Lord Derwentwater looked aghast at this startling intelligence, but the prince did not seem much disturbed by it.
“Instant measures must be taken for the defence of the place,” said Lord Derwentwater.
“It cannot be defended, my lord,” rejoined Colonel Ox-burgh. “His majesty must not remain here.”
“Do you counsel flight, colonel?” said the prince.
“Not flight--but a retreat, my liege,” replied Oxburgh.
“No need to fly,” said Lord Derwentwater. “I will undertake to conceal his majesty from any search that can be made for him.”
“Better he should seek shelter in some fortified house or castle,” observed Oxburgh.
“But where?” demanded the prince. “Where would you have me go?”
“If your majesty will not remain here, and trust yourself to me, I advise you to go to Bamborough Castle,” said Lord Derwentwater.
“But is Forster to be relied on?” said the prince. “Is he thoroughly loyal?”
“I'll answer for him with my life,” said the earl.
“And so will I, my liege,” added Oxburgh.
“Shall I acquaint him with your majesty's determination?” inquired the earl. “No time must be lost.”
“I'll go to him myself,” rejoined the prince.
“Ah! here he comes!” exclaimed Colonel Oxburgh.
As he spoke, Forster was seen descending the steps with Sir John Webb, and immediately obeyed a summons given him by the colonel.
He was as much alarmed as the others when he learnt the prince's jeopardy, and before his highness signified his intention, offered him an asylum at Bamborough.
It was then decided that the prince's departure should take place forthwith, and it was likewise arranged that Lord Derwentwater with Colonel Oxburgh and his troop should escort his highness.
Some further arrangements were subsequently made, but these were sufficient in the meantime, and Colonel Oxburgh and Forster hurried off to the stables to give directions about the horses, while the prince and Lord Derwentwater entered the house.
As soon as the prince's intended departure became known all was bustle and confusion. The news was quickly communicated to the ladies, who very soon came downstairs, and another consultation was held in the library.
What was to be done? Anne and Dorothy were determined not to be left behind. Since the prince was going to Bamborough, and Lord Derwentwater, and almost everybody else were going with him, they would go too. Both were such perfect equestrians that they could be trusted to keep up with the fugitives, while their spirit was equal to any unforeseen difficulty or danger that might arise. So the proposition was acceded to.