‘Yes—I admit that, if it is any satisfaction to you.’
‘Then it was worse than a mistake to actually lead the men out to my house for the purpose of breaking the windows. It was almost a crime. I would suggest to you, as a soldier for the moment, to lead a charge up a steep hill against a body of farm labourers and others entrenched behind a railing.’
‘That is a mere matter of opinion.’
‘And yet you did that,’ said Sir John. ‘If you are going to break the law you should insure success before embarking on your undertaking.’
Conyngham made no answer.
‘It was also a stupid error, if I may say so, to make your way back to Durham by Ravensworth, where you were seen and recognised. You see I have a good case against you, Mr. Conyngham.’
‘Yes, I admit you have a good case against me, but you have not caught me yet.’
Sir John Pleydell looked at him coldly.
‘You do not even take the trouble to deny the facts I have named.’
‘Why should I, when they are true?’ asked Conyngham carelessly.