"The best thing we can do now is to warn Doubledick. We've gone into partnership with the fellow, and we can't in honour keep silence. Give him a chance to escape."
"You're right. I'll call at the inn as I ride down, and tell him we have Jake locked up here. That will give him about twelve hours' grace—time to clear away bag and baggage."
When the lieutenant went aboard his cutter, Mr. Polwhele entered the inn.
"Where's Doubledick?" he asked of the inn-keeper's wife.
"He be gone along to Trura, Maister," she replied, in her usual vinegary manner.
"What for?"
"Well, I don't know as it be any business o' yourn, but 'tis to buy some figs for the pa'son's dinner."
"Oh, well, if he comes back, tell him I want to see him first thing in the morning, will you?"
"He hain't done nawthin' agen the law."
"I'm glad of that. Don't forget my message."