"Why make flesh of one and fish of another?" asked O'Sullivan, and old
Sir Thomas nodded approval of the question.
"The decision should be the decision of the Council," said the Duke of
Perth.
"Will ye write your names to it, or will ye not?" demanded Murray.
No one spoke.
"That settles it, sir," said Murray. "But I desire you, Mr. Secretary, to
make a note of my offer and its reception."
"Have your way!" said Charles, in sullen anger. "But it settles another
thing for ye. I call no more councils."
He turned and strode out of the room. The Stuart cause was in its coffin,
and it only remained for us to give it a fair burial.
When the door closed behind the Prince, the Colonel whispered in my ear,
"Slip off and tell Freake!"
I did the journey at a run, and found Master Freake sitting, quietly
meditative, but booted and spurred for his journey.
"Well, Oliver?"
"We go back to-night."
In five minutes I was standing in the Ironmarket at his grey mare's head.
"I'm not deserting you, lad," said he, gripping my hand heartily.
"Of course not, sir. Good-bye, and good luck!"
"My love to Margaret.
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