ut
of the Devonshire yard in a conveyance, which, contrary to expectations,
proceed along North-street. It was originally the intention of the driver
to go to Bingley station, but fearing he would not have time for the
journey, he pulled up at Keighley station. Here both platforms were
besieged with demonstrative crowds. The train was missed, and the crowd
unyoked the horses from the conveyance. A number of mechanics seized the
shafts, and wheeled the vehicle with its occupants through the streets of
the town. Indescribable scenes took place. William Smith, an auctioneer,
who was suspected of complicity in the Sheriff's operations, was badly
handled. Finally, the Sheriff hoisted a flag of truce, and the Guardians
announced that they had been granted another night's freedom on condition
that they would leave quietly by train the next day. On Saturday the
seven martyrs proceeded to York Castle.

CHAPTER XVII

THE KEIGHLEY GLORY BAND

Much interest was taken, I remember, in the visit to Keighley of a social
and temperance reformer of the name of Captain John Ball. He had two
"lieutenants" with him, named Mountain and Roberts, both good at
"spouting." Their meeting place was the old Independent chapel in Upper
Green, and the services drew large congregations, many people of various
denominations attending. The work went on very well for some time, and I
believe that a fair amount of good was done; but, unfortunately, Captain
Ball "could not stand his corn," and--if Dame Rumour was to be
believed--frequently indulged in a "wee drappie," and occasionally
overstepped the mark of moderation. Of course the people attending his
services made great capital out of the ugly rumours, and one and another
commenced to pull the "captain" in pieces. Now, I had all along
entertained a certain respect for Captain Ball, so I took it upon myself
to defend him, writing a pamphlet in which I gave prominence to the fact
that it was the aim of all religion to forget and forgive. The little
affair blew nicely over, and the congregation continued to hold together,
until John had another fall; and the climax was reached when he committed
himself for the fourth time by coming to Divine service "blind" drunk. On
this occasion one of his lieutenants, who accompanied him, was not
exactly sober. The incident reminds me of the old ballad:--

Robin and Johnny were going down t' street;
They called at t' first alehouse they chanced to m