“Your lordship is pleased to jest,” she replied, with a smile. “It isn't very likely you will stay here.”
“Likely or not, you may expect me to-morrow morning,” said the earl.
She held up her hands in astonishment.
“To speak plainly, I don't find it safe at the castle,” said the earl. “If I remain there I shall be arrested, so I mean to take refuge in your cottage.”
“I thought as much,” cried Nathan. “I shall be proud, indeed, to afford your lordship a hiding-place, and I think you will be quite safe here.”
“The magistrates are coming with a party of horse-militia to-morrow, and as they won't find me at the castle, they are sure to make a strict search in the neighbourhood.”
“Let 'em try. We'll baffle 'em,” said the woodcutter.
“But however shall we accommodate his lordship?” said
Dame Blacklaw to the countess. “He won't condescend to occupy our bed.”
“Give yourself no trouble about me, dame,” interposed the earl. “I can sleep very well in that arm-chair. With Cheviot to watch over me, I shall fear no nocturnal intruder.”