if he attempts to enter, I, as a magistrate, should know how to
deal with him. Now, young sir, you understand your position; you
may not take my advice, nevertheless, I shall give it you. The best
thing you can do is to take your place for town on the outside of
the coach that comes through Reigate this afternoon, and tomorrow
morning proceed either to the recruiting officer for His Majesty's
service, or to that for the East India Company's. You have health
and strength, you will get rid at once of your bad associates, and
will start afresh in a life in which you may redeem your past and
be useful to your king and country."

Young Bastow smiled.

"Thanks," he said sarcastically. "I have my own plans, and shall
follow them."

"I would think, Mr. Bastow," the Squire said quietly, "it would
just be as well for you to come home with me. I don't think that
the leave taking is likely to be an affectionate one."

The Rector rose at once.

"I will come with you, Squire. I may tell you now, what I have not
told you before, that my son has more than once raised his hand
against me, and that I do not care to be left alone with him."

"I judged him capable even of that, Mr. Bastow."

"Goodby, Arthur," his father said. "My heart is ready to break
that it has come to this; but for both our sakes it is better so.