“And why have we not examined that?” said Mareschal. “O, Mr. Vere can best answer that question,” replied his companion, dryly. “Then I will ask it instantly,” said Mareschal; and, addressing Mr. Vere, “I am informed, sir,” said he, “there is a path we have not examined, leading by Westburnflat.” “O,” said Sir Frederick, laughing, “we know the owner of Westburnflat well--a wild lad, that knows little difference between his neighbour’s goods and his own; but, withal, very honest to his principles: he would disturb nothing belonging to Ellieslaw.” “Besides,” said Mr. Vere, smiling mysteriously, “he had other tow on his distaff last night. Have you not heard young Elliot of the Heugh-foot has had his house burnt, and his cattle driven away, because he refused to give up his arms to some honest men that think of starting for the king?” The company smiled upon each other, as at hearing of an exploit which favoured their own views. “Yet, nevertheless,” resumed Mareschal, “I think we ought to ride in this direction also, otherwise we shall certainly be blamed for our negligence.” No reasonable objection could be offered to this proposal, and the party turned their horses’ heads towards Westburnflat. They had not proceeded very far in that direction when the trampling of horses was heard, and a small body of riders were perceived advancing to meet them. “There comes Earnscliff,” said Mareschal; “I know his bright bay with the star in his front.” “And there is my daughter along with him,” exclaimed Vere, furiously. “Who shall call my suspicions false or injurious now? Gentlemen--friends--lend me the assistance of your swords for the recovery of my child.” He unsheathed his weapon, and was imitated by Sir Frederick and several of the party, who prepared to charge those that were advancing towards them. But the greater part hesitated. “They come to us in all peace and security,” said Mareschal-Wells; “let us first hear what account they give us of this mysterious affair. If Miss Vere has sustained the slightest insult or injury from Earnscliff, I will be first to revenge her; but let us hear what they say.” “You do me wrong by your suspicions, Mareschal,” continued Vere; “you are the last I would have expected to hear express them.” “You injure yourself, Ellieslaw, by your violence, though the cause may excuse it.” He then advanced a little before the rest, and called out, with a loud voice,--“Stand, Mr. Earnscliff; or do you and Miss Vere advance alone to meet us. You are charged with having carried that lady off from her father’s house; and we are here in arms to shed our best blood for her recovery, and for bringing to justice those who have injured her.” “And who would do that more willingly than I, Mr. Mareschal?” said Earnscliff, haughtily,--“than I, who had the satisfaction this morning to liberate her from the dungeon in which I found her confined, and who am now escorting her back to the Castle of Ellieslaw?”