Among them was Sir William Lorraine, who, though he had long ceased to be high sheriff, was still a magistrate. As on the former expedition, Sir William was accompanied by his active agent, Jesmond, who was determined not to be duped on the present occasion. While the magistrates and the others entered the court, Jesmond and his comrade Hedgeley fastened up their horses and proceeded to the garden to look about them. As may well be supposed, the noise and clatter caused by this large party of horsemen, had brought forth all the servants, and when the magistrates dismounted at the steps, they were met by Newbiggin and two or three others. In return to their obeisances, Sir William, as the principal magistrate, said in a loud authoritative tone to Newbiggin: “Conduct us at once to the Earl of Derwentwater. We hold a warrant for his arrest.” “His lordship is not within,” replied the butler, with formal politeness. “Where is he?” demanded Sir William. “We must see him.” “I don't see how that can be managed, Sir William, seeing that his lordship is in Lancashire,” rejoined Newbiggin. “In Lancashire!” exclaimed Sir William. “He must have travelled very quickly. I know he was here yesterday.” “Yes, Sir William, but he intended to ride throughout the night, and I make no doubt he is in Lancashire this morning.” “Then he has fled?” “Pardon me, Sir William, he has gone on a visit to some of his Roman Catholic friends.” “Harkee, sirrah!” cried Mr. Woodburn, another of the magistrates. “Take care how you attempt to deceive us. You will not go unpunished.” “Perhaps you would like to see her ladyship, gentlemen--or Mr. Charles Radclyffe?” said Mr. Newbiggin. “It will be necessary to see them both, and to search the house as well,” said Mr. Woodburn. “You will be good enough to state your wishes to her ladyship, sir,” rejoined the butler. “I dare say she will make no objection. Be pleased to step this way, gentlemen.” He then conducted them across the hall to the diningroom, where they found Lady Derwentwater, Mr. Charles Radclyffe and Father Norham at breakfast. Her ladyship looked very charming in her morning toilette, and seemed in no way discomposed by the entrance of the magistrates. Still holding the cup of chocolate, from which she was sipping, she arose and made them a formal courtesy. “These gentlemen are Newcastle magistrates, my lady,” said the butler significantly. “I understand,” she replied. “You have explained that his lordship is not at home?” “Yes, my lady; but they are not content with my assurance.” “Your ladyship must be fully aware,” said Sir William, sententiously, “that the Earl of Derwentwater has incurred the suspicion of Government, and will not therefore be surprised to learn that we hold a warrant for his arrest. We cannot depart without him.” “That implies a doubt as to the truth of the statement you have just heard, that his lordship is not at home,” observed the countess.