“If you are innocent, boy,” said the knight, controlling his emotion; “you have nothing to apprehend. But, what brought you here?”
“Excuse me, Sir Rowland. I cannot answer that question. My business is with Lady Trafford.”
“Are you aware that I am her ladyship's brother?” returned the knight. “She has no secrets from me.”
“Possibly not,” replied Thames, in some confusion; “but I am not at liberty to speak.”
“Your hesitation is not in your favour,” observed Trenchard, sternly.
“Will he consent, to be searched?” inquired Jonathan.
“No,” rejoined Thames, “I won't be treated like a common felon, if I can help it.”
“You shall be treated according to your deserts, then,” said Jonathan, maliciously. And, in spite of the boy's resistance, he plunged his hands into his pockets, and drew forth the miniature.
“Where did you get this from?” asked Wild, greatly surprised at the result of his investigation.
Thames returned no answer.