There was no need to go as far as the village. Already the strange tidings had spread, and a motley throng of villagers were gathered around the entrance to the estate, curious, yet loath to come nearer.
They raised a cheer at our approach, and when we told them of our wants there was a general stampede on the part of the men folk for digging implements.
While we awaited their return, a man having the air of petty authority stepped up to us and, addressing me, said:
"You are Sir Aubrey Wentworth, I am told."
I assented, and at the same time asked the fellow his business.
"In me you see the lawful representative of the sheriff of York. Before you delve, or take possession of, any portion of this land, I must have his authority. For aught I know, saving your presence, ye may be adventurers of low degree, outlaws, or the like."
"And where is your authority?" I demanded, wroth at being interfered with on my own land.
For answer he pulled a parchment from his pouch and held it up for my inspection.
"And have you any proof, sir, that you are lord of Holwick?" he continued.
Save for a few papers relating to the finding of the treasure I had none; even the title deeds, though close at hand, were not to be produced till the stream had been diverted; so I shook my head. Surely it was a pretty pass--a knight without a scrap of script to prove himself such!