, for the
King hath a new hobby, a tax on beets and onions, in the discussion of
which the afternoon has been consumed."

"Then his Majesty devised another way----" began Monteagle.

Salisbury raised his hand. "'Tis treason," said he in feigned
displeasure; "wouldst have us in the Tower, good Monteagle, that thou
speak so lightly of James' statesmanship?" Then changing his jesting
tone to one of gravity: "But tell me, what troubles thee? Hath the air
of France failed to restore the spirits of thy son, Effingston? He
hath not returned?"

"He is still in Paris," replied the other, touching his lips to the
glass which had been proffered him, "I this day received a letter in
which he speaks encouragingly of his health, and announces his return
within the month. Thy mind is easy, my lord?"

"And why not?" demanded the Prime Minister, holding aloft his glass
that he might watch the reflection of the sun's rays upon the wine.
"England is at peace, the King seated firm upon his throne, and the
Ship of State rides on an even keel. Hast dreamed of treason, my Lord
Monteagle?"

"Perchance not treason," replied his companion, drawing his chair
nearer, "but--certain things my son hath written, added to others
coming under my own observation, have caused me some uneasiness--a
shadowy suspicion, as it were, that an ill plan is brewing against the
King's authority."

"Tut!" cried Salisbury. "'Tis a fit of indigestion, about which thou
hadst best consult thy doctor. Yet, what be these suspicions?"

"Thou knowest," replied Monteagle, sinking his voice so that it scarce
reached the other's ear, "there are certain Catholics among the nobles
who chafe grievously under the exactions of laws passed by Parliament
and approved by James."

Salisbury shrugged his shoulders. "That is beyond peradventure," said
he, "but the laws will stand."

"Of that I would speak nothing," replied Monteagle, "being neither
King nor Parliament, but it hath been hinted that perchance the wind
of discontent may fan into life a flame of----"

"Thou hast relatives among the Catholics," interrupted Cecil, looking
keenly at the other, "hast become a confidant?"

Monteagle shook his head. "Nay," said he, "nor do I desire to mix in
affairs concerning my former faith. Yet, I have knowledge of certain
meetings which have taken place composed of sundry persons opposed to
the policy of James."

"The dogs cut by the lash herd together in their discomfiture,"
r