"Can you blame him, my
liege," said Humphrey, who loved a jest, "that he goes heavily,
having the weight of three kingdoms on his back?"
When they had travelled with him a great part of the journey it
was thought safer three of them should withdraw themselves. They
therefore turned away; but scarcely had they gone when the king,
who, being lost in thought, had remained unconscious of their
departure, suddenly stopped, and caused John, who remained, to
speedily summon them back. When they returned he gave them his
hand to kiss, and, with that charm of manner which never failed
in winning friends, said to them sadly, "My sorrows make me
forget myself. I earnestly thank you all."
They kissed his hand heartily, and prayed God to save him. In
the days of his prosperity he remembered their kindness and
rewarded their loyalty.
Arriving at the trysting place the king found Mr. Whitegrave, a
Benedictine monk named Father Huddlestone, Sir John Preston, and
his brother awaiting him. It may be mentioned here this monk was
destined, many years later, to play an important part in the
closing scene of his majesty's life. Mr. Whitegrave conducted
Charles with great show of respect to his house, where the king
spoke with my Lord Wilmot, feasted well, and rested safe that
night. Next morning the worthy host had private notice given
that a company of soldiers were on their way to arrest him as one
who had served in the king's army. He, being innocent of this
charge, did not avoid them, but received them boldly at his door,
spoke confidently in his own defence, and referred them to the
testimony of his neighbours, whereon they departed quietly.
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