‘Because it is so unfit for a gentleman, therefore I do thank you. It is right to know what one’s own flesh and blood are doing.’
‘Hark to that song, sir! that’s an old one. I didn’t think they’d get on to singing that.’
The Blackbird was again on the table, but seemed this time disinclined to exhibit.
‘Out wi’ un, boy; it wain’t burn thy mouth!’
‘I be afeard.’
‘O’ who?’
‘Keeper there.’
He pointed to Tregarva; there was a fierce growl round the room.
‘I am no keeper,’ shouted Tregarva, starting up. ‘I was turned off this morning for speaking my mind about the squires, and now I’m one of you, to live and die.’
This answer was received with a murmur of applause; and a fellow in a scarlet merino neckerchief, three waistcoats, and a fancy shooting-jacket, who had been eyeing Lancelot for some time, sidled up behind them, and whispered in Tregarva’s ear,—