when he learnt who the wounded man was. He ordered the soldiers to
take the man and themselves away.

The magistrate interposed and begged him to at least let O'Connell
rest there until a doctor could patch him up. It might be dangerous
to take him back without medical treatment. He assured Nathaniel
that the moment they could move him he would be lodged in the
county-jail.

Nathaniel went back to his study as the sorry procession passed on
to the front door.

He sent immediately for his sister.

The reply came back that she would see him at dinner.

He commanded her to come to him at once.

In a few minutes Angela came into the room. She was deathly pale.
Her voice trembled as she spoke:

"What do you want?"

"Why did you bring that man here?"

"Because he is wounded."

"Such scoundrels are better dead."

"I don't think so. Nor do I think him a scoundrel."