The farmer made a formal bow to the porter, whom he believed to be governor at the very least, and handed him a sealed letter.
The porter said in a careless tone—
“An order from Lord Ethalwood.”
The farmer nodded.
“An order to see the gaol?”
“If you please.”
“Certainly—pass on.”
The farmer and his daughter did as they were directed. They happened to meet the head turnkey in the quadrangle—he received them with a grin of recognition and respect. He knew them both, and guessed the reason for their paying a visit to the prison.
He had so great a respect for both that he would have shown them over the gaol, even without an order from Lord Ethalwood or any one else.
The two strangers were none other than Mr. Jamblin and his daughter. This the reader has doubtless already divined.