t secured; and
then looked at the casements, which were at a storey's height from the
ground, and grated besides with iron. "I cannot think," he said, after a
moment's pause, "that the fellow means to trepan us; and, in any event,
I trust we should have no difficulty in forcing the door, or otherwise
making escape. But, before resorting to such violent measures, I think
it is better to give the rabble leisure to disperse, by waiting this
man's return with our weapons within a reasonable time, when, if he
does not appear, I trust we shall find little difficulty in extricating
ourselves." As he spoke thus, the hangings were pulled aside, and from
a small door which was concealed behind them, Major Bridgenorth entered
the room.

CHAPTER XLIII

He came amongst them like a new raised spirit
To speak of dreadful judgments that impend,
And of the wrath to come.
--THE REFORMER.

The astonishment of Julian at the unexpected apparition of Bridgenorth,
was instantly succeeded by apprehension of his father's violence, which
he had every reason to believe would break forth against one, whom he
himself could not but reverence on account of his own merits, as well
as because he was the father of Alice. The appearance of Bridgenorth was
not however, such as to awaken resentment. His countenance was calm,
his step slow and composed, his eye not without the indication of some
deep-seated anxiety, but without any expression either of anger or
of triumph. "You are welcome," he said, "Sir Geoffrey Peveril, to the
shelter and hospitality of this house; as welcome as you would have been
in other days, when we called each other neighbours and friends."

"Odzooks," said the old Cavalier; "and had I known it was thy house,
man, I would sooner had my heart's blood run down the kennel, than my
foot should have crossed your threshold--in the way of seeking safety,
that is."

"I forgive your inveteracy," said Major Bridgenorth, "on account of your
prejudices."

"Keep your forgiveness," answered the Cavalier, "until you are pardoned
yourself. By Saint George I have sworn, if ever I got my heels out of
yon rascally prison, whither I was sent much through your means, Master
Bridgenorth,--that you should pay the reckoning for my bad lodging.--I
will strike no man in his own house; but if you will cause the fellow to
bring back my weapon, and take a turn in t