the king
from the perjured assembly into which he had so imprudently ventured,
and throwing themselves on horseback all three returned at full gallop
to the royal tent.

On their road they perceived Lord Winter marching at the head of his
regiment. The king motioned him to accompany them.

56. The Avenger.

They all four entered the tent; they had no plan ready--they must think
of one.

The king threw himself into an arm-chair. "I am lost," said he.

"No, sire," replied Athos. "You are only betrayed."

The king sighed deeply.

"Betrayed! yes betrayed by the Scotch, amongst whom I was born, whom I
have always loved better than the English. Oh, traitors that ye are!"

"Sire," said Athos, "this is not a moment for recrimination, but a time
to show yourself a king and a gentleman. Up, sire! up! for you have here
at least three men who will not betray you. Ah! if we had been five!"
murmured Athos, thinking of D'Artagnan and Porthos.

"What do you say?" inquired Charles, rising.

"I say, sire, that there is now but one way open. Lord Winter answers
for his regiment, or at least very nearly so--we will not split straws
about words--let him place himself at the head of his men, we will place
ourselves at the side of your majesty, and we will mow a swath through
Cromwell's army and reach Scotland."

"There is another method," said Aramis. "Let one of us put on the
dress and mount the king's horse. Whilst they pursue him the king might
escape."

"It is good advice," said Athos, "and if the king will