"No more!" returned Ranulph, sternly. "Go your ways. You are free."
"Pledge me your word of honor I am safe." Ranulph had scarcely given his pledge, when Major Mowbray rode furiously up. A deep flush of anger burnt upon his cheeks; his sword was drawn in his hand. He glanced at Turpin, as if he would have felled him from his saddle.
"This is the ruffian," cried the major, fiercely, "by whom I was attacked some months ago, and for whose apprehension the reward of three hundred pounds is offered by his majesty's proclamation, with a free pardon to his accomplices. This is Richard Turpin. He has just added another crime to his many offences. He has robbed my mother and sister. The postboy knew him the moment he came up. Where are they, villain? Whither are they gone?—answer!"
"I know not," replied Turpin, calmly. "Did not the lad tell you they were rescued?"
"Rescued!—by whom?" asked Ranulph, with great emotion.
"By one who calls himself Sir Luke Rookwood," answered Turpin, with a meaning smile.
"By him!" ejaculated Ranulph. "Where are they now?"
"I have already answered that question," said Dick. "I repeat, I know not."
"You are my prisoner," cried the major, seizing Turpin's bridle.
"I have Sir Ranulph's word for my safety," rejoined Turpin. "Let go my rein."