If the Puritans commence, it will be time for us to retort.

There are gentlemen's mansions all over the country, many of them in the heart of Roundhead neighborhoods, and if they had once an excuse in our proceedings not one of these would be safe for a minute" Leaving a strong force of horse in Abingdon, Prince Rupert returned to Oxford, and Colonel Furness again settled down in his residence, his troop dispersing to their farms until required, a small body only remaining at Furness Hall as a guard, and in readiness to call the others to arms if necessary.

The colonel warmly approved of the steps that Harry had taken to save the valuables, and determined that until the war was at an end these should remain hidden, as it was probable enough that the chances of the strife might again lead the Roundheads thither.
"I hope, father," Harry Furness said the following day, "that you will now permit me to join the troop.

I am getting on for sixteen, and could surely bear myself as a man in the fray." "If the time should come, Harry, when the fortune of war may compel the king to retire from Oxford--which I trust may never be--I would then grant your request, for after your encounter with the officer who commanded the Roundheads here, it would not be safe for you to remain behind.

But although you are too young to take part in the war, I may find you employment.