But, as you say, it would be a thing to talk of to old age how you rode after the king when he entered London in state.

But mind, if there be fighting, you must rein back and keep out of it." Harry was overjoyed with the permission, for in truth time had hung heavily on his hands since the colonel had ridden away.

His companionship with Herbert had ceased, for although the lads pressed hands warmly when they met in Abingdon, both felt that while any day might bring news of the triumph of one party or the other, it was impossible that they could hold any warm intercourse with each other.
The school was closed, for the boys of course took sides, and so much ill-will was caused that it was felt best to put a stop to it by closing the doors.

Harry therefore had been left entirely upon his own resources, and although he had ridden about among the tenants and, so far as he could, supplied his father's place, the time often hung heavy on his hands, especially during the long hours of the evening.

After thanking his father for his kindness, he rushed wildly off to order his horse to be prepared for him to accompany the troop, to re-burnish the arms which he had already chosen as fitting him from the armory, and to make what few preparations were necessary for the journey.
It was some days, however, before any move was made.