nd paths. Now call to
mind, are there no secret hiding-places in which people may remain
concealed; no thickets which may cover both man and horse? Peradventure
thou mayst point out the very spot where this man Charles may be
hidden."

"I do know one dell, within a mile of Arnwood," replied James Southwold,
"which might cover double our troop from the eyes of the most wary."

"We will ride there, then," replied the leader. "Arnwood, sayest thou?
Is not that the property of the Malignant, Cavalier Beverley, who was
shot down at Naseby?"

"Even so," replied Southwold; "and many is the time--that is, in the
olden time, before I was regenerated--many is the day of revelry that I
have passed there; many the cup of good ale that I have quaffed."

"And thou shalt quaff it again," replied the leader. "Good ale was not
intended only for Malignants, but for those who serve diligently. After
we have examined the dell which thou speakest of, we will direct our
horses' heads towards Arnwood."

"Who knows but what the man Charles may be concealed in the Malignant's
house?" observed another.

"In the day, I should say no," replied the leader; "but in the night the
Cavaliers like to have a roof over their heads; and therefore at night,
and not before, will we proceed thither."

"I have searched many of their abodes," observed another; "but search is
almost in vain. What with their spring panels and secret doors, their
false ceilings and double walls, one may ferret for ever and find
nothing."

"Yes," replied the leader, "their abodes are full of these Popish
abominations; but there is one way which is sure; and if the man Charles
be concealed in any house, I venture to say that I will find him. Fire
and smoke will bring him forth; and to every Malignant's house within
twenty miles will I apply the torch; but it must be at night, for we are
not sure of his being housed during the day. James Southwold, thou
knowest well the mansion of Arnwood?"

"I know well my way to all the offices below--the buttery, the cellar,
and the kitchen; but I cannot say that I have ever been into the
apartments of the upper house."

"That it needeth not; if thou canst direct us to the lower entrance, it
will be sufficient."

"That can I, Master Ingram," replied Southwold, "and to where the best
ale used to be found."

"Enough, Southwold, enough; our work must be done, and diligently. Now,
my men, tighten your girths; we will just ride