We shall be able to have them both in court at twelve o'clock." The Squire rode up to his house.

He was met at the door by his son, in a state of great excitement.
"Is it all true, father?
The news has come from the village that you have killed two men, and that they and Arthur Bastow have all been taken away in a cart, guarded by constables." "As usual, Mark, rumor has exaggerated matters.

There are no dead men; one certainly got a crack on the head that rendered him insensible for some time, and another's arm is broken." "And are they highwaymen, father?
They say that two horses were fastened behind the cart." "That is what we are going to try, Mark.

Until their guilt is proved, no one knows whether they are highwaymen or not." "And why is Arthur Bastow taken, father ?" "Simply because he was in company with the others.

Now, you need not ask any more questions, but if you like to get your pony saddled and ride down with me to Reigate at eleven o'clock, I will get you into the courthouse, and then you will hear all about it." At greater length the Squire went into the matter with Mrs.Cunningham, his lady housekeeper, and his ward's governess.
"It is a bad business, Mr.Thorndyke," she said, "and must be terrible for poor Mr.Bastow." "Yes, it is a bad business altogether, except that it will rid him of this young rascal.