“We shall convince you to the contrary. If you are no Roundhead then you are a stanch Cavalier, and in the King’s name you confiscated certain gear of your fellow-prisoner.”
Now, while Paul was being interrogated Clupp had removed his hand from Master Peter’s mouth and contented himself with holding him fast. Master Peter now saw an opportunity to assert himself.
“I am not a prison—” he began, but was not suffered to speak further. Instantly Clupp’s palm closed again upon the parted jaws and reduced him to silence once more, while Brilliana went on.
“In doing which you deserved well of his Majesty.”
“Ay, all was well so far,” Master Paul grumbled; “but he played the like trick upon me at your instigation.”
Brilliana would not hear of it.
“You misuse speech. ’Tis no trick to serve the King. As I understand, each of you accuses the other of robbing him.”
Master Paul agreed. Master Peter, gagged behind Clupp’s hand, nodded dismally. Brilliana went on.
“This is at first blush a dilemma, but our wit makes all clear. Each of you, avowedly in the King’s name, did descend upon the dwelling of a disaffected rebel and make certain seizures there which have been duly sent to his Majesty. Each of you is, therefore, proved to be a loyal subject and honorable gentleman. So far you are with me, Sir Blaise?”
“Surely, surely,” the knight agreed.