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It was not until six weeks after the death of old Jacob, that Oswald Partridge made his appearance.
"How is the old man, Sir?" was his first question.
"He was buried a few days after you left," replied Edward.
"I expected as much," said the forester. "Peace be with him—he was a good man. And how is your arm?"
"Nearly well," replied Edward. "Now, sit down, Oswald, for I have a great deal to say to you; and first let me ask you what has detained you from coming here according to your promise?"
"Simply, and in few words—murder."
"Murder!" exclaimed Edward.
"Yes, deliberate murder, Sir; in short, they have beheaded the king—beheaded King Charles, our sovereign."
"Have they dared to do it?"
"They have," replied Oswald. "We know little that is going on, in the forest; but when I saw you last, I heard that he was then in London, and was to be tried."
"Tried!" exclaimed Edward. "How could they try a king? by the laws of our country, a man must be tried by his equals; and where were his equals?"
"Majesty becomes nought, I suppose," replied Oswald, "but still it is as I say. Two days after you left, the Intendant hastened up to London, and, from what I have understood, he was strongly opposed to the deed, and did all he could to prevent it; but it was of no use. When he left, he gave me strict injunctions not to go away from the cottage for an hour, as his daughter was left alone; and as I promised, I could not come to you; but, nevertheless, Patience received letters from him, and told me what I tell you."
"You have not dined, Oswald?" said Edward.
"No, that I have not."
"Alice, dear, get some dinner, will you? And Oswald, while you dine, excuse me if I leave you for a while. Your intel-
