"By all means! You are the most important member of the party."
Toward noon of the next day the three reached Lakeville. Uncle Jacob and Ralph Harding secured rooms at the hotel, and then repaired to the little cottage.
We will precede them.
It was in the spirit of revenge that the squire had telegraphed to Brooklyn, and after he had done so he half regretted it. If John Barton were re-arrested, he would undoubtedly try to incriminate the squire himself, and the mere accusation would do him harm. It would be best if Barton could be frightened into making his escape, and this very act would seem like a confession of guilt.
"Yes, that will be best," thought the squire. "Barton will never dare to come back, and we shall be spared the scandal of a trial."
He took his hat and cane, and set out for the Barton cottage.
Mrs. Barton opened the door.
"Is your husband in?" asked the squire.
"Yes."
"I would like to see him on very important business."