This man is ordered to
lodge two troopers as long as they are considered necessary to remain;
and I have directions to tell any officer whom I may meet, that Master
Heatherstone and his verderers will take good care that none of the
rebels are harbored in this direction; arid that it will be better
that the troops scour the southern edge of the forest, as it is
certain that the fugitives will try all that they can to embark for
France."
"What regiment do the troopers belong to that you have here?"
"I believe to Lambert's troop, sir; but they shall come out and answer
for themselves. Tell those men to come out," said Edward to Humphrey.
"Yes, sir, but they are hard to wake, for they have ridden from
Worcester; but I will rouse them."
"Nay, I can not wait," replied the officer. "I know none of Lambert's
troops, and they have no information to give."
"Could you not take them with you, sir, and leave two of your men
instead of them; for they are troublesome people to a poor man, and
devour every thing?" said Humphrey, submissively.
"No, no," replied the officer, laughing, "we all know Lambert's
people--a friend or enemy is much the same to them. I have no power
over them, and you must make the best of it. Forward! men," continued
the officer, saluting Edward as he passed on; and in a minute or two
they were far away.
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