and the constable and his crew of course
not at all; and Spinks pushed forward among the group as he saw Berenger
sink back on the bench; and once more collaring his prisoner, exclaimed
almost angrily to Philip, 'There now, sir, you've had enough of the
vagabond. We'll keep him tight ere he bewitches any more of you.'

This rude interference proved an instant restorative. Berenger sprang up
at once, and seizing Spink's arm, exclaimed, 'Hands off, fellow! This is
my friend--a gentleman. He brings me tidings of infinite gladness. Who
insults him, insults me.'

Spinks scarcely withdrew his hand from Mericour's neck; and scowling,
said, 'Very odd gentleman--very queer tidings, Master Berenger, to fell
you like an ox. I must be answerable for the fellow till his Honour
comes.'

'Ah! _Eh quoi_, wherefore not show the _canaille_ your sword?' said
Mericour, impatiently.

'It may not be here, in England,' said Berenger (who fortunately was not
wearing his weapon). 'And in good time here comes my step-father,' as
the gate swung back, and Sir Marmaduke and Lady Thistlewood rode through
it, the former sending his voice far before him to demand the meaning of
the hurly-burly that filled his court.

Philip was the first to spring to his rein, exclaiming, 'Father, it is
a Frenchman whom Spinks would have flogged at the cart's-tail; but it
seems he is a friend of Berenger's, and has brought him tidings. I know
not what--about his wife, I believe--any way he is beside himself with
joy.'

'Sir, your Honour,' shouted Spinks, again seizing Mericour, and striving
to drag him forward, 'I would know whether the law is to be hindered
from taking its course because my young Lord there is a Frenchman and
bewitched.'

'Ah,' shrieked Lady Thistlewood, 'I knew it. They will have sent secret
poison to finish him. Keep the fellow safe. He will cast it in the air.'

'Ay, ay, my Lady,' said Spinks, 'there are plenty of us to testify
that he made my young Lord fall back as in a swoon, and reel like one
distraught. Pray Heaven it have not gone further.'

'Sir,' exclaimed Berenger, who on the other side held his friend's hand
tight, 'this is a noble gentleman--the brother of the Duke de Mericour.
He has come at great risk to bring me tidings of my dear and true wife.
And not one word will these demented rascals let me hear with their
senseless clamour.'

'Berenger! You here, my boy!' exclaimed Sir Marmaduke, more amazed by
this than all the