Jacob replied that the children were there, and a few
servants, and he was about to mention Miss Judith Villiers, when a
thought struck him--he might save the old lady.
"You are going to Arnwood, I know," said Jacob, "and I have heard who
you are in search of. Well, Southwold, I'll give you a hint. I may be
wrong; but if you should fall in with an old lady or something like
one when you go to Arnwood, mount her on your crupper and away with
her to Lymington as fast as you can ride. You understand me?"
Southwold nodded significantly, and squeezed Jacob's hand.
"One word, Jacob Armitage; if I succeed in the capture by your means,
it is but fair that you should have something for your hint. Where can
I find you the day after to-morrow?"
"I am leaving the country this night, and I must go. I am in trouble,
that's the fact; when all is blown over, I will find you out. Don't
speak to me any more just now." Southwold again squeezed Jacob's hand,
and left him. Shortly afterward the order was given to mount, and the
troopers set off.
Armitage followed slowly and unobserved. They arrive at the mansion
and surrounded it. Shortly afterward he perceived the glare of
torches, and in a quarter of an hour more thick smoke rose up in the
dark but clear sky; at last the flames burst forth from the lower
windows of the mansion, and soon afterward they lighted up the country
round to some distance.
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