He saw some proof must be tendered before he could regain his liberty.

Jabez Gum happened to be standing at his gate opposite, and he called to him.
"Will you be so kind as to tell this man who I am, Mr.Gum.He is mistaking me for some one else." "This is the Earl of Hartledon," said Jabez, promptly.
A moment's hesitation on the officer's part; but he felt too sure of his man to believe this.

"I'll take the risk," said he, stolidly.

"Where's the good of your holding out, Mr.Elster ?" "Come this way, then!" cried Lord Hartledon, beginning to lose his temper.

"And if you carry this too far, my man, I'll have you punished." He went striding up to the Rectory.