Page 339 - A Jacobite Exile

Charlie was shocked; but at the same time, he could not but feel that it was
the best thing that could happen, and Harry freely expressed himself to that

effect.

"We won't take the carriage up to the house," Charlie said, after a long
pause. "Take the valises out, and bring them up to the house presently,
Norman."

He paid the postilion who had brought them from Lancaster, and stood

quiet until the carriage had driven off.

"I hope Sir Marmaduke is well, sir. We have missed him sorely here."

"He was quite well when I saw him, ten weeks ago. I hope he will be here

before long. I am happy to say that his innocence of the charge brought
against him has been proved, and his estates, and those of Mr. Jervoise and
the other gentlemen, have been restored by the queen."

"That is good news, indeed, sir," the man exclaimed. "The best I have heard

for many a long year. Everyone about here will go wild with joy."

"Then don't mention it at present, Norman. Any rejoicings would be

unseemly, while John Dormay is lying dead there."

"Shall I go up with you, Charlie, or will you go alone?" Harry asked. "Of
course, there are some horses here, and you could lend me one to drive over
to our own place."

"You shall do that presently, Harry, and tell them the news. But come in

now. You know my cousin and Ciceley. It will be all the better that you
should go in with me."

His cousin received Charlie with a quiet pleasure. She was greatly changed
since he had seen her last, and her face showed that she had suffered

greatly. Ciceley had grown into a young woman, and met him with delight.
Both were pleased to see Harry.