CHAPTER THREE.
ABOUT THE ENEMY.
"Shall I fasten the door, father ?" cried Ralph excitedly.
"No," said Sir Morton firmly.

"I know my man of old." Ralph looked on and listened, as a low growl arose; but, bully and coward or no, it was evident that Captain Purlrose was master of his men, who stood listening and nodding their heads, one or two slapping the hilts of their swords menacingly, and at last the leader of the ragged crew turned and shook his fist threateningly at the house, and ended by striding jauntily away through the embattled gateway, followed by his gang.
"Will they come back, father, at night ?" said Ralph, after uttering a sigh of relief.
"No, my boy; I judge the men by their leader.

Michael Purlrose always had a wholesome love of keeping his skin sound; his men have, without doubt, the same.

He will execute his threat, though, of going to Eden's." "And if Sir Edward takes them into his service, it will be awkward for us, father." "Yes, _if_, my boy; but I do not think that Eden will.

We shall hear no more of the vagabonds, unless Purlrose comes back to beg." "I'll go and watch them, father," cried Ralph eagerly.
"Yes; but you will not go near, so as to run any risk?
If they found you alone, they would attack and strip you of everything of value you have." "I'll take care," cried the lad.