That was Wildfire Ned.
He visited Bob in prison, and spent several hours with him.
When he came away he told old Sir Richard that the prisoner was an innocent man, and was sure he had been duped by some cunning villain.
“Bob must not suffer,” said Ned; “he shall not suffer, while I’ve got a hand to help him.”
“Shall not!” said Sir Richard, in amazement; “Who’s to prevent it, if he’s found guilty?”
“Who? why, I will,” said Wildfire Ned, colouring to the temples.
“You?”
“Yes, me, uncle. No rope shall ever go round Bob’s neck while there is a sword in the village to prevent it.”
“Silly boy,” said the knight, with a smile, “I know that you are brave, no one can doubt that; but what could you do against so many?”
“Let them dare attempt to hang him in Darlington, and you would soon see what Wildfire Ned would do.”