But here disappointment awaited them, for this officer, a man of wealth and honour, was, as it chanced, absent on a visit to Norwich, whence it was said that he would not return for three full days.
"Now what shall we do ?" asked Sir Andrew, his face falling.

"It is certain that the burgesses of Dunwich will not draw sword in an unknown quarrel, except upon the direct order of their chief, for there is no time to collect them and publish the King's warrant.

It would seem that we must wait till to-morrow and prepare to-night." "Not I," answered Hugh.

"The warrant is to me as well as to the Mayor.
I'll leave it with his clerk, which is good delivery, and away to Blythburgh Manor on the instant with any who will follow me, or without them.

Come, Dick, for night draws on and we've lost much time." Now his father tried to dissuade him, but he would not listen, for the fear in his heart urged him forward.