Page 156 - A Jacobite Exile

that he is courageous. He is cool, sharp, and intelligent. Why do I choose
him? Has he not saved me from the loss of about four or five thousand

men, and probably a total defeat? A young fellow who can do that, ought to
be able to cope with Jewish traders, and to throw dust in the eyes of the

Poles.

"I have chosen him for this service for two reasons. In the first place,

because I know he will do it well, and even those who consider that I am
rash and headstrong, admit that I have the knack of picking out good men.

In the next place, I want to reward him for the service he has done for us. I
cannot, at his age, make a colonel of him, but I can give him a chance of
distinguishing himself in a service in which age does not count for so

much, and Count Piper, knowing my wishes in the matter, will push him
forward. Moreover, in such a mission as this, his youth will be an

advantage, for he is very much less likely to excite suspicion than if he
were an older man.'

"The king's manner did not admit of argument, and I had only to wait and
ask what were his commands. These were simply that you are to call upon

his minister tomorrow, and that you would then receive full instructions.

"The king means well by you, lad, and on turning it over, I think better of

the plan than I did before. I am convinced, at any rate, that you will do
credit to the king's choice."

"I will do my best, sir," Charlie said. "At present, it all seems so vague to
me that I can form no idea whatever as to what it will be like. I am sure that

the king's intentions are, at any rate, kind. I am glad to hear you say that, on
consideration, you think better of the plan. Then I may mention the matter

to Major Jervoise?"

"Certainly, Carstairs, and to his son, but it must go no farther. I shall put

your name in orders, as relieved from duty, and shall mention that you have
been despatched on service, which might mean anything. Come and see me

tomorrow, lad, after you have received Count Piper's instructions. As the
king reminded me, there are many Scotchmen at Warsaw, and it is likely