Colonel Ker was about to give orders, when another party of soldiers, having a prisoner in their midst, was seen advancing along the unfinished street. The party was guided by Tom Syddall, who carried a torch.
CHAPTER XIX.
CAPTAIN WEIR IS INTERROGATED BY THE PRINCE.
As soon as the prince was descried, the advancing party halted, and Syddall giving the torch to one of the men, pressed forward towards Charles, and making a profound obeisance, said:
"The villain who attacked your royal highness has been captured. He had taken refuge in a stable at the back of the Angel Inn. He is here, if you desire to question him."
In obedience to the prince's command the prisoner then stepped forward between two soldiers. He did not appear intimidated by the position in which he was placed, but bore himself very boldly.
Charles looked at him for a few moments, and calling to Atherton, asked him if he recognised the man.
"I recognise him as the leader of the attack," was the reply.
"Such is my own opinion," observed the prince. "How say you?" he added to the prisoner. "Do you deny the charge?"
"No," replied the prisoner. "I am the man."
"You avow your guilt," said Charles, surprised by his boldness. "How are you named?"