"Bring the horses out to the
door; and, Chaloner, you and Grenville must wait within; bring my
horse out also, as it will appear as if I had just ridden over. I must
in to change my dress. Humphrey, keep a look-out and let us know when
they come."
Chaloner and Edward went in, and Edward put on his dress of secretary.
Shortly afterward, a party of Roundhead cavalry were seen galloping
toward the cottage. They soon arrived there, and pulled up their
horses. An officer who headed them addressed Humphrey in a haughty
tone, and asked him who he was.
"I am one of the verderers of the forest, sir," replied Humphrey,
respectfully.
"And whose cottage is that? and who have you there?"
"The cottage is mine, sir; two of the horses at the door belong to two
troopers who have come in quest of those who fled from Worcester, the
other horse belongs to the secretary of the intendant of the forest,
Master Heatherstone, who has come over with directions from the
intendant as to the capture of the rebels."
At this moment, Edward came out and saluted the officer.
"This is the secretary, sir, Master Armitage," said Humphrey, falling
back.
Edward again saluted the officer, and said--
"Master Heatherstone, the intendant, has sent me over here to make
arrangements for the capture of the rebels.
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