|If any confirmation were wanted of the suspicions now generally entertained by Mr. Newbiggin and the rest of the servants that a rising was imminent, it was afforded by the earl, who took his guest, as soon as luncheon was over, to see the arms stored in the old tower.
The inspection occupied some time, for three or four chambers had to be visited, each full of muskets, calivers, pistols, cartouche-boxes, powder-horns, shot-bags, belts, swords of various sizes and make, hatchets, pikes, halberts, black leather caps, drums, kettle-drums, trumpets, fifes, and other martial instruments. In a vault beneath the basement floor were bestowed several barrels of gunpowder.
When the examination was finished, the prince expressed himself delighted with the preparations made.
“You told me you could arm and equip two or three hundred men, cousin,” he said. “And I now perceive you did not exaggerate. But where are the men?”
“I have but to ride to Alston Moor, my liege, to find them, and bring them back with me,” said Charles Rad-clyffe.
“Men and arms are ready,” said the earl. “Shall we raise the standard?” he added, lifting up the flag.
At this moment, as if in response to the appeal, shouts were heard outside, and several voices exclaimed:
“Is this premeditated, cousin?” said the prince.
“No, by my faith,” replied the earl. “But it seems your majesty's presence has been discovered--how I know not. Shall I send away the troublesome varlets?”
“'Twere needless, since the discovery has been made,” said the prince, who did not seem much displeased.
“Your majesty need feel no uneasiness,” observed Father Norham, who formed one of the party. “There are no traitors at Dilston. All here are loyal, and would die rather than betray you.”
“On that assurance I shall not hesitate to show myself to them,” said the prince. “Attend me, I pray you, cousin.”
The massive door being thrown open, a singular spectacle was seen.
In front of the tower was collected a large number of the household, with several out-door servants--grooms, gamekeepers, huntsmen, gardeners, and their assistants--most of them young and active-looking, though the coachman was old and stout, and there were three or four others, who must have lived in the family for half a century. But these were just as enthusiastic as their comrades.