About nine o'clock on the same morning, the Newcastle magistrates arrived at the castle. They were attended by certain subordinate officers, armed with sword and pistol, and by a party of horse-militia.
As the gate had been thrown wide open by the porter, they all rode into the court, and the chief persons—three in number—proceeded to the entrance and dismounted.
Among them was Sir William Lorraine, who, though he had long ceased to be high sheriff, was still a magistrate. As on the former expedition, Sir William was accompanied by his active agent, Jesmond, who was determined not to be duped on the present occasion. While the magistrates and the others entered the court, Jesmond and his comrade Hedgeley fastened up their horses and proceeded to the garden to look about them.
As may well be supposed, the noise and clatter caused by this large party of horsemen, had brought forth all the servants, and when the magistrates dismounted at the steps, they were met by Newbiggin and two or three others.
In return to their obeisances, Sir William, as the principal magistrate, said in a loud authoritative tone to Newbiggin:
“Conduct us at once to the Earl of Derwentwater. We hold a warrant for his arrest.”
“His lordship is not within,” replied the butler, with formal politeness.
“Where is he?” demanded Sir William. “We must see him.”
“I don't see how that can be managed, Sir William, seeing that his lordship is in Lancashire,” rejoined Newbiggin.
“In Lancashire!” exclaimed Sir William. “He must have travelled very quickly. I know he was here yesterday.”