"Bring forward the prisoner," said the man of law to his two assistants; and Luke was accordingly hurried along, Mr. Coates using his best efforts to keep back the crowd. It was during the pressure that Luke heard a voice whisper in his ear, "Never fear; all's right!" and turning his head, he became aware of the propinquity of Jack Palmer. The latter elevated his eyebrows with a gesture of silence, and Luke passed on as if nothing had occurred. He was presently confronted with Lady Rookwood and her son; and, notwithstanding the efforts of Mr. Coates, seconded by some few others, the crowd grew dense around them.
"Remove his fetters," said Ranulph. And his manacles were removed.
"You will consent to remain here a prisoner till to-morrow?"
"I consent to nothing," replied Luke; "I am in your hands."
"He does not deserve your clemency, Sir Ranulph," interposed Coates.
"Let him take his own course," said Lady Rookwood; "he will reap the benefit of it anon."
"Will you pledge yourself not to depart?" asked Ranulph.
"Of course," cried the attorney; "to be sure he will. Ha, ha!"
"No," returned Luke, haughtily, "I will not—and you will detain me at your proper peril."
"Better and better," exclaimed the attorney. "This is the highest joke I ever heard."