when
General Sampson and his companion reached the hall. Sir Ralph started,
and gazed with a bewildered look.

"Who are you? Speak. I well remember those features," he exclaimed.

"And I remember yours, Ralph," said the stranger, stepping forward and
taking his hand. "However, we will say no more on the subject at
present. Your son and General Sampson know me as Mr Hastings; let me
retain that name till we can converse in private. In the meantime,
continue your preparations to receive the ruffians, who are close at
hand. Thanks to the speed at which we were driving, the volley they
fired did us no harm."

Sir Ralph seemed scarcely to comprehend what Mr Hastings said, but
continued gazing in his face without replying.

General Sampson, at once comprehending the state of affairs, took upon
himself the command of the garrison, and ordered the servants to see
that all the other entrances to the house were closed. He then
requested those who had firearms to load them with ball, and to be ready
to make use of them if required. Scarcely had he done so than a
thundering knock was heard at the door, and a man from the outside
announced himself as a sergeant from the -- Dragoons, who had been sent
over from Morbury with a party of fifteen men to guard the Hall.

On this the door was opened, when a fine soldier-like fellow appeared,
who requested to know where he should post his men.

"My orders are to remain here if Sir Ralph Castleton wishes it, but if
not, to proceed to Downside Cottage, at Hurlston. As the smugglers, or
whatever they are, caught sight of us just as we entered the avenue,
they are not likely to attack this place."

Harry, who had just been receiving his mother's and sister's embraces,
heard what was said.

"Let some of your men accompany me, and I will show them the way to
Downside," he exclaimed; and he directed one of the servants to bring a
horse round without a moment's delay.

"Where are you going, Harry?" exclaimed Sir Ralph, recovering himself,
on seeing Harry hurrying down the steps. "The troopers will look after
the ruffians."

"To assist those who require protection," answered Harry. "There is no
time to be lost."

"Just like him," cried General Sampson. "The ruffians won't stand a
charge if he leads it. I'll be after you, Harry. One of you get me a
horse."

"Thank you, general," exclaimed Lady Castleton, "We cannot tell what
these desperate men will venture to do, and y