"With that I have naught to do," Watson answered. "I'm a soldier, not a lawyer, madam. My orders are to keep you in safe custody until your presence is required, and I am told to see that you have everything in reason to make you comfortable." "It would appear that I have friends in Dorchester." "It is not unlikely, madam; as for this young person," he went on, looking at Harriet, "she will see to your wants and may pass in and out. I suppose, therefore, that nothing is known against her beyond the fact that she is found in your company." "Your temporary mistress is evidently a dangerous person, Harriet," Barbara said with a smile. "Had I not forced you to make this perilous journey with me, you would have been better off." This deliberate attempt to dissociate her from any treasonable intention rather startled Harriet Payne. "At least you shall find the comfort of having a maid with you, madam," she said quickly. "If the young person will come with me, I will show her where certain things you may require can be found," said Watson. "There will be a sentry constantly in the passage, madam, so if you hear footsteps in the night you need not fear." Barbara made no answer to this indirect warning that any thought of flight was hopeless, and Harriet followed Watson out of the room. "It was well done," he whispered as they went down the passage, leaving a sentry by the locked door. "I was not looking for your praise." "It is given gratis," the man answered, "and in the same spirit I'll give you a warning: don't attempt the impossible, whatever happens. A woman like her yonder might succeed in wheedling any man, or woman." "I want neither your praise nor your warning," said Harriet. "And I'm not looking for another clout on the ear, mistress, such as you gave me at Witley, though, for that matter, I like a woman of spirit. If you're in want of a comforter later on, you may reckon on Sam Watson." "And Sam Watson had best be careful, or he may find himself in hot water with his master," Harriet answered with a toss of her head.