So dark was the narrow street, owing to the projecting stories of the ancient timber houses lining it on either side, that Careless was unable to discern any object unless close at hand. A heavy, measured tread, however, informed him of the approach of the rounds, and the next moment the patrol came up. Captain Woolfe, who was with the guard, immediately recognised his superior officer, and on learning Careless's business, proffered his aid. They proceeded together to the old inn, followed by the whole party. It would seem that all the inmates had retired to rest, but the knocking of a halbert staff against the door soon caused it to be opened by Master Kilvert, the host, who had hastily huddled on his apparel, and in a trembling voice inquired the meaning of this nocturnal visitation. No explanation was vouchsafed him. Ordering the guard to post themselves secretly on the other side of the street and be ready to answer any summons, Careless and Captain Woolfe entered the house, shutting the street door after them. The terrified host conducted them to the principal room, and setting down the light with which he was provided, humbly waited their pleasure to address him. "Answer truly the questions I shall put, and you have nought to fear," said Careless. "You have a lodger named Urso Gives?" "Your honour has been rightly informed," replied Kilvert. "Master Gives, the tailor, with his wife and his wife's grandmother, are lodging in my house. Master Gives is a worthy and God-fearing man, or I would not have him as a guest." "Your description of him is altogether inaccurate. He is a traitor and a spy. Lead us to his chamber instantly, and call him forth," said Careless, drawing his sword. "I will lead your honour to his chamber," replied Kilvert, now still more alarmed. "But it will be useless to call him, seeing he is not there." "I must be assured of this," said Careless. "Lead us to the room." "I shall not need to do so, for here comes his wife, who will confirm what I have just declared to your honour." And as he spoke Dame Gives entered, bearing a light. It was evident from her attire that she had not been in bed. Careless sheathed his sword on her appearance. "Why have you come here at this hour? What do you want with Urso?" she cried, rushing up to him. Careless, however, turned away, and said, in a low voice, to Captain Woolfe: "Explain our errand to her." "We have come to arrest your husband," said Woolfe. "Arrest him! What crime has he committed?" "The highest crime a man can commit," rejoined Woolfe. "He has betrayed the king to his enemies." "I hope he can disprove the charge--but you will not find him here," she exclaimed. "Master Kilvert will satisfy you that he is not in the house." "I have striven to do so, but ineffectually," said the host. "Since it appears that your husband has not returned from his secret visit to the enemy's camp, we must wait for him," said Careless. "Have him we will."