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Much. A great deal, replied the secretary. Read it. I told you, the first time I saw you, that I couldnt read, said Hugh, impatiently. What in the Devils names inside of it? It is a proclamation from the King in Council, said Gashford, dated to-day, and offering a reward of five hundred poundsfive hundred pounds is a great deal of money, and a large temptation to some peopleto any one who will discover the person or persons most active in demolishing those chapels on Saturday night. Is that all? cried Hugh, with an indifferent air. I knew of that. Truly I might have known you did, said Gashford, smiling, and folding up the document again. Your friend, I might have guessed indeed I did guesswas sure to tell you. My friend! stammered Hugh, with an unsuccessful effort to appear surprised. What friend? Tut tutdo you suppose I dont know where you have been? retorted Gashford, rubbing his hands, and beating the back of one on the palm of the other, and looking at him with a cunning eye. How dull you think me! Shall I say his name? No, said Hugh, with a hasty glance towards Dennis. You have also heard from him, no doubt, resumed the secretary, after a moments pause, that the rioters who have been taken (poor fellows) are committed for trial, and that some very active witnesses have had the temerity to appear against them. Among others and here he clenched his teeth, as if he would suppress by force some violent words that rose upon his tongue; and spoke very slowly. Among others, a gentleman who saw the work going on in Warwick Street; a Catholic gentleman; one Haredale. Hugh would have prevented his uttering the word, but it was out already. Hearing the name, Barnaby turned swiftly round. Duty, duty, bold Barnaby! cried Hugh, assuming his wildest and most rapid manner, and thrusting into his hand his staff and flag which leant against the wall. Mount guard without loss of time, for we are off upon our expedition. Up, Dennis, and get ready! Take care that no one turns the straw upon my bed, brave Barnaby; we know whats underneath iteh? Now, master, quick! What you have to say, say speedily, for the little captain and a cluster of em are in the fields, and only waiting for us. Sharps the word, and strikes the action. Quick! Barnaby was not proof against this bustle and despatch. The look of mingled astonishment and anger which had appeared in his face when he turned towards them, faded from it as the words passed from his memory, like breath from a polished mirror; and grasping the weapon which Hugh forced upon him, he proudly took his station at the door, beyond their hearing. You might have spoiled our plans, master, said Hugh. you, too, of all men! Who would have supposed that he would be so quick? urged Gashford. Hes as quick sometimesI dont mean with his hands, for that you know, but with his headas you or any man, said Hugh. Dennis, its time we were going; theyre waiting for us; I came to tell you. Reach me my stick and belt. Here! Lend a hand, master. Fling this over my shoulder, and buckle it behind, will you? Brisk as ever! said the secretary, adjusting it for him as he desired. A man need be brisk to-day; theres brisk work a-foot. |
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