“Yes, Sir William, but he intended to ride throughout the night, and I make no doubt he is in Lancashire this morning.”
“Then he has fled?”
“Pardon me, Sir William, he has gone on a visit to some of his Roman Catholic friends.”
“Harkee, sirrah!” cried Mr. Woodburn, another of the magistrates. “Take care how you attempt to deceive us. You will not go unpunished.”
“Perhaps you would like to see her ladyship, gentlemen—or Mr. Charles Radclyffe?” said Mr. Newbiggin.
“It will be necessary to see them both, and to search the house as well,” said Mr. Woodburn.
“You will be good enough to state your wishes to her ladyship, sir,” rejoined the butler. “I dare say she will make no objection. Be pleased to step this way, gentlemen.”
He then conducted them across the hall to the diningroom, where they found Lady Derwentwater, Mr. Charles Radclyffe and Father Norham at breakfast.
Her ladyship looked very charming in her morning toilette, and seemed in no way discomposed by the entrance of the magistrates. Still holding the cup of chocolate, from which she was sipping, she arose and made them a formal courtesy.
“These gentlemen are Newcastle magistrates, my lady,” said the butler significantly.