In the Days of Queen Mary

by E. E. Crake

"Oh, that is it, is it?" said the man; "then I leaves you to yourself and bid you good e'en!"

And forthwith he began to walk away.

At this the bound men set up a loud howl of entreaty—their worst fears seemed about to be realized.

The woodman relented, and returned once more to the prisoners.

This time he came straight to the point.

"What will you give me if I cut your cords?" said he, and his eyes sparkled greedily.

The Pursuivant hesitated ere he replied; his first thought was tinged with bitter rage: he would make this fellow smart for his greedy impudence.

But reflection brought another thought: it did not matter what he gave this man; they were three to one—when once they were freed they could make him disgorge his ill-gotten gains!

So he replied, "Come hither, man; put thy hand in my doublet pocket and take my purse, with all that it contains."

The woodman obeyed, and soon found the purse; it was well lined, and his greed was satisfied.