convict a person in whom you took interest, a lad from Marksedge.
What did you know of him?'

'I was prompted by common justice and humanity,' said Louis. 'My
protection was claimed for the poor boy, as the son of an old servant
of ours.'

'Indeed! I think you must have been imposed on. Mr. Calcott spoke
of the family as notorious poachers.'

'Find a poor fellow on the wrong side of a hedge, and not a squire
but will swear that he is a hardened ruffian!'

'Usually with reason,' said the Earl. 'Pray when did this person's
parents allege that they had been in my service?'

'It was his mother. Her name was Blackett, and she left us on her
marriage with one of the Hodgekins.'

Lord Ormersfield rang the bell, and Frampton, the butler and
confidential servant, formed on his own model, made his appearance.

'Do you know whether a woman of the name of Blackett ever lived in
service here?'

'Not that I am aware of, my Lord. I will ascertain the fact.'

In a few moments Frampton returned. 'Yes, my Lord, a girl named
Blackett was once engaged to help in the scullery, but was discharged
for dishonesty at the end of a month.'