But when at a distance, he had been for many years accustomed to consider Bridgenorth's power and influence as something formidable; and notwithstanding the late change of affairs, his ideas so naturally reverted to his neighbour as a powerful friend or dangerous enemy, that he felt more apprehension on the Countess's score, than he was willing to acknowledge even to himself.

The Countess observed his downcast and anxious brow, and requested to know if her stay there was likely to involve him in any trouble, or in any danger.
"The trouble should be welcome," said Sir Geoffrey, "and more welcome the danger, which should come on such an account.

My plan was, that your ladyship should have honoured Martindale with a few days' residence, which might have been kept private until the search after you was ended.

Had I seen this fellow Bridgenorth, I have no doubt I could have compelled him to act discreetly; but he is now at liberty, and will keep out of my reach; and, what is worse, he has the secret of the priest's chamber." Here the Knight paused, and seemed much embarrassed.
"You can, then, neither conceal nor protect me ?" said the Countess.
"Pardon, my honoured lady," answered the Knight, "and let me say out my say.

The plain truth is, that this man hath many friends among the Presbyterians here, who are more numerous than I would wish them; and if he falls in with the pursuivant fellow who carries the warrant of the Privy Council, it is likely he will back him with force sufficient to try to execute it.