the use of his capacious lungs was oft in request. He was hangman, too,
upon occasion, being never so well pleased as when employed in the due
chastisement of his master's lieges. He was, moreover, a man of infinite
humour, generally consoling his dear unfortunates under their
visitations by some coarse and galling jest.

"Now, Adam of Hunersfield, art thou at thy prayers already?--I'll shrive
thee quick. Master, shall I give the rogues any victuals? They'll not
keep else till hanging time;--best finish now--needless to waste
provender."

"Give them the prison allowance. But, hark thee, no stripes, Nicholas,"
said the chief, well aware of his flagellant propensities.

"Eh!" replied he; "but black cake and dried beans don't mix well i' the
stomach without riddling."

"Peace, sirrah!" replied the chieftain with a frown. Nicholas, though a
licensed jester and in especial favour, knew there was a boundary beyond
which he durst not pass; he became silent, therefore, at this command.
The lamentations of the unwary hostages were loud but unavailing.
Nicholas prepared his manacles, and was leading them from the chamber,
when the page whispered in his master's ear.

"Stop," cried the Thane: "know ye aught of the boy who was a-watching
yesternight?"

"We know nothing of the lad, as we hope for deliverance," said the
terrified rustics.