Page 111 - A Jacobite Exile

"A fine set of fellows, Schlippenbach. I wish that, like my grandfather, I
had some fifteen thousand of such troops under my orders. Present the

captain to me."

The officers were called up, and Captain Jervoise was presented.

"Your company does you great credit, Captain Jervoise," the king said. "I

would that all my troops looked in as good health and condition. Colonel
Schlippenbach tells me that you have kept your men in good health, all

through the winter, by means of sports and games. It is a good plan. I will
try to get all my officers to adopt it another winter. Do the men join in them
willingly?"

Captain Jervoise and his officers had all, during the nine months that had

passed since they landed in Sweden, done their best to acquire the
language, and could now speak and understand it thoroughly.

"They like it, your majesty. Our people are fond of games of this kind. My
four officers take part in them with the men."

The king nodded.

"That is as it should be. It must create a good feeling on both sides. Present
your officers to me, Captain Jervoise."

This was done, and the king spoke a few words to each. Charlie had often
seen the king at a distance, but never before so close as to be able to notice

his face particularly. He was a tall young fellow, thin and bony. His face
was long, and his forehead singularly high and somewhat projecting. This

was the most noticeable feature of his face. His eyes were quick and keen,
his face clean-shaven, and, had it not been for the forehead and eyes, would
have attracted no attention. His movements were quick and energetic, and,

after speaking to the officers, he strode a step or two forward and, raising
his voice, said: