"I owe thanks and gratitude, and would fain know to whom: your name,
young sir?"
The Cavalier paused for a moment, and then said,-"You may call me De Guerre--Walter De Guerre."
"Walter De Guerre!--an English Christian wedded to a French
surname!--'tis strange, but let it pass, let it pass: you have been an
instrument in the gracious preserving of one who, though unworthy, is of
some account; and instruments in the Lord's hand must be regarded. My
companions had business in this neighbourhood, and had left me but a
little time, when I was set upon by these cowards; but God is merciful,
and inspired you with valour. And now, sir, whither wend ye? To Cecil
Place?"
"No, sir," replied De Guerre, pondering what he should answer, or how he
should designate his present abode.
"To the worshipful sheriff, Sir Michael Livesey, at Little Shurland? He
must look to his ferry-warden and boatmen to prevent such villainies as
have now occurred."
"To none of these, sir," replied Walter; "in fact, I am a humble
traveller, lodging at a humble hostelry not far from hence."
During this dialogue, Robin had adjusted the saddle-girth, and led the
horse to its master, who took the bridle from his hand, and held it,
examining the girth as he spoke. Robin glided imperceptibly round to De
Guerre's side, and standing behind him, pulled his sleeve, and
whispered,-"Don't tell him where."
The intimation was, perhaps, not heard, certainly not heeded, for the
young man added,-"At the widow Hays'."
"I bethink me; the house near East Church. It is called
Nest--Nest--Nest--ay, Gull's Nest. 'Tis but a poor abode for one who
bears a diamond-hilted sword, and bears it bravely too. An every-day
person, Master De Guerre, would sell the diamonds and get a gayer
lodging."
"Persons differ in this and all other matters, more or less," replied
the young man somewhat haughtily: "I wish you good night, sir."
"Hot!" said the stranger, at the same time laying his hand upon the arm
of De Guerre: "Hot and high! Well, it is an ill tree that needs no
pruning; but the preserver and the preserved must not part thus. Come
with me to Cecil Place, and though I have it not to offer golden
recompense, yet I can assure to you a glad welcome; for my friends all
love each other."
"Go with him, go with him; never say him nay: why should you not go when
he desires it?" whispered Robin.