At first Butler conceived this manoeuvre was only an effect of the man's habitual and official caution and jealousy.
But when he heard the hoarse command, "Turn out the guard!" and immediately afterwards heard the clash of a sentinel's arms, as he was posted at the door of his apartment, he again called out to the turnkey, "My good friend, I have business of some consequence with Effie Deans, and I beg to see her as soon as possible." No answer was returned.

"If it be against your rules to admit me," repeated Butler, in a still louder tone, "to see the prisoner, I beg you will tell me so, and let me go about my business .-- _Fugit irrevocabile tempus!_" muttered he to himself.
"If ye had business to do, ye suld hae dune it before ye cam here," replied the man of keys from the outside; "yell find it's easier wunnin in than wunnin out here--there's sma' likelihood o' another Porteous mob coming to rabble us again--the law will haud her ain now, neighbour, and that yell find to your cost." "What do you mean by that, sir ?" retorted Butler.

"You must mistake me for some other person.

My name is Reuben Butler, preacher of the gospel." "I ken that weel eneugh," said the turnkey.
"Well, then, if you know me, I have a right to know from you in return, what warrant you have for detaining me; that, I know, is the right of every British subject." "Warrant!" said the jailor,--"the warrant's awa to Libberton wi' twa sheriff officers seeking ye.

If ye had staid at hame, as honest men should do, ye wad hae seen the warrant; but if ye come to be incarcerated of your ain accord, wha can help it, my jo ?" "'So I cannot see Effie Deans, then," said Butler; "and you are determined not to let me out ?" "Troth will I no, neighbour," answered the old man, doggedly; "as for Effie Deans, ye'll hae eneuch ado to mind your ain business, and let her mind hers; and for letting you out, that maun be as the magistrate will determine.