the 16th of the month — and the new King will be crowned at Westminster the 20th.”

“Methinks they must needs find him first,” muttered his Majesty; then added, confidently, “but they will look to that — and so also shall I.”

“In the name of — ”

But the old man got no further — a warning sign from Hendon checked his remark. He resumed the thread of his gossip —

“Sir Hugh goeth to the coronation — and with grand hopes. He confidently looketh to come back a peer, for he is high in favour with the Lord Protector.”

“What Lord Protector?” asked his Majesty.