That is what I say to my worthy and singular good client, Sir Thomas; but he is somewhat headstrong and vehement, and will not listen to me.

He is for settling matters by the sword, for making forcible entries and detainers, and ousting the tenants in possession, whereby he would render himself liable to arrest, fine, ransom, and forfeiture; instead of proceeding cautiously and decorously as the law directs, and as I advise, Sir Ralph, by writ of _ejectione firmae_ or action of trespass, the which would assuredly establish his title, and restore him the house and lands.

Or he may proceed by writ of right, which perhaps, in his case, considering the long absence of possession, and the doubts supposed to perplex the title--though I myself have no doubts about it--would be the most efficacious.

These are your only true weapons, Sir Ralph--your writs of entry, assise, and right--your pleas of novel disseisin, post-disseisin, and re-disseisin--your remitters, your praecipes, your pones, and your recordari faciases.

These are the sword, shield, and armour of proof of a wise man." "Zounds! you take away one's breath with this hail-storm of writs and pleas, master lawyer!" cried Nicholas.