It was a full half an hour before Portland came towards them, trying
to hide a smile.
"Pouf!" he said, "that was a tough business, gentlemen. I have
persuaded his Majesty to accept the offer he declined a while ago,
and to use your services."
"In what way, my lord?"
"You will go at once to The Hague and find out the condition of
Captain van Adrienssen. If, as I suspect, he be unfit to travel, you
will, with this authority, take over his papers and post to
Amsterdam, where you will find the _Merry Maid_ frigate with her
convoy. You are to escort this convoy to the Thames--but you will
read your instructions in the papers which Van Adrienssen will give
you. You, Captain Barker, are the senior, I believe. Yes?
I thought so; and therefore you will take command. Unless your
friend declines to act on this occasion as your lieutenant--"
"My lord, how can we thank you?"
"By serving his Majesty," answered Portland; and added significantly,
"rather than the Earl of Marlborough."
The two friends walked away, treading on air. But perhaps their
friend the ensign, from whom they parted affectionately at the foot
of the avenue, was happier even than they. For not only did his
heart rejoice at their good fortune, but his Majesty had failed to
inquire whether the duel had been fought within or without the park
gates.
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