Sir Thomas was dressed, and he met the baron at the top of the stairs—much to their mutual surprise.
"Good morrow, Thomas," exclaimed the baron, "I had come to awaken thee; see here!" and holding up the document he had discovered, he dragged the heir to the Derby estates downstairs without uttering another word or allowing any time for explanations.
"Read that," he said, as soon as they were seated.
Sir Thomas took the roll from the other's hand, and after a superficial scrutiny he was soon deeply engrossed in carrying out the command, while Sir George leaned his elbows upon the table and carefully studied the changing emotions which followed each other in rapid succession upon the young man's face.
Sir Thomas Stanley read it through twice, and then carefully folding it up, he gave the baron a prolonged inquiring look.
"Well," exclaimed Sir George, "you have read it?"
"I have."
"Is it important?"
"Assuredly it is. What have you done in the matter?"
"Naught, save that I have shown it thee."