 Part five of The Old English Baron. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. The Old English Baron, A Gothic Story by Clara Reeve. Part five. This happened, said she, as I told you on the twenty-first. On the morrow, my Andrew went out early to work along with one Robin Rouse, our neighbor. They had not been gone over an hour when they both came back seemingly very much frightened. Says Andrew, go you Robin, and borrow a pickaxe at neighbor's stiles. What is the matter now? said I. Matter enough, quote Andrew. We may come to be hanged perhaps, as many an innocent man has before us. Tell me what is the matter? said I. I will, said he. But if ever you open your mouth about it, woe be to you. I never will, said I. But he made me swear by all the blessed saints in the calendar, and then he told me that, as Robin and he were going over the footbridge, where he found the child the evening before, they saw something floating upon the water. So they followed it till it stuck against a stake, and found it to be the dead body of a woman. As sure as you are alive, Madge, he said, this was the mother of the child I brought home. Merciful God, said Edmund, am I the child of that hapless mother. Be composed, said Oswald. Proceed, good woman, the time is precious. And so continued she. Andrew told me they dragged the body out of the river, and it was richly dressed, and must be somebody of consequence. I suppose, said he, when the poor lady had taken care of her child, she went to find some help, and, the night being dark, her foot slipped, and she fell into the river and was drowned. Lord have mercy, said Robin. What shall we do with the dead body? We may be taken up for the murder. What had we to do to meddle with it? I but, says Andrew, we must have something to do with it now, and our wisest way is to bury it. Robin was sadly frightened, but at last they agreed to carry it into the wood and bury it there, so they came home for the pickaxe and shovel. Well, said I, Andrew, but will you bury all the rich clothes you speak of? Why, said he, it would be both a sin and a shame to strip the dead. So it would, said I, but I will give you a sheet to wrap the body in, and you may take off her upper garments and anything of value, but do not strip her to the skin for anything. Well, said Wench, said he, I will do as you say, so I fetched a sheet, and by that time Robin was come back, and away they went together. They did not come back again till noon, and then they sat down and ate a morsel together, says Andrew. Now we may sit down and eat in peace. I, says Robin, and sleep in peace, too, for we have done no harm. No, to be sure, said I, but yet I am much concerned that the poor lady had not Christian burial. Never trouble thyself about that, said Andrew. We have done the best we could for her, but let us see what we have got in our bags. We must divide them. So they opened their bags and took out a fine gown and a pair of rich shoes, but besides these there was a fine necklace with a golden locket and a pair of earrings. Says Andrew, and winked at me. I will have these, and you may take the rest. Robin said he was satisfied, and so he went his way. When he was gone, here you fool, says Andrew, take these and keep them as safe as the bud of your eye. If every young master is found, these will make our fortune. And have you them now, said Oswald? Yes, that I have, answered she. Andrew would have sold them long ago, but I always put him off it. Heaven be praised, said Edmund. Hush, said Oswald, let us not lose time. Proceed, goodie. Nay, said Marjorie. I have not much more to say. We looked every day to hear some inquiries after the child, but nothing passed. Nobody was missing. Did nobody of note die about that time, said Oswald? Why, yes, said Marjorie. The widow-lady Lovell died that same week. By the same token, Andrew went to the funeral and brought home a suchen, which I keep unto this day. Very well, go on. My husband behaved well enough to the boy, till such time as he had two or three children of his own, and then he began to grumble and say it was hard to maintain other folks' children when he found it hard enough to keep his own. I loved the boy quite as well as my own. Often and often I pacified Andrew and made him to hope that he should one day or other be paid for his trouble, but at last he grew out of patience and gave over all hopes of that kind. As Edmund grew up, he grew sickly and tender and could not bear hard labor, and that was another reason why my husband could not bear with him. If, quoth he, the boy could earn his living, I did not care, but I must bear all the expense. There came an old pilgrim into our parts. He was a scholar and had been a soldier, and he taught Edmund to read, and then he told him histories of wars and knights and lords and great men, and Edmund took such delight in hearing him that he would not take to anything else. To be sure Edmund was a pleasant companion, he would tell old stories and sing old songs that one could have sat all night to hear him. But, as I was saying, Edmund grew more and more fond of reading and less of work. However, he would run of errands and do many handy turns for the neighbors, and he was so courteous a lad that people took notice of him. Andrew once catched him alone reading, and then told him that if he did not find some way to earn his bread, he would turn him out of doors in a very short time, and so he would have done, sure enough, if my Lord Fitz Owen had not taken him into his service just in the neck. Very well, goodie, said Oswald. You've told your story very well. I am glad, for Edmund's sake, that you can do it so properly, but now can you keep a secret? Why, and please your reverence, I think I have showed you that I can. But can you keep it from your husband? I, said she, surely I can, for I dare not tell him. That is a good security, said he, but I must have better. You must swear upon this book not to disclose anything that has passed between us three, till we desire you to do it. Be assured you will soon be called upon for this purpose. Edmund's birth is near discovery. He is the son of parents of high degree, and it will be in his power to make your fortune when he takes possession of his own. Holy Virgin, what is it you tell me? How you rejoice me to hear that what I have so long prayed for will come to pass? She took the oath required, saying it after Oswald. Now, said he, go and fetch the tokens you have mentioned. When she was gone, Edmund's passions, long suppressed, broke out in tears and exclamations. He kneeled down, and with his hands clasped together, returned thanks to heaven for the discovery. Oswald begged him to be composed, lest marjorie should perceive his agitation and misconstrue the cause. She soon returned with the necklace and earrings. They were pearls of great value, and the necklace had a locket on which the cipher of love was engraved. This, said Oswald, is indeed proof of consequence. Keep it, sir, for it belongs to you. Must he take it away? said she. Certainly, returned Oswald, we can do nothing without it. But if Andrew should ask for it, you must put him off for the present, and hereafter he will find his account in it. Marjorie consented reluctantly to part with the jewels, and after some further conversation they took leave of her. Edmund embraced her affectionately. I thank you with my whole heart, said he, for all your goodness to me. Though I confess, I never felt much regard for your husband, yet for you I had always the tender affection of a son. You will, I trust, give your evidence in my behalf when called upon, and I hope it will one day be in my power to reward your kindness. In that case, I will own you as my foster mother, and you shall always be treated as such. Marjorie wept. The Lord granted, said she, and I pray him to have you in his holy keeping. Farewell, my dear child. Oswald desired them to separate for fear of intrusion, and they returned to the castle. Marjorie stood at the door of her cottage, looking every way to see if the coast was clear. Now, sir, said Oswald, I congratulate you as the son of Lord and Lady Lovell. The proofs are strong and indisputable. To us they are so, said Edmund, but how shall we make them so to others? And what are we to think of the funeral of Lady Lovell? As of a fiction, said Oswald, the work of the present Lord to secure his title and fortune. And by what means can we use to dispossess him, said Edmund? He is not a man for a poor youth like me to contend with. Doubt not, said Oswald, but heaven, who has evidently conducted you by the hand thus far, will complete its own work. For my part, I can only wonder and adore. Give me your advice, then, said Edmund, for heaven assists us by natural means. It seems to me, said Oswald, that your first step must be to make a friend of some great man of consequence enough to espouse your cause and to get this affair examined into by authority. Edmund started and crossed himself. He suddenly exclaimed, a friend, yes, I have a friend, a powerful one too, one set by heaven to be my protector, but whom I have too long neglected. Who can that be, said Oswald? Who should it be, said Edmund, but that good Sir Philip Harclay, the chosen friend of him, whom I shall from henceforth call my father. Tis true indeed, said Oswald, and this is a fresh proof of what I before observed, that heaven assists you and will complete its own work. I think so myself, said Edmund, and rely upon its direction. I have already determined on my future conduct, which I will communicate to you. My first step shall be to leave the castle. My lord has this day given me a horse, upon which I purpose to set out this very night without the knowledge of any of the family. I will go to Sir Philip Harclay. I will throw myself at his feet, relate my strange story, and implore his protection. With him I will consult on the most proper way of bringing this murderer to public justice, and I will be guided by his advice and direction in everything. Nothing can be better, said Oswald, than what you propose, but give me leave to offer an addition to your scheme. You shall set off in the dead of night as you intend. Joseph and I will favor your departure in such a manner as to throw mystery over the circumstances of it. Your disappearing at such a time from the haunted apartment will terrify and confound all the family. They will puzzle themselves in vain to account for it, and they will be afraid to pry into the secrets of that place. You say well, and I approve your addition," replied Edmund. Suppose, likewise, there was a letter written in a mysterious manner and dropped in my lord's way, or sent to him afterwards. It would forward our design and frighten them away from that apartment. That shall be my care, said Oswald, and I will warn to you that they will not find themselves to inhabit it presently. But how shall I leave my dear friend, Mr. William, without a word of notice of this separation? I have thought of that too, said Oswald, and I will so manage as to acquaint him with it in such a manner as he shall think out of the common course of things and which shall make him wonder and be silent. How will you do that? said Edmund. I will tell you hereafter, said Oswald, or here comes old Joseph to meet us. He came indeed as fast as his age would permit him. As soon as he was within hearing, he asked them what news. They related all that had passed at Twyford's cottage. He heard them with the greatest earnestness of attention, and as soon as they came to the great event, I knew it, I knew it, exclaimed Joseph. I was sure it would prove so. Thank God for it, and I will be the first to acknowledge my young Lord and I will live and die his faithful servant. Here Joseph attempted to kneel to him, but Edmund prevented him with a warm embrace. My friend, my dear friend, said he, I cannot suffer a man of your age to kneel to me. Are you not one of my best and truest friends? I will ever remember your disinterested affection for me, and if heaven restores me to my rights, it shall be one of my first cares to render your old age easy and happy. Joseph wept over him, and it was some time before he could utter a word. Oswald gave both of them time to recover their emotion by quainting Joseph with Edmund's scheme for his departure. Joseph wiped his eyes and spoke. I have thought, said he, of something that will be both agree and useful to my dear master. John Wyatt, Sir Philip Harclay's servant, is now upon a visit at his father's. I have heard that he goes home soon. Now he would be both a guide and companion on the way. That is indeed a happy circumstance, said Edmund. But how shall we know certainly the time of his departure? Why, sir, I will go to him and inquire and bring you word directly. Do so, said Edmund, and you will oblige me greatly. But, sir, said Oswald, I think it would be best not to let John Wyatt know who is to be his companion, only let Joseph tell him that a gentleman is going to visit his master and, if possible, prevail upon him to set out this night. Do so, my good friend, said Edmund, and tell him further that this person has business of great consequence to communicate to his master and cannot delay his journey on any account. I will do this, you may depend, said Joseph, and acquaint you with my success as soon as possible. But, sir, you must not go without a guide at any rate. I trust I shall not, said Edmund, though I go alone. He that has received such a call as I have can want no other nor fear any danger. They conversed upon these points till they drew near the castle when Joseph left them to go on his errand and Edmund attended his lord at dinner. The baron observed that he was silent and reserved. The conversation languished on both sides. As soon as dinner was ended, Edmund asked permission to go up into his own apartment where he packed up some necessaries and made a hasty preparation for his departure. Afterwards he walked into the garden, revolving in his mind the peculiarity of his situation and the uncertainty of his future prospects. Lost in thought he walked to and fro in a covered walk with his arms crossed and his eyes cast down without perceiving that he was observed by two females who stood at a distance watching his motions. It was the lady Emma and her attendant who were thus engaged. At length he lifted up his eyes and saw them. He stood still and was irresolute whether to advance or retire. They approached him and, as they drew near, fair Emma spoke. You have been so wrapped in meditation, Edmund, that I am apprehensive of some new vexation yet a stranger to. Would it were in my power to lessen those you have already? But tell me if I guess truly? He stood still irresolute. He answered with hesitation. Oh, lady, I am... I am grieved. I am concerned to be the cause of so much confusion in this noble family to which I am so much indebted. I see no way to lessen these evils but to remove the cause of them. Meaning yourself, said she. Certainly, madam, and I was meditating on my departure. But, said she, by your departure you will not remove the cause. How so, madam? Because you are not the cause but those you will leave behind you. Lady Emma, how can you affect this ignorance, Edmund? You know well enough it is that odious Wenlock, your enemy and my aversion that has caused all this mischief among us and will much more if he is not removed. This, madam, is a subject that becomes me to be silent upon. Mr. Wenlock is your kinsman. He is not my friend and for that reason I ought not to speak against him nor you to hear it from me. If he has used me ill I am recompensed by the generous treatment of my lord your father who is all that is great and good. He has allowed me to justify myself to him and he has restored me to his good opinion which I prize among the best gifts of heaven. Your amiable brother William thinks well of me and his esteem is infinitely dear to me. And you, excellent lady, permit me to hope that you honor me with your good opinion. Are not these ample amends for the ill will Mr. Wenlock bears me? My opinion of you, Edmund, said she, is fixed and settled. It is not founded upon events of yesterday but upon long knowledge and experience, upon your whole conduct and character. You honor me, lady. Continue to think well of me. It will excite me to deserve it. When I am far distant from this place the remembrance of your goodness will be a cordial to my heart. But why will you leave us, Edmund? Stay and defeat the designs of your enemy. You shall have my wishes and assistance. Pardon me, madam. I long the things I cannot do even if it were in my power which it is not. Mr. Wenlock loves you, lady. And if he is so unhappy as to be your aversion that is a punishment severe enough but for the rest I may be unfortunate by the wickedness of others but if I am unworthy it must be my own fault. So then you think it is an unworthy action to oppose Mr. Wenlock? Very well, sir. Then I suppose you wish him success. You wish that I may be married to him? I, madam, said Edmund, confused. What am I that I should give my opinion on an affair of so much consequence? You distress me by the question. May you be happy. May you enjoy your own wishes? He sighed. He turned away. She called him back. He trembled and kept silence. She seemed to enjoy his confusion. She was cruel enough to repeat the question. Tell me, Edmund, and truly, do you wish to see me give my hand to Wenlock? I insist upon your answer. All on a sudden he recovered both his voice and courage. He stepped forward, his person erect, his continents assured, his voice resolute and intrepid. Since Lady Emma insists upon my answer, since she avows a dislike to Wenlock, since she condescends to ask my opinion, I will tell her my thoughts, my wishes. The fair Emma now trembled in her turn. She blushed, looked down, and was ashamed to have spoken so freely. Edmund went on. My most ardent wishes are that the fair Emma may reserve her heart and hand till a certain person, a friend of mine, is at liberty to solicit them, whose utmost ambition is first to deserve and then to obtain them. Your friend, sir, said Lady Emma, her brow clouded, her eye disdainful. Edmund proceeded. My friend is so particularly circumstance that he cannot at present with propriety ask for Lady Emma's favor, but as soon as he has gained a cause that is yet insuspense, he will openly declare his pretensions, and if he is unsuccessful, he will then condemn himself to eternal silence. Lady Emma knew not what to think of this declaration. She hoped, she feared, she meditated, but her attention was too strongly excited to be satisfied without some gratification. After a pause, she pursued the subject. And this friend of yours, sir, of what degree and fortune is he? Edmund smiled, but commanding his emotion, he replied, his birth is noble, his degree and fortune uncertain. Her continents fell, she sighed as he proceeded. It is utterly impossible, said he, for any man of inferior degree to aspire to Lady Emma's favor, her noble birth, the dignity of her beauty and virtues, must awe and keep at their proper distance all men of inferior degree and merit. They may admire, they may revere, but they must not presume to approach too near, lest their presumption should meet with its punishment. Well, sir, she said suddenly, and so this friend of yours has commissioned you to speak in his behalf? He has, madam. Then I must tell you that I think his assurance is very great, and yours not much less. I am sorry for that, madam. Tell him that I shall reserve my heart and hand for the man to whom my father shall bid me give them. Very well, lady. I am certain my lord loves you too well to dispose of them against your inclination. How do you know that, sir? But tell him that the man that hopes for my favor must apply to my lord for his. That is my friend's intention, his resolution, I should say, as soon as he can do it with propriety, and I accept your permission for him to do so. My permission, did you say? I am astonished at your assurance. Tell me no more of your friend, but perhaps you are pleading for Wenlock all this time. It is all one to me. Only say no more. Are you offended with me, madam? No matter, sir. Yes, it is. I am surprised at you, Edmund. I am surprised at my own temerity, but forgive me. It does not signify. Goodbye, T. Sir. Don't leave me in anger, madam. I cannot bear that. Perhaps I may not see you again for a long time. He looked afflicted. She turned back. I do forgive you, Edmund. I was concerned for you, but it seems you are more concerned for everybody than for yourself. She sighed. Farewell, said she. Edmund gazed on her with tenderness. He approached her. He just touched her hand. His heart was rising to his lips, but he recollected his situation. Eventually, he retired back. He sighed deeply, bowed low, and hastily quitted her. The lady turning into another walk, he reached the house first and went up again to his chamber. He threw himself upon his knees, prayed for a thousand blessings upon every one of the family of his benefactor, and involuntarily wept at mentioning the name of the charming Emma, whom he was about to leave abruptly and perhaps forever. He then endeavored to compose himself and once more attended the Baron, wished him a good night, and withdrew to his chamber till he was called upon to go again into the haunted apartment. End of Part 5 Recording by Mary Ann Spiegel in Chicago, Illinois, August 18, 2009. Part 6 of The Old English Baron This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Mary Ann Spiegel. The Old English Baron, the Catholic story by Clara Reeve. Part 6 He came down, equipped for his journey, and went hastily for fear of observation. He paid his customary devotions and soon after Oswald tapped at the door. They conferred together upon the interesting subject that engrossed their attention until Joseph came to them, who brought the rest of Edmund's baggage and some refreshment for him before he set out. Edmund promised to give them the earliest information of his situation and success. At the hour of twelve they heard the same groans as the night before in the lower apartment, but, being somewhat familiarized to it, they were not so strongly affected. Oswald crossed himself and prayed for the departed soul. He also prayed for Edmund and recommended him to the Divine Protection. He then arose and embraced that young man who also took a tender leave of his friend Joseph. They then went with silence and caution through a long gallery. They descended the stairs in the same manner. They crossed the hall in profound silence and hardly dared to breathe, lest they should be overheard. They found some difficulty in opening one of the folding doors, which at last they accomplished. They were again in jeopardy at the outward gate. At length they conveyed him safely into the stables. There they again embraced him and prayed for his prosperity. He then mounted his horse and set forth to Wyatt's cottage. He eluded the door and was answered from within. In a few minutes John came out to him. What? Is it you, Master Edmund? Hush, said he, not a word of who I am. I go upon private business and would not wish to be known. If you will go forward, sir, I will soon overtake you. He did so, and they pursued their journey to the north. In the meantime Oswald and Joseph returned in silence into the house. They retired to their respective apartments without hearing or being heard by anyone. About the dawn of day Oswald intended to lay his packets in the way of those to whom they were addressed. After much contrivance he determined to take a bold step and, if he were discovered, to frame some excuse. Encouraged by his late success he went on tiptoe in the Master William's chamber, placed a letter upon his pillow and withdrew unheard. Exalting in his heart he attempted the Baron's apartment but found it fastened within. Finding this scheme frustrated he waited till the hour the Baron was expected down to breakfast and laid the letter and the key of the haunted apartment upon the table. Soon after he saw the Baron into the breakfast room. He got out of sight but stayed within call preparing himself for summons. The Baron sat down to breakfast. He saw a letter directed to himself. He opened it and to his great surprise read as follows. The guardian of the haunted apartment to Baron Fitz Owen. To thee I remit the key of my charge until the right owner shall come who will both discover and avenge my wrongs. Then woe be to the guilty but let the innocent rest in peace. In the meantime yet none presumed to explore the secrets of my apartment lest they suffer for their temerity. The Baron was struck with amazement at the letter. He took up the key, examined it then laid it down and took up the letter. He was in such confusion of thought he knew not what to do or say for several minutes. At length he called his servants about him. The first question he asked was where's Edmund? Has he been called? Yes my lord but nobody answered and the key was not in the door. Where's Joseph? Gone to the stables. Where's Father Oswald? In his study. Seek him and desire him to come hither. By the time the Baron had read the letter over again he came. He had been framing a steady continence to answer all interrogatories. As he came in he attentively observed the Baron whose features were in strong agitation. As soon as he saw Oswald he spoke as one out of breath. Take that key and read this letter. He did so shrugged up his shoulders and remained silent. Father said my lord what do you think of this letter? It is a very surprising one. The contents are alarming. Where's Edmund? I do not know. Has nobody seen him? Not that I know of. Call my sons, my kinsmen my servants. The servants came in. Have any of you seen or heard of Edmund? No was the answer. Father step upstairs to my sons and kinsmen and desire them to come down immediately. Oswald withdrew and went first to Mr. Williams chamber. My dear sir you must come down to my lord now directly. He has something extraordinary to communicate to you. And so have I father see what I have found upon my pillow. Praise sir read it to me before you show it to anybody. My lord is alarmed too much already and wants nothing to increase his consternation. William read his letter while Oswald looked as if he was an utter stranger to the contents which were these. Whatever may be heard or seen let the seal of friendship be upon thy lips. The peasant Edmund is no more but there still lives a man who hopes to acknowledge and repay the Lord Fitz Owen's generous care and protection to return his beloved Williams vowed affection and to claim his friendship on terms of equality. What said William can this mean? It is not easy to say replied Oswald. Can you tell me what is the cause I can tell you nothing but that my lord desires to see you directly. Pray make haste down I must go up to your brothers and kinsmen. Nobody knows what to think or believe. Master William went downstairs and father Oswald went to the malcontents. As soon as he entered the outward door of the apartment Mr. Wenlock called out here comes the friend now for some new proposal. Gentlemen said Oswald the Lord desires your company immediately in the breakfast parlor. What to meet your favorite Edmund I suppose said Mr. Wenlock. No sir. What then is the matter said Sir Robert. Something very extraordinary has happened gentlemen. Edmund is not to be found. He disappeared from the haunted apartment the key of which was conveyed to my lord in a strange manner with a letter from an unknown hand. My lord is both surprised and concerned and wishes to have your opinion and advice on the occasion. Tell him said Sir Robert we will wait upon him immediately. As Oswald went away he heard Wenlock say so Edmund is gone it is no matter how or wither. Another said I hope the ghost has taken him out of the way. The rest laughed at the conceit as they followed Oswald downstairs. They found the Baron and his son William commenting upon the key and the letter. My lord gave them to Sir Robert who looked on them with marks of surprise and confusion. The Baron addressed him is this not a very strange affair. Son Robert lay aside your ill humors and behave to your father with the respect and affection his tenderness deserves from you and give me your advice and opinion on this alarming subject. My lord said Sir Robert I am as much confounded as yourself I can give no advice let my cousin see the letter let us have their opinion they read it in turn they were equally surprised but when it came to Wenlock's hand he paused and meditated some minutes at length I am indeed surprised and still more concerned to see my lord and uncle the dupe of an artful contrivance and if he will permit me I shall endeavor to unriddle it to the confusion of all that are concerned in it do so Dick said my lord and you shall have my thanks for it this letter said he I imagine to be the contrivance of Edmund or some ingenious friend of his to conceal some designs they have against the peace of this family which has been too often disturbed upon that rascal's account but what end could be proposed by it said the Baron why one part of the scheme is to cover Edmund's departure that is clear enough for the rest we can only guess at perhaps he may be concealed somewhere in that apartment from whence he may rush out in the night and either rob or murder us or at least alarm and terrify the family the Baron smiled you should be on the mark sir and have overshot yourself as you have done before now you show only your inveteracy against that poor lad whom you cannot mention with temper so what purpose should he shut himself up there to be starved starved no no he has friends in this house looking at Oswald who will not suffer him to want anything those who have always magnified his virtues and extenuated his faults will lend a hand to help him in time of need and perhaps to assist his ingenious contrivances Oswald shrugged up his shoulders and remained silent is a strange fancy of yours Dick said my lord but I am willing to pursue it first to discover what you drive at and secondly to satisfy all that are here present of the truth or falsehood of it that they may know what value to set upon your sagacity hereafter let us all go over that apartment together and let Joseph be called to attend us thither Oswald offered to call him but Winlock stopped him his father said he you must stay with us we want your ghostly counsel and advice Joseph shall have no private conference with you what mean you said Oswald to insinuate to my lord against me or Joseph but your ill will spares nobody it will one day be known who is the disturber of the peace of this family I wait for that time and am silent Joseph came when he was told whether they were going Winlock observed them lead the way father said he and Joseph shall follow us Oswald smiled we will go where heaven permits us said he alas the wisdom of man can neither hasten nor retard its decrees they followed the father upstairs and went directly to the haunted apartment the Baron unlocked the door he bid Joseph open the shutters and admit the daylight which had been excluded for many years they went over the rooms above stairs and then descended the staircase and through the lower rooms in the same manner however they overlooked the closet in which the fatal secret was concealed the door was covered with tapestry the same as the room and united so well that it seemed but one piece Winlock tauntingly desired father Oswald to introduce them to the ghost the father in reply asked them where they should find Edmund do you think said he that he lies hid in my pocket or in Joseph's tis no matter answered he thoughts are free my opinion of you sir said Oswald is not founded upon thoughts I judgment by their actions a rule I believe it will not suit you to be tried by none of your insolent admonitions father returned Winlock this is either the time nor the place for them that is truer than you are aware of sir I meant not to enter into the subject just now be silent said my lord I shall enter into the subject with you hereafter then look you to be prepared for it in the meantime do you Dick Winlock answer to my questions do you think Edmund is concealed in this apartment no sir any mystery in it no my lord is it haunted thank you no I think not should you be afraid to try in what manner my lord why you have shown your wit upon the subject and I mean to show your courage you and Jack Markham your confident shall sleep here three nights as Edmund has done before sir said Robert for what purpose I should be glad to understand why I have my reasons sir as well as your kinsmen there no reply sirs I insist upon being obeyed in this point Joseph let the beds be well aired and everything made agreeable to the gentleman if there is any contrivance to impose upon me they I am sure will have pleasure in detecting it and if not I shall obtain my end in making these rooms habitable Oswald come with me and the rest may go where they list till dinner time the Baron went with Oswald into the parlor now tell me father said he do you disapprove what I have done quite the contrary my lord said he I entirely approve it but you do not know all my reasons for it yesterday Edmund's behavior was different from what I have ever seen it he is naturally frank and open in all his ways and silent thoughtful absent he sighed deeply and once I saw tears stand in his eyes now I do suspect there is something uncommon in that apartment that Edmund has discovered the secret and fearing to disclose it he is fled away from the house as to this letter perhaps he may have written it to hint that there is more than he dares reveal I tremble at the hints contained in it to make light of it but I am minor innocent and if heaven discloses the guilt of others I ought to adore and submit to its decrees that is prudently and piously resolved my lord let us do our duty and leave events to heaven but father I have a further view in obliging my kinsmen to sleep there if anything should appear to them it is better that it should only be known to my own family if there is nothing in it I shall put to the proof the courage and veracity of my two kinsmen of whom I think very indifferently I mean shortly to inquire into many things I have heard lately to their disadvantage and if I find them guilty they shall not escape with impunity my lord said Oswald you judge like yourself I wish you to make inquiry concerning them and believe the result will be to their confusion and your lordship will be enabled to re-establish the peace of your family during this conversation Oswald was upon his guard lest anything should escape that might create suspicion he withdrew as soon as he could with decency and left the bear meditating what all these things should mean he feared there was some misfortune impending over his house though he knew not from what cause he dined with his children and kinsmen and strove to appear cheerful but a gloom was perceivable through his deportment Sir Robert was reserved and respectful Mr. William was silent and attentive the rest of the family dutifully assiduous to my lord only Wenlock and Markham were sullen and chagrined the bear entertained the young men the whole afternoon he strove to amuse and to be amused he showed the greatest affection in paternal regard to his children and endeavored to conciliate their affections and engage their gratitudes by kindness Wenlock and Markham felt their courage abate as the night approached at the hour of nine old Joseph came to conduct them to the haunted apartment they took leave of their kinsmen and went upstairs with heavy hearts they found the chamber set in order for them and a table spread with provisions and go thicker to keep up their spirits it seemed said Wenlock that your friend Edmund was obliged to make accommodations here Sir said Joseph his accommodations were bad enough the first night but afterwards they were better by my lord's orders owing to your officious cares said Wenlock I own it said Joseph and am not ashamed of it Are you not anxious to know what has become of him said Markham Not at all sir I trust he is in the best protection of the old man as he is is safe everywhere You see cousin Jack said Wenlock how this villain has stole the hearts of my uncle's servants I suppose this canting old fellow knows where he is if the truth were known Have you any further commands for me gentlemen said the old man No, not we Then I am ordered to attend my lord when you have done with me Go then about your business Joseph went away glad to be dismissed What shall we do cousin Jack said Wenlock to pass away the time It is plaguely dull sitting here dull enough said Markham I think the best thing we can do is to go to bed and sleep it away Faith said Wenlock I am in no disposition to sleep Who would have thought the old man would have obliged us to spend the night here Don't say us I beg of you It was all your own doing replied Markham I did not intend he should have taken me at my word Then you should have spoken more cautiously I have always been governed by you like a fool as I am You play the braggart and I suffer for it But they begin to see through your fine spun arts and contrivances and I believe you will meet with your desserts one day or another What now Do you mean to affront me Jack Know that some are born to plan others to execute I am one of the former and thou of the latter Know your friend or or what replied Markham Do you mean to threaten me if you do What then said Wenlock Why then I will try which of us two is the best man sir Upon this Markham arose and put himself into a posture of defense Wenlock perceiving he was serious in his anger began to soothe him He persuaded He flattered He promised great things if he would be composed Markham was sullen uneasy, resentful Whenever he spoke it was to upgrade Wenlock with his treachery and falsehood Wenlock tried all his eloquence to get him into a good humor but in vain He threatened to acquaint his uncle with all that he knew He sculpted himself at the other's expense Wenlock began to find his color rise and they were both almost choked with rage and at length they both rose with a resolution to fight As they stood with their fists clenched on a sudden they were alarmed with a dismal groan from the room underneath They stood like statues petrified by fear yet listening with trembling expectation A second groan increased consternation and soon after a third completed it They staggered to a seat and sunk down upon it ready to faint Presently all the doors flew open a pale glimmering light appeared at the door from the staircase and a man in complete armor entered the room He stood with one hand extended pointing to the outward door They took the hint and crawled away as fast as fear would let them They staggered along the gallery and from thence to the Baron's apartment where Wenlock sunk down in a swoon and Markham had just strength enough to knock at the door The servant who slept in the outward room alarmed his lord Markham cried out For heaven's sake, let us in Upon hearing his voice the door was opened and Markham approached his uncle in such an attitude of fear of it in the Baron He pointed to Wenlock who was with some difficulty recovering from the fit he was fallen into The servant was terrified as he wrung the alarm bell The servants came running from all parts to their lord's apartment The young gentlemen came likewise and presently all was confusion and the terror was universal Oswald, who guessed the business was the only one that could question them He asked several times What is the matter? Markham at last answered him We have seen the ghost All regard to secrecy was now at an end The echo ran through the whole family They have seen the ghost The Baron desired Oswald to talk to the young men and endeavored to quiet the disturbance He came forward He comforted some He rebuked others He had the servants retired to the outward room The sons and kinsmen remained in the bed chamber It is very unfortunate, said Oswald that this affair should be made so public Surely these young men might have related what they had seen without alarming the whole family I am very much concerned upon my lord's account I thank you father, said the Baron But Prudence was quite overthrown here Wenlock was half dead and Markham half distracted The family were alarmed without my being able to demand it But let us hear what these poor terrified creatures say Oswald demanded What have you seen, gentlemen? The ghost, said Markham In what form did it appear? A man in armor Did it speak to you? No What did it do to terrify you so much? It stood at the farthest door and pointed to the outward door as if to have us leave the room We did not wait for a second notice but came away as fast as we could Did it follow you? No Then you need not have raised such a disturbance Wenlock lifted up his head and spoke I believe, father, if you had been with us you would have not stood upon ceremonies any more than we did I wish my lord would send you to parlay with the ghost for without doubt you are better qualified than we My lord, said Oswald I will go thither with your permission I will see that everything is safe and bring the key back to you Perhaps this may help to dispel the fears that have been raised At least I will try to do it I thank you, father, for your good offices Do as you please Oswald went into the outer room I am going, said he, to shut up the apartment The young gentlemen have been more frightened than they had occasion for I will try to account for it which of you will go with me They all drew back, except Joseph who offered to bear him company They went into the bedroom in the haunted apartment and found everything quiet there They put out the fire extinguished the lights locked the door and brought away the key As they returned I thought how it would be, said Joseph Hush, not a word, said Oswald You find we are suspected of something though they know not what Wait till you are called upon and then we will both speak to purpose They carried the key to the Baron All is quiet in the apartment, said Oswald as we can testify Did you ask Joseph to go with you said the Baron or did he offer himself My lord, I asked if anybody would go with me and they all declined it but he, I thought proper to have a witness beside myself for whatever might be seen or heard Joseph, you were servant to the late lord Lovell What kind of man was he A very comely man pleased your lordship Should you know him if you were to see him I cannot say my lord Would you have any objection to sleep a night in that apartment I beg I hope I beseech your lordship not to command me to do it You are then afraid Why did you offer yourself to go thither Because I was not so much frightened as the rest I wish you would lie a night there but I do not insist upon it My lord I am a poor ignorant man not fit for such an undertaking besides if I should see the ghost and if it should be the person of my master and if it should tell me anything and bid me keep it secret I should not dare to disclose it and then what service should I do to your lordship That is true indeed to the Baron This speech, says Sir Robert is both a simple and an artful one You see, however, that Joseph is not a man for us to depend upon He regards the lord Lovell, though dead more than lord Fitz Owen living He calls him master and promises to keep his secrets What say you father Is the ghost your master or your friend Are you under any obligation to keep his secrets Sir, said Oswald I answer as Joseph does I would sooner die than discover a secret revealed in that manner I thought as much, said Sir Robert There is a mystery in father Oswald's behavior that I cannot comprehend Do not reflect upon the father said the Baron I have no cause to complain of him Perhaps the mystery may be too soon explained But let us anticipate evils Oswald and Joseph has spoken like good men I am satisfied with their answers Let us who are innocent rest in peace and let us endeavor to restore peace in the family and do you father assist us With my best services said Oswald He called the servants in Let nothing be mentioned out of door, said he of what has lately passed within especially in the East Department The young gentlemen had not so much reason to be frightened as they apprehended A piece of furniture fell down in the rooms underneath which made the noise that alarmed them so much But I can certify that all things in the room are in quiet and there is nothing to fear All of you attend me in the chapel in an hour Do your duties Put your trust in God and obey your Lord and you will find everything go right as it used to do They dispersed The sun rose, the day came on the horse But the servants were not so easily satisfied They whispered that something was wrong and expected the time that should set all right The mind of the Baron was employed in meditating upon these circumstances that seemed to him the forerunners of some great events He sometimes thought of Edmund He sighed for his expulsion and lamented the uncertainty of his fate But to his family he appeared easy and satisfied End of Part 6 From the time of Edmund's departure the fair Emma had many uneasy hours She wished to inquire after him but feared to show any solicitude concerning him The next day, when her brother William came into her apartment she took courage to ask a question Pray, brother Can you give any guess what has become of Edmund? No, he said with a sigh Why do you ask me? Because, my dear William I should think that if anybody knew it must be you and I thought he loved you too well to leave you in ignorance But don't you think he left the castle in a very strange manner? I do, my dear There is a mystery in every circumstance of his departure Nevertheless, I will trust you with a secret He did not leave the castle without making a distinction in my favor I thought so, said she But you might tell me what you know about him Alas, my dear Emma I know nothing When I saw him last he seemed a good deal affected as if he were taking leave of me and I had a foreboding that we parted for a longer time than usual Ah, so had I she said When he parted with me in the garden What leave did he take of you, Emma? She blushed and hesitated to tell him all that passed between them But he begged, persuaded and insisted and at length under the strongest injunctions of secrecy she told him all He said that Edmund's behavior on that occasion was as mysterious as the rest of his conduct But now you have revealed your secret You have a right to know mine He then gave her the letter he found upon his pillow She read it with great emotion Saint Winifred assist me said she What can I think? The peasant Edmund is no more, but there lives one That is to my thinking Edmund lives, but no peasant Go on, my dear said William, I like your explanation Nay, brother, I only guess But what think you? I believe we think alike in more than one respect That he meant to recommend no other person than himself to your favor and if he were indeed of noble birth I would prefer him to a prince for a husband to my Emma Bless me, said she Do you think it possible that he should be of either birth or fortune? It is hard to say what is impossible We have proved that the east department is haunted Edmund was made acquainted with many secrets I doubt not and perhaps his own fate may be involved in that of others I am confident that what he saw and heard there was the cause of his departure We must wait with patience the unraveling of this intricate affair I believe I need not enjoy your secrecy as to what I have said Your heart will be my security What mean you, brother? Don't affect ignorance, my dear You love Edmund So do I It is nothing to be ashamed of It would have been strange if a girl of your good sense had not distinguished a swan among a flock of geese Dear William Don't let a word of this escape you But you have taken a weight off my heart You may depend that I will not dispose of my hand or heart till I know the end of this affair William smiled Keep them for Edmund's friend I shall rejoice to see him in a situation when I ask them Hush, my brother, not a word more I hear footsteps They were her eldest brothers who came to ask Mr. William to ride out with him which finished the conference The fair Emma from this time assumed an air of satisfaction and William frequently stole away from his companions to talk with his sister upon their favorite subject While these things passed at the castle of Lovell, Edmund and his companion John Wyatt proceeded on their journey to Philip Harclay's seat They conversed together on the way and Edmund found him a man of understanding though not improved by education He also discovered that John loved his master and respected him even to veneration From him he learned many particulars concerning that worthy knight Wyatt told him that Sir Philip maintained twelve old soldiers who had been maimed and disabled in the wars and had no provision made for them Also six old officers had been unfortunate and were grown gray without preferment He likewise mentioned the Greek gentleman his master's captive and friend as a man eminent for valor and piety But besides these said Wyatt there are many others who eat of my master's bread and drink of his cup who join in blessings and prayers to heaven for their noble benefactor His ears are ever open to distress his hand to relieve it and he shares in every good man's joys and blessings Oh what a glorious character said Edmund how my heart throbs with wishes to imitate such a man Oh that I might resemble him though at ever so great a distance Edmund was never weary of hearing the actions of this truly great man nor Wyatt with relating them and during three days journey there were but few pauses in their conversation The fourth day when they came within view of the house Edmund's heart began to raise doubts of his reception If said he Sir Philip should not receive me kindly if he should resent my long neglect and disown my acquaintance it would be no more than justice He sent Wyatt before to notify his arrival to Sir Philip while he waited at the gate full of doubts and anxieties concerning his reception Wyatt was met and congratulated on his return by most of his fellow servants Where's my master? In the parlor Any strangers with him? No, only his own family then I will show myself to him He presented himself before Sir Philip So John said he You are welcome home I hope you left your parents and relations well Oh well, thank God and send their humble duty to your honor and they pray for you every day of their lives I hope your honor is in good health Very well Thank God for that But sir, I have something further to tell you I have had a companion all the way home a person who comes to wait on your honor on business of great consequence as he says Who is that John? It is master Edmund Twyford from the castle of Lovell Young Edmund says Sir Philip surprised Where is he? At the gate, sir Why did you leave him there? Because he bade me come before that he waits your pleasure Bring him hither, said Sir Philip Tell him I should be glad to see him John made haste to deliver his message and Edmund followed him in silence into Sir Philip's presence He bowed low and kept at a distance Sir Philip held out his hand and bade him approach As he drew near he was seized with a universal trembling He kneeled down, took his hand kissed it and pressed it to his heart in silence You are welcome, young man, said Sir Philip Take courage and speak for yourself Edmund sighed deeply He at length broke silence with difficulty I am come thus far, noble sir to throw myself at your feet and implore your protection You are, under God my only reliance I receive you, said Sir Philip with all my heart Your person is greatly improved since I saw you last and I hope your mind is equally so I have heard a great character of you from some that knew you in France I remember the promise I made you long ago and am ready now to fulfill it upon condition that you have done nothing to disgrace the good opinion I formerly entertained of you and am ready to serve you in anything consistent with my own honour Edmund kissed the hand that was extended to raise him I accept your favour, Sir upon this condition only and if ever you find me to impose upon your credulity or encroach on your goodness may you renounce me from that moment Enough, said Sir Philip Rise then and let me embrace you You are truly welcome Oh, noble sir, said Edmund I have a strange story to tell you but it must be by ourselves with only heaven to bear witness to what passes between us Very well, said Sir Philip I am ready to hear you but first go and get some refreshment after your journey and then come to me again John Wyatt will attend you I want no refreshment, said Edmund and cannot eat or drink till I have told my business to your honour Well then, said Sir Philip come along with me He took the youth by the hand and led him into another parlor leaving his friends in great surprise what this young man's errand could be John Wyatt told them all that he knew relating to Edmund's birth, character and situation When Sir Philip had seated his young friend he listened in silence to the surprising tale he had to tell him Edmund told him briefly the most remarkable circumstances of his life from the time when he first saw and liked him till his return from France but from that era he related at large everything that had happened recounting every interesting particular which was imprinted on his memory and lasting characters Sir Philip grew every moment more affected by the recital sometimes he clasped his hands together he lifted them up to heaven he smote his breast he sighed, he exclaimed aloud when Edmund related his dream he breathed short and seemed to devour him with attention when he described the fatal closet he trembled, sighed sobbed and was almost suffocated with his agitation but when he related all the past between his supposed mother and himself and finally produced the jewels, the proofs of his birth and the death of his unfortunate mother he flew to him, he pressed him to his bosom, he strove to speak but speech was for some minutes denied he wept aloud and at length his words found their way in broken exclamations son of my dearest friend dear and precious relic of a noble house child of providence the beloved of heaven welcome, thrice welcome to my arms to my heart I will be thy parent from hence forward and thou shalt be indeed my child my heir my mind told me from the first moment I beheld thee that thou were the image of my friend my heart then opened itself to receive thee as his offspring I had a strange foreboding that I was to be thy protector in my own but heaven orders things for the best it made thee the instrument of this discovery and in its own time and manner conducted thee to my arms praise be to God for his wonderful doings toward the children of men everything that has befallen thee is by his direction and he will not leave his work unfinished I trust that I shall be his instrument to do justice on the guilty and to restore the orphan of my friend to his rights and title I devote myself to this service and will make it the business of my life to effect it Edmund gave vent to his emotions in raptures of joy and gratitude they spent several hours in this way without thinking of the time that passed the one inquiring the other explaining and repeating every particular of the interesting story at length they were interrupted by the careful John Wyatt who was anxious to know if anything was likely to give trouble to his master sir said John it grows dark do you want a light we want no light but what heaven gives us said Sir Philip I knew not whether it was dark or light I hope said John nothing has happened I hope your honor has heard no bad tidings I I I hope no offense none at all said the good night I'm obliged to your solicitude for me I have heard some things that grieve me and others that give me great pleasure but the sorrows are past and the joys remain thank God said John I was afraid something was the matter to give your honor trouble I thank you my good servant you see this young gentleman I would have you John devote yourself to his service I give you to him for an attendant on his person and would have you show your affection to me by your attachment to him oh sir said John in a melancholy voice what have I done to be turned out of your service no such matter John said Sir Philip you will not leave my service sir said John I would rather die than leave you and my lad I like you too well to part with you but in serving my friend you will serve me know that this young man is my son your son sir thank you John not my natural son but my relation my son by adoption my heir and will he live with you sir yes John and I hope to die with him oh then I will serve him with all my heart and soul and I will do my best to please you both I thank you John and I will not forget your honest love and duty I have so good an opinion of you that I will tell you of some things concerning this gentleman to title him to your respect it is enough for me to know that your honor respects him to make me pay him as much duty as yourself but John when you know him better you will respect him still more at present I shall only tell you what he is not for you think him only the son of Andrew Twyford and is he not no but his wife nursed him and he passed for her son and does old Twyford know it sir he does and will bear witness to it but he is the son of a near friend of mine of quality superior to my own and as such you must serve and respect him I shall to be sure sir but what name shall I call him you shall know that hereafter in the meantime bring a light and wait on us to the other parlor when John was withdrawn Sir Philip said that is a point to be considered and determined immediately it is proper that you should assume a name till you can take that of your father for I choose you should drop that name of your foster father and I would have you be called by one that is respectable in that and every other point I will be wholly governed by you sir said Edmund well then I give you the name of Seagrave I shall say that you are a relation of my own and my mother was really of that family John soon returned and attended them to the other parlor Sir Philip entered with Edmund in his hand my friends said he this gentleman is Mr. Edward Seagrave the son of a dear friend and relation of mine he was lost in his infancy brought up by a good woman out of pure humanity and is but lately restored to his own family the circumstances shall be made known hereafter in the meantime I have taken him under my care and protection and will use all my power and interest to see him restored to his fortune which is enjoyed by the usurper who was the cause of his expulsion and the death of his parents receive him as my relation and friend Zadiski do you embrace him first Edmund you and this gentleman must love each other for my sake hereafter you will do it for your own they all rose and congratulated the young man Zadiski said Sir, whatever griefs and misfortunes you may have endured you may reckon them at an end from the hour you are beloved and protected by Sir Philip Harclay I firmly believe it Sir replied Edmund and my heart enjoys already more happiness than I ever yet felt and promises me all that I can wish in future his friendship is the earnest heaven gives me of its blessings hereafter they sat down to supper with mutual cheerfulness and Edmund enjoyed the repast with more satisfaction than he had felt in a long time Sir Philip saw his countenance brighten up and looked on him with heartfelt pleasure every time I look on you said he reminds me of your father you are the same person I loved 23 years ago I rejoice to see you under my roof go to your repose early and tomorrow we will consult farther Edmund withdrew and enjoyed a night of sweet undisturbed repose the next morning Edmund arose in perfect health and spirits he waited on his benefactor they were soon after joined by Zadiski who showed great attention and respect to the youth and offered him his best services without reserve Edmund accepted them with equal respect and modesty and finding himself at ease and to display his amiable qualities they breakfasted together afterwards Sir Philip desired Edmund to walk out with him as soon as they were out of hearing Sir Philip said I could not sleep last night for thinking of your affairs I laid schemes for you and rejected them again we must lay our plan before we begin to act what shall be done with this treacherous kinsman this inhuman monster this assassin of his nearest relation I will risk my life and fortune to bring him to justice shall I go to court and demand justice of the king or shall I accuse him of murder and make him stand a public trial if I treat him as a baron of the realm he must be tried by his peers if as a commoner he must be tried by the county aces but we must show reason why should he be degraded from his title have you anything to propose nothing Sir I have only to wish that it might be as private as possible for the sake of my noble benefactor the Lord Fitzohan upon whom some part of the family disgrace would naturally fall and that would be an ill return for all his kindness and generosity to me that is a generous and grateful consideration on your part but you owe still more to the memory of your injured parents however there is yet another way that suits me better than any hitherto proposed I will challenge the traitor to meet me in the field and if he has spirit enough to answer my call I will there bring him to justice if not I will bring him to a public trial no Sir said Edmund that is my province should I stand by and see my noble gallant friend expose his life for me I should be unworthy to bear the name of that friend whom you so much lament it would become a son to vindicate his name and to avenge his death I will be the challenger and no other and do you think he will answer the challenge of an unknown youth with nothing but his pretensions to his name and title certainly not leave this matter to me I will think of a way that will oblige him to meet me at the house of a third person who is known to all parties concerned and where we will have authentic witnesses of all that passes between him and me I will devise the time place and manner and satisfy all your scruples Edmund offered to reply but Sir Philip bad him be silent and let him proceed in his own way he then led him over his estate and showed him everything deserving his notice he told him all the particulars of his domestic economy and they returned home in time to meet their friends at dinner they spent several days in consulting how to bring Sir Walter to account and in improving their friendship and confidence in each other Edmund endeared himself so much to his friend and patron that he declared him his adopted son and heir before all his friends and servants and ordered them to respect him as such he every day improved their love and regard for him and became the darling of the whole family End of Part 7 Part 8 of the Old English Baron This LibriVox recording is in the public domain recorded by Marianne Spiegel The Old English Baron A Gothic Story by Clara Reeve Part 8 After much consideration Sir Philip fixed his resolutions and began to execute his purposes He set out for the seat of the Lord Clifford attended by Edmund, Monsieur Zadiski and two servants Lord Clifford received them with kindness and hospitality Sir Philip presented Edmund Clifford and his family as his near relation and presumptive heir They spent the evening in the pleasure of convivial mirth and hospitable entertainment The next day, Sir Philip began to open his mind to Lord Clifford informing him that both his young friend and himself had received great injuries from the present Lord Lovell for which they were resolved to call him to account But that, for many reasons they were desirous to have proper witnesses and begging the favour of his lordship to be the principal one Lord Clifford acknowledged the confidence placed in him and besought Sir Philip to let him be the arbitrator between them Sir Philip assured him that their wrongs would not admit of arbitration as he should hear after judge but that he was unwilling to explain them further till he knew certainly whether or not the Lord Lovell would meet him for, if he refused he must take another method with him Lord Clifford was desirous to know the grounds of the quarrel but Sir Philip declined entering into particulars of present assuring him of a full information hereafter He then sent Monsieur Zidiski, attended by John Wyatt and a servant of Lord Clifford with a letter to the Lord Lovell The contents were as follows My Lord Lovell Sir Philip Harclay earnestly desires to see you at the house of Lord Clifford where he waits to call you to account for the injuries done by you to the late Arthur Lord Lovell your kinsman if you accept his demand he will make the Lord Clifford a witness and a judge of the cause if not, he will expose you publicly as a traitor and a coward please to answer this letter and he will acquaint you with the time, place and manner of the meeting Philip Harclay Zidiski presented the letter to Lord Lovell informing him that he was the friend of Sir Philip Harclay he seemed surprised and confounded at the contents but putting on a haughty air I know nothing, said he of the business this letter hints at but wait a few hours and I will give you an answer he gave orders to treat Zidiski as a gentleman in every respect except in avoiding his company for the Greek had a shrewd and penetrating aspect and he observed every turn of his continents the next day he came and apologized for his absence and gave him the answer sending his respects to the Lord Clifford the messengers returned with all speed and Sir Philip read the answer before all present Lord Lovell knows not of any injuries done by him to the late Arthur Lord Lovell whom he succeeded by just right of inheritance nor of any right Sir Philip Harclay has to call a count a man to whom he is barely known having seen him only once many years ago at the house of his uncle the old Lord Lovell nevertheless Lord Lovell will not suffer any man to call his name and honor into question with impunity for which reason he will meet Sir Philip Harclay at any time, place and in what manner he shall appoint bringing the same number of friends and dependents that justice may be done to all parties Lovell Tiswell said Sir Philip I'm glad to find that he has the spirit to meet me he is an enemy worthy of my sword Lord Clifford then proposed that both parties should pass the borders and obtain leave of the warden of the Scottish marches to decide the quarrel in his jurisdiction with a select number of friends on both sides Sir Philip agreed to the proposal and Lord Clifford wrote in his own name to ask permission of the Lord Graham that his friends might come there and obtained it on condition that neither party should exceed a limited number of friends and followers Lord Clifford sent chosen messengers to Lord Lovell acquainting him with the conditions and appointing the time, place and manner of their meeting and that he had been desired to accept the office of judge of the field Lord Lovell accepted the conditions and promised to be there without fail Lord Clifford notified the same to Lord Graham warden of the marches who caused a piece of ground to be enclosed for the lists and made preparations against the day appointed. In the interim Sir Philip Harclay thought it proper to settle his worldly affairs he made Zidiski acquainted with every circumstance of Edmund's history and the obligation that lay upon him to revenge the death of his friend and see justice done to his heir Zidiski entered into the cause with an ardour that spoke of the affection he bore to his friend Why, said he, would you not suffer me to engage this traitor your life is of too much consequence to be staked against his but though I trust that the justice of your cause must succeed yet, if it should happen otherwise I vow to revenge you he shall never go back from us both however, my hope and trust is to see your arm the minister of justice Sir Philip then sent for a lawyer and made his will by which he appointed Edmund his chief heir by the name of Lovell Seagrave, alias Twyford he ordered that all his old friends soldiers and servants should be maintained in the same manner during their lives he left to Zidiski an annuity of a hundred a year and a legacy of two hundred pounds one hundred pounds to a certain monastery the same sum to be distributed among the disbanded soldiers and the same to the poor and needy in his neighborhood he appointed Lord Clifford, joint executor with Edmund and gave his will according to that nobleman's care recommending Edmund to his favor and protection if I live, said he I will make him appear to be worthy of it if I die, he will want a friend I am desirous your lordship as a judge of the field should be unprejudiced on either side that you may judge impartially if I die Edmund's pretensions die with me but my friend Zidiski will acquaint you with the foundation of them I take these precautions because I ought to be prepared for everything but my heart is warm with better hopes and I trust I shall live to justify my own cause as well as that of my friend who is a person of more consequence than he appears to be Lord Clifford accepted the trust and expressed the greatest reliance upon Sir Philip's honor and veracity while these preparations were making for the great event that was to decide the pretensions of Edmund his enemies at the castle of Lovell were brought to shame for their behavior to him the disagreement between Wenlock and Markham had by degrees brought on an explanation of some parts of their conduct Father Oswald had often hinted to the Baron Wenlock's envy of Edmund's superior qualities and the artifices by which he had obtained such an influence with Sir Robert as to make him take his part upon all occasions Oswald now took advantage of the breach between these two incendiaries to persuade Markham to justify himself at Wenlock's expense and to tell all he knew of his wickedness at length he promised to declare all he knew of Wenlock's conduct as well in France as since their return when he should be called upon and by him Oswald was enabled to unravel the whole of his contrivance against the honor, interest and even life of Edmund he prevailed on Houston and Kemp, his associate to add their testimony to the others Houston confessed that he was touched to his conscience when he reflected on the cruelty and injustice of his behavior to Edmund whose behavior towards them after he had laid a snare for his life was so noble and generous that he was cut to the heart by it and had suffered so much pain and remorse that he longed for nothing much as an opportunity to unburden his mind but the dread of Mr. Wenlock's anger and the effects of his resentment had hitherto kept him silent always hoping there would come a time when he might have left to declare the whole truth Oswald conveyed this information to the Baron's ear who waited for an opportunity to make the proper use of it not long after the two principal incendiaries came to an open rupture and Markham threatened Wenlock that he would show his uncle what a serpent he had harbored in his bosom the Baron arrested his words and insisted upon telling all he knew adding if you speak the truth I will support you but if you prove false I will punish you severely as to Mr. Wenlock he shall have a fair trial and if the accusations I have heard are made good it is high time that I should put him out of my family the stern aspect bade them follow him into the Great Hall and sent for all the rest of the family together he then with great solemnity told them he was ready to hear all sides of the question he declared the whole substance of his informations and called upon the accusers to support the charge Hewson and Kemp gave the same account they had done to Oswald offering to swear to the truth of their testimony several of the other servants in such circumstances as had come to their knowledge Markham then spoke of everything and gave a particular account of all that had passed on the night they spent in the East Department he accused himself of being privy to Wenlock's villainy called himself fool and blockhead for being the instrument of his malignant disposition and asked pardon of his uncle for concealing it so long the Baron called upon Wenlock to reply to the charge who instead of answering flew into a passion rage, swore, threatened and finally denied everything the witnesses persisted in their assertions Markham desired leave to make known the reason why they were all afraid of him he gives it out said he that he is to be my lord's son-in-law and they supposing him to stand first in his favor are afraid of his displeasure I hope said the Baron that he had such a loss for a son-in-law as to make choice of such a one as him he never but once hinted at such a thing and then I gave him no encouragement I have long seen there was something very wrong in him but I did not believe he was of so wicked a disposition it is no wonder that princes should be so fiercely deceived when I, a private man could be so much imposed upon within the circle of my own family what thank you son Robert I sir have been much more imposed on and I take shame to myself on the occasion enough my son said the Baron a generous confession is only a proof of growing wisdom you are now sensible that the best of us are liable to imposition the artifices of this unworthy kinsmen have set us at variance with each other and driven away an excellent youth from this house to go I know not wither but he shall no longer triumph in his wickedness he shall feel what it is to be banished from the house of his protector he shall set out for his mothers this very day I will write to her in such a manner as shall inform her that he has offended me without particularizing the nature of his faults I will give him an opportunity of recovering his credit with his own family and this shall be my security against his doing further mischief may he repent and be forgiven Markham deserves punishment but not in the same degree I confess it said he and will submit to whatever your lordship shall enjoy you shall only be banished for a time but he forever I will send you abroad on a business that shall put you in a way to do credit to yourself and service to me son Robert have you any objection to my sentence my lord said he I have great reason to distrust myself I am sensible I have my own weakness and your superior wisdom as well as goodness and I will hence forward submit to you in all things the Baron ordered two of his servants to pack up Wenlock's clothes and necessaries and to set out with him that very day he bade some others to keep an eye upon him lest he should escape as soon as they were ready my lord wished him a good journey and gave him a letter for his mother he departed without saying a word in a sullen kind of resentment with the inward agitations of his mind as soon as he was gone every mouth was opened against him a thousand stories came out that they never heard before the Baron and his sons were astonished that he should go on so long without detection my lord sighed deeply at the thought of Edmund's expulsion and ardently wished to know what had become of him Sir Robert took the opportunity of coming to an explanation with his brother William he took shame to himself for some part of his past behavior Mr William owned his affection to Edmund and justified it by his merit and attachment to him which were such that he was certain no time or distance could alter them he accepted his brother's acknowledgement as a full amends for all that had passed and begged that hence forward an entire love and confidence might ever subsist between them these new regulations restored peace confidence and harmony at length they arrived for the combatants to meet the Lord Graham with twelve followers gentlemen and twelve servants was ready at the dawn of the day to receive them the first that entered the field was Sir Philip Parklay Knight, armed completely accepting his headpiece Hugh Rugby, his squire bearing his lance John Barnard, his page carrying his helmet and spurs and two servants in his proper livery the next came Edmund the heir of Lovell followed by his servant John Wyatt Zadiski, followed by his servant at a short distance came the Lord Clifford as judge of the field with his squire, two pages and two livery servants followed by his eldest son his nephew and a gentleman his friend each attended by one servant he also brought a surgeon of note to take care of the wounded the Lord Graham saluted them and by his order they took their places without the lists and the trumpet sounded for the challenger it was answered by the defendant who soon after appeared attended by three gentlemen his friends with each one servant besides his own proper attendance a place was erected for the Lord Clifford as judge of the field he desired Lord Graham would share the office who accepted it on condition that the combatants should make no objection and they agreed to it with the greatest courtesy and respect they consulted together on many points of honor and ceremony between the two combatants they appointed a marshal of the field and other inferior officers usually employed on these occasions the Lord Graham sent the marshal for the challenger desiring him to declare the cause of his quarrel before his enemy Sir Philip Harkley then advanced and thus spoke I, Philip Harkley Knight challenged Walter commonly called Lord Lovell as a base treacherous and bloody man who by his wicked arts and devices did kill or cause to be killed his kinsman, Arthur Lord Lovell my dear and noble friend I am called upon in an extraordinary manner to revenge his death and I will prove the truth of what I have affirmed at the peril of my life Lord Graham then bade the defendant to answer the charge Lord Lovell stood forth before his followers and thus replied I, Walter Baron of Lovell do deny the charge against me and affirm it to be a base false and malicious accusation of this Sir Philip Harkley which I believe to be invented by himself or else framed by some enemy and told to him for wicked ends but be that as it may I will maintain my own honor and prove him to be a false traitor at the hazard of my own life and to the punishment of his presumption then said the Lord Graham will not this quarrel admit of arbitration no replied Sir Philip when I have justified this charge I have more to bring against him I trust in God and the justice of my cause and defy that traitor to the death Lord Clifford then spoke a few words to Lord Graham who immediately called to the Marshal and bade him open the lists and deliver the weapons to the combatants while the Marshal was arranging the combatants and their followers Edmund approached his friend and patron he put one knee to the ground he embraced his knees with the strongest emotions of grief and anxiety he was dressed in complete armor with his visor down his device was a Hawthorne with a graft of the rose upon it the motto Sir Philip bade him to take these words Sir Philip embraced the youth with strong marks of affection be composed my child said he I have neither guilt fear nor doubt in me I am so certain of success that I bid you to be prepared for the consequence Zadiski embraced his friend he comforted Edmund he suggested everything that could confirm his hopes of success the Marshal waited to deliver the spear to Sir Philip he now presented it with the usual form Sir, receive your lands and God defend the right Sir Philip answered Amen in a voice that was heard by all present he next presented his weapon to the Lord Lovell with the same sentence who likewise answered Amen with a good courage immediately the lists were cleared and the combatants began to fight he stood a long time with equal skill and courage and at length Sir Philip unhorsed his antagonist the judges ordered that either he should alight or suffer his enemy to remount he chose the former and a short combat on foot ensued the sweat ran off their bodies with the violence of the exercise Sir Philip watched every motion of his enemy and strove to weary him out intending to wound but not to kill him unless obliged for his own safety he thrust his sword through his left arm and demanded whether he would confess the fact Lord Lovell enraged answered he would die sooner Sir Philip then passed the sword through his body twice and Lord Lovell fell crying out that he was slain I hope not, said Sir Philip for I have a great deal of business for you to do before you die confess your sins and endeavor to atone for them as the only ground to hope for pardon the Lord Lovell replied you are the victor, use your good fortune generously Sir Philip took away his sword and then waved it over his head and beckoned for assistance the judges sent to beg Sir Philip to spare the life of his enemy I will, said he, upon condition that he make an honest confession the Lord Lovell desired a surgeon and a confessor you shall have both, said Sir Philip but you must first answer me a question did you kill your kinsman or not it was not my hand that killed him answered the wounded man it was done by your order however you shall have no assistance till you answer this point it was said he and heaven is just bear witness all present said Sir Philip, he confesses the fact he then beckoned Edmund who approached take off your helmet, said he look on that youth he is the son of your injured kinsman it is himself said the Lord Lovell and fainted away Sir Philip then called for a surgeon and a priest both of whom Lord Graham had provided the former began to bind up his wounds and his assistants poured cordial into his mouth preserve his life if it be possible said Sir Philip for much depends upon it he then took Edmund by the hand and presented him to all the company in this young man, said he you see the true heir of the house of Lovell heaven has in its own way made him the instrument to discover the death of his parents his father was assassinated by order of that wicked man who now receives his punishment his mother was, by his cruel treatment compelled to leave her own house she was delivered in the fields and perished herself in seeking shelter for her infant I have sufficient proofs of everything I say which I am ready to communicate to every person who desires to know the particulars heaven, by my hand has chastened him he has confessed the fact I accuse him of and it remains that he may restitution of the fortune and honors he hath usurped for so long Edmund kneeled and with uplifted hands returned thanks to heaven that his noble friend and champion was crowned with victory the lords and gentlemen gathered round them they congratulated them both while Lord Lovell's friends and followers were employed in taking care of him Lord Clifford took Sir Phillip's hand you have acted with so much honor and prudence that it is presumptuous to offer you advice but what means you to do with the wounded man I have not determined said he I thank you for the hint and beg your advice how to proceed let us consult Lord Graham replied he there he said you will have impartial witnesses of all that passes Sir Phillip was unwilling to give so much trouble the Lord Graham protested he should be proud to do any service to so noble a gentleman Lord Clifford enforced his request saying it was better upon all accounts to keep their prisoner on this side of the borders till they saw what turn his health would take and to keep him safely till he had settled his worldly affairs this resolution being taken Lord Graham invited the wounded man and his friends to his castle as being the nearest place where he could be lodged and taken proper care of it being dangerous to carry him further they accepted the proposal with many acknowledgments and having made a kind of litter of boughs they all proceeded to Lord Graham's castle where they put Lord Lovell to bed and the surgeon dressed his wounds and desired he might be kept quiet not knowing at present whether they were dangerous or not