This was not unlooked for, and Buckingham, fearing no _imbroglio_,
intended to hasten Sir Julian's speech, as there was no time to spare.
They started forth 'neath the dripping trees.
"Where is Mistress Penwick, George?"
"With her nurse, Julian."
"And where the nurse?"
"At Hornby's."
"Where is Monmouth's place of hiding her?"
"That is more, I dare say, Julian, than he knows himself."
"How long will they remain at the inn?"
"Until I return."
"Then--?"
"Then, London way is my desire, and I doubt not 'tis Monmouth's also."
"Dost love me, Duke?"
"Aye, as always. What is thy desire?"
"Canst thou keep the maid safe for thirty-six hours?" For a moment
there was no answer; then calmly and cold came the word "No."
"By God! is it so bad that you, you George, cannot take care of her?"
"'Tis the worst of all!"
"Is she safe then now--now?"
"If the eye of the nurse doth not perjure its owner, I would say she
was safe for all time."
"Good--"
"But, Pomphrey, one would wonder at thy devotion to Cedric?"
"I loved him, first.
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