General Sampson, at once comprehending the state of affairs, took upon himself the command of the garrison, and ordered the servants to see that all the other entrances to the house were closed. He then requested those who had firearms to load them with ball, and to be ready to make use of them if required. Scarcely had he done so than a thundering knock was heard at the door, and a man from the outside announced himself as a sergeant from the -- Dragoons, who had been sent over from Morbury with a party of fifteen men to guard the Hall. On this the door was opened, when a fine soldier-like fellow appeared, who requested to know where he should post his men. "My orders are to remain here if Sir Ralph Castleton wishes it, but if not, to proceed to Downside Cottage, at Hurlston. As the smugglers, or whatever they are, caught sight of us just as we entered the avenue, they are not likely to attack this place." Harry, who had just been receiving his mother's and sister's embraces, heard what was said. "Let some of your men accompany me, and I will show them the way to Downside," he exclaimed; and he directed one of the servants to bring a horse round without a moment's delay. "Where are you going, Harry?" exclaimed Sir Ralph, recovering himself, on seeing Harry hurrying down the steps. "The troopers will look after the ruffians." "To assist those who require protection," answered Harry. "There is no time to be lost." "Just like him," cried General Sampson. "The ruffians won't stand a charge if he leads it. I'll be after you, Harry. One of you get me a horse." "Thank you, general," exclaimed Lady Castleton, "We cannot tell what these desperate men will venture to do, and you may be of the greatest assistance." "I must not wait though for you, general," said Harry, mounting. "What is the matter?" he asked of the groom who assisted him on his horse. "Oh sir," said the groom, "there has been murder, we fear, already. Mr Groocock's cob has just galloped in from across the park with blood on his saddle, and it's too clear that the steward has been killed, or the animal would not have come home without him." "This is terrible," said Harry; "poor old man. Go some of you and search for him. I must not delay." Turning to the sergeant, he added, galloping on--"Do you and your men accompany me." The sergeant mounted his horse and followed him. The troopers were found drawn up at the entrance of the avenue, while in the distance were seen a large band of wild-looking fellows armed in a variety of ways, some on horseback, and others on foot, apparently watching the movements of the soldiers, by whose timely arrival they had been prevented from entering the park. The sergeant ordered his men to follow. "Those are the fellows who fired at the carriage, and were nearly overtaking it when we came up, I can swear to that," he said.