Then the officer fell back a pace, and consulted an elderly trooper at his elbow.

The trooper was of opinion that the fugitive must have gone farther.

Moreover, he could not think, from what Sir Crispin had said, that it would have been possible for Hogan to have entered the house.

With this, and realizing that much trouble and possible loss of time must result from Sir Crispin's obstinacy, did they attempt to force a way into the house, and bethinking himself, also, maybe, how well this rascally ruffler stood with Lord Middleton, the ensign determined to withdraw, and to seek elsewhere.
And so he took his leave with a venomous glance, and a parting threat to bring the matter to the King's ears, upon which Galliard slammed the door before he had finished.
There was a curious smile on Crispin's face as he walked slowly to the table, and resumed his seat.
"Master Stewart," he whispered, as he spread his cards anew, "the comedy is not yet played out.

There is a face glued to the window at this moment, and I make little doubt that for the next hour or so we shall be spied upon.