"I suppose this additional evidence is before the justices: men of good
family, and of honour and credit, well known in the county. They
naturally feel that the opinion of one of themselves must have more
weight than the words of a man like Job Gregson, who bears a very
indifferent character,--has been strongly suspected of poaching, coming
from no one knows where, squatting on Hareman's Common--which, by the
way, is extra-parochial, I believe; consequently you, as a clergyman, are
not responsible for what goes on there; and, although impolitic, there
might be some truth in what the magistrates said, in advising you to mind
your own business,"--said her ladyship, smiling,--"and they might be
tempted to bid me mind mine, if I interfered, Mr. Gray: might they not?"

He looked extremely uncomfortable; half angry. Once or twice he began to
speak, but checked himself, as if his words would not have been wise or
prudent. At last he said--"It may seem presumptuous in me,--a stranger
of only a few weeks' standing--to set up my judgment as to men's
character against that of residents--" Lady Ludlow gave a little bow of
acquiescence, which was, I think, involuntary on her part, and which I
don't think he perceived,--"but I am convinced that the man is innocent
of this offence,--and besides, the justices themselves allege this
ridiculous custom of paying a compliment to a newly-appointed magistrate
as their only reason."

That unlucky word "ridiculous!" It undid all the good his modest
beginning had done him with my lady. I knew as well as words could have
told me, that she was affronted at the expression being used by a man
inferior in rank to those whose actions he applied it to,--and truly, it
was a great want of tact, considering to whom he was speaking.