But we will talk of this
to-morrow,' he said, wringing Waverley's hands. 'Good-night; strive to
forget it for a few hours. It will dawn, I think, by six, and it is now
past two. Good-night.'
Edward retired, without trusting his voice with a reply.
CHAPTER XXVII
EXERTION
When Colonel Talbot entered the breakfast-parlour next morning, he
learned from Waverley's servant that our hero had been abroad at an early
hour and was not yet returned. The morning was well advanced before he
again appeared. He arrived out of breath, but with an air of joy that
astonished Colonel Talbot.
'There,' said he, throwing a paper on the table, 'there is my morning's
work. Alick, pack up the Colonel's clothes. Make haste, make haste.'
The Colonel examined the paper with astonishment. It was a pass from the
Chevalier to Colonel Talbot, to repair to Leith, or any other port in
possession of his Royal Highness's troops, and there to embark for
England or elsewhere, at his free pleasure; he only giving his parole of
honour not to bear arms against the house of Stuart for the space of a
twelve-month.
'In the name of God,' said the Colonel, his eyes sparkling with
eagerness, 'how did you obtain this?'
'I was at the Chevalier's levee as soon as he usually rises.
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