“As yet, no inquiries have been made after you,” continued Leonard, unconscious of the effect produced by his intelligence, “but it is evident they know you are here.  Be prepared, therefore.”

“I am prepared,” rejoined Amabel.  And as she spoke, she threw open the door and admitted Leonard.  “Do not stay with us,” she added to him.  “In case of need, I will throw myself on his majesty’s protection.”

“It will avail you little,” rejoined Leonard, distrustfully.

“I do not think so,” said Amabel, confidently.  “I have faith in his acknowledged kindness of heart.”

“Perhaps you are right,” returned Leonard.  “Mrs. Buscot is at present with his majesty in the receiving-room.  Will you not make fast your door?”

“No,” replied Amabel, firmly; “if the king will not defend me, I will defend myself.”

Leonard glanced at her with admiration, but he said nothing.

“Is Sir Paul Parravicin here?” asked Nizza Macascree, with great anxiety.

“I have not seen him,” replied Leonard; “and I have carefully examined the countenances of all the king’s attendants.”

“Heaven be praised!” exclaimed Nizza.

At this juncture, Mrs. Buscot entered the room.  Her looks bespoke great agitation, and she trembled violently.

“You have no doubt heard from Leonard that the king and his courtiers are below,” she said.  “His majesty inquired whether you were here, and I did not dare to deceive him.  He desires to see you, and has sent me for you.  What is to be done?” she added, with a look of distraction.  “I suppose you must obey.”

“There is no alternative,” replied Amabel; “I will obey his majesty’s commands as soon as I can collect myself.  Take back that answer, dear aunt.”

“Has Leonard told you that the Earl of Rochester is here?” pursued Mrs. Buscot.

Amabel replied in the affirmative.

“God grant that good may come of it!” cried Mrs. Buscot, clasping her hands together, as she quitted the room; “but I am sorely afraid.”

A half-suppressed groan from the apprentice told that he shared in her apprehensions.

“Leave us, Leonard,” said Amabel; “I would prepare myself for the interview.”

The apprentice obeyed, and closing the door after him, stationed himself at the foot of the staircase.  Left alone with Nizza, Amabel threw herself on her knees, and besought the support of Heaven on this trying occasion.  She then arose, and giving her hand to Nizza, they went down stairs together.  Leonard followed them at a little distance, and with a beating heart.  Two gentlemen-ushers were posted, at the door of the chamber occupied by the king.  Not far from them stood Mrs. Buscot, who, having made known her niece to the officials, they instantly admitted her, but ordered Nizza to remain outside.