'Yes, and by all accounts 'tis true. And naterelly they'll be mowed
down like grass; and you among 'em, poor young galliant officer!'

'Look here, Cripplestraw. This is a reg'lar foolish report. How
can yeomanry be put in front? Nobody's put in front. We yeomanry
have nothing to do with Buonaparte's landing. We shall be away in a
safe place, guarding the possessions and jewels. Now, can you see,
Cripplestraw, any way at all that the yeomanry can be put in front?
Do you think they really can?'

'Well, maister, I am afraid I do,' said the cheering Cripplestraw.
'And I know a great warrior like you is only too glad o' the chance.
'Twill be a great thing for ye, death and glory! In short, I hope
from my heart you will be, and I say so very often to folk--in fact,
I pray at night for't.'

'O! cuss you! you needn't pray about it.'

'No, Maister Derriman, I won't.'

'Of course my sword will do its duty. That's enough. And now be
off with ye.'

Festus gloomily returned to his uncle's room and found that Anne was
just leaving. He was inclined to follow her at once, but as she
gave him no opportunity for doing this he went to the window, and
remained tapping his fingers against the shutter while she crossed
the yard.

'Well, nephy, you are not gone yet?' said the farmer, looking