His eyes around and about, scanning the gorgeous throng and the splendid

saloon, murmuring, 'But these are real — verily these are real — surely it is

not a dream.'

He stared at the king again — and thought, ' Is it a dream?... or is he the

veritable sovereign of England, and not the friendless poor Tom o' Bedlam I

took him for — who shall solve me this riddle?'

A sudden idea flashed in his eye, and he strode to the wall, gathered up a

chair, brought it back, planted it on the floor, and sat down in it!

A buzz of indignation broke out, a rough hand was laid upon him, and a voice

exclaimed:

'Up, thou mannerless clown! — wouldst sit in the presence of the king?'

The disturbance attracted his majesty's attention, who stretched forth his

hand and cried out:

'Touch him not, it is his right!'

The throng fell back, stupefied. The king went on:

'Learn ye all, ladies, lords and gentlemen, that this is my trusty and well-

Beloved servant, Miles Hendon, who interposed his good sword and saved his

Prince from bodily harm and possible death — and for this he is a knight, by

the king's voice. Also learn, that for a higher service, in that he saved his

Sovereign stripes and shame, taking these upon himself, he is a peer of

England, Earl of Kent, and shall have gold and lands meet for the dignity.

More — the privilege which he hath just exercised is his by royal grant; for

We have ordained that the chiefs of his line shall have and hold the right to sit