always thinking of the petticoats? I observed no female; but if any one
_did_ join the assault, it must have been either Amazonian Kate, or
Fighting Moll."

"The woman I mean did not join the assault," rejoined the Master, "but
rather seemed to shun observation; and, from the hasty glimpse I caught
of her, she appeared to have a child in her arms."

"Then, most probably, it was the widow Sheppard," answered Blueskin,
sulkily.

"Right," said the Master, "I didn't think of her. And now I've another
job for you."

"Propose it," returned Blueskin, inclining his head.

"Square accounts with the rascal who got up the sham arrest; and, if he
don't tip the cole without more ado, give him a taste of the pump,
that's all."

"He shall go through the whole course," replied Blueskin, with a
ferocious grin, "unless he comes down to the last grig. We'll lather him
with mud, shave him with a rusty razor, and drench him with _aqua
pompaginis_. Master, your humble servant.--Gentlemen, your most
obsequious trout."

Having effected his object, which was to get rid of Blueskin, Baptist
turned to Rowland and Sir Cecil, who had watched his proceedings with
much impatience, and remarked, "Now, gentlemen, the coast's clear; we've
nothing to interrupt us. I'm entirely at your service."