"Is he? Then why detain and question me, since you are so well informed? Permit me to leave you; I must attend on my aunt, who is but poorly, and who will be disturbed by this unwonted turmoil, for Combe Abbey is a peace-loving house." And Cecily made as though she would cross the hall and mount the stairs; but the trooper beside her laid his hand on her arm and detained her as the officer continued:
"Stay where you are, wench; this giddy talking will avail you nothing."
"Sir, methinks those that preach would do well to set an example," said Cecily, with a slight curl of disdain on her lip.
"Ah, in what way mean you?"
"Those that prate of civil tongues should be possessed of the same."
"Heyday! A plague on you for a saucy slut!"
"After that I listen to no more of your instructions, sir. I will not have you as my master"; and Cecily curtseyed in mock deference to the officer, who, losing his temper, said loudly—
"A truce to this folly! Where is Hugh Travers?"
"I know not."
"But he is here."