The watchmen turned in their tracks and herded out of the alley like bewildered cattle, all clumping boots, jingling staffs, waving lanterns and jumbled wits. My savior removed his hat and mopped his brow with a white kerchief.
"So much for that," he remarked cheerfully. "Now——"
But he was interrupted from an unexpected quarter. The captain of the watch returned alone.
"I crave your pardon, Master Juggins," he began.
"You well may," agreed Master Juggins.
"Aye; but, good sir, if you will be so kind——"
"Kind I will not be. What, sirrah, after all the insults I have listened to and being nearly murdered into the bargain?"
"No, but worshipful Master Alderman, do you but bear with me an instant. I have a thought——"
"'Tis impossible," pronounced Master Juggins solemnly.
I felt my heart warm to the man. If he was typical of the London citizens then was I glad to be quit of St. Germain and all its atmosphere of petty intrigues and Jesuitical sophistries.