On the day following the trial and condemnation, Sir John Redfyrne visited Cuthbert in his cell.
The poor lad gave him one indignant look, then turned his head aside and would regard him no further.
“Cuthbert Trevannion, thou regardest me as thy foe, yet I am not; thou didst save my life from robbers, and I own it, and own that I must appear ungrateful beyond conception, yet I have one excuse, I love my young benefactor, but love my King and country better.”
No answer.
“Thou knowest the existence of a secret chamber at Glastonbury.”
Still no reply.
“Reveal that secret, and I pledge myself to provide for thy future fortunes, to restore thee to liberty and honour, nay to gratify the most extravagant desires of thy young heart.”
He paused in vain.
“Or, failing this, if thou wilt not be led by kindness and mercy, there remain the sharp arguments of thumb-screw and rack.”
The answer came at length.