in a court o'
justice.  Theer'd be lawyer fellers in wigs and gowns, axin' me this,
that, and t'other till I wouldn' know whether I pitched on my head or my
heels.  But I'd fain fetch un a crack on the nuddick, so as 'a couldn'
stir for a fortnight."

"Oh, well, of course 'tis your business," said Dick, somewhat offended.
"If you don't prosecute him, I suppose he'll go free.  'Tis no concern
of mine."

And he returned to the Towers, and told his father that old Joe hadn't
so much spirit as he thought.

Two hours before, Penwarden had received a visit from Mr. Mildmay and
Mr. Polwhele.  When they informed him that Doubledick had returned, he
started up, seized his hat, and declared with great vehemence that he
would go straight along to theJake Tonkin mewed up here
complicates things desperately. The moment he is let loose he'll tell
his father, and if I know the man, Doubledick's life won't be worth a
snap of the finger."

"Well, I warned him.  I couldn't foresee that Jake would come upon him
in that accidental way. Scheme as we will, Mildmay, there's a Power that
overrules us all."

"The best thing we can do now is to warn Doubledick.  We've gone into
partnership with the fellow, and we can't in honour keep silence.  Give
him a chance to escape."

"You're right.  I'll call at the inn as I ride down, and tell him we
have Jake locked up here.  That will give him about twelve hours'
grace--time to clear away bag and baggage."

When the lieutenant went aboard his cutter, Mr.