“Yes, sir, in the King’s name.”
“Oh,” said Waller coolly, as he darted a furious glance at Gusset, who was still opening and shutting his mouth without making a sound; and then, noting that Martha and Bella had come to the door leading to the servants’ offices, and were looking on, while the gardener, bearing his scythe, had come round to the porch, to be stopped by the soldier placed as sentry, who held his musket across the man’s chest, “In the King’s name, eh?” said Waller coolly.
“Yes, sir. Very sorry, but my duty.”
“Oh, well, I am not going to blame you,” said Waller; “but I should have thought as my father is a county magistrate this house ought to be respected.”
“Yes, sir, of course,” said the sergeant; “but don’t you see, it’s like protecting him against the French.”
“Search away, then,” cried Waller, “and when you have done—here, Martha!”
“Yes, sir,” came from the door.
“Don’t let these soldiers go away without giving them a crust of bread and cheese.”
“No, sir; I’ll have it ready directly,” cried Martha; and then, in a whisper to her fellow-servant, “Bless the boy! Don’t he speak up like a man!”
“Where are you going to begin, sergeant?”