"
And bowing with nearly as much haughtiness as Sir Jocelyn, he followed
in the course taken by the young knight.
CHAPTER XX.
A Place of Refuge.
After quitting De Gondomar, as before related, Sir Jocelyn hurried along
Holborn with the intention of proceeding to Aveline's cottage, which was
at no great distance from Ely House, though in a secluded situation,
withdrawn from the road; and he was just about to strike into the narrow
lane leading to it, when he was arrested by the voice of Clement
Lanyere, who had followed him, unobserved.
"Stay, Sir Jocelyn, I beg of you," cried the promoter, coming quickly up
to him; "you are rushing on certain destruction. You must not go nigh
that cottage to-day; no, nor for several days to come. Foes are lying in
ambush round it; and the only spectacle you will afford her you love
will be that of your arrest."
There was an earnestness in the speaker's manner that could not fail to
carry conviction of his sincerity to the breast of his hearer.
"By my soul, I speak the truth," said Lanyere, perceiving the impression
he had made, "as you will find if you go many steps further. Place
yourself in my hands, and I will save you."
"What motive can you have for acting thus?" demanded Sir Jocelyn. "What
interest do you take in me?"
"Do not question me now: you shall have full explanation hereafter. Be
satisfied I am a friend,--perchance your best friend.
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