y son Richard has rendered considerable
service to the cause. It was through him that information of the
intended run the other night was obtained, and he also discovered one of
the smugglers' hiding-places, `Grime's Mill,' and was the means of
enabling the revenue-men to capture a considerable store of their
contraband goods."

Sir Reginald smiled.

"I'm glad to hear this," he observed; "for to say the truth, I have had
strong doubts as to your son's connexion with the smugglers. He is
intimate, I find, with an old sailor, Roger Riddle, who though too
cunning to be caught is known to aid and abet them in their proceedings.
By his means young Mark Riddle, who is both smuggler and poacher, made
his escape from my lock-up room only last week. Had it not been for my
respect for you, I could not have passed the matter over, and I am happy
now to be able to set the services you say he has rendered against his
former conduct. I am the more willing to do this as young Riddle was
taken just as he landed from the `Saucy Bess,' and we shall now get rid
of him, as he will be either committed to prison for two years or sent
off to sea to serve his Majesty for seven years."

I was very sorry when I heard this, but of course did not express my
feelings to Sir Reginald. My father looked rather uncomfortable; he was
a nervous man, and Sir Reginald always awed him. He, however, mustered
courage to proceed.

"I hope, Sir Reginald, that my son's good conduct will induce you to
interest yourself in his favour, and that you will forward his views by
exerting yourself to obtain the appointment he so greatly desires. I am
very anxious to get him away from the neighbourhood, as I am afraid the
smugglers, who are aware that he has been instrumental in the capture of
their friends and goods, will revenge themselves on his head. I dare
not let him leave the house alone, and even coming here I was obliged to
bring an armed attendant for his protection."

"I have told you, Mr Cheveley, that I consider his late conduct is a
set-off against his unpardonable proceeding. I will, however, remember
his wish; and, should an opportunity occur, will forward his views. I
must now wish you good morning, for my time is much occupied with my
magisterial and parliamentary duties, and you must excuse me."

The baronet prepared to bow us out of the room. He shook hands with my
father, who took the hint and backed towards the door, and gave me only