and bolt here in the inn until I shall want him, and tell him
that he shall answer for him with his neck."

Kenneth drew back in alarm.

"Sir - Captain Hogan - will you explain "

"Marry, you shall have explanations to spare before morning,
else I'm a fool. But have no fear, for we intend you no hurt,"
he added more softly. "Take him away, Beddoes; then return to
me here."

When Beddoes came back from consigning Kenneth into the hands
of his trooper, he found Hogan seated in the leathern
arm-chair, with Ashburn's letter spread before him on the
table.

"I was right in my suspicions, eh?" ventured Beddoes
complacently.

"You were more than right, Beddoes, you were Heaven-inspired.
It is no State matter that you have chanced upon, but one that
touches a man in whom I am interested very nearly."

The sergeant's eyes were full of questions, but Hogan
enlightened him no further.

"You will ride back to your post at once, Beddoes," he
commanded. "Should Lord Oriel fall into your hands, as we
hope, you will send him to me. But you will continue to patrol