cavaliers who fought and died for you, to walk these paths alone in such
uncertain times. Perchance, 'tis courting lurking murder!"

"No kind of danger, James," answered the King, with equal seriousness,
laying a hand kindly on his brother's shoulder; "for I am sure no man in
England would take away my life to make you King."

There was general laughter from the assembled party; for all dared
laugh, even at the expense of the Duke of York, when the jest was of the
King's making. Indeed, not to laugh at a king's jest has been in every
age, in or out of statutes, the greatest crime. Fortunately, King
Charles's wit warranted its observation.

James himself grew mellow under the influence of the gaiety, and almost
affectionately replied, "God grant it be ever so, brother." He then
turned the thought. "We heard but now an ambassador from Morocco's court
is lately landed. He brings your Majesty two lions and thirty
ostriches."

"Odsfish, but he is kind," replied the King, reflecting on the gift. "I
know of nothing more proper to send by way of return than a flock of
geese."

His brow arched quizzically, as he glanced over the circle of inert
courtiers ranged about him. "Methinks I can count them out at
Whitehall," he thought.

"He seeks an audience to-night. Will you grant it, Sire?" besought
James.

"'Sheart!" replied the King. "Most cheerfully, I'll lead you from
Nelly's terrace, brother. Hey! Tune up your throats. On to the palace."

CHAPTER VII

Come down!
Come up!

The music died away among the old oaks in the park. Before its final
notes were lost on the air, however, hasty steps and a chatter of
women's voices came from the house. The door leading to the terrace was
thrown quickly open, and Nell appeared. Her eyes had the bewildered look
of one who has been suddenly awakened from a sleep gilded with a
delightful dream.

She had, indeed, been dreaming--dreaming of the King and of his coming.
As she lay upon her couch, where she had thrown herself after the
evening meal, she had seemed to hear his serenade.

Then the music ceased and she started up and rubbed her eyes. It was
only to see the moonlight falling through the latticed windows on to the
floor of her dainty chamber. She was alone and she bethought herself
sadly that dreams go by contraries.

Once again, however, the hunters' song had arisen on her startled
ear--and had died away in sweet cadences in t