It said that special note had been made of the offer of Sir
Marmaduke's son, to mingle among the king's attendants and to fire
the first shot, as, in the confusion, he would be able to escape
and, being but a boy, as he said, none would be able to recognize
him afterwards.
"In the event, of course, of the first shot failing, the rest of
the party, gathered in a body, would rush forward, despatch the
usurper, cut their way, sword in hand, through any who barred their
path to the point where their horses were concealed, and then at
once scatter in various directions. For this great service, his
majesty would not fail to evince the deepest gratitude, upon his
restoration to his rightful throne, and pledged his royal word that
each of the party should receive rank and dignity, together with
ample estates, from the lands of which the chief supporters of the
usurper would be deprived.
"So you see, Charlie, you were to have the honour of playing the
chief part in this tragedy."
"Honour indeed!" Charlie exclaimed passionately. "Dishonour, sir.
Was there ever so infamous a plot!"
"It is a well-laid plot, Charlie, and does credit to the scoundrel
who planned it. You see, he made certain that Sir Marmaduke would
be attainted, and his estates forfeited, but there existed just a
possibility that, as you are but a boy, though a good big one, it
might be thought that, as you were innocent of the business, a
portion at least of the estate might be handed to you.
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