"Set a watch on thy tongue, Master Corporal," retorted she angrily. "I am no rebel till I be proved such, therefore I warn thee ’twere best be more careful of thy words," and turning abruptly from the startled man she took her seat in the cart. For the first few miles of their journey each of the girls devoted all her efforts to the difficult task of cheering the other. Upon leaving the village and their friends behind them, some sense of the utter helplessness of her position filled Barbara’s mind, and she was but a sorry comforter. But hers was not a nature to sigh long, and soon the fresh air, the bright sunshine, and the interest and amusement she found in watching her escort, had their effect. The result of this reaction from her former depression was a mood of high spirits and brighter hopes. "In truth, Cicely," she broke out suddenly with a laugh, "we are both fools. At worst ’tis but a matter of a night or two in gaol, where I doubt not I shall meet much good company; an interview with Lord Jeffreys (I would fain see him, they say he is a right handsome man, for all he has such a tongue); then perchance a fine, and so home. Why ’tis not worth a sigh. ’Tis but an adventure, and thou knowest I love such." "Aye, Barbara, you speak truly," answered her companion, with a desperate attempt at cheerfulness. "They would not dare to harm a woman. I make no doubt these tales of my Lord Jeffreys’ punishment and—and of Lady Alice Lisle, are gross exaggerations." This last she added with a tentative air—Cicely longed for corroboration of that statement. At mention of Lady Lisle Barbara’s face fell slightly, but she resolutely dismissed her fears. "There is not a doubt of it, sweet. Yet even an it were not so, they could prove nought against me. They have no testimony to show that we housed or aided either Rupert or Sir Peter." "That is so," assented Cicely joyously. "And in justice none could punish us for what is unproven." "Oh! Cicely, look at yon red-headed trooper, didst ever behold so scarlet a poll?" "Aye. And mark how he sits his horse. I wager he will be over its head ere he sees Taunton. Note his face when the creature pricks his ears; ’tis a very picture of terror." "Didst note the corporal as we passed trough the village?" laughed Barbara. "The poor fool feared an ambuscade at every corner, and well-nigh fell from his horse with fright when old Mother Gilkin’s pot fell down as we reached her cottage. I hate the fellow, yet I cannot but laugh at his antics." Thus for a while the two chattered bravely as they clattered and bumped along the rough country roads to Taunton. But as night drew on the sky became overcast with clouds, and a cold wind and drizzling rain added to the discomfort of the journey. Their conversation became more and more desultory, and finally ceased altogether. Only once again did Barbara break the silence.