“But what do you propose to do?” said Sir Robert.

“To return with the messengers,” answered the Baron.  “I think it highly proper that I should see your Uncle, and hear what he has to say; my children are his heirs; in justice to them, I ought to be acquainted with every thing that concerns the disposal of his fortune.”

“Your Lordship is in the right,” answered Sir Robert, “it concerns us all.  I have only to ask your permission to bear you company.”

“With all my heart,” said the Baron; “I have only to ask of you in return, that you will command yourself, and not speak your mind hastily; wait for the proofs before you give judgment, and take advice of your reason before you decide upon any thing; if you reflect upon the past, you will find reason to distrust yourself.  Leave all to me, and be assured I will protect your honour and my own.”

“I will obey you in all things, my lord; and will make immediate preparation for our departure.”  So saying, he left the room.

As soon as he was gone, Mr. William broke silence.

“My Lord, said he,” if you have no great objection, I beg leave also to accompany you both.”

“You shall, my son, if you desire it; I think I can see your motives, and your brother’s also; your coolness will be a good balance to his warmth; you shall go with us.  My son Walter shall be his sister’s protector in our absence, and he shall be master here till we return.”

“I hope, my dear father, that will not be long; I shall not be happy till you come home,” said the fair Emma.

“It shall be no longer, my dearest, than till this untoward affair is settled.”

The Baron desired to know when the messengers were expected to return.  Oswald took this opportunity to retire; he went to his own apartment, and read the letter, as follows:—­

“The Heir of Lovel, to his dear and reverend friend, father Oswald.

“Let my friends at the Castle of Lovel know that I live in hopes one day to see them there.  If you could by any means return with the messengers, your testimony would add weight to mine; perhaps you might obtain permission to attend the Baron; I leave it to you to manage this.  John Wyatt will inform you of all that has passed here, and that hitherto my success has outrun my expectation, and, almost, my wishes.  I am in the high road to my inheritance; and trust that the Power who hath conducted me thus far, will not leave his work unfinished.  Tell my beloved William, that I live, and hope to embrace him before long.  I recommend myself to your holy prayers and blessing, and remain your son and servant, Edmund.”

Oswald then went to the messengers; he drew John Wyatt to a distance from the rest, and got the information he wanted.  He stayed with him till he was sent for by the Baron, to whom he went directly, and prevented his questions, by saying, “I have been talking with the messengers; I find they have travelled night and day to bring the letters with all speed; they only require one night’s rest, and will be ready to set out with you to-morrow.”