“Yes, and that is why I speak,” said the squire firmly. “I am leader here, and I insist upon this man being taken uninjured. Let the law deal with him. It is not our duty to punish him for the crimes.”
There was another low murmur here, but the squire paid no heed and went on:
“In the first place, not a shot is to be fired.”
“Not if he shutes at us?” cried Farmer Tallington.
“No: not even if he fires at any of us. If he should draw trigger, rush in and seize him before he has time to reload, and then, with no more violence than is necessary, let him be bound.”
“Well,” said Farmer Tallington, “perhaps you’re reight neighbour; and as long as he is punished I don’t know as I mind much how it’s done.”
“Then we all understand each other, and you, my men, I shall hold you answerable for any injury this man receives.”
“What! Mayn’t us knock him down, squire?” grumbled the big wheelwright.
“Of course you may, Hickathrift. Stun him if you like; he will be the easier to bind.”
“Hey, that’s better, lads,” cried the wheelwright, brightening up. “Squire’s talking sense now.”