Hall and of Wallingford House. Accordingly he joined with Sir
Geoffrey, with less enthusiasm indeed, but with equal sincerity,
taking such measures as seemed proper to secure their part of the
country on the King's behalf, which was done as effectually and
peaceably as in other parts of England. The neighbours were both at
Chesterfield, when news arrived that the King had landed in England;
and Sir Geoffrey instantly announced his purpose of waiting upon his
Majesty, even before his return to the Castle of Martindale.

"Who knows, neighbour," he said, "whether Sir Geoffrey Peveril will
ever return to Martindale? Titles must be going amongst them yonder,
and I have deserved something among the rest.--Lord Peveril would
sound well--or stay, Earl of Martindale--no, not of Martindale--Earl
of the Peak.--Meanwhile, trust your affairs to me--I will see you
secured--I would you had been no Presbyterian, neighbour--a
knighthood,--I mean a knight-bachelor, not a knight-baronet,--would
have served your turn well."

"I leave these things to my betters, Sir Geoffrey," said the Major,
"and desire nothing so earnestly as to find all well at Martindale
when I return."

"You will--you will find them all well," said the Baronet; "Julian,
Alice, Lady Peveril, and all of them--Bear my commendations to them,
and kiss them all, neighbour, Lady Peveril and all--you may kiss a
Countess when I come back; all will go well with you now you are
turned honest man."

"I always meant to be so, Sir Geoffrey," said Bridgenorth calmly.