this man's custody by mere force, reft from mine own people. Since that

day I had never pity, countenance, nor comfort from the face of man--but

from him only--Richard Shelton--whom they now accuse and labour to

undo.

My lord, if he was yesternight in Sir Daniel's mansion, it was I that

brought him there; he came but at my prayer, and thought to do no hurt.

While yet Sir Daniel was a good lord to him, he fought with them of the

Black Arrow loyally; but when his foul guardian sought his life by

practices, and he fled by night, for his soul's sake, out of that bloody

house, whither was he to turn--he, helpless and penniless? Or if he be

fallen among ill company, whom should ye blame--the lad that was unjustly

handled, or the guardian that did abuse his trust?"

And then the short young lady fell on her knees by Joanna's side.

"And I, my good lord and natural uncle," she added, "I can bear

testimony, on my conscience and before the face of all, that what this

maiden saith is true. It was I, unworthy, that did lead the young man

in."

Earl Risingham had heard in silence, and when the voices ceased, he still

stood silent for a space. Then he gave Joanna his hand to arise, though

it was to be observed that he did not offer the like courtesy to her who

had called herself his niece.

"Sir Daniel," he said, "here is a right intricate affair, the which, with

your good leave, it shall be mine to examine and adjust. Content ye,

The Black Arrow