Here also the conquering Norman took up his abode, and to secure the castle to his interests, following therein his usual crafty policy, gave it to be held, in feudal tenure, by one of his chief nobles, Baldwin de Biron, who had married his niece, Albreda. Here was the county gaol, and here the governor occupied the tenantable rooms in the ancient castle, two of which were assigned to the prisoners, in consequence of their position amongst the Devonian aristocracy--few expected aught for them but a triumphant acquittal; but all the time Sir John Redfyrne felt sure of his prey. They were thus allowed the consolation of each other’s society; their food was supplied from the governor’s own table, but before them lay the blankness of despair, so far as this world was concerned. For supposing they escaped the heavier accusation of “misprison of treason” hanging over both,--the elder for his voluntary share in the northern insurrection, the younger for his concealment of a secret involving the King’s peace,--there was another weapon to which their foe might have immediate recourse. This weapon was the Act of Supremacy. Would they take the oath? If not the cruel fate assigned to traitors lay before them. Cuthbert’s own theories were not very defined on the point, but he would strive to follow such guides as Richard Whiting and Walter Trevannion. But what was the object of Sir John Redfyrne in thus precipitating matters? It was simply that he wished to get _Cuthbert_ into his power. He cared less for the elder prisoner, he might die or live, but were it once placed clearly before the youth that he might save his life by betraying the secret he was supposed to possess, there could be, to Sir John’s mind, no doubt that he would give the clue, and all would be well. Then as it would no longer interfere with weightier interests, he would show his gratitude for such a trifling favour as the preservation of his own life; and should Cuthbert, as was likely in such a case, lack _other_ friends, even provide decently for his future in some subordinate position. But first of all the danger must become real, or the youth’s obstinacy would never be subdued,--the jury _must_ condemn. * * * * * It was the day of trial, and all the approaches to the court were crowded. We will not appear on the scene in person, we have seen a very similar trial at Glastonbury; but we will just read a number of depositions, as they were written down in the county archives, in old books not generally accessible.