His example was followed by Charles Radclyffe, and the two ladies were soon crossing the ford.
Evidently the river was not very deep at this point, and there seemed nothing to occasion uneasiness, when the figure of a man armed with a musket could be suddenly descried on the opposite bank.
As will be surmised, this was no other than Parson Woods of Chowbent, who had undertaken to watch the ford.
“Stop!” he shouted in a loud voice, “you cannot pass here. Attempt to advance further, and I shall fire upon you.”
“Look to yourself, friend,” rejoined Captain Douglas. “Retire at once, or I will send a bullet through your head.”
And drawing a pistol, he prepared to execute his threat.
“Hold!” said the countess. “He will let us pass, when he knows we are ladies.”
“I don't know that,” said Parson Woods. “Who are you?”
“Make way for the Countess of Derwentwater and Miss Forster,” cried Captain Douglas, thinking to overawe him.
Precisely the contrary effect was produced.