"Then in the name of the king I am here."
"Pleased to see you, sir. But I cannot think of any business the king may have with me."
"I am a sheriff."
"Indeed! and I should fancy a credit to the shrievalty."
Merrit bowed. The reception was far different to what he had expected.
He glanced into the room, and saw only the younger man sitting in the chimney corner.
"You are a loyal man?" queried the officer.
"I am loyal to king and country," answered Allen, boldly.
"I am glad to hear that, for my business would be unpleasant were it not that you are loyal."
"Sheriff, tell your business without delay."