So I want you to promise me that, whatever the others think, you will hold out that he is innocent." "Well, miss," the smith said, scratching his head, "if you be sure of it, and squire be sure, I suppose there can't be no doubt about it, for who should know better than squire; and I am sure I wouldn't go to put him about, for a better landlord than squire ain't to be found in the county.

So you tell him, miss, as I will hold out." "But papa doesn't know that I have come down here, Jacob.

It wouldn't do for him to interfere, you know; especially as he is a magistrate himself.

You mustn't mention to anyone that I have spoken to you about it--not to anyone, Jacob, not even to your wife--but I can tell you the squire will be heartily pleased if he is found innocent, and he will be terribly put out if he is found guilty." "All right, miss," the smith replied.

"I understand, and no one sha'n't know as you have spoken to me aboot it.