Chapter II: A Warrant Issued for the Earl's Arrest (4)

Raw soldiers they might be, but they were very pretty fellows, and had plenty of spirit. Number, three dozen--not including captain. Height, rather below the average-features delicate and feminine--figures slight, but remarkably well formed.

Never did scarlet coats, laced cocked-hats, flaxen wigs, and all the rest of their accoutrements find more graceful wearers. Red and white cockades showed they were English--the Scots being distinguished by cockades of blue and white.

All carried muskets except the captain who alone had a drawn sword in his hand. Perhaps he had been chosen on account of his good looks. Certainly he was the handsomest, as well as the tallest of the party.

The whole troop presented a very animated appearance, and none of them looked fatigued by the march. Highly diverted by the notice they excited, they ogled the ladies very freely, and occasionally paid them a passing compliment.

Scarcely knowing what to think of these singular recruits, a crowd of young damsels followed them, laughing and jesting with them as they marched along.

On arriving at the market-place, where the troops were assembling to proclaim King James, the recruits created quite a sensation--especially among certain young gentlemen in Lord Derwent water's regiment, who stared at them in astonishment, and could scarcely believe their eyes. Their perplexity afforded the recruits great amusement, but they pretended not to recognise them, and did not return their signs and gestures.

Equally astonished was Captain Shaftoe when he beheld the troop; but quickly recovering himself, he rode up to General Forster and obtained his permission to place the recruits near the cross.

For this service he received the thanks of the handsome young captain, but he did not tarry to talk to him then, or ask for any explanation, for the Highlanders were gathering around.

Nothing could be better than the position thus gained by the recruits, for they were close to General Forster and the English and Scottish nobles, and could see everything. What is more, they themselves could be seen. In fact, they were conspicuous objects in the picture, and really contributed to its effect. Stationed elsewhere, they would have been lost, for the place was entirely filled with the military and the townsfolk.

When the proclamation was made such a shout arose as had never been heard in that place before. Kerchiefs were waved from the windows of the town-hall, which were garnished with fair dames, and a host of gentlemen ranged in front of the building, made their voices heard above the general din. The enthusiasm pervaded all classes, and a more exciting scene cannot be imagined.

This was the last time that such shouts were heard in England. Never again was King James proclaimed by the insurgent forces.

III.--THE COUNTESS AND DOROTHY ARRIVE AT PRESTON.

|General Forster's utter incapacity as a leader had now become manifest to all. He drank as hard during the march, as he had been accustomed to do at Bamborough, and after these potations his head could not be very clear in the morning. Had it not been for Colonel Oxburgh, who acted for him, many ruinous mistakes must have occurred. Remonstrances, however, were useless. To argue with him only made him more determinately obstinate. Right or wrong, he would have his own way. The only person he would listen to was Lord Widdrington, who knew how to humour him.

This state of things at head-quarters filled Lord Derwentwater with the gravest apprehension, for he foresaw that the general's blundering and obstinacy must expose them to a chance of defeat, whenever an engagement with the enemy should occur.

But Forster's indifference to the danger of his position was quite as remarkable as his stupidity. Although informed on the day after his arrival at Preston that General Wills was marching to Wigan with several regiments of dragoons, and some regiments of foot, he refused to believe the intelligence, and took no pains to verify it.

Neither did he seem willing to credit the report that General Carpenter was marching against him from Newcastle. So delighted was he with Preston, with his quarters, with the hospitality of the inhabitants, and the general attractions of the place, that he was in no hurry to leave. Like the gentlemen troopers he had submitted to feminine fascination, and short as had been his stay, Mrs. Scarisbrick, a charming young widow, already held him in thrall.

It seemed, indeed, to be the design of the Preston belles to captivate all the insurgent leaders, and many a tender glance was thrown at Lord Derwentwater by some of the fairest ladies of the place. But he was proof against all their allurements.

Shortly after the proclamation had taken place, when the crowd dispersed, and the soldiers had returned to their quarters, two ladies, both young, and very handsome, well mounted, habited in elegant riding-dresses, attended b; an elderly personage, who almost looked like a priest, and followed by a middle-aged man-servant and a couple of grooms, each having a valise fastened to the saddle, entered Preston by the avenue connected with the Lancaster road, and proceeded to the market-place, where they halted to make inquiries respecting Lord Derwentwaters quarters, and having ascertained that he occupied Sir Henry Hoghton's house in Church-street, they went thither.

These ladies attracted considerable attention as they rode along, but no one could tell who they were, until they were recognised by some of the gentlemen soldiers, as the Countess of Derwentwater and Miss Forster, the general's sister. It was conjectured that the grave-looking personage who rode beside them might be Father Norham, the earl's chaplain, and the old man-servant Mr. Newbiggin, the butler at Dilston.

When the arrival of the countess and Miss Forster became known it caused a great sensation in the place, and the news soon reached General Forster, who chanced to be walking at the time with Mrs. Scarisbrick in the Fishergate.

The news did not seem altogether agreeable to him, but Mrs. Scarisbrick was delighted, and said she should be enchanted to make the acquaintance of the two ladies; whereupon, the complaisant general offered to introduce her to them forthwith, and begged her to accompany him to Lord Derwentwater's quarters, where it was certain they would be found.

As the countess wished to take her husband by surprise, no announcement of her arrival was made to him. Alone, in a room at the back of the house, and engaged in writing a letter, he did not perceive her entrance; but when he raised his eyes, and beheld her standing beside him, he uttered a cry of delight, and springing up, clasped her to his breast.

“How strange!” he exclaimed, after the first expressions of delight were over. “I was just writing to you to say I wished I had the power to conjure you here, and as if in answer to the summons, you appear.”

“You are certainly the enchanter, who has brought me here,” she replied, smiling. “But I am not alone?” she cried. “Father Norham is with me, and Newbiggin; and I have also brought Dorothy Forster to see her brother.”

“Dorothy is much wanted,” he replied. “But tell me how you got here? Have you experienced any hindrance or annoyance on the road?”

“None whatever,” she replied. “We set out from Dilston two days ago, and got to Lancaster yesterday, just after you had left, but were too tired to follow, so we rested there, and came on to-day. Do not imagine that I intend to accompany you in your campaign. My sole object in coming here is to see you once more. Left by myself at Dilston I became so unhappy that I thought I should have died. In vain Father Norham offered me all the consolation in his power. I consulted Dorothy--told her how wretched I was--that I was resolved to see you again, cost what it might--and she agreed to accompany me. Finding nothing could turn me from my purpose, Father Norham likewise volunteered to attend me--nor could I leave Newbiggin behind. I hope I have not done wrong in bringing him. There are plenty of faithful servants to take care of the castle during my absence. But what excellent quarters you have got. This is really a charming house.”

“Yes, I believe it is the best in the town. It belongs to Sir Henry Hoghton, who commands the Lancashire militia. He is gone to Wigan, where he expects to be joined--if he has not been already joined--by General Wills, with several regiments of dragoons. Our foes you see are close at hand, yet they might be a hundred miles off for aught Forster seems to care. If I had the command of the army, I should have fortified myself at Lancaster, but Forster decided otherwise. Now we may have to stand an assault here. And Wills is not our only enemy. General Carpenter is advancing from Newcastle, and possibly may overtake us, ere we leave Preston.”

“What if he does!” said the countess. “You have no reason to fear him.”

“With Foster at our head, we shall never win a battle,” said the earl.

“You are dispirited, my dear lord,” observed the countess; “and I think without reason.”

“I wish I could think so,” he rejoined, sadly. “But I cannot. With such a general as Forster we shall do no good. But where are Dorothy and Father Norham?”

“I left them in the large room opening from the hall,” she replied.

“I must go and bid them welcome,” said the earl. “I am rejoiced that Dorothy has come. She has great influence with her brother, and may extricate us from the dreadful dilemma in which we are placed.”

“Finding your quarters so good, I have asked her to stay with me here,” said the countess. “I don't think she will be in the way.”

“Not in the least,” replied the earl. “There is room for a dozen more. My brother Charles is the only person in the house with me, and nothing can be more agreeable to him than Dorothy's society. By-the-bye, I must tell you that since his arrival here, the general has fallen desperately in love with a fair widow--Mrs. Scarisbrick. I mention the matter because I have no doubt you will soon see her. She is really very handsome, as are all the Preston women, who have made sad work with most of the young men in my regiment. They are half crazed about them. But come along, sweetheart. We must not remain talking here. I want to see Dorothy and Father Norham.”

Newbiggin was standing in the passage as the earl came forth with the countess, and received a very kindly greeting from his lordship.

“I am very glad to see you, Newbiggin,” said Lord Derwentwater. “I haven't time to talk to you now, but I shall have a good deal to say to you, when I am more at leisure.”

“Has your lordship any orders to give me?” inquired the butler.

“Yes. Select a good room for Miss Forster, and another for Father Norham, and let all be got ready for them without delay.”

“It shall be done, my lord,” replied the butler. “Your lordship will find them in this room,” he added, opening the door of a spacious and well-furnished apartment.

IV.--MRS. SCARISBRICK.

|As the earl entered, Father Norham advanced to meet him, and saluting him affectionately, gave him his benediction. This little ceremony over, Lord Derwentwater addressed himself to Dorothy, expressing his delight at seeing her, and thanking her for her kindness in accompanying the countess on the hazardous expedition.

“I only hope you will have no cause to regret your obliging compliance with her wishes,” he said. “I hope you will stay with her here, for I really think you will be better off in this house than in the general's quarters.”

“Oh! yes, Dorothy will stay with me I'm quite sure,” cried the countess. “I can't part with her.”

Dorothy gladly assented to the arrangement, which indeed was very agreeable to her, and this matter being settled, the earl again addressed himself to Father Norham, and told him he was happy in being able to offer him such excellent accommodation.

“You shall have as good a room as you have been accustomed to at Dilston,” he said.

“I beg your lordship not to trouble yourself on my account,” replied the priest. “I care not where I am lodged.”

Just then, Newbiggin came in and announced General Forster and Mrs. Scarisbrick, and next moment the general made his appearance with the young widow.

While he presented her to the countess and his sister, the priest retired to the further end of the room.

Both ladies were very much struck by Mrs. Scarisbrick's beauty and liveliness. She did not seem more than five-and-twenty. She was a blonde, with very fine eyes and pretty features, and had a graceful figure, set off by a charming dress.

She appeared exceedingly good-natured, and was certainly very desirous to please. Indeed her manner was so engaging that both ladies were delighted with her. The only thing that surprised Lady Derwentwater was that she could tolerate such a man as Forster.

“I hope your lordship and Miss Forster will like Preston,” she said after her presentation to them by the general. “We will do our best to amuse you. In spite of war's alarms, a good deal is going on. To-night there will be a grand ball at the town-hall. I have no doubt it will be a very gay affair. All the officers will be present.”

“And some of the loveliest women you ever beheld,” said the general. “I never knew what beauty was till I came to Preston.”

“Don't mind what the general says,” observed Mrs. Scarisbrick. “He thinks too much of us.”

“I can't think too much of you,” sighed Forster.

“Ah! you flatter,” said the widow. “However, if Lady Derwentwater and Miss Forster will honour the ball with their presence, they will be able to judge for themselves.”

“Shall we go to this ball?” said the countess to the earl.

“By all means,” he replied. “It will be very numerously attended. In addition to the officers, all my gentlemen soldiers will be there.”

“Yes, there will be plenty of military,” observed General Forster. “Your ladyship may think I am jesting, but I assure you there is not an officer or a trooper in the Northumbrian regiments, who isn't in love.”

“Beginning with the general himself,” remarked the countess.

“Yes, I own the soft impeachment,” he replied.

Mrs. Scarisbrick affected not to hear the observation, and said to Lady Derwentwater:

“I must congratulate your ladyship on the house you have got. 'Tis the best in the place.”

“So I fancied,” said the countess. “Sir Henry Hoghton must have been very sorry to quit it.”

“He was driven out by General Forster's approach,” laughed Mrs. Scarisbrick.

“Do you know him?” inquired the countess.

“Intimately,” replied Mrs. Scarisbrick; “and like him very much. But he has one great fault. He is a Whig and a Hanoverian.”

“Then I presume you are a Jacobite?” said the countess.

“As ardent a Jacobite as your ladyship,” replied Mrs. Scarisbrick.

“I know you are very well informed, Mrs. Scarisbrick,” observed Lord Derwentwater. “What think you of the news that General Wills has arrived at Wigan?”

“I don't believe it,” she replied. “Had it been the case, I must have heard of it. There are all sorts of disquieting rumours at present--but General Forster needn't trouble himself about them.”

“I don't,” said Forster, emphatically.

“You may depend upon having early information from me,” said Mrs. Scarisbrick. “I have friends at Wigan who will be sure to send me word if anything is to be apprehended. You may therefore rest quite easy.”

“Nevertheless, I think you ought to advance tomorrow, general,” observed Lord Derwentwater.

“To-morrow!” exclaimed Mrs. Scarisbrick. “I am sure Lady Derwentwater will never consent to that.”

“I would if there were any necessity for the step,” rejoined the countess.

“But there is none--none whatever!” said Mrs. Scarisbrick.

“You say you are a particular friend of Sir Henry Hoghton, Mrs. Scarisbrick,” remarked Lord Derwentwater. “May I ask whether you have heard from him since he left?”

“I had a letter from him this very morning, she replied.”

“Indeed!” exclaimed the countess and Dorothy.

“I showed it to General Forster, as he will tell you,” pursued Mrs. Scarisbrick. “But Sir Henry doesn't say a word about General Wills.”

“Not very likely he would,” remarked Dorothy.

“There I differ with you,” said the general. “I am certain he would.”

“So am I,” said Mrs. Scarisbrick. “Besides, I have other correspondents as well as Sir Henry, and I am confident they would have sent me information of so important a circumstance.”

“Then you think we may rest easy for the present.” observed Dorothy.

“Perfectly,” said Mrs. Scarisbrick. “You shall have timely information of any danger from me.”

“No need to send a spy to Wigan to watch the enemy's movements,” observed Forster, with a laugh. “I get all the information I require without trouble.”

“So it seems,” remarked Lord Derwentwater. “But I again counsel an immediate march on Wigan.”

“Nay, nay, let us rest quietly here for a day or two, and enjoy ourselves,” said Forster. “We can't have better quarters. Preston has a hundred recommendations that no other place possesses. And since the countess has joined us, I shouldn't have thought your lordship would desire to move. What says your ladyship?” he added, appealing to her.

“I should certainly like to remain here for a day or two, if it can be done with safety,” she replied.

“It can--I'll answer for it,” said Forster; “and since I am responsible for any mistake, you may be sure I shall be careful.”

“Trust to me,” said Mrs. Scarisbrick. “Depend upon it I will procure information of the enemy's movements.”

“Is she to be relied on?” whispered Dorothy to the earl.

“I cannot tell,” he replied in the same tone. “But your brother is so bewitched that he will never move. You must look after him.”

V.--IMPORTANT RECRUITS.

|JUST then a great tumult was heard outside, and the ladies flew to the windows, which looked upon the street, to see what was the matter.

The disturbance was caused by the arrival of some five or six well-mounted gentlemen, each attended by a dozen armed retainers on horseback, so that they formed quite a troop. A shouting crowd followed them, adding to the noise.

General Forster, who had likewise rushed to the window, was greatly delighted by the sight, since it could not be doubted that these gentlemen had come to join his forces. They had stopped at the entrance to his quarters, and were told by one of the sentinels stationed at the gate, that the general was then at Lord Derwentwater's house on the opposite side of the street.

At this juncture, however, Lord Widdrington came forth, and shook hands very heartily with one of the recruits, a very fine-looking man.

“Who is that handsome and distinguished-looking person?” said the countess to her lord, who had followed her to the window.

“That is Mr. Townley, of Townley,” replied the earl. “He is Lord Widdrington's brother-in-law, and belongs to one of the oldest families in Lancashire. I am rejoiced to see him here.''

“And so am I,” cried Forster, joyfully. “Mr. Townley is a great acquisition. But who is the person next him?”

“I can tell you,” replied Mrs. Scarisbrick. “He is Mr. Shuttleworth of Shuttleworth Hall, and belongs to as old a family as Mr. Townley.”

“Bravo!” exclaimed Forster.

“The gentleman next him,” said Father Norham, who had now come up, “is Sir Francis Anderton, of Lostock Hall--a strict Roman Catholic. I know him well. Next him is another Roman Catholic, Mr. Richard Chorley, of Chorley.”

“Who comes next?” inquired F orster.

“Mr. Gabriel Hesketh, of Whitehall, near St. Michael's-in-Wyre,” replied Mrs. Scarisbrick. “The young gentleman with him is his son, Mr. Cuthbert Hesketh. Then comes Mr. John Leyburne, of Natesby Hall.”

“But one remains--Mr. Ralph Standish, of Standish,” said Lord Derwentwater. “He is nearly related to Mr. Townley.”

“All these gentlemen belong to the old religion,” observed Father Norham.

“It must be owned that the Roman Catholics have proved loyal to King James,” said Forster.

“If the High Church Tories support us equally well we cannot fail,” said Lord Derwentwater.

“Oh! we are quite sure of them,” said Forster. “But I must go and receive our distinguished recruits. I must beg your lordship to come with me,” he added to Lord Derwentwater.

They were about to leave the room, when the door was thrown open and Lord Widdrington entered with Mr. Townley, whom he presented to General Forster, stating that he was come to join the insurgent force, and Forster had scarcely welcomed him, when the other gentlemen came in, and were presented in like manner.

This little ceremony gone through, Forster expressed his high gratification at the adherence of such distinguished persons, and said:

“To prove how sensible I am of the importance of your accession, gentlemen, you will understand that you all join with the rank of captain, and I am quite certain you will do credit to the troops you will command.”

This courteous act, as judicious as good-natured, gave great satisfaction to the gentlemen, and was suitably acknowledged.

Lord Derwentwater then came forward, and welcomed them in his turn, offering to provide them all with quarters in his large house.

“My servants will show you the rooms I have to spare, gentlemen,” he said, “and if you like them, they are quite at your disposal.”

Thanks were offered his lordship for the obliging offer, but it was eventually arranged that Mr. Townley and Mr. Standish should be quartered with General Forster, while the others gladly agreed to become Lord Derventwater's guests.

These matters being arranged, the gentlemen were presented by his lordship to the countess, and by General Forster to his sister and Mrs. Scarisbrick.

Shortly afterwards another arrival took place. This was Mr. Richard Gascoigne, a Roman Catholic gentleman, belonging to an Irish family of some distinction. A person of very refined manners, Mr. Gascoigne was a friend of Colonel Oxburgh, by whom he was presented to General Forster, and like those who had preceded him was complimented with the rank of captain. Mr. Gascoigne was very handsome, and seemed to make a favourable impression upon the ladies--particularly upon Mrs. Scarisbrick. The general offered him quarters, which he very gladly accepted.

Several other important additions were made to the force in the course of the day; but it was remarked that they were all Roman Catholics. Notwithstanding the promises of support from that party, not a single High Church Tory joined.

When questioned as to this strange falling off on the part of his friends, General Forster declared he could not account for it. However it was quite clear that the insurgent army was considerably augmented.

On the second day after their arrival at Preston, the rebels numbered more than four thousand men.

VI.--THE BALL AT THE TOWN-HALL.

|Though little time had been allowed for its preparation, the ball at the town-hall was 'really very brilliant. The rooms were large, but crowded to excess, and space could with difficulty be found for the dancers. As the greater part of the male guests were military, their varied costumes added materially to the effect of the scene. The leaders of all the English and Scottish regiments were present, and though Brigadier Mackintosh rarely appeared at such an assembly, his tall figure could be descried amid the gay throng.

As a matter of course, General Forster was there--in fact, he was looked upon as the most important guest and the greatest attention was paid him by the master of the ceremonies and the stewards, but he seemed entirely engrossed by Mrs. Scarisbrick.

The two ladies who attracted most attention by their beauty and grace were the Countess of Der-wentwater and Dorothy Forster. Both looked charming. They had not come prepared for such a ball, but their dresses were very becoming. They were attended by Lord Widdrington, Charles Radclyffe, and several of the Scottish nobles. Lord Derwentwater was not very far off, but he was engaged in converse with Mr. Townley, Mr. Standish, and Sir Francis Anderton.

At this ball all the beauty of Preston was displayed, and no town in the county--perhaps no town in the kingdom--could have made such a display.

The Preston ladies had a witchery about them that very few of the opposite sex could resist. Wherein the charm consisted we cannot say exactly--but since most of them had extremely fine eyes, their glances may have had something to do with it. Be this as it may, the effect of the fascination was manifest. All submitted to the influence--the old campaigner as well as the young recruit. Every damsel appeared to have an admirer--some half a dozen.

Whatever political opinions they had heretofore entertained, the ladies were all now staunch adherents of King James, who could not, they declared, be better represented than by his army, and that army must not be in a hurry to depart. So far from desiring to go, the gallant young troopers declared they should like to remain at Preston for ever.

At the special request of Captain Shaftoe, the handsome young recruits from Lancaster had been invited, and they caused quite as great a sensation as they had done on their arrival at the town. They had no difficulty in obtaining partners, for all the young ladies were anxious to dance with them, and it must be owned that they danced with remarkable spirit and grace. A cotillon in which they figured with some of the prettiest girls in the room, was the great success of the evening.

“Who are those smart young fellows,” inquired Mrs. Scarisbrick, who was looking on at the dance with General Forster.

“I know nothing about them, except that they are recruits from Lancaster,” he replied. “They have been introduced by Captain Shaftoe. You must apply to him for information.”

“They dance charmingly,” observed the lady. “But they look like women.”

“They may be women for aught I know,” said the general. “But they have joined as troopers--at least, Shaftoe tells me so. He is speaking to their captain now.”

“And if the so-called captain is not a woman in disguise, I am very much mistaken,” observed Mrs. Scarisbrick.

The music having struck up for another dance the young sparks ought to have surrendered their partners, who were engaged three or four deep, instead of which they stood up with them again--a course of proceeding that gave great umbrage to the claimants; and in a few minutes a disturbance arose that threw the whole room into confusion.

The Lancaster recruits showed great spirit, and refused to give up their partners, defying the claimants to take them. The challenge was excepted, and a struggle ensued, in the midst of which screams arose, and it was found that three of the Lancashire youths had fainted. Their sex could, therefore, no longer be concealed; and it then came out, as Mrs. Scarisbrick had suspected, that they were a party of young damsels, who had followed their lovers from Lancaster.

The occurrence caused much merriment, and Captain Shaftoe had to undergo a good deal of raillery from Mrs. Scarisbrick.

Shortly afterwards, the more distinguished guests were summoned to a magnificent supper, which was served in an adjoining room.

In the course of the evening there were several Highland dances, which from their novelty produced a great effect. One of these was a Highland reel, in which Lady Derwentwater and Dorothy took part. The countess danced with Lord Charles Murray, and Dorothy with Colonel Farquharson of Invercauld, and acquitted themselves admirably. Beside these, two other ladies joined the reel and found partners in the Master of Nairn and Captain Gordon. All danced with great spirit to the stirring accompaniment of the pipes. A Highland fling, executed by Lord Charles Murray and Captain Gordon, was rewarded by the applause of Brigadier Mackintosh.

Owing to the crowded state of the room some inconvenience was experienced by the dancers, and interruptions occasionally occurred; but, on the whole, the ball went off remarkably well, and was long afterwards remembered at Preston. Many ladies, then in their bloom, used to boast to their grand-daughters, that they had danced with the rebels in 1715, and they invariably added “Never was seen such a fine set of young fellows.”

Amid that scene of gaiety and excitement, when all the young men yielded to the soft influence of beauty, few thought that vigorous preparations for attacking them were being made by their foes, and that within three days many of them would be slain, and the rest exiled. Had such thoughts intruded they would have been quickly banished.

But the revellers were not troubled by any such disagreeable reflections. Content with the enjoyment of the moment, they gave themselves no thought of the future. How could it be otherwise, when their general and most of their officers set them such an example!

But there was one person amid that thoughtless crowd who was oppressed with care, and felt the danger in which the invading army stood. He felt that, if this culpable indifference on the part of the general should continue, they were lost.

Of all that large assemblage which boasted the presence of so many Scottish nobles and gentlemen--so many wealthy English gentlemen--there was not one who had so much at stake as he.

As he looked at his lovely wife, who was then calling forth rapturous admiration in the Highland dance, and felt how soon he might lose her, he could scarcely repress the pang that crossed his breast.

But she seemed full of excitement, and when she came back to him with Dorothy, he strove to receive them with a smile.

Dorothy was not allowed much repose after her fatiguing dance. She was carried off by Charles Radclyffe, who since her arrival seemed to have fallen desperately in love with her. He told her that her image had been constantly before him during the march, and earnestly besought her to enter into an engagement with him.

To this Dorothy replied that she would not make any immediate engagement, but if he survived the campaign, and renewed his suit, she would consider the matter. The promise did not altogether satisfy him, but he was obliged to be content.

VII.--RALPH FAIRBROTHER.

|Somewhat late in the evening, Captain Douglas, who, it may be remembered, had the command of one of the Northumbrian regiments, informed General Forster that a spy had been arrested, but the general was so much engrossed by Mrs. Scarisbrick that he paid no attention to the information. Captain Douglas then spoke to Brigadier Mackintosh, who at once went with him to a small room where the man was detained.

Meantime, the spy had been recognised as Ralph Fairbrother, for whose capture a reward had been offered, and who was supposed to have gone to General Carpenter at Newcastle. On being searched a letter was found on him addressed to General Wills, giving particulars of the exact state of the forces, and making some remarks on Forster's incompetency. The letter bore no signature, but was in a female hand. A few lines, traced in pencil, had evidently been added at the ball, and this important postscript recommended an immediate attack of the town, stating that it must be successful, since Forster was unprepared.

After reading this letter, and considering it for a moment, the brigadier handed it to Captain Douglas, who likewise read it carefully.

“Can ye guess by whom it is written?” inquired Mackintosh in a low tone.

“I can,” replied the other.

“Hark ye, sirrah!” said Mackintosh to the prisoner, who was looking on anxiously, “if you desire to save your life, you will tell us who wrote this letter, and from whom you received it.”

“It was slipped into my hand,” replied the spy. “That is all I know about it.”

“Were you not engaged by a lady to convey it to General Wills? Answer plainly.”

“I betray no confidences,” replied Fairbrother, firmly.

“Is General Wills at Wigan?” demanded Captain Douglas. “And how many regiments of infantry, horse, and dragoons, has he got with him?”

“You ask questions I cannot answer, captain,” replied Fairbrother. “And I would not answer them, if I could.”

“Very well, sir, then you must take the consequences,” said Douglas. “In my opinion, brigadier, this man ought to be shot.”

“Humph!” ejaculated Mackintosh. “We shall hear what General Forster says.

“I have nothing to fear from General Forster,” observed Fairbrother.

“Aha! say you so?” exclaimed the brigadier. “We shall see.”

They then left him in custody, and returned to the ballroom. Forster was still at supper with Mrs. Scarisbrick, and declined to have a private consultation with the brigadier.

“I will attend to business in the morning--not now,” he said.

“But we have discovered a spy,” observed Mackintosh, looking fixedly at Mrs. Scarisbrick; “and have found this letter upon him.”

“Give it me,” cried Mrs. Scarisbrick, snatching it from him. “I will read it to the general.”

“Madam,” cried the brigadier, sternly. “I insist that you place that letter in the general's own hands.”

“I don't want to see it,” observed Forster. “I won't be troubled to-night. To-morrow, will be quite time enough. Keep it for me till then.”

“You will never see it,” cried Mackintosh. “I desire, madam, that the letter may be at once returned to me. If not, I shall be compelled to take it from you.”

“Am I to be exposed to this insult, general?” cried Mrs. Scarisbrick, indignantly.

“Certainly not,” replied Forster, rising from his seat--though not without some difficulty. “Brigadier, I must request you to retire.”

“I obey,” replied Mackintosh. “But understand that I will shoot this spy. I am satisfied of his guilt.”

“Do as you please,” said Forster. “Shoot half a dozen spies if you find them.”

“Nay, for Heaven's sake! don't let him shoot the man,” cried Mrs. Scarisbrick.

“Don't be alarmed,” said Forster, sitting down again.

“The man will only be kept in the guard-house to-night. I'll settle the matter to-morrow. Take some more champagne.”

Reassured by this promise, and having got the letter, Mrs. Scarisbrick said no more. But she had nothing to fear from poor Fairbrother.

At break of day, he was taken by a file of Highlanders to the fields near the Wigan-lane, and there shot. The new chaplain of the forces attended him in his last moments. In explanation of this summary act of justice, Brigadier Mackintosh caused it to be announced that the man was a spy.

This act might have been blamed, but circumstances occurred that seemed to justify its severity.

VIII.--APATHY OF GENERAL FORSTER.

|On the same morning, the Earl of Derwentwater, accompanied by the countess and Dorothy, and attended by Charles Radclyffe and Captain Gordon, but without any guard, rode down to the Ribble Bridge.

While the earl was inspecting the bridge, and the ladies were admiring the river, and the view of the town from the spot, their attention was aroused by the sound of horse's footsteps, and immediately afterwards a man galloped up.

He would have ridden on, but Captain Gordon stopped him, and led him to the earl. It appeared that he had left Wigan early in the morning, and brought very important intelligence. General Wills was undoubtedly there, and, having been joined by six more regiments of dragoons on the preceding evening, it was certain he would make immediate arrangements to attack the insurgents, so that they must be prepared for him.

On receiving this intelligence, the earl at once returned to the town, and proceeded to General Forster's quarters, but could not see him, as the general had not yet risen, being much fatigued by the ball.

Instigated by the countess and Dorothy, the earl determined to take all the responsibility upon himself, and ordered Charles Radclyffe to take his regiment to defend Ribble Bridge. But before the order could be obeyed, Forster appeared and countermanded it.

“It seems to me,” said the general, “that my authority is set at naught. A man has been shot as a spy by Brigadier Mackintosh without consulting me, and now orders are given that a guard shall advance towards Wigan. I suppose the next order will be that the whole army shall get ready to march.”

“It ought to be,” said Dorothy. “You are loitering here far too long, and will be surprised by the enemy. Are you aware that General Wills has just been joined by several more regiments?”

“I do not believe a word of it,” rejoined Forster. “Had such been the case, I should certainly have been informed of it.”

“But a scout has just returned from Wigan,” cried the countess. “We have seen him, and spoken with him. Will you not question him yourself?”

“'Tis needless,” said Forster. “The man has been imposed upon.”

“Then you will neither march against the enemy, nor take any steps for the defence of the town?” cried the Earl of Derwentwater.

“Not unless I receive accurate intelligence,” rejoined Forster. “I am under no apprehension.”

“Was there ever such obstinacy?” exclaimed the earl, turning away in disgust. “Nay, 'tis in vain to reason with him,” he added to the countess.

“Your lordship will understand,” said Forster, “that tomorrow I shall commence the march to Manchester.”

“To-morrow we shall not be able to leave Preston,” rejoined the earl.

“We shall see,” replied Forster, laughing. “Meanwhile, I recommend you to make the most of your time, and enjoy yourself while you can. There is another banquet at the town-hall to day.”

“For the last time, I ask you if you are resolved not to move?”

“Not till to-morrow,” replied Forster, positively. “I am about to give general orders to that effect.”

And he quitted the room.

The countess and Dorothy looked aghast.

“What is to be done?” cried the former.

“Nothing,” replied the earl. “Nothing can be done. We are doomed.”

The announcement that the general did not mean to continue his march south till the morrow was very agreeable to the majority of the army--indeed a great many of the gentlemen troopers hoped that when the morrow came there would be another delay. They were quite as infatuated as the general, and spent the greater part of the day in the society of the ladies, A large party collected on the Ribble Bridge, but it was with no intention of defending it.

Another banquet was given at the town-hall, to which the leaders and officers were bidden. Amongst the few ladies invited, were the Countess of Dervventwater, Dorothy Forster, and Mrs. Scarisbrick. Since the last-mentioned lady was present, the general was quite happy, and perfectly indifferent to the future.

Besides this festive meeting, there were innumerable tea-parties, where the gentlemen troopers were very agreeably entertained; while the Mitre, the White Bull, and the Windmill were filled to overflowing with guests.

With this pleasant evening passed away the gaieties of Preston. No more flirting--no more carousing. All merriment was over.

The morrow's sun arose on a day of strife and slaughter.

IX.--PARSON WOODS OF CHOWBENT.

|While the whole insurgent army is feasting and carousing, we shall repair to Wigan, and see what General Wills is about.

Wigan, a very different town from what it is at present, was filled with soldiers. Besides Sir Henry Hoghton's six hundred militiamen, and three regiments of foot, respectively commanded by Captains Sabine, Fane, and Preston, there was a fine regiment of horse, commanded by Colonel Pitt, and five regiments of dragoons, commanded by Major-General Wynn, Colonels Honeywood, Dormer, Munden, and Stanhope.

Whether Wills was an able general may be questioned, but he was an active and very determined man. Strongly built and well made, he had a military bearing, and a stern, inflexible countenance. Obstinate he was, but his obstinacy was very different from that of the incompetent Forster. He could not be turned from his purpose by advice, but his plans were carefully considered. He was in constant communication with General Carpenter, but feeling' certain he could defeat the rebels unaided, his great desire was to attack them before Carpenter came up, so that he might gain all the glory of the victory. Therefore, he hurried on his preparations--though not unduly so. Having a secret correspondent in Preston, he knew the exact numbers of the force, and was also aware of the utter incompetency of Forster, but he thought the chief command might be taken, at the last moment, by the Earl of Derwentwater. He had likewise some fears of Mackintosh, with whose valour and skill he was well acquainted. Still, he felt sure of an easy conquest, and was impatient to achieve it.

While General Wills was arranging his plans for the attack, Sir Henry Hoghton came into his room, and said:

“Acting on a suggestion of your own, general, I have begged the Presbyterian ministers in this neighbourhood--many of whom are well known to me--to induce their congregations to assist me in this struggle against Popery, and I am extremely happy to say I have succeeded--at least, in one instance. The Reverend James Woods, Presbyterian minister of Chowbent, has promptly and energetically responded to my appeal. The worthy man has used such exertions that he has already got together a troop of some forty or fifty active young men. For the most part they are armed with scythes, fixed on straight poles, and bill-hooks, but they are stout active young fellows, and will undoubtedly do good service.”

“Are they here?” inquired Wills.

“They are, general,” replied Sir Henry. “And so is their pastor, the Reverend James Woods.”

“I will see him at once,” replied Wills.

He then went forth with Sir Henry, and in front of the old house, where he had fixed his quarters, he found a large party of stalwart-looking young fellows, armed with the weapons described. At their head was a sturdy-looking individual, of middle age, clad in a suit of black, and having a well-powdered wig on his head. Notwithstanding his decidedly clerical appearance, he had a brace of pistols in his belt, and a sword girt by his side.

General Wills could not help smiling when he beheld him. Still, he perceived at a glance that the parson would prove serviceable, and he therefore gave him a hearty welcome.

“I am very glad to find, Mr. Woods,” he said, “that you have come to assist the Government at this crisis. Rest assured your conduct will be appreciated in the right quarter.”

“I and a portion of my flock have come to fight for the king, general,” replied the minister. “We will uphold him against a Popish Pretender. We are ready to take any part you may be pleased to assign us, and I promise you the rebels shall meet with a stout resistance from us.”

“They shall,” cried the men, brandishing their scythes and bill-hooks.

“I thankfully accept your offer,” said Wills, “I am sure you promise no more than you will perform. Tomorrow morning, at an early hour, I shall march to Preston to give battle to the rebels, and you shall go with me, or rather shall march on before me--so that you can take up a position before I come up. Do you know Penwortham--about two miles below the bridge over the Ribble?”

“I know the place well, general,” replied Woods. “It is on the south bank of the river, which is there fordable.”

“Exactly. It is that ford I wish you to guard. I must tell you that it may become a post of danger, as some of the rebels may attempt to escape that way.”

“I don't care for danger,” said the valiant pastor; “and I hope I shall take many prisoners.”

“If necessary, a party of men shall be sent to support you,” said Wills.

“I trust we shall not need support, general,” said the pastor, resolutely. “Before the day is over I fancy my followers will have got some better arms than they now possess.”

“Decidedly, you ought to have been a soldier, reverend sir,” observed Wills. “You would have done credit to the profession. Now, will you remain here for the night, or march on with your men to Chorley, so as to have less to do to-morrow?”

“We will adopt the latter course, general,” replied the pastor. “We will halt for the night at a small place called Whittle-in-the-Woods, about six miles from Penwortham. We can take up our post early in the morning. Have you any further orders to give me?”

“None,” replied Wills. “But I hope you will take some refreshment before you set out on your march.”

“All is ready for you,” said Sir Henry Hoghton, advancing. “Come with me and bring your men with you.” Parson Woods willingly complied with the invitation, and, saluting the general in a military style, accompanied Sir Henry to the mess-room of the militia, where a substantial repast awaited him and his men.

Thoroughly recruited, and in very good spirits, the warlike pastor commenced his march to Whittle-in-the-Woods.

X.--GENERAL WILLS ARRIVES AT PRESTON.

|Having fully arranged his plans, General Wills summoned the various commanders, and after explaining to them his views, made the following disposition of his forces.

The horse and dragoons were to be formed into three brigades: the first to consist of Wynn's and Honey-wood's regiments, under the command of Brigadier Honeywood; the second to comprise Munden's and Stanhope's regiments, under the command of Brigadier Mun-den; and the third to comprehend Pitt and Dormer's regiments, under the command of Brigadier Donner.

“We shall set out at break of day,” said the general, “and this will be the order of march. In the front will be Preston's foot, with a vanguard of fifty men from the regiment, commanded by Lord Forrester. Then will follow the three brigades I have appointed, while the whole of the militia, under the command of Sir Henry Hoghton, will bring up the rear.”

“Am I to cross the bridge, general?” inquired Sir Henry, who was present.

“Most probably the bridge and the approaches to it will be defended,” replied Wills. “Post your men at various points on the south bank of the river. Station two parties of horse about a hundred yards apart on the left of the bridge, and place small parties along the bank as far as the ferry-house, extending them, if necessary, in the direction of Penwortham, where Parson Woods will be posted with his men. Thus the whole of the bank will be guarded, and no supplies can be conveyed to the rebels--nor can any of them escape.”

“I quite understand, general,” said Sir Henry, “and will carefully attend to your instructions.”

“One word more, gentlemen, and I have done,” said Wills, looking round. “As we shall set out as soon as it is light, you must all be on the alert an hour before daybreak, so as to prevent any chance of delay. This applies particularly to the foot and the advanced guard, who ought to start half an hour before the horse. We shall halt for an hour at Chorley, to breakfast.”

In anticipation of the day they had before them, the commanders and officers retired early to rest. But not till he had satisfied himself by personal inspection that all the regiments under his command were in good marching order did General Wills seek his couch.

Fully an hour before daybreak the reveille was sounded, and it was scarcely light when the vanguard, commanded by Lord Forrester, marched out of Wigan.

After a short interval, the advanced guard was followed by Preston's regiment of foot--known as the Old Cameronians--which could boast some of the finest men in the service. Then followed, after another pause, the three brigades of cavalry; and both men and horses being in excellent condition, these regiments looked remarkably well. General Wills rode with Brigadier Honeywood at the head of the first brigade.

After a long train of baggage waggons came the militia, numbering some six hundred horse and foot, commanded by Sir Henry Hoghton. Like the regular soldiers, the militia-men looked exceedingly well, and were loudly cheered by the inhabitants, most of whom--though the hour was so early--had assembled to witness the march forth of the troops.

The spectacle was rendered infinitely more impressive by the circumstance that the men were about to fight a battle. The result, however, of the impending contest seemed scarcely doubtful, and the general opinion was that the rebellion would be effectually crushed.

Confident in their leader, and animated by their officers, who promised them an easy victory over the insurgents, with the plunder of the rich town of Preston, the king's soldiers were in excellent spirits.

Nor did anything occur in the march to disquiet them. The morning being fine and the roads in tolerably good order the infantry got on very well, and were very little fatigued on reaching Chorley.

During the halt at Chorley, word was brought to General Wills, by a scout that the bridge over the Ribble was defended by Colonel John Farquharson of Invercauld, with a hundred picked men belonging to Colonel Mackintosh's battalion.

General Forster had likewise come forth to reconnoitre, and had been seen with a party of horse about two miles south of the bridge, on the Wigan road.

This intelligence did not seem to necessitate any alteration in General Wills's plans, but he ordered Lord Forrester and Captain Preston to halt at Walton-le-Dale till he himself should come up.

After this short halt the march was resumed, and on arriving at Walton-le-Dale, the general learnt Colonel Farquharson had been strengthened by three hundred men sent to support him by the Earl of Derwentwater.

Under the impression that the bridge would be stoutly defended, Wills prepared to attack it with Honeywood's brigade, but what was his surprise, on arriving at the spot, to find the passage entirely unoccupied!

What had become of Colonel Farquharson and his Highlanders? Where were Lord Derwentwater's three hundred men? Not one of them was to be seen. Though there was nothing to impede his progress. Wills hesitated for a few minutes, suspecting some stratagem might be intended. He then rode boldly across the bridge, and was followed by his whole force with the exception of the militia, which remained on the south bank of the river, and took up the position assigned.

After crossing the bridge Wills again halted before entering the deep lane that led to the town, and thinking the hedges might be lined, he caused them to be examined, but no skirmishers could be discovered.

Unable, otherwise, to account for such strange neglect of all precautions, he came to the conclusion that the rebels must have abandoned the town, and commenced a retreat to Scotland.

Should this prove to be the case, it would be a great disappointment to him, as well as to his soldiery, since it would deprive him of victory, and the men of the plunder they expected to obtain.

However, his alarm was quickly dispelled. A prisoner had been taken, and was brought before him.

The man had refused to answer the sergeant who first interrogated him, but as Wills threatened to have him shot, he became more compliant.

“Where are the rebels?” demanded the general.

“In the town,” replied the man, sullenly.

“Is General Forster there?” continued Wills.

“I suppose so,” said the prisoner.

“And Lord Derwentwater?”

“Maybe,” replied the man. “But I have not seen him.”

“Take care how you answer, fellow!” cried Wills sternly. “Are you quite sure Brigadier Mackintosh has not set out for Scotland?”

“Quite sure,” replied the man, “I saw him not half an hour ago--helping to make a barricade.”

“A barricade!” exclaimed Wills, glancing at Brigadier Honeywood. “Now we are coming to it. Where is the barricade formed?” he added to the prisoner.

“In the Churchgate,” replied the man.

“Is that the only barrier?”

“No, there are three others. All the entrances to the town are barricaded.”

“Then the rebels mean to defend themselves?” said Wills.

“To the last. You needn't expect them to surrender.”

“If they don't, I shall cut them to pieces,” said Wills, sternly. “Go back to the town and tell them so.”

“I won't deliver any such message. It would cost me my life.”

“No matter,” cried Wills. “Obey me. Recollect what I have said. Not one of the rebels shall escape me--unless their leaders surrender at discretion. Now begone!”

The man was then set free, and driven towards the town, but he did not re-enter it.

General Wills then quitted the lane, which was shut in, as we have said, by high hedges, and led his troops to some fields on the left that commanded a full view of the town.

How peaceful and beautiful it looked! Even the stem Wills, who was about to deliver it up to fire and sword, felt a certain regret at the thought of destroying so pleasant a place.

Very few evidences of preparation on the part of the insurgents were visible, the barriers and intrenchments being all in the interior of the town.

A few soldiers could be descried at the outskirts, but no guard was placed at the extremity of the avenues. Wills quite understood what this meant, and judged correctly that the houses on either side of the streets must be filled with troops ready to pour a murderous fire upon the assailants as they entered the town.