Both of them are leagued to break the law, and both will resist and take life if they are interfered with.

I allow that, in general estimation, the smugglers are looked upon in a more favourable light, and that a great many people, who ought to know better, are in league with them, but that does not alter the facts of the case." The girl did not argue the question, but the squire was perfectly aware that he had in no way convinced her, and that her feeling, that James Walsham's action was a highly meritorious one, was in no way shaken.

It was agreed that nothing was to be said about James's absence, and, after taking some refreshment, Mr.Wilks went down into Sidmouth again, to tell the girl at Mrs.Walsham's that she was not to gossip about James being away.
Three days later, a letter was received by the squire from Richard Horton.
"I am taking the opportunity of writing a few lines to you, my dear uncle, as I have a chance of sending it ashore by the revenue cutter Thistle, which is lying alongside of us.

Between us, we have just captured a rascally smuggling lugger, with a cargo of lace, silk, and spirits.

You will, I am sure, be surprised and grieved to hear that among the crew of the lugger was James Walsham.