Squire had taken the matter in hand, and had laid down what was to
be done, though he trembled at the prospect, he did not even think
of opposing his plan, and indeed could think of no alternative for
it.

"I have told John Knapp to be here," the Squire said, as they
reached the house. "It is just as well that he should be present
if your son comes back again. He is a quiet, trustworthy fellow,
and will keep his mouth shut if I tell him."

Mr. Bastow made no reply. It was terrible to him that there should
be another witness to his son's conduct, but he saw that the Squire
was right. An old woman opened the door.

"Are all the shutters closed and barred?" John Thorndyke asked her.

"Yes, sir; I always sees to that as soon as it gets dark."

"Very well; you can go to bed now, Elisa," her master said. "Is
John Knapp here?"

"Yes, he came an hour ago, and is sitting in the kitchen."

"I will call him in myself when I want to speak to him."

As soon as the old servant had gone upstairs the Squire went into
the kitchen, Mr. Bastow having gone to the cellar to fetch up
a bottle of old brandy that was part of a two dozen case given to
him by the old Squire fifteen years before.