re especially the bandage around Captain
Barker's head, attracted some attention. More than one group turned
to stare as the little man began in execrable Dutch to explain his
wants to the drawer. The fellow, too, was more than ordinarily
dense, and a tempestuous scene was plainly but a matter of a minute
or so, when a tall ensign of the guard rose from a neighbouring
table, and, lifting his hat, addressed the Englishmen in their own
language. "Pardon, gentlemen, but I cannot help overhearing your
difficulty; and think, with your leave, I may remove it."

Captain Barker scowled for a moment, and seemed about to take deeper
umbrage. But the tall young man seemed quite unconscious of this,
and smiled down with the serenest good will.

"Do not say no. I have been in England, and I love all men of your
country."

"Jack," growled Captain Runacles, "this is one of a new generation of
Dutchmen. We are getting old, my boy."

The young man's manner was so sincere that Captain Barker gave way
with a fair grace--the more readily because there was something in
the amiable face which recalled his lost Tristram. In less than a
minute he was stating his desires, which were promptly translated
into fluent Dutch. The drawer ran off on his errand.

"Since you have been so kind, sir," said the little hunchback
politely, "perhaps you can do us another favour."

"What is that?"

"We have come across from Harwich for the purpose of seeking an
audience with his Majesty, King William. Can you tell us when and
where we are likely to find him?"

"His Majesty is just now at the House in the Wood."

"Where may that be?"

"Not two miles beyond the town. On fine days, such as the present,
he gives audience every morning, between nine and ten o'clock, in the
open air, walking up and down an alley, which is called for that
reason the Promenade of Audience; and again, if no other business
prevents him, at five o'clock in the afternoon, when the day grows
cool." He pulled out a stout watch and consulted it. "By six o'clock
I must be back there, for at that time my duty begins. But if you
will let me accompany you and pass you through the park gates, I will
gladly hasten my return, and start--shall we say?--at half-past
four."

He would take no denial, but rose and left them, waving his hand,
smiling, and turning, after a dozen steps, to call back and assure
them he would be punctual.

"He has the very same eyes," Captain Bar