"But it will be the last, Sir Crispin."

"Like enough. The King is severe since we crossed the Border."
Then in a brisker tone: "I thank you for bringing me this
news," said he, "and I regret that in my poor house there be
naught I can offer you wherein to drink His Majesty's health
ere you proceed upon your search. Give you good night, sir."
And by drawing back a pace he signified his wish to close the
door and be quit of them.

"We thought," faltered the young officer, "that - that
perchance you would assist us by - "

"Assist you!" roared Crispin, with a fine assumption of anger.
"Assist you take a man? Sink me, sir, I would have you know I
am a soldier, not a tipstaff!"

The ensign's cheeks grew crimson under the sting of that veiled
insult.

"There are some, Sir Crispin, that have yet another name for
you."

"Like enough - when I am not by," sneered Crispin. "The world
is full of foul tongues in craven heads. But, sirs, the night
air is chill and you are come inopportunely, for, as you'll
perceive, I was at play. Haply you'll suffer me to close the
door."

"A moment, Sir Crispin. We must search this house. He is