"Ye will never see him more," she returned--"never. It is sure."

"An I do not," returned the lad, "I will know the reason why. He came

not hither of his full free will; such as I am, I am his best protector,

and I will see him justly used. There be too many mysteries; I do begin

to weary of the game!"

But as Dick was speaking, a heavy hand fell on his shoulder. It was

Bennet Hatch that had come unperceived behind him. With a jerk of his

thumb, the retainer dismissed his wife.

"Friend Dick," he said, as soon as they were alone, "are ye a moon-struck

natural? An ye leave not certain things in peace, ye were better in the

salt sea than here in Tunstall Moat House. Y' have questioned me; y'

have baited Carter; y' have frighted the Jack-priest with hints. Bear ye

more wisely, fool; and even now, when Sir Daniel calleth you, show me a

smooth face for the love of wisdom. Y' are to be sharply questioned.

Look to your answers."

Hatch," returned Dick, "in all this I smell a guilty conscience."

"An ye go not the wiser, ye will soon smell blood," replied Bennet. "I

do but warn you. And here cometh one to call you."

And indeed, at that very moment, a messenger came across the court to

summon Dick into the presence of Sir Daniel.

The Black Arrow