THE VISITATION.
The amazement of Larry was equalled by his indignation when he heard from Sam Voaden the whole story of the charge against Charles, and of Honor consenting to save him at the cost of herself. He did not share Sam's confidence in the groundlessness of the charge; he thought Charles quite rascal enough to have robbed his master and bolted with the money. Nevertheless he thought that the best thing that could be done was for Sam to go after Charles, as he himself could not do so, on account of his arm and collar-bone; and he urged on Voaden to use his best endeavours, if he found Charles, which was doubtful, to persuade him to return the money, through him, to Langford.
'When he finds that he is suspected he may do that, especially if you threaten to hand him over to the constables should he refuse.'
'I don't believe he ever took it,' said Sam. 'I know Charles better than you.'
Hillary was coming away from Swaddledown, along the road or lane to Broadbury, when he met his uncle Taverner, in his Sunday suit, a hat on his head, walking along lustily, with a stick in his hand.
Larry stood in the way.
'Uncle Taverner,' he said.
'Stand aside,' said Langford roughly.
'One word.'
'Not one! I have nothing to do with you or yours. Stand aside that I may pass on.'