Two minutes later he ushered Captain Protheroe into the judge's presence.
At sight of his visitor Jeffreys started, and eyeing him sharply for a moment, rapped out a fierce oath.
"What's this!" he cried. "What do you here? How dare you come here? I know you, fellow, I know your face well."
"'Tis possible," answered the other coolly. "I have been frequently before your lordship—er—unofficially. I was one of Colonel Kirke's officers."
"Truly, you do well to say was," shouted Jeffreys angrily. "I mind you well, sir. You are he who was committed at Taunton and who afterwards escaped. I have not forgot you, sir."
"Indeed! I congratulate your lordship upon an excellent memory," was the cool reply.
"Zounds! Jewars. What is the fellow here for?" blustered the judge. "A condemned rebel! A traitor! Call in the guard."
"Nay, my lord," interrupted Captain Protheroe quietly. "I have that to say to your lordship of the deepest import. You will do well to hear me out. The guard afterwards—an you will."
Jeffreys eyed him, frowning.
"You are a cool fellow," he muttered. "Have a care, sir, have a care. Do not trifle with me. Your life is not worth one——"