"I fear it will be impossible to raise that amount," said Mr. Fowden.
"We should grieve to have to levy the money by force, but we must have it. Consult together, gentlemen, and give us your answer."
After a moment's deliberation with his brother magistrate, Mr. Fowden asked if half the amount would not suffice; whereupon Charles remarked, in a loud peremptory tone, "Bid them furnish three thousand pounds—not less."
"You hear, gentlemen. Three thousand pounds must be furnished to the treasury without delay. You know the penalty of neglect."
"We will do our best," said Mr. Fowden. "But pray give us till to-morrow."
"Be it so," replied the secretary.
The magistrates then asked if the prince had any further commands.
"His Majesty King James the Third will be proclaimed at the Cross," said Mr. Murray; "and it is necessary that both of you should be present at the ceremony. It is also necessary that one of you should repeat the proclamation."
The magistrates tried to excuse themselves, but the secretary cut them short, saying, "You have nothing to fear, gentlemen. We will make it appear you are acting on compulsion. But take care that the prince's manifesto and declaration, copies of which will be delivered to you, are distributed to the crowd. And now, gentlemen, we will not detain you longer. His royal highness expects to see you to-morrow—with the money."
The audience then terminated, and the magistrates, who were full of perplexity, quitted the chamber. The prince and his companions laughed very heartily when they were gone.