He longed to be back at the scene of
action, but was so tired out that he could not dispense with another
night's rest; though he took all precautions for being called up, in
case of need.
However, nothing came, and he rode to the Rectory in Yeomanry
equipment. Nor could any one doubt that in the ecstasy of meeting
such a hero, all the little misunderstanding and grief of the night
before was forgotten? Ellen looked as if she trod on air, when she
came down with her father to report that Griffith had gone,
according to the orders sent, to join the rest of the Yeomanry, who
were to advance upon Bristol. They had seen, and tried to turn
back, some of the villagers who were starting with bludgeons to
share in the spoil, and who looked sullen, as if they were
determined not to miss their share.
I do not think we were very much alarmed for Griff's safety or for
our own, not even the ladies. My mother had the lion-heart of her
naval ancestors, and Ellen was in a state of exaltation. Would that
I could put her before other eyes, as she stood with hands clasped
and glowing cheek.
'Oh!--think!--think of having one among us who is as real and true
knight as ever watched his armour -
'"For king, for church, for lady fight!"
It has all come gloriously true!'
'Should not you like to bind on his spurs?' I asked somewhat
mischievously; but she was serious as she said, 'I am sure he has
won them.
Pages:
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202