 Book 2. Chapter 7 of The Lancashire Witches. Chapter 7. The Perambulation of the Boundaries. The lane along which Richard Asherton galloped in pursuit of Mother Chateaux, made so many turns and was moreover so completely hemmed in by high banks and edges, that he could see nothing on either side of him, and very little in advance. But, guided by the clatter of hooves, he urged Merlin to his utmost speed. Fancying he should soon come up with the fugitives. In this, however, he was deceived. The sound that had led him on became fainter and fainter, till at last it died away altogether. And on quitting the lane and gaining the boar, where the view was wholly uninterrupted, no traces either of which or wreath could be discerned. With a feeling of angry disappointment, Richard was about to turn back when a large black greyhound came out from an adjoining cloth and made towards him. The singularity of the circumstance induced him to halt and regard the dog with attention. On nearing him, the animal looked wistfully in his face, and seemed to invite him to follow. And the young man was so struck by the dog's manner that he complied and had not gone far, when a hair of unusual size and grey with age bounded from beneath a gorse-bush and speeded away, the greyhound starting in pursuit. Aware of the prevailing notion that a witch most commonly assumed such a form when desirous of escaping or performing some act of mischief, such as drying the milk of kine, Richard at once came to the conclusion that the hair could be no other than mother-chattox, and without pausing to inquire what the hound could be, or why it should appear at such a singular and apparently fortunate juncture, he at once joined the run, and cheered on the dog with hoop and hollow. Old as it was apparently, the hair ran with extraordinary swiftness, clearing every stone wall and other impediment in the way, and more than once cunningly doubling upon its pursuers. But every faint and stratagem were defeated by the fleet and sagacious hound, and the hunted animal at length took to the open waist, where the run became so rapid that Richard had enough to do to keep up with it. Though Merlin, almost as furiously excited as his master, strained every sinew to the task. In this way the chasers and the chasts scarred the dark and heathy plain, skirting moss-pool and clearing dyke till they almost reached the butt-end of Pendle Hill, which rose like an impassable barrier before them. Here the two the chasers had seemed in favour of the hair, but they now began to turn, and as it seemed certain she must fall into the hound's jaws, Richard expected every moment to find her resume her natural form. The run, having brought him within a quarter of a mile of barley, the rude hovels composing which little booth were clearly discernible. The young man began to think the hag's dwelling must be among them, and that she was hurrying thither as to a place of refuge. But before this could be accomplished, he hoped to effect her capture, and once more cheered on the hound and plunged his spurs into Merlin's sides. An obstacle, however, occurred which she had not counted on. Directly in the course taken by the hair lay a deep, disused limestone quarry, directly screened from view by a fringe of brushwood. When, within a few yards of this pit, the hound made a dash at the flying hair, but eluding him the latter sprang forward, and both went over the edge of the quarry together. Richard had well-knife followed, and in that case would have been inevitably dashed to pieces. But discovering the danger ere it was too late, by a powerful effort which threw Merlin upon his haunches he pulled him back on the very brink of the pit. The young man shuddered as he gazed into the depths of the quarry, and saw the jagged points and heaps of broken stone that would have received him. But he looked in vain for the old witch, whose mangled body, together with that of the hound, he expected to behold. And he then asked himself whether the chase might not have been a snare set for him by the hag and her familiar, with the intent of luring him to destruction. If so, he had been providentially preserved. Quitting the pit, his first idea was to proceed to Barley, which was now only a few hundred yards off, to make inquiries respecting Mother Chatex and Assatane whether she really dwelt there. But on further consideration he judged it best to return without further delay to Goldshaw, lest his friends, ignorant as to what had befallen him, might become alarmed on his account. But he resolved as soon as he had disposed of the business in hand to prosecute his search after the hag. Riding rapidly, he soon cleared the ground between the quarry and Goldshaw Lane, and was about to enter the latter, when the sound of voices singing a funeral hymn caught his ear, and pausing to listen to it, he beheld a little procession, the meaning of which he readily comprehended, wending it slow and melancholy way in this same direction as himself. It was headed by four men in deep mourning, bearing upon their shoulders a small coffin covered with a pawl, and having a garland of white flowers in front of it. Behind them followed about a dozen young men and maidens, likewise in mourning, walking two and two with gait and aspect of unfaithful defliction. Many of the women, though merely rustics, seemed to possess considerable personal attraction, but their features were in great measure concealed by their large white kerchiefs, disposed in the form of hoods. All carried sprigs of rosemary and bunches of flowers in their hands. Plaintiff was the hymn they sang, and their voices, though untold, were sweet and touching, and went to the heart of the listener. Much moved, Richard suffered the funeral procession to precede him along the deep and devious lane, and as it winded beneath the hedges, the sight was inexpressibly affecting. Fastening his horse to a tree at the end of the lane, Richard followed on foot. Notice of the approach of the train having been given in the village, all the inhabitants flocked forth to meet it, and there was scarcely a dry eye among them. Arrived within a short distance of the church, the coffin was met by the minister, attended by the clerk, behind whom came Roger Noel, Nicholas, and the rest of the company from the hostel. With great difficulty poor Baldwin could be brought to take his place as Chief Mourner. These arrangements completed, the body of the ill-fated girl was born into the churchyard, the minister reading the solemn texts appointed for the occasion, and leading the way to the grave, beside which stood the sexton, together with the beetle of Goldshaw and Sparshot. The coffin was then laid on trestles, and amidst profound silence, broken only by the sobs of the mourners, the service was read, and preparation made for lowering the body into the grave. Then it was that poor Baldwin, with a wild heart, piercing cry, flung himself upon the shell, containing all that remained of his lost treasure, and could with difficult to be removed from it by Bess and Soodle, both of whom were in attendance. The bunches of flowers and sprigs of rosemary having been laid upon the coffin by the maidens, amidst loud sobbing, and audibly expressed lamentations from the bystanders, it was let down into the grave, and earth thrown over it. Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. The ceremony was over. The mourners betook themselves to the little hostel, and the spectators slowly dispersed. But the bereaved father still lingered, unable to tear himself away. Leaning for support against the yew-trees, he fiercely bad Bess, who would have led him home with her, be gone. The kind-hearted hostess complied in appearance, but remained by at hand, though concealed from view. Once more the dark cloud overshadowed the spirit of the wretched man. Once more the same infernal desire of vengeance possessed him. Once more he subjected himself to temptation. Striding to the foot of the grave, he raised his hand, and with terrible imprecations, vowed to lay the murderous of his child, as low as she herself was now laid. At that moment he felt an eye like a burning-glass fixed on him, and, looking up, beheld the reave of the forest, standing on the further side of the grave. Kneel down, and swear to be mine, and your wish shall be gratified, said the reave. Beside himself with grief and rage, Baldwin would have complied, but he was arrested by a powerful grasp. Fearing he was about to commit some rash act, Bess rushed forward, and caught hold of his doublet. "'Bethink thee, what thou hast just heard, sir, minister Rutgers?' she cried in the voice of solemn warning. "'Blessed are the dead that die of the Lord, for they rest for their labours, and again suffer us not at our last hour for only pains of death so far from thee. Nor, Richard, dear, for the love thou hast for our poor child, who is now delivered for the burden of flesh, and well and in joy and felicity we guard on his angels, doneer in danger thy precious soul. Pray that thou mayest depart hence in the Lord, with whom are the souls of the faithful and merriest I trust among that number. Pray that thine may be like hers.' "'Oh, can I pray, Bess?' replied the miller, striking his breast. "'The Lord has turned his face from me.' "'Because thine art his ardent, Richard,' she replied, "'that nourishing both black and wicked thoughts cast them off at our journey, and come home with me.' Meanwhile the reef had sprung across the grave. "'Thy answer at once,' he said, grasping the miller's arm and breathing the words in his ears. "'Vengeance is in thy power, a word, and it is thine.' The miller groaned bitterly. He was so all-attempted. "'What's that monsanto, did, Richard?' inquired Bess. "'Oh, don't ask, but tear me away,' he answered. "'I'm lost else. Let him lay a finger on you if he dare,' said Bess sturdily. "'Leave him alone, you don't know who he is,' whispered the miller. "'I can partly guess,' she rejoined, but I care not of a monno-dale where I am acting ratey. Come along with me, Richard.' "'Fool,' cried the reef in the same low tone as before, "'You will lose your revenge, but you will not escape me.' And he turned away, while Bess almost carried the trembling and enfeebled miller towards the hostel. Roger Knowle and his friends had only waited the conclusion of the funeral to set forth, and their horses being in residence they mounted them on leaving the churchyard, and rode slowly along the lane leading towards Rough Lee. The melancholy scene they had witnessed and the afflicting circumstances connected with it had painfully affected the party, and little conversation occurred until they were overtaken by Parson Holden, who, having been made acquainted with their errand by Nicholas, was desirous of accompanying them. Soon after this also the Reaver of the Forest joined them, and on seeing him, Richard sternly demanded why he had aided Mother Chatex in her flight from the churchyard and what had become of her. "'You are entirely mistaken, sir,' replied the Reaver with effected astonishment. "'I have seen nothing whatever of the old hag, and would rather lend a hand in her capture than a better flight. I hold all witches in apparence and Mother Chatex especially so.' "'Your horse looks fresh enough, certainly,' said Richard, somewhat shaken in his suspicions. "'Where have you been during our stay at Goldshore? You did not put up at the hostel.' "'I went to Farmer Johnson's,' replied the Reaver, "'and you will find upon enquiry that my horse has not been out of his stables for the last hour. I myself have been loitering about Bess's Grange and Farmyard, as your grooms will testify for they have seen me.' "'Explain, Richard, I suppose I must credit assertions made with such confidence, but I could have sworn I saw you ride off with the hag behind you. "'I hope I shall never be caught in such bad company, sir,' replied the Reaver, with a laugh. "'If I ride off with any one, it shall not be with an old witch. Depend upon it.' Though by no means satisfied with the explanation, Richard was forced to be content with it, but he thought he would address a few more questions to the Reaver. "'Have you any knowledge?' he said, when the boundaries of Pendle Forest were first settled and appointed. The first perambulation was made by Henry de Lacey about the middle of the twelfth century,' replied the Reaver. "'Tendle Forest, you may be aware, sir, is one of the four divisions of the great forest of Blackburnshire, of which the Laces were lords. The three other divisions being Acrington, Troughton, and Rossendale, and it comprehends an extent of about twenty-five miles, part of which you have traversed today. At a later period, namely in 1311, after the death of another Henry de Lacey, Earl of Nincolne, the last of his line, and one of the bravest of Edward I's barons, an inquisition was held in the forest, and it was subdivided into eleven vacarys, one of which is the place to which you are bound, roughly. As learned, it's a redwood coke defined a vacary to signify a dairy,' observed Potts. "'Here it means the farm and land as well,' replied the Reave. "'And the word bool, which is in general use in this district, signifies the mansion erected upon such vacary. Mistress Nutter's residence, for instance, being nothing more than the bool of Rough Lee. While a laund, another local turn, is a park enclosed within the forest for the preservation of the deer, and the convenience of the chase, and of such enclosures we have two, namely the Old and New Laund. By a commission in the reign of Henry VII, these vacarys originally granted only to tenants at will, were converted into copy-holds of inheritance. But when here is a legal point for your consideration, Master Potts, as it seems very questionable, where the titles obtained under letters patterned are secure, and not unreasonable fears are entertained by the holders of lands, lest they should be seized and appropriated by the Crown. "'Aha! An excellent idea, Master Reave,' exclaimed Potts, his little eyes twinkling with pleasure. How gracious and sagacious Monarch would grasp at the suggestion. "'Aye, and grasp at the lands, too. Many thanks for the hint, good Reave. I will not fail to profit by it. If their titles are uncertain, the landowners would be glad to compromise the matter with the Crown, even to the value of half their estate, rather than lose the whole.' Most assuredly they would, replied the Reave, and furthermore they would pay the lawyer well who could manage the mutter adroitly for them. This would answer your purpose better than hunting up witches, Master Potts. One pursuit does not interfere with the other in the slightest degree worthy, Reave, observed Potts. I cannot consent to give up my quest to the witches. My honour is concerned in their extermination, but to return to Pendle Forest. The greater part of it has been disforested, I presume. "'It has,' replied the other, and we are now in one of the pearl-ews. "'Pour-a-lis' is the better word, most excellent Reave,' said Potts. "'I tell you thus much, because you appear to be a man of learning. Manwood, our great authority in such matters, declares our pour-a-lis to be a certain territory of ground joining unto the forest, mirrored and bounded, with immovable marks, mirrors and boundaries, known by matter of record only. And as it applies to the perambulation we are about to make, I may as well repeat what the same learned writer further sayeth, touching marks, mirrors and boundaries, and how they may be known. For although,' he sayeth, a forest doth lie open and not enclosed with hedge, ditch, pale or stone wall, which some other enclosures have, yet in the eye and consideration of the law the same hath as strong an enclosure by these marks, mirrors and boundaries, as if there were a brick wall to encircle the same. Marks, learned Reave, are deemed unremovable. Primo, qui are omnes metae forestiae sunt integrae domino regi, and those who take them away are punishable for the trespass at the incisors of the forest. Secundo, because the marks are things that cannot be stirred, as rivers, highways, hills, and the like, now such unremovable marks, mirrors and boundaries we have between the estate of my excellent client, Master Roger Knowle, and that of Mistress Nutter, so that the matter at issue will be easily decided. A singular smile crossed the Reave's countenance, but he made no observation. Unless the lady can turn aside streams, remove hills, and pluck up huge trees, we shall win, pursued Potts with a chuckle. Again the Reave smiled, but he forbore to speak. You talk of Marks, Mears, and Boundaries, Master Potts, remarked Richard, are not the words synonymous? Not precisely so, sir, replied the attorney, there is a slight difference in their signification, which I will explain to you. The words of the statute are a metas, meras, et bundas. Now, meta, or mark, is an object rising from the ground as a church, a wall, or a tree. Mera, or mere, is the space or interval between the forest and the land adjoining, whereupon the mark may chance to stand. And burda is the boundary lying on a level with the forest as a river, a highway, a pool, or a bog. I comprehend the distinction, replied Richard, and now, as we are on the subject, he added to the Reave, I would gladly know the precise nature of your office. My duty, replied the other, is to range daily throughout all the Perleus, or Poreles, as Master Potts more properly terms them, and disafforested lands, and inquire into all trespasses and defences against verse or venison, and present them at the king's next court of attachment or swain-mote. It is also my business to drive into the forest such wild beasts as have strayed from it, to attend to the lawing and expeditation of mastiffs, and to raise hue and cry against any malefactors or trespassers within the forest. I will give you the exact words of the statute, said Potts. I would that that part of your duty relating to the hawks' inuing and lawing of mastiffs could be discontinued, said Richard. I grieve to see a noble animal so mutilated. In Bolen Forest, as you are on the subject, I will give you the exact words of the statute, and present them at the king's next court of attachment or swain-mote. I would that that part of your duty relating to the hawks' inuing and lawing of mastiffs could be discontinued, said Richard. I grieve to see a noble animal so mutilated. In Bolen Forest, as you are probably aware, sir, rejoined the reave, only the larger mastiffs are named, a small stirrup or gauge being kept by the master forester, Squire Robert Parker, of Browse Home, and the dog whose foot will pass through it escapes mutilation. The practice is a cruel one, and I would it were abolished with some of our other barbarous forest laws, observed Richard. While this conversation had been going on, the party had proceeded well on their way. For some time the road, which consisted of little modern tracks of wheels along the turf, led along a plain, thrown up into heathy hillocks, and then passing through a thicket, evidently part of the old forest, it brought them to the foot of a hill which they mounted and descended into another valley. Here they came upon Pendle Water, and while skirting its banks could see at a great depth below the river rushing over its rocky bed like an alpine torrent, the scenery had now begun to assume a savage and somber character. The deep rift through which the river ran was evidently the result of some terrible convulsion of the earth, and the rocky strata was strangely and fantastically displayed. On the further side the banks rose up precipitously, consisting for the most part of bare cliffs, though now and then a tree would root itself in some crevice. Below this the stream sank over a wide shelf of rock in a broad full cascade, and boiled and foamed in the stony basin that received it, after which, grown less impetuous, it ran tranquilly on for a couple of hundred yards, and was then artificially restrained by a dam, which, diverting it in part from its course, caused it to turn the wheels of a mill. Here was the abode of the unfortunate Richard Baldwin, and here had blossomed forth the fair flower so untimely gathered. An air of gloom hung over this once cheerful spot, its very beauty contributing to this saddening effect. The mill race flowed swiftly and brightly on, but the wheel was stopped, windows and doors were closed, and death kept his grim holiday undisturbed. No one was to be seen about the premises, nor was any sound heard except the bark of the lonely watchdog. Many a sorrowing glance was cast at this full-awn habitation as the party road passed it, and many a sigh was heaved for the poor girl who had so lately been its pride and ornament, but if any one had noticed the bitter sneer curling the rave's lip, nor caught them a lignant fire gleaming in his eye, it would scarcely have been thought that he shared in the general regret. After the cavalcade had passed the mill, one or two other cottages appeared on the near side of the river, while the opposite banks began to be clothed with timber. The glen became more and more contracted, and a stone bridge crossed the stream, near which and on the same side of the river as the party stood a cluster of cottages constituting the little village of Rough Lee. On reaching the bridge, Mistress Nutter's habitation came in view, and it was pointed out by Nicholas de Potts, who contemplated it with much curiosity. In his eyes it seemed exactly adapted to its owner, and formed to hide dark and guilty deeds. It was a stern, somber-looking mansion built of a dark grey stone, with tall square chimneys and windows with heavy mullions. High stone walls, whorey and moss-grown ran round the gardens and courts, except on the side of the river, where there was a terrace overlooking the stream, and forming a pleasant summer's walk. At the back of the house were a few ancient oaks and sycamores, and in the gardens were some old clipped views. Part of this ancient mansion is still standing, and retains much of its original character, though subdivided and tenanted by several humble families. The garden is cut up into paddocks, and the approach environed by a labyrinth of low stone walls, while miserable sheds and other buildings are appended to it. The terrace is wholly obliterated, and the grains and offices are pulled down, but sufficient is still left of the place to give an idea of its pristine appearance and character. Its situation is striking and peculiar. In front rises a high hill, forming the last link of the chain of Pendle, and looking upon Barrowford and Colne on the further side of which, and therefore not discernible from the mansion, stood Malcolm Tower. At the period in question the lower part of this hill was well wooded and washed by Pendle water, which swept past it through banks picturesque and beautiful, though not so bold and rocky as those in the neighbourhood of the mill. In the rear of the house the ground gradually rose for more than a quarter of a mile, when it obtained a considerable elevation. Following the course of the stream and looking down the gorge, another hill appeared, so that the house was completely shut in by mountainous aclivities. In winter, when the snow lay on the heights, or when the mists hung upon them for weeks together, or descended in continuous rain, roughly was sufficiently desolate, and seemed cut off from all communication with the outer world. But at the season when the party beheld it, though the approaches were rugged and difficult, and almost inaccessible except to the horseman or pedestrian, bidding defiance to any vehicle, except of the strongest construction, still the place was not without a certain charm. Mainly, however, derived from its seclusion. The scenery was stern and somber. The hills were dark and dreary, but the very wildness of the place was attractive, and the old house, with its gray walls, its lofty chimneys, its gardens with their clipped ews, and its rook-haunted trees harmonised well with all around it. As the party drew near the house, the gates were thrown open by an old porter with two other servants, who besought them to stay and partake of some refreshment. But Roger Knowle, haughtily and parenturally, declined his invitation, and rode on, and the others, though some of them would feign have complied, followed him. Scarcely were they gone that James Device, who had been in the garden, issued from the gate and speeded after them. Passing through a close at the back of the mansion, and tracking a short narrow lane edged by stone walls, the party which had received some accession from the cottages of roughly, as well as from the huts on the hillside, again approached the river and proceeded along its banks. The newcomers, being all of them tenants of Mrs. Nutter, and acting apparently under the direction of James Device, who had now joined the troop, startling and loudly maintained that the lady would be found right in the inquiry, but the exception of one old man, named Henry Mitten, and he shook his head gravely when appealed to by jim, and could by no means be induced to join him in the clamour. Notwithstanding this demonstration, Roger Knowle and his legal adviser were both very sanguineous to the result of the survey being in their favour, and Master Potts turned to acetane from Smarshot that the two plans which had been rolled up and consigned to his custody were quite safe. Meanwhile the party, having followed the course of the Pendle water through the Glen for about half a mile, during which they kept close to the brawling current, entered a little thicket, and then, striking off on the left, passed over the foot of a hill, and came to the edge of a wide moor, where a halt was called by Knowle. It being now announced that they were on the confines of the disputed property, preparations were immediately made for the survey. The plans were taken out for quiver in which they had been carefully deposited by Sparshot, and handed to Potts, who giving the one to Roger Knowle and the other to Nicholas, and opening his memorandum book, declared that all was ready, and the two leaders rode slowly forward, while the rest of the troops followed, their curiosity being stimulated to the highest pitch. Presently Roger Knowle again stopped, and pointed to a woody break. We are now come, he said, to a wood-forming part of my property, on which from an interruption caused by a spring that took place in it many years ago, is called Burst Clough. Exactly, sir, exactly, cried Potts, Burst Clough, I have it here. Landmarks five gray stones lying apart at a distance of one hundred yards or thereabouts, and giving you, sir, twenty acres of moorland. Is it not so, Master Nicholas? The marks are such as I have described, eh? They are, sir, replied the squire, with this slight difference in the allotment of the land, namely that Mr. Nutter claims the twenty acres while she assigns you only ten. Ten devils! Cried Roger Knowle, furiously, twenty acres of moorland, and I will have them. To the proof, then, rejoined Nicholas, the first of the gray stones is here. And the second is on the left in that allot, cried Roger Knowle. Come on, my Masters, come on! Ah, come on! cried Nicholas. This perambulation will be real sport. Who wins for a piece of gold, cousin Richard? Nay, I will place no wager on the event, replied the young man. Well, as you please, cried the squire, but I would laugh after one that Mr. Nutter beats the magistrate. Meanwhile the whole troupe, having set forward, they soon arrived at the second stone. Gray and moss-grown it was deeply embedded in the soil, and to all appearance had rested undisturbed for many a year. You measure from the cloth, I presume, sir? remarked Potts to Knowle. To be sure, replied the magistrate, but how is this? This stone seems to me much nearer the cloth than it used to be. Yeah, so it done, Master, observed old Mitten. It does not appear to have been disturbed at all events, cried Nicholas, dismounting and examining it. It would seem not, cried Knowle, when yet it certainly is not in its old place. Ah, Mr. Knurl, Master, observed gem-device, I know Landwell, and this stone has done well it does, but laugh twenty a year, and it neighbors. Yeah, yeah, responded several voices. Well, let us go on to the next stone, said Potts, looking rather blank. Accordingly they went forward, the Hines exchanging significant looks, and Roger Knowle and Nicholas carefully examining their respective math. These landmarks exactly tell they were my plan, said the squire, as they arrived at the third stone. But none would moan, said Knowle. This stone ought to be two hundred yards to their right. Some trickery has been practised. Impossible, exclaimed the squire. These boundary stones could never have been moved. Besides, there are several persons here who know every inch of the ground, and will give you their unbiased testimony. What say you, my men, are these the old boundary stones? All answered in the affirmative, except Old Mitten, who still raised a dissenting voice. They bid the old boundary mark, sure enough, he said, but they know in their odd places. It is quite clear that the twenty acres belong to Mistress Nutter, observed Nicholas, and that you must contend yourself with ten, Master Knowle. Make an entry to that effect, Master Potts, unless you have the ground measured. No, it is needless, replied the magistrate sharply. Let us go on. During this survey, some of the features of the country appeared changed to the rustics, but how, or in what way, they could not precisely tell, and they were easily induced by James' device to give their testimony in Mistress Nutter's favour. A small rivulet was now reached, and another halt being called upon its sedgy banks, the plans were again consulted. What have we here, Master Potts? All boundaries, inquired Richard with a smile. Both, replied Potts angrily, this rivulet, which I take to be Moss Brook, is a boundary, and that sheepfold and the two posts standing in a line with it are marks. But, old, how is this? He cried, regarding the plan in dismay. The five acres of wasteland should be on the left of the Brook. It would doubt the suit, Master Knowle, better if it were so, said Nicholas, but as they chanced to be on the right, they belonged to Mistress Nutter. I merely speak from the plan. Your plan is not, sir, cried Knowle furiously. By what foul practice these changes have been wrought, I pretend not to say, though I can give a good guess. But the audacious witch who has just eluded me shall bitterly row it. Old, old, Master Knowle, replied Nicholas, I can make great allowance for your anger, which is natural considering your disappointment. But I will not permit such unwarrantable insinuations to be thrown out against Mistress Nutter. You agreed to abide by Sir Ralph Atchison's award, and you must not complain if it is made against you. Do you imagine that this stream could have changed its course in a single night, or that Yon's sheepfold has been removed to the further side of it? I do, replied Knowle. And so do I, cried Pots. It has been accomplished by the aid of—but feeling himself checked by a glance from the Reeve, he stammered out of Mother Demdike. You declare just now that Mark's mires and boundaries were unremovable, Master Pots, said the Reeve with a snare, you have altered your opinion. The crestfallen attorney was done. Master Richard Knowle must find some better plea than the imputation of witchcraft to set aside Mistress Nutter's claim. Observed Richard. Yes, that Yon cried James Device, and the Hines who supported him. The magistrate bit his lip with vexation. There were his witchcraft in it, I repeat, he said. Yes, that there be," responded Old Mitten. But the words were scarcely uttered when he was fell to the ground by the bludgeon of James Device. God, sir, the exam were for two pins," said Jem, regarding Pots with a savage look. No violence, Jem, cried Nicholas authoritatively. You do harm to the cause you would serve by your outrageous conduct. Beg pardon, squire, but I when I hear lies told about Mistress Nutter. No one shall speak ill on her, yeah," cried the Hines. Eh, well, Master Knowle, said Nicholas, are you willing to concede the matter at once, or will you pursue the investigation further? I will ascertain the extent of the mischief done to me before I stop," rejoined the magistrate angrily. Forward, then, cried Nicholas, now, of course, now lies along this footpath, with a croft on the left and an old barn on the right. Here the plans correspond, I believe, Master Pots. The attorney yielded a reluctant ascent. There's a small spring and trough by the right, and we come to a limestone quarry, then by a plantation called Catgallow's Wood, so named because some troublesome mouser has been hanged there, I suppose, and next by a deep mospit gold swallow-hole. All right, eh, Master Pots? We shall now enter upon Warstone Mower, and come to the hut occupied by a gem-device, who, can it is presumed, speak positively as to its situation. Very true, cried Pots, as if struck by an idea. Let the rascal step forward. I wish to put a few questions to him regarding his tenement. I think I shall catch him now, he added, in a low tone, to Noel. Here I be, cried Jem, stepping up with an insolent and defying look. What do you want, we may? First of all, I would caution you to speak the truth. Commence Pots, impressively, as I shall take down your answers in my memorandum book, and they will be produced against you hereafter. If he utters a falsehood, I will commit him, said Roger Noel, sharply. Speak severly now, and give you a civil answer. We join Jem in a surly tone, but I am not to be brow-beaten. First, then, is your hut in sight? No, replied Jem. But you can point out its situation, I suppose, pursued the attorney. Certainly I have gone, replied Jem, without heeding a significant glance cast at him by the reef. It stands beyond your cloth, and tired at mower, we are rendly front. Now, mind what you say, Serah, cried Pots, you are quite sure that the hut is behind the cloth, and the rendle, which being interpreted from your base vernacular, I believe, means a gutter in front of it. The reef coughed slightly, but failed to attract Jem's attention, who replied quickly that he was quite sure of the circumstances. Very well, said Pots, you have all heard the answer, he is quite sure as to what he states. Now then, I suppose you can tell whether the hut looks to the north or the south, whether the door opens to the moor or to the cloth, and whether there is a path leading from it to a spot called Hook Cliff. At this moment, Jem caught the eye of the reef, and the look given him by the latter completely puzzled him. No, I don't agree to recollect which way it looks. He answered, What? You revaricating rascal, do you pretend to say you do not know which way your own dwelling stands? Thundered Roger Knowle, speak out, Serah, or Sparshot, shall take you into custody at once. I'm ready, your worship, replied the beetle. Well, then, said Jem, imperfectly comprehending the signs made to him by the reef, it looks neither to the south, nor to the north, but to the west, and there is a path through it to Hook Cliff. As he finished speaking, he saw from the reef's angry gestures that he had made a mistake, but it was now too late to recall his words. However, he determined to make an effort. Now I bethink may I'm not sure that I'm right, he said. You must be sure, Serah, said Roger Knowle, bending his awful brows upon him. You cannot be mistaken as to your own dwelling. Take down his description, Master Botts, and proceed with your interrogatories if you have any more to put to him. I wish to ask him whether he has been at home today, said Botts. Answer, fellow, thundered the magistrate. Before replying, Jem would feign have consulted the reef, but the latter had turned away in displeasure. Not knowing whether a lie would serve his turn, and fearing he might be contradicted by some of the bystanders, he said he had not been at home for two days, but had returned the night before at a later hour from Whaley, and had slept at Rough Lee. Then you cannot tell what changes may have taken place in your dwelling during your absence, said Botts. Of course not, replied Jem. Boy, I don't know how to see how any changes can happen in so short a time. But I do, if you do not, sirra, said Botts, be pleased to give me your plan, Master Knowle. I have a further question to ask him, he added, after consulting it for a moment. I will answer no more, replied Jem Rough Lee. He will answer, and whatever questions Master Botts may put to you, or you are taken into custody, said the magistrate sternly. Jem would have willingly beaten the retreat, but being surrounded by the two grooms and sparshot, who only wanted a sign from Knowle to secure him, or knock him down if he attempted to fly, he gave a surly intimation that he was ready to speak. You are aware that a dyke intersects the heath before us, namely Worsten Moor, said Botts. Jem nodded his head. I must request particular attention to your plan as I proceed, Master Nicholas, pursued the attorney. I now wish to be informed by you, Jem's device, whether that dyke cuts through the middle of the Moor, or traverses the side, and if so, which side? I desire also to be informed where it commences and where it ends. Jem scratched his head and reflected for a moment. The matter does not require consideration, sirra, cried Knowle. Oh, you must have an instant answer. So you shan, replied Jem. Well, then, dark begins near a little mound called Turn Edd, about under yards from our dwelling, and runs across deasterly side at Moor till it reaches Knowle Bottom. You will swear this, cried Potts, scarcely able to conceal his satisfaction. Swear it, ah, replied Jem. Ah, with all swear it, chorused the hines. I am delighted to hear it, cried Potts, radiant with delight, for your description corresponds exactly with Master Knowle's plan, and differs materially from that of Mistress Nutter as Squire Nicholas Asherton will tell you. Ah, cannot deny it, replied Nicholas, in some confusion. Ah, should have said westerly instead of easterly, cried Jem. By your puzzler, man, sir, we are loyally questions that he done a noise ray done from his left. Yeah, yeah, we are meant to say westerly, added the hines. You have swore to the contrary, cried Knowle, secure him, he added to the grooms and sparshot, and do not let him go till we have completed the survey. We will now see how far the reality corresponds with the description, and what further devilish tricks have been played with the property. On this the troupe was again put in motion, James Device walking between the two grooms with sparshot behind him. So wonderfully elated was Master Potts by the successful hit he had just made, and which in his opinion quite counterbalanced his previous failure that he could not help communicating his satisfaction to Flint, and this in such manner that the fiery little animal, who had been for some time exceedingly tractable and good-natured, took umbrage at it, and threatened to dislodge him if he did not desist from his vagaries, delivering the hint so clearly and unmistakably that it was not lost upon his rider who endeavored to calm him down. In proportion as the attorney's spirits rose, those of James Device and his followers sank, for they felt they were caught in a snare from which they could not easily escape. By this time they had reached the borders of Worcester Moor, which had been hitherto concealed by a piece of rising ground covered with gorse and brushwood, and James Hutt, together with the cloth, the rindle, and the dike, came distinctly into view. The plans were again produced, and on comparing them it appeared that the various landmarks were precisely situated as laid down by Mistress Nutter, while their disposition was entirely at variance with James Device's statement. Master Potts then rose in his stirrups, and calling for silence addressed the assemblage. There stands the hut, he said, and instead of being behind the cloth it is on one side of it, while the door certainly does not face the Moor, neither is the rindle in front of the dwelling or near it, while the dike, which is the main and important boundary between the two properties, runs above two hundred yards further west than formerly. Now observe the original position of these marks, mirrors, and boundaries, that is of this hut, this cloth, this rindle, and this dike, exactly corresponds with the description given of them by the man Device, who dwells in the place, and who is therefore a person most likely to be accurately acquainted with the country, and yet, though he has only been absent two days, change is the most surprising who have taken place. Change is so surprising indeed that he scarcely knows the way to his own house, and certainly never could find the path which he had described to me as leading to Hook Cliff, since it is entirely obliterated. Observe further all these extraordinary and incomprehensible changes in the appearance of the country, and in the situation of the marks, mirrors, and boundaries are favourable to Mr. Snutter, and give her the advantage she seeks over my honoured and honourable client. They are set down in Mr. Snutter's plan, it is true. But when, let me ask you, was that plan prepared? In my opinion it was prepared first, and the changes in the land made after it by diabolical fraud and contrivance. I am sorry to have to declare this to you, Master Nicholas, and to you, Master Richard, but such is my firm conviction. And may you know also, I did know, that I have charged Mr. Snutter with sorcery and witchcraft, and on my return I will immediately issue a warrant for a rest. Sparshot, I command you to attach the person of James Device for aiding and abetting her enough foul practices. I will help you to take charge of him, said the Reeve, riding forward. Probably this was done to give James a chance of escape, and if so, it was successful. For as the Reeve pushed among his captors, and thrust Sparshot aside, the Ruffian broke from them, and running with great swiftness across the moor, plunged into the cloth and disappeared. Nicholas and Richard instantly gave chase, as did Master Potts, but the fugitive led them over the treacherous bog in such a manner as to baffle all pursuit. A second disaster here overtook the unlucky attorney and damped him in his hour of triumph. Flint, who had apparently not forgotten or forgiven the joyous kicks he had recently received from the attorney's heels, came to a sudden halt by the side of the quagmire, and putting down his head and flinging up his legs cast him into it. While Potts was scrambling out, the animal galloped off in the direction of the cloth, and had just reached it when he was seized upon by James Device, who suddenly started from the covert and vaulted upon his back. End of Chapter 7 Book 2, Chapter 8 of The Lancashire Witches This Libre-box recording is in the public domain, reading by Andy Minter. The Lancashire Witches A Romance of Pendle Forest by William Harrison Ainsworth Book 2 Pendle Forest Chapter 8 Roughly On returning from their unsuccessful pursuit of James Device, the two Ashidans found Roger Noel haranguing the Hines, who on the flight of their leader would have taken to their heels likewise, if they had not been detained, partly by the energetic efforts of Sparshot and the Grooms, and partly by the exhortations and menaces of the magistrate and Holden. As it was, two or three contrived to get away, and fled across the moor, wither the wreath pretended to pursue them, while those left behind were taken sharply to task by Roger Noel. "'Listen to me,' he cried, and take good heed to what I say, for it concerns you nearly. Strange and dreadful things have come under my observation on the way, either. I have seen a whole village stricken as by a plague. The poor peddler deprived of the use of his limbs and put in peril of his life, and a young maiden once the pride and ornament of your own village snatched from up on Father's Gare, and borne to an untimely grave. These things I have seen with my own eyes, and I am resolved that the perpetrators of these enormities, mothers Demdike and Chateauk, shall be brought to justice. As to you, the deluded victims of the impious Ags, I can easily understand why you shut your eyes to their evil doings, terrified by their threats you submit to their extractions, and so become their slaves, slaves of the bond slaves of Satan. What miserable servitude is this? By so doing you not only endanger the welfare of your souls by legging with the enemies of heaven, and render yourselves unworthy to be classed with the religious and Christian people, but you place your lives in jeopardy by becoming accessories to the crimes of those great offenders, and render yourselves liable to the punishment with them. Seeing then the imminency of the peril in which you stand, you will do well to avoid it while there is yet time. Nor is this your only risk. Your servitude to Mistress Nutter is equally perilous. What if she be the owner of the land you till, and the rocks you tend? You who are no fealty, she has forfeited all title to your service, and so far from aiding her you ought to regard her as a great criminal, whom you are bound to bring to justice. I have now incontestable proofs of her dealing in the black arts, and can show that by witchcraft she has altered the face of this country with the intent to rob me of my land. Holden now took up the theme, that the finger of hillan is pointed against such robbery. He cried, Curse it is he, saith the scripture, that remove it his neighbour's landmark. And again it is written, Curse it is he that smaceth his neighbour's secretly. Both these things hath Mistress Nutter done, and for both she shall incur divine vengeance. No other shall she escape that of man, added Roger Knowle severely, for our sovereign Lord hath enacted that all persons employing or rewarding any evil spirit shall be held guilty of felony and shall suffer death, and death will be her abortion, for such dim and niacal agency most assuredly hath she employed. The magistrate here paused for a moment to regard his audience, and reading in their terrified looks that his address had produced the desired impression, he continued with increased severity. These wicked women shall trouble the land no longer. They shall be arrested and brought to judgment, and if you do not heartily mister yourselves in their capture and undertake to appear in evidence against them, you shall be held and dealt with as accessories in their crimes. Upon this the Heinz, who were greatly alarmed, declared with one accord their willingness to act as the magistrate should direct. You do wisely, cried Potts, who by this time had made his way back to the assemblage, covered from head to foot with ooze as on his former misadventures, and mistress Nutter and the two old hags who hold you in thrall would lead you to destruction, for understand it is the firm determination of my respected client, Master Roger Know, as well of myself, not to relax in our exertions till the whole of these pestilent witches who trouble the country be swept away, and to spare none who assist and uphold them. The Heinz stared aghast, for so grim was the appearance of the attorney, that they almost thought the hobhurst, the Lubbuffine, was addressing them. At this moment old Henry Mitten came up. He had partially recovered from the stunning effects of the blow dealt him by James' device, but his head was cut open, and his white locks were dabbled in blood. Pushing his way through the assembly he stood before the magistrate. If you want a witness again that far murderous and witch Alice Nutter, call me, Master Roger Knowle, he said, I can't take my marble oath that the whole face of this country has been changed since yesterday night by her handiwork. Call me also to speak to her for my life, to an intimacy with Mother Dendark and old Chateaucks, call me to prove her constant attendance at Devil's Sabbath on Pendle Hill and elsewhere with other black and damning offenses, and among them the murder by a witchcraft of her husband, Richard Nutter. A thrill of horror pervaded the assembly at this denunciation, and Master Parts, who was being cleansed from his sable stains by one of the grooms, cried out, This is a very man for us, my excellent client, your name and abode, friend. How they met in a rough lay, replied the old man, Ah, dwelt those seventy years and uppers and a known the father and grandfather, Richard Nutter, and also Alice Nutter, when she were Alice Asherton, call me, sir, and all you want to know, you shall learn. We will call you, my good friend, said Parts, and if you have sustained any private wrongs from Mr. Snutter, they shall be amply redressed. Ah, ah, ah, do it much at once, rejoin me, then, but I don't speak of myself, it be our time that do'd scratch should have his claws clipped, an honest thought be allowed to live in base. Very true, my worthy friend, very true, assented Parts. An immediate return to Wade that was now proposed by Noel, but Master Parts was of the opinion that, as they were in the neighbourhood of Malkin Tower, they should proceed dither at once, and effect the arrest of Mother Demdike, after which Mother Chatex could be sought out and secured. The presence of these two witches would be most important, he declared, in the examination of Mr. Snutter. Hew and cry for the fugitive, James Device, would also to be made throughout the forest. Confounded by what they had heard, Richard and Nicholas had hitherto taken no part in the proceedings, but they now seconded Master Parts' proposition, hoping that the time occupied by the visit to Malkin Tower would prove serviceable to Mr. Snutter, for they did not doubt that intelligence would be conveyed to her by some of her agents of Noel's intention to arrest her. Additional encouragement was given to the plan by the arrival of Richard Baldwin, who at this juncture rode furiously up to the party. �Well, I have settled your business here, Master Noel!� he asked, in breathless anxiety. �We have so far as eddled it that we have established proofs of witchcraft against Mr. Snutter,� replied Noel. �Can you speak to her character, Baldwin?� �Ah, that ought gone,� rejoined the miller, �and now good!� �I wish to say these best of us witches burned, and that's why I ridden after you, Master Noel. I want your help on her magistrate against Mother Dendak. You are a constable here, and so can arrest her at once!� �You have come most opportunely, Baldwin,� observed Parts. �We were just considering whether we should go to Malkin Tower.� �Then decide on it,� rejoined the miller, �although I will escape you,� tackled her in her wares. �I don't know that we shall take her unaware,� said Parts. �But I am decidedly of opinion that we shall go dither without delay,� is Malkin Tower far off. �But a mile from Routhlay,� replied the miller, �go back with me to Mel, where you can refresh yourselves, and I'll get together some dozen of my friends, and then we'll go up to Malkin Tower together. �A very good suggestion,� said Parts, �and no doubt Master Noel will exceed to it. �We have forced enough already, it appears to me,� observed Noel. �I should think so,� replied Richard. �Some dozen men armed against a poor defenceless old woman are surely enough. �Oh, but not defenceless, Mr. Richard!� rejoined Baldwin. �You cannot go to a great force on an expedition like this. Malkin Tower is a very strong place, as you don't find.� �Well,� said Noel, �since we are here, I agree with Master Potts, and it would be better to secure these two offenders, and convey them to Wiley, where their examination can take place at the same time as that of Mr. Nutter. We therefore accept your offer of refreshment, Baldwin, and some of our party may stand in need of it, and will at once proceed to the mill. �Well resolved,� said Potts. �We are decked, though, which dead are alive,� cried Baldwin. �Alive? We must have her alive,� good Baldwin, said Potts. �You must see her perish at the stake. �Rip on!� cried the miller, his eyes blazing with fury. �That's true vengeance! And ride home, and get all ready for you. You're not road!� So saying, he struck spurs into his horse, and galloped off. Scarcely was he gone, and the Reeve, who had kept out of his sight, came forward. �Since you have resolved upon going to Malkin Tower,� he said to Noel, �and have a sufficiently numerous party for the purpose, my further attendance can be dispensed with. I will ride in search of James Device. �Do so!� replied the magistrate, �and let Hew and Croy be made after him. �It shall be,� replied the Reeve, �and if taken he shall be conveyed to Ailey,� as he made his way towards the club, as if with the intention of putting his words into execution. Word was now given to set forward, and master Potts, having been accommodated with a horse by one of the grooms, who proceeded on foot, the party began to retrace their course to the mill. They were soon again by the side of Pendle Water, and their long reached roughly. As they rode through the close at the back of the mansion, Roger Noel halted for a moment, and observed with a grim smile to Richard, �Nevermore shall Mistress Nutter enter that house! Within a week she shall be lodged in Lancaster Castle as a felon of the darkest dye, and she shall meet a felon's fate, and not only shall she be sent thither, but all are partners in guilt. Mother Demdike and her accursed brood devices, old Chatex and her granddaughter, Nancy Redford, that one shall escape. �You do not include Alice and device in your list,� cried Richard. �I include all. I will spare none,� rejoined Noel sternly. �Then I will move no further with you,� said Richard. �How?� cried Noel. �Are you an upholder of these witches? Beware what you do, young man! Beware how you take part with them. You will bring suspicion upon yourself, and get entangled in a net from which you will not easily escape. �I care not what may happen to me,� rejoined Richard. �I will never lend myself to gross injustice,� such as you are about to practice. �Since you announce your intention of including the innocent with the guilty, of exterminating a whole family for the crimes of one or two of its members, I have done. You have made dark accusations against Mistress Nutter, but you have proved nothing. You assert that by witchcraft she has changed the features of your land, but in what way can you make good the charge? Old Mitten has indeed volunteered himself as a witness against her, and has accused her of most heinous offenses. But he has at the same time shown that he is her enemy, and his testimony will be regarded with doubt. I will not believe her guilty on mere suspicion, and I deny that you have ought more to proceed upon. �I shall not argue the point with you now, sir,� replied Noel angrily. � Mistress Nutter will be fairly tried, and if I fail in my proofs against her she will be acquitted. But I have little fear of such a result,� he added, with a sinister smile. �You are confident, sir, because you know there would be every disposition to find her guilty,� replied Richard. �She will not be fairly tried. All the prejudices of ignorance and superstition, heightened by the published opinions of the king, will be arrayed against her. Were she as free from crime or thought of crime as a newborn babe, once charged with the horrible and inexplicable offence of witchcraft, she would scarce escape. You go determined to destroy her. �I will not deny it,� said Roger Noel, �and I am satisfied that I shall render good service to society by freeing it from so vile a member. So abhorrend is the crime of witchcraft that where my own son suspected I would be at first to deliver him to justice. Like a noxious and poisonous plant, the offence has taken deep root in this country, and is spreading its baneful influence around, so that it is not extirpated, it may spring up anew and cause incalculable mischief. But it shall now be effectively checked. Of the families I have mentioned, not one shall escape. And if Mistress Nutter herself and her daughter she should be brought to judgment. In such cases children must suffer for the sins of the parents. �You have no regard then for their innocence?� said Richard, �who felt as if a weight of calamity was crushing him down. Their innocence must be proved at the proper tribunal.� Rejoined Noel, �It is not for me to judge them. �But you do judge them!� cried Richard sharply. �In making the charge you know that you pronounce a sentence of condemnation as well. This is why the humane man, why the just man, would hesitate to bring an accusation, even where he suspected guilt. But where suspicion could not possibly attach, he would never suffer himself, however urged on by the feelings of animosity to injure the innocent. �You are scry most unworthy motives to me, young sir!� rejoined Noel sternly. �I am influenced only by a desire to see justice administered, and I shall not swerve from my duty, because my humanity may be called in question by a lovesick boy. I understand why you plead thus warmly for these infamous persons. You are enthralled by the beauty of the young witch Alice and device. I noticed how you were struck by her yesterday, and I heard what Sir Thomas Meccaf said on the subject, �But take heed what you do!� You may jeopardize both soul and body in the indulgence of this fatal passion, which craft is exercised in many ways. Its professors have not only power to maim and to kill, and to do other active mischief, but to ensnare the affections and endanger the souls of their victims by enticing them to unharrowed love. Alice and device is commonly to view no doubt, but who shall say when, sir, beauty is derived? Hell may have a raider in its fatal charms. Sin is beautiful, but all destructive, and the time will come when you may thank me for delivering you from the snares of this seductive siren� Richard uttered an angry exclamation, �Not now, I do not expect it. You are too much besotted by her,� pursued Noel, �but I conjure you to cast off this wicked and senseless passion, which unless checked will lead you to meditation. You have heard what abominable rites are practiced at these unholy meetings called devil's sabbaths, and how can you say that some demon may not be your rival in Alice's love? You pass all licences, sir,� cried Richard, infuriated past endurance, �and if you do not instantly retract the infamous accusation you have made, neither your age nor your office shall protect you. I can fortunately protect myself, young man,� replied Noel coldly, �and if all were wanting to confirm my suspicions that you were under some evil influence, it would be supplied by your present conduct. You are bewitched by this girl.� �It is false,� cried Richard, �and he raised his hand against the magistrate when Nicholas quickly interposed. �There, cousin Dick,� cried the squire, �this must not be. You must take other means of defending the poor girl, whose innocence I will maintain as stoutly as yourself. But since Master Roger Noel is resolved to preside to extremities, I shall likewise take leave to retire. Your pardons, sir,� rejoined Noel, �you will not withdraw till I think fit. Master Richard Asherton, forgetful and like of the respect due to age and constituted authority, has ventured to raise his hand against me. For wish, if I chose, I could place him in immediate arrest. But I have no such intention. Now, on the contrary, I am willing to overlook the insult, attributing it to the frenzy boy which he has possessed. But both he and you, Master Nicholas, are mistaken. If you suppose I will permit you to retire. As a magistrate, in the exercise of my office, I call upon you both to aid me in the capture of the two notorious witches, mothers Demnike and Chathux, and not to dissist or depart from me till such capture be effected. You know the penalty of refusal? Have you fine or imprisonment at the option of the magistrate?� remarked Potts. �My cousin Nicholas will do as he pleases,� observed Richard. �But for my part I will not stir a step further. �No lie!� I did Nicholas, unless I have masked an old solemn pledge that he will take no proceedings against Alice and device. �You can give no such assurance, sir?� whispered Potts, seeing the magistrate wavered in his resolution. �You must go, then!� said Noel. �Don�t take the consequences of your refusal to act with me. Your relationship to Mr. Snutter will not tell in your favour. �I understand the implied threat,� said Nicholas, �and laugh at it. Richard, lad, I am with you. Let him catch the witches himself if he can. I will not budge an inch further with him. �Very well, then, gentlemen!� replied Roger Noel. �I am sorry to part company with you, dust, but when next we meet?� and he paused. �We meet as enemies, I presume,� supplied Nicholas. �We meet no longer as friends,� rejoined the magistrate, coldly. With this he moved forward with the rest of the troop, while the two Ashitans, after a moment�s consultation, passed through a gate and made their way to the back of the mansion, where they found one or two men on the lookout, from whom they received intelligence, which induced them immediately to spring from their horses and hurry into the house. Arrived at the principal entrance of the mansion, which was formed by large gates of open iron work, admitting a view of the garden and front of the house, Roger Noel again called a halt, and master-parts at his request addressed the porter and two other serving men who were standing in the garden in this fashion. �Pay attention to what I say to you, my men!� he cried in a loud and authoritative voice. A warrant will this day be issued for the arrest of Alice Nutter of Ruff Lee, in whose service you have hitherto dwelt, and who is charged with the dreadful crime of witchcraft, and with invoking, consulting, and covenanting with, entertaining, employing, feeding, and rewarding evil spirits, contrary to the laws of God and man, and an express violation of his majesty's statute. Now take notice that if the said Alice Nutter shall at any time hereafter return to this former abode, or take refuge within it, you are hereby bound to deliver her up forthwith to the nearest constable, to be by him brought before the worshipful master Roger Noel of Reed in this county, so that she may be examined by him on these charges. You hear what I have said?� the man exchanged significant glances, but made no reply. Alice was about to address them, but to his surprise he saw the central door of the house thrown open, and Mistress Nutter issue from it. She marched slowly and majestically down the broad gravel walk towards the gate. The attorney could scarcely believe his eyes, and he explained to the magistrate with a chuckle, �Who would have thought of this? We have her safe enough now!� But no corresponding smile played upon Noel's hard lips. His gaze was fixed inquiringly upon the lady. Another surprise. From the same door issued Alice a device, escorted by Nicholas and Richard Asherton, who walked on either side of her, and the three followed Mistress Nutter slowly down the broad walk. Such a display seemed to argue no want of confidence. Alice did not look towards the group outside the gates, but seemed listening eagerly to what Richard was saying to her. �So must that Noel� cried Mistress Nutter boldly. �Since you find yourself defeated in the claims you have made against my property, you are seeking to revenge yourself, I understand, by bringing charges against me as false as they are colonious. But I defy your malice, and can defend myself against your violence.� �You are you could be astonished at anything in you, madam, I should be at your audacity,� rejoined Noel. �But I am glad that you have presented yourself before me, for it was my fixed intention on my return to Whaley to cause your arrest, and your unexpected appearance here enables me to put my design into execution somewhat sooner than I anticipated.� Mistress Nutter laughed scornfully. �Smart shot!� versiferated Noel. �Enter these gates, and arrest the lady and the king's name.� The beetle looked irresolute. He did not like the task. �The gates are fastened,� cried Mistress Nutter. �Force them over, then!� roared Noel, dismounting and shaking them furiously. �Bring me heavy stone, by heaven, I will not be vaulted, my prey.� �My servants are armed,� cried Mistress Nutter. �In the first man who enters shall pay the penalty of his rashness with his life. Bring me a Petronelle, Blackadder.� The order was promptly obeyed by the ill-favoured attendant who was stationed near the gate. �I am in earnest,� said Mistress Nutter, aiming the Petronelle, �and seldom missed by Mock.� �Give attention to me, my men!� cried Roger Noel. �I charge you in the king's name to throw open the gates.� �And I charge you in mind to keep it fast!� rejoined Mistress Nutter. �We shall see who will be obeyed.� One of the grooms now advanced with a large stone, taken from an adjoining wall, which he threw with great force against the gates. But though it shook them violently, the fastenings continued firm. Blackadder and the two other serving men, all of whom were armed with halberds, now advanced to the gates, and thrusting the points of their weapons through the bars, drove back those who were near them. A short consultation now took place between Noel and Potts, after which the latter, taking care to keep out of the reach of the halberds, thus delivered himself in a loud voice. �Alice Nutter, in order to avoid the Serian's consequences, which might ensue where the necessary measures taken to effect the forcible entrance to your habitation, the worshipful Master Noel has thought fit to grant you an hour's respite for reflection, at the expiration of which time he trusts that you, seeing the futility of resisting the law, will quietly yield yourself a prisoner. Otherwise, no further leniency will be shown you, and those who may uphold you in your consummacy.� Mr. Snutter laughed loudly and contemptuously. �At the same time�, pursued Potts, on a suggestion from the magistrate, �Master Roger Noel demands that Alice and device, daughter of Elizabeth's device, whom he beholds in your company, and who is likewise suspected of witchcraft, be likewise delivered up to him. �Aught more,� inquired Mr. Snutter, �Only this�, replied Potts, in a taunting tone, �the worshipful magistrate would offer a friendly counsel to Master Nicholas Asherton and Master Richard Asherton, whom to his infinite surprise he perceives in a hostile position before him, that they in no wise interfere with his injunctions, but on the contrary lend their aid in furtherance of them, otherwise he may be compelled to adopt measures towards them which must be a source of regret to him. �I have further more to state, on the part of his worship, that strict watch will be kept at all the approaches of your house, and that no one on any pretense whatever during the appointed time of respite will be suffered to enter it, or depart from it. In an hour his worship will return. �And in an hour he shall have my answer,� replied Mr. Snutter, turning away. End of Chapter 8, Book 2, Chapter 9 of The Lancashire Witches. This Librabox recording is in the public domain. Reading by Andy Mentor. �The Lancashire Witches, a Romance of Pendle Forest,� by William Harrison Ainsworth. Book 2, Pendle Forest. Chapter 9. How Roughly Was Defended by Nicholas When skies are darkest, and storms are gathering thickest overhead, the star of love will often shine out with greatest brilliancy. And so, while Mr. Snutter was hurling defiance against her foes at the gate, and laughing their menaces to scorn, while those very foes were threatening Alison's liberty and life, she had become wholly insensible to the peril in varining her, and almost unconscious of any other presence, save that of Richard, now her avowed lover. For impelled by the irresistible violence of his feelings, the young man had chosen that moment, apparently so unpropitious, and so fraught with danger and alarm, for the declaration of his passion and the offer of his life in her service. A few low murmured words were all Alison could utter in reply, but they were enough. They told Richard his passion was requited, and his devotion fully appreciated. Sweet were those moments to both. Sweet, though sad. Like Alison, her lover had become insensible to all around him. Engrossed by one thought and one object, he was lost to ought else, and was only at last aroused but to what was passing by the squire, who, having good natureedly removed to a little distance from the pair, now gave utterance to a low whistle, to let them know that Mistress Nutter was coming towards them. The lady, however, did not stop, but motioning them to follow, entered the house. "'You have heard what has passed,' she said. "'In an hour, Master Noel threatens to return and arrest me and Alison.' "'That shall never be,' cried Richard, with a passionate look at the young girl, "'we will defend you with our lives.' "'Much, baby, done in an hour,' observed Nicholas to Mr. Nutter. "'And my advice to you is to use the time, allowed you, in making good your retreat, so that when the hawks come back they may find the doves flown.' "'I have no intention of quitting my dove-cott,' replied Mistress Nutter, with a bitter smile. "'Unless you are forcibly taken from it, I suppose,' said the squire. "'A contingency, not impossible, if you await, Roger Noel's return. This time, be assured, he will not go away empty-handed.' "'He may not go away at all,' rejoined Mistress Nutter sternly. "'Then you mean to make a determined resistance,' said Nicholas, "'recollect that you are resisting the law. "'I wish I could induce you to resort to the safer expedient of flight. This affair is already dark and perplexed enough, and does not require further complication. Find any place of concealment, no matter where, till some arrangement can be made with Roger Noel.' "'I should rather urge you to fly, Nicholas,' rejoined the lady, "'for it is evident you have strong misgivings as to the justice of my cause, and would not willingly compromise yourself. I will not surrender to this magistrate, because by so doing my life would assuredly be forfeited. For my innocence could never be established before the iniquitous and bloody tribunals which I should be brought. Neither for the same reason will I surrender Alisson, who with the refinement of malignity has been similarly accused. I shall now proceed to make preparations for my defence. Go, if you think fitting, or stay. But if you do stay, I shall calculate upon your active services.' "'You may,' replied the squire. "'Whatever I may think, I your spirit, and will stand by you. But time is passing, and the foe will return and find us engaged in deliberation when we ought to be prepared. You, how a dozen men, on the premises on whom you can rely. Half of these must be placed at the back of the house to prevent any entrance from being effected in that quarter. The rest can remain within the entrance hall, and be ready to rush forth when summoned by us. But we will not so summon them unless we are hardly put to it, and their aid is indispensable. All should be well armed, but I trust they will not have to use their weapons. Are you agreed to this, madam?' "'I am,' replied Mr. Snutter, and I will give instant directions that your wishes are complied with. All approaches to the back of the house shall be strictly guarded as you direct, and my trusty man, Blackadder, on whose fidelity and courage I can entirely rely, shall take the command of the party in the hall, and act under your orders. Your prowess will not be unobserved, for Alison and I shall be in the upper rooms commanding the garden, whence we can see all that takes place.' A slight smile was exchanged between the lovers, but it was evident, from her anxious looks, that Alison did not share in Richard's confidence. An opportunity, however, was presently afforded him of again endeavouring to reassure her. For Mr. Snutter went forth to give Blackadder his orders, and Nicholas betook himself to the back of the house, to ascertain from personal inspection its chance of security. "'You are still uneasy, dear Alison,' said Richard, taking her hand. "'But do not be cast down. No harm shall befall you.' "'It is not for myself, I am apprehensive,' she replied. "'But for you, who are about to expose yourself to needless risk in this encounter, and if anything should happen to you, I shall be for ever, Richard. I would far rather you left me to my fate.' "'And can you think I would allow you to be borne away a captive to ignominy and certain destruction?' cried Richard. "'No. I will shed my heart's best blood before such a calamity shall occur.' "'Alas,' said Alison, I have no means of requiting your devotion. All I can offer you in return is my love, and that I fear will prove fatal to you.' "'Oh, do not say so,' cried Richard. "'Why should this sad presentiment still haunt you? I strove to chase it away just now, and I hoped I had succeeded. You are dearer to me than life. Why therefore should I not risk it in your defence? And why should your love prove fatal to me?' "'I know not,' replied Alison, in a tone of deepest anguish, "'but I feel as if my destiny were evil, and that against my will I shall drag those I most love on earth into the same dark gulf with myself. I have the greatest affection for your sister Dorothy, and yet I have been the unconscious instrument of injury to her. And you, too, Richard, who are yet dearer to me, are now put in peril on my account. I fear, too, when you know my whole history, you will think of me as a thing of evil, and shun me.' "'What mean you, Alison?' he cried. "'Richard, I can have no secrets from you,' she replied, and though I was forbidden to tell you what I am now about to disclose, I will not withhold it. I was born in this house, and I am the daughter of its mistress.' "'You tell me only what I guessed, Alison,' rejoined the young man, "'but I see nothing in this why I should shun you.' Alison hid her face for a moment in her hands, and then, looking up, said wildly and hurriedly, "'Would I had never known the secret of my birth, nor knowing it had never seen what I beheld last night?' "'What did you behold?' asked Richard, greatly agitated. "'Enough to convince me that in gaining a mother I was lost myself,' replied Alison, for, oh, how can I survive the shock of telling you I am bound by ties that can never be diseveled to one abandon a like of God and man, who has devoted herself to the fiend, pitted me, Richard, pitted me, and shunned me. There was a moment's dreadful pause which the young man was unable to break. "'Was I not right in saying my love would be fatal to you?' continued Alison. "'Fly from me while you can, Richard. Fly from this house, or you are lost forever.' "'Never, never, I will not stir without you,' cried Richard. "'Come with me, and escape all the dangers by which you are menaced, and leave your sinning parent to the doom she so richly merits.' "'No, no. Sinful though she be, she is still my mother. I cannot leave her,' cried Alison. "'If you stay, I stay. Be the consequences what they may,' replied the young man. "'But you have rendered my arm powerless by what you have told me. How can I defend one whom I know to be guilty? Therefore I urge you to fly,' she rejoined. "'I can reconcile myself to it thus,' said Richard, "'in defending you, whom I know to be innocent, I cannot avoid defending her. The plea is not a good one, but it will suffice to allay my scruples of conscience.' At this moment Mistress Nutter entered the hall, followed by Blackadder and three other men, armed with calibres. "'All is ready, Richard,' she said, and it wants but a few minutes of the appointed time. "'Perhaps you shrink from the task you have undertaken,' she added, regarding him sharply. "'If so, say at once, and I will adopt my own line of defence. "'Nay, I shall be ready to go forth in a moment,' rejoined the young man, glancing at Alison. "'Where is Nicholas?' "'Here,' replied the squire, clapping him on the shoulder. "'All is secure at the back of the house, and the horses are coming round. We must mount at once.' Richard arose without a word. "'Blackadder will attend to your orders,' said Mistress Nutter. "'He only waits a sign from you to issue forth with his three companions, or to fire through the windows on the aggressors, if you see occasion for it.' "'Ah, trust it will not come to such a pass,' rejoined the squire. "'A few blows from these weapons will convince them we are in earnest, and will I hope save further trouble.' And as he spoke he took down a couple of stout staves, and gave one of them to Richard. "'Tout well, then, plur chevelier,' cried Mistress Nutter, with affected gaiety. "'De-mean yourselves valiantly, and remember that bright eyes will be upon you. "'Now, Alison, to our chamber!' Richard did not hazard a look at the young girl as she quitted the hall with her mother, but followed the squire mechanically into the garden, where they found the horses. Scarcely were they mounted, then a loud hubbob, arising from the little village, proclaimed that their opponents had arrived, and presently after a large company of horse and foot appeared at the gate. At sight of the large force brought against them. The countenance of the squire lost its confident and jovial expression. He counted nearly forty men, each of whom was armed in some way or other, and began to fear the affair would terminate awkwardly, and entail unpleasant consequences upon himself and his cousin. He was therefore by no means at his ease. As to Richard he did not dare to ask himself how things could end, neither did he know how to act. His mind was in utter confusion, and his breast oppressed as if by a nightmare. He cast one look towards the upper window, and beheld at it the white face of Mistress Nutter, intently gazing upon what was going forward, but Alison was not to be seen. Within the last half hour the sky had darkened, and a heavy cloud hung over the house, threatening a storm. Richard hoped it would come on fiercely and fast. Meanwhile, Roger Knowle had dismounted and advanced to the gate. Gentlemen! he cried, addressing the two Ashertons. I expected to find free access given to me and my followers, but as these gates are still barred against me, I call upon you as loyal subjects of the King not to resist or impede the curse of law, but to throw them instantly open. You must unbarn them yourself, Master Knowle, replied Nicholas. We shall give you no help. Nor offer any opposition, I hope so, said the magistrate sternly. You are twenty-to-one, or thereabout. Return the squire with a laugh. We shall stand the poor chance with you. But other defensive and offensive preparations have been made, I doubt not, said Knowle. Nay, I describe some unmen through the windows of the hall. Welcomeing to extremities, I will make a last appeal to you and your kinsmen. I have granted Mistress Nutter and the girl with her, and I was delaying. You know, that seeing the futility of resistance, they would quietly surrender. But I find my clemency thrown away, and undue advantage taken of time allowed for respite. Therefore, I shall show them no further consideration. But to you, my friends, I would offer a last warning. Forget not that you are acting in direct opposition to the law, that we are here armed with full authority and power to carry out our intentions, and that all opposition on your part will be fruitless, and will be visited upon you hereafter with severe pains and penalties. Forget not also that your characters will be irrecoverably damaged from your connection, with parties charged with the heinous events of witchcraft. You will not, therefore, in the matter, but go your ways, or if you would act as best becomes you, aid me in the arrest of the offenders. Master Roger Nowell, replied Nicholas, walking his horse slowly towards the gate, as you have given me a caution, I will give you one in return. The matter is to put a bridle on your tongue when you address gentlemen, nor by a fee you are likely to get answers little to your test. You have said that our characters are likely to suffer in this transaction, but in my humble opinion there will not suffer so much as your own. The magistrate so uses the arm of the law for purposes of private vengeance, and who brings a false and foul charge against his enemy, knowing that it cannot be repelled, is not entitled to any particular respect or honour. Thus you have acted to us, Mistress Nutter. Defeated by her in the boundary question, without leaving its decision to those whom you had referred it, you instantly accuse her of witchcraft, and say to destroy her, as well as an innocent and unoffending girl by whom she has attended. Is such conduct worthy of you, or likely to read down to your credit? I think not, but this is not all. Aided by your crafty and unscrupulous ally, Master Potts, you get together a number of Mistress Nutter's tenants, and by threats and misrepresentations induce them to become instruments of your vengeance. For when these misguided men come to know the truth of the case, when they learn that you have no proofs whatever against Mistress Nutter, and that you are influenced solely by animosity to her, they are quite as likely to desert you as to stand by you. At all events we are determined to resist this unjust arrest, and at the other of our lives that you oppose your entrance into the house. Lowell and Potts were greatly exasperated by this speech, but they were little prepared for its consequences. Many of those who had been induced to accompany them, as has been showed, wavered in their resolution of acting against Mistress Nutter, but they now began to declare in her favour. In vain Potts repeated all his former arguments. They were no longer of any avail. Of the troop assembled at the gate, more than half marched off, and shaped their course towards the rear of the house, with what intention it was easy to surmise, while of those who remained it was very doubtful whether the whole of them would act. The result of his aeration was quite as surprising to Nicholas as to his opponents, and enchanted by the effect of his eloquence, he could not help glancing up at the window where he perceived Mistress Nutter, whose smile showed that she was equally well pleased. Seeing that if any further desertions took place his chances would be at an end, with a menacing gesture at the square, Roger Knowle ordered the attack to commence immediately. While some of his men, amongst whom were Baldwin and Old Mitten, batted against the gate with stones, another party, headed by Potts, scaled the walls, which though of considerable height, presented no very serious obstacle in the way of active assailants. Elevated on the shoulders of Sparshot, Potts was soon on the summit of the wall, and was about to drop into the garden when he heard a sound that caused him to suspend his intention. What are you about to do, cousin Nicholas, inquired Richard, as the word of assault was given by the magistrate? Let loose Mistress Nutter's stag-hands upon them, replied the squire. They are kept in leash by a violet station behind Yon U-Hedge. There was only to await my signal to let them slip, and by my faith it's time he had it. As he spoke, he applied a dog-wistle to his lips, and blowing a loud call, it was immediately answered by a savage barking, and half a dozen hounds, rough-haired of prodigious size and power, resembling in mate, color, and ferocity the Irish wolf-hound, bounded towards him. Ah-ha! exclaimed Nicholas, slapping his hands to encourage them. They could have dispersed all route with these assistants. Actress, don't hike, are you but upon them, upon them! It was the savage barking of the hounds that had caught the ears of the alarmed attorney, and made him desirous to scramble back again. But this was no such easy matter. Sparshots broad shoulders were wanting to place his feet upon, and while he was bruising his knee against the roughened sides of the wall, in vain attempts to raise himself to the top of it, unaided, Hubert's sharp teeth met in the calf of his leg, while those of Tristram were fixed in the skirts of his doublet, and penetrated deeply into the flesh that filled it. A terrific yell proclaimed the attorney's anguish and alarm, and he redoubled his efforts to escape. But if before it was difficult to get up, the feet was now impossible. All he could do was to cling with desperate tenacity to the coping of the wall, for he made no doubt, if dragged down, he should be torn to pieces. Roaring lustily for help, he besought Nicholas to have compassion upon him, but the squire appeared little move by his distress, and laughed heartily at his yells and vociferations. He will not come again on a lager, and in a hurry I fancy Master Potts. I will not, good Master Nicholas, rejoin Potts, for pity's sake call off these infernal hounds, they will rend me asunder as they would a fox. You are a cunning fox, and God sows to come, either, rejoin Nicholas in a taunting tone, but will you go hence if I liberate you? I will, indeed I will. Replied Potts, and with no more, no less, Mr. Nutter, thundered Nicholas. Take heed what you promise, roared Noel from the other side of the wall. If you do not promise it, the hound shall pull you down and make a meal of you, cried Nicholas. I do, I swear, whatever you desire, cried the terrified attorney. The hounds were then called off by the squire, and nerved by fright, Potts sprang upon the wall and tumbled over it upon the other side, alighting upon the head of his respected and singular good client whom he brought to the ground. Meanwhile all those unlucky persons who had succeeded in scaling the wall were attacked by the hounds, and unable to stand against them were chased round the garden to the infinite amusement of the squire. Frightened to death and unable otherwise to escape of the gate allowed them no means of exit, the poor wretches fled towards the terrace, overlooking Pendle water, and leaping into the stream gained the opposite bank. There they were safe, for the hounds were not allowed to follow them further. In this way the garden was completely cleared of the enemy, and Nicholas and Richard were left masters of the field. Leaning out of the window, Mistress Nutter laughingly congratulated them on their success, and as no further disposition was manifested on the part of Noel and such of his troop that remained to renew the attack, the contest for the present at least was supposed to be at an end. By this time also intimation had been conveyed by the deserters from Noel's troop, who it will be remembered had made their way to the back of the premises, that they were anxious to offer their services to Mistress Nutter, and as soon as this was told her she ordered them to be admitted and descended to give them welcome. Thus things wore a promising aspect for the besieged, while your sailing party were proportionately disheartened. Seeing ere this, Baldwin and old Mitten had desisted from their attempts to break open the gate, and indeed rejoiced that such a barrier was interposed between them and the hounds, whose furious onslaughts they witnessed. A bolt was launched against these four-footed guardians of the premises by the bearer of the crossbow, but the man proved but an indifferent marksman, for instead of hitting the hound he disabled one of his companions who was battling with him. Seeing things in this state, and that neither Noel nor Potts returned to their charge, while their followers were withdrawn from before the gate, Nicholas thought he might fairly infer that a victory had been obtained. But like a prudent leader he did not choose to expose himself till the enemy had absolutely gilded, and he therefore signed to Blackadder and his men to come forth from the hall. The order was obeyed not only by them, but by the seceders from the hostile troop, and some thirty men issued from the principal door, and raising themselves upon the lawn set up a deafening and triumphant shout, very different from that raised by the same individuals when under the command of Noel. At the same moment Mistress Nutter and Allison appeared at the door, and at the sight of them the shouting was renewed. The unexpected turn in affairs had not been without its effect upon Richard and Allison, and tended to revive the spirits of both. The immediate danger by which they were threatened had vanished, and time was given for the consideration of new plans. Richard had been firmly resolved to take no further part in the affray than should be required for the protection of Allison, and consequently it was no little satisfaction to him to reflect that the victory had been accomplished without him, and by means which could not afterwards be questioned. Meanwhile Mistress Nutter had joined Nicholas, and the gates being unbarred by Blackadder they passed through them. At a little distance stood Roger Noel, now altogether abandoned, except by his only immediate followers, with Baldwin and Old Mitten. Poor Pot was lying on the ground, piteously bemoaning the lacerations his skin had undergone. "'Well, you have got the worst of it, Master Noel,' said Nicholas, as he and Mistress Nutter approached the discomforted magistrate, and must on yourself fairly defeated. "'And as I am, I would rather be in my place than in yours, sir,' retorted Noel, sadly. "'You have had a wholesome lesson, Red, you must know,' said Mistress Nutter, but I do not come hither to taunt you. I am quite satisfied with the victory I have obtained, and am anxious to put an end to the misunderstanding between us.' "'We have no misunderstanding with you, madam,' replied Noel. "'I do not quarrel with persons like you, but be assured so you may escape now, a day of reckoning welcome.' "'Your chief cause of grievance against me, I am aware,' replied Mistress Nutter calmly, "'is that I have beaten you in the matter of the land. Now, I have a proposal to make to you respecting it.' "'Oh, you cannot listen to it,' rejoined Noel sternly. "'Oh, you can have no dealings with a witch.' At this moment his cloak was plucked behind by Potts, who looked at him as much as to say, "'Do not exasperate her. Hear what she has got to offer.' "'I shall be happy to act as a mediator between you, if possible,' observed Nicholas. "'But in that case I must request you, Master Noel, to abstain from any offensive language.' "'What is it you have to propose to me, then, madam?' demanded the magistrate, gruffly. "'Come with me into the house, and you shall hear,' replied Mistress Nutter. Noel was about to refuse prerontrally, when his cloak was again plucked by Potts, who whispered him to go. "'This is not a snare laid to entrap me, madam,' he said, regarding the ladies suspiciously. "'I will answer her good faith,' interposed Nicholas. Noel still hesitated, but the counsel of his legal adviser was enforced by a heavy shower of rain which just then began to descend upon them. "'You can take shelter beneath my roof,' said Mistress Nutter, and before the shower is over we can settle the matter, and my wounds can be dressed at the same time,' said Potts, with a groan, for they pain me sorely. "'Blackadder as a sovereign balsam, which were the patch or two of Diatlion will make all right,' replied Nicholas, unable to repress a laugh. "'Here, lift him up between you,' he added to the grooms, and gone ve' him into the house. The orders were obeyed, and Mistress Nutter led the way through the now wide-opened gates. Her slow and majestic march was by no means accelerated by the drenching shower. What Roger Noel's sensation were at following her in such a way after his previous threats and boastings may be easily conceived. END OF CHAPTER IX BOOK II CHAPTER X OF THE LANKISHER WITCHES This Librabox recording is in the public domain. READING BY ANTI-MENTER THE LANKISHER WITCHES A ROMANCE OF PENDLE FOREST BY WILLIAM HARRISON ANESWORTH BOOK II PENDLE FOREST CHAPTER X ROGER NUL AND HIS DOUBLE The magistrate was ushered by the lady into a small chamber opening out of the entrance hall, which, in consequence of having only one small narrow window with a clipped U-hedge before it, was extremely dark and gloomy. The walls were covered with somber tapestry, and on entering Mistress Nutter not only carefully closed the door, but drew the arrows before it, so as to prevent the possibility of their conversation being heard outside. These precautions taken, she motioned the magistrate to a chair, and seated herself opposite him. "'We can now deal unreservedly with each other,' must the Noel,' she said, fixing her eyes steadily upon him, and, as our discourse cannot be overheard and repeated, may use perfect freedom of speech. "'I am glad of it,' replied Noel, because it will save circumlocution, which I dislike, and therefore, before proceeding further, I must tell you directly and distinctly that if there be ought of witchcraft in what you are about to propose to me, I will have naught to do with it, and all conference may as well never begin.' "'Then you rarely believe me to be a witch,' said the lady. "'Oh, you do?' replied Noel, unflinchingly. "'Since you believe this, you must also believe that I have absolute power over you,' rejoined Mistress Nutter, and might strike you with sickness, cripple you, or kill you, if I thought fit. "'Oh, no, not that,' returned Noel, "'there are limits even to the power of evil beings, and your charms and enchantments, however strong and baneful, may be wholly inoperative against a magistrate in the discharge of his duty. If it were not so, you would scarcely think it worth while to treat with me.' "'Hm,' exclaimed the lady, "'now, tell me frankly, what will you do when you depart hence?' "'Royed off with the utmost speed to Waeli,' replied Noel, and acquaintings aroused, with all that has occurred, claim his assistance, and then, with all force we can jointly muster, return, either, and finish the work I have left undone. "'You will forgo this intention,' said Mistress Nutter, with a bitter smile. The magistrate shook his head. "'I am not easily turned from my purpose,' he remarked. "'But you have not yet quitted roughly,' said the lady, and after such an announcement I shall scarce think of parting with you. "'You dare not detain me?' replied Noel. "'I have Nicholas Asherton's word for my security, and I know he will not break it. Besides, you will gain nothing by my detention. My absence will soon be discovered, and if living I shall be set free. If dead, I have enged.' "'Let me, or may not be,' replied Mistress Nutter. "'And in any case, I can, if I choose, wreak my vengeance upon you. I am glad to have ascertained your intention. For now I know how to treat with you. You shall not go hence, except on certain conditions. You have said you will proclaim me a witch, and will come back with sufficient force to accomplish my arrest. Instead of doing this, I advise you to return to Sir Ralph Asherton, and admit to him that you find yourself in error in the respect of the boundaries of the land.' "'Never,' interrupted Noel. "'I advise you to do this,' pursued the Lady calmly, and I advise you also on quitting this room to retract all you have uttered to my prejudice in the presence of Nicholas Asherton and other credible witnesses, in which case I will not only lay aside all feelings of animosity towards you, but will make over to you the whole of the land under dispute, and that without purchase-money on your part.'" Roger Noel was of an avaricious nature, and caught at the bait. "'O, madame!' he cried, the whole of the land moin without payment." "'The whole,' she replied. "'If she should be reigned and convicted, it will be forfeited to the crown,' thought Noel. The offerer is tempting. "'Your attorney is here, and can't prepare a conveyance at once,' pursued Mistress Nutter. "'As some can be stated to lend color to the proceeding, and I will give you a private mebanandum that I will not claim it. All I require is that you clear me completely from the darkest version cast upon my character, and you abandon your projects against my adopted daughter Allison, as well as against those two poor old women, Mothers Demdike and Chatex.'" "'How can I be sure that I shall not be deluded in the matter?' asked Noel. "'The writing may disappear from the parchment you will give me, or the parchment itself may turn to ashes. Such things have occurred in transaction with witches.' "'Or it may be that by consenting to the compact, I may imperil my own soul.'" "'Tush!' exclaimed Mistress Nutter. "'These are idle piers. But it is no idle threat on my part. When I tell you, you shall not go forth unless you consent. You cannot end me, woman!' cried Noel, rising. "'You shall see!' rejoined the lady, making two or three rapid passes before him, which instantly stiffened his limbs, and deprived him of the power of motion. "'Now stir if you can!' she added with a laugh. Noel is said to cry out, but his tongue refused its office. Hearing and sight, however, were left him, and he saw Mistress Nutter take a large volume bound in black from the shelf, and open it at a page covered with cabalistic characters, after which she pronounced some words which sounded like an invocation. As she concluded, the tapestry against the wall was raised, and from behind it appeared a figure in all respects resembling the magistrate. It had the same sharp features, the same keen eyes and bushy eyebrows, the same stoop in the shoulders, the same habiliments. It was, in short, his double. Mistress Nutter regarded him with a look of triumph. "'Since you refuse with mine, junctions,' she said, "'your double will prove more tractable. He will go forth and do all I would have you do, while I have but to stamp upon the floor, and a dungeon will yawn beneath your feet, where you will lie in mure till doomsday. The same fate will attend your crafty associate, Master Potts, so that neither of you will be missed. The unfortunate magistrate fully comprehended his danger, but he could now neither offer remonstrance nor entreaty. What was passing in his breast seemed known to Mistress Nutter, for she motioned the double to stay, and touching the brow of Noel with the point of her forefinger, instantly restored his power of speech. "'I will give you a last chance,' she said. "'Will you obey me now?' "'I must perforce,' replied Noel. "'The contest is too unequal.' "'You may retire, then,' she cried to the double, and stepping backwards, the figure lifted up the tapestry and disappeared behind it. "'I can breathe now that infernal being is gone,' cried Noel, sinking into the chair, "'Oh, madam, you have indeed terrible power.' "'You will do well not to brave it again,' she rejoined. "'Shall I summon Master Potts to prepare the conveyance?' "'Oh, no, no,' cried Noel, "'oh, you do not desire the land, I will not have it. I shall pay too dearly for it. Only let me get out of this horrible place.' "'Not so quickly, sir,' rejoined Mistress Nutter. "'Before you go hence, I must bind you to the performance of my injunction. "'Pronounce these words after me. May I become subject to the fiend if I fail in my promise. "'I will never utter them,' cried Noel, shuddering. "'Then I shall recall your double,' said the lady. "'Hold, hold!' exclaimed Noel. "'Let me know what you require of me. "'I require absolute silence on your part as to all you have seen and heard here, and cessation of hostility towards me and the persons I have already named,' replied Mistress Nutter. "'And I require a declaration from you, in the presence of the two Ashtons, that you are fully satisfied of the justice of my claims in respect of the land, and that, mortified by your defeat, you have brought a false charge against me, which you now sincerely regret. This I require from you, and you must ratify that promise by the abjuration I have proposed. May I become subject to the fiend if I fail in my promise.' The magistrate repeated the words after her. As he finished, mocking laughter, apparently resounding from below, smote his ears. "'Enough!' cried Mistress Nutter triumphantly. "'And now take good heed that you swerve not in the slightest degree from your word, or you are forever lost.' Again the mocking laughter was heard, and Noel would have rushed forth if Mistress Nutter had not withheld him. "'Stay!' she cried. "'I have not done with you yet. My witnesses must hear your declaration, remember?' And placing her finger upon her lips, in token of silence, she stepped backwards, drew aside the tapestry, and opening the door called to the two Ashtons, both of whom instantly came to her, and were not a little surprised to learn that all differences had been adjusted, and that Roger Noel acknowledged himself entirely in error, retracting all the charges he had brought against her, while on her part she was fully satisfied with his explanations and apologies, and promised not to entertain any feelings of resentment towards him. "'You have made up the matter, indeed,' cried Nicholas, and as Master Roger Noel is aware, perhaps a match will come of it. Such an arrangement! This is no occasion for testing Nicholas,' interrupted the lady sharply. "'Nah, but I threw out a hint,' rejoined the squire. He would set the question of the land for over at rest. It is set at rest, for ever,' replied the lady, with a side look at the magistrate. "'Oh, may I become subject to the feign if I fail in my promise?' repeated Noel to himself. His words bind me like a chain of iron. I must get out of this accursed house as fast as I can.' As if his thoughts had been divined by Mistress Nutter. She here observed to him, "'To make our reconciliation complete, Master Noel, I must entreat you to pass the day with me. I will give you the best entertainment my house affords. Nay, I will take no denial. And you too, Nicholas and you, Richard, you will stay and keep the worthy magistrate company. The two Ashertons willingly assented, but Roger Noel would feign have been excused. A look, however, from his hostess enforced compliance. "'The proposal will be highly agreeable, I'm sure, to must departs,' remarked Nicholas with a laugh, for though much better in consequence of the balsam applied by Blackadder, he is scarcely in a condition for the saddle. I will warrant him well to-morrow morning,' said Mistress Nutter. "'Where is he?' inquired Noel. "'In the library with Barson Alden,' replied Nicholas, making himself as comfortable as circumstances will permit with the flask of renish before him. "'Now you will go to him, then,' said Noel. "'Take care what you say to him,' observed Mistress Nutter in a low tone and raising her finger to her lips. Seeing a deep sigh, the magistrate then repaired to the library, a small room, paneled with black oak, and furnished with a few cases of ancient tomes. The attorney and the divine were seated at the table, with a big square-built bottle and long-stemmed glasses before them, and Master Potts, with a rye grimace, excused himself from rising on his respected and singular good-client's approach. "'Do not disturb yourself,' said Noel gruffly. "'We shall not leave roughly to-day.' "'I am glad to hear it,' replied Potts, moving cushions on his chair, and eyeing the square-built bottle affectionately. "'Nor to-morrow, we may be, nor the day after, nor at all possibly,' said Noel. "'Indeed,' explained Potts, starting and wincing with pain, "'what is the meaning of all this, worthy sir?' "'Why, I become the subject of the feign, if I fail in my promise.' Rejoined Noel with a groan. "'What promise, worshipful sir?' cried Potts, staring with surprise. The magistrate got out the words, boy promised to—' And then he stopped suddenly. "'To Mistress Nutter,' suggested Potts, "'don't I ask me?' exclaimed Noel fiercely. "'Don't draw any erroneous conclusion, man. I mean nothing. I say nothing.' "'You're certainly bewitched,' observed Parson Holden, and undertone to the attorney. "'It was boy your advice I entered this house,' thundered Noel, "'and may all the ill-arising promise alight on your head.' "'My respected client,' implored Potts, "'we have no longer your client,' shrieked the infuriated magistrate. "'We dismiss you. We will have not to do with you more. I wish I had never seen your ugly little face.' "'You are quite right, Rev. Sir,' observed Potts, aside to the divine. He is certainly bewitched, or he would never behave in this way to his best friend. "'By excellent sir,' he added to Noel, "'I beseech you to calm yourself and listen to me. My motive for wishing you to comply with Mistress Nutter's request was this. We were in a dilemma from which there was no escape. My wounded condition preventing me from flight, and all your followers being dispersed. Knowing your discretion, I apprehended that finding the table's turned against you, you would not desire to play a losing game, and I therefore counsel the parents' submission as the best means of disarming your antagonist. Whatever arrangement you have made with Mistress Nutter is neither morally nor legally binding upon you.' "'You think that?' cried Noel. "'May I become subject to the fiend if I violate my promise!' "'What promise have you made, sir?' inquired Potts, and told him together.' "'Oh, do not question me!' cried Noel, "'It is sufficient that I am tied and bound by it.' The attorney reflected a little, and then observed to hold him. It is evident some unfair practices have been resorted to with our respected friend, to extort a promise from him which he cannot violate. It is also possible, from what he let fall at first, that an attempt may be made to detain us prisoners within this house, for all I know Master Noel may have given his word not to go forth without Mistress Nutter's permission. Under these circumstances I would beg of you, Reverend, sir, as an especial favour to us both, to ride over to Whaley, and acquaint Sir Ralph Asherton with our situation.' As this suggestion was made, Noel's countenance brightened up. The expression was not lost upon the attorney who perceived he was on the right tack. Tell the worthy baronet, continued Potts, that his old and esteemed friend, the Master Roger Noel, is in great jeopardy. Am I not right, sir?' The magistrate nodded. Tell him he has forcibly detained a prisoner, and requires sufficient force to effect his immediate liberation. Tell him also that Master Noel charges Mistress Nutter with robbing him of his land by witchcraft. "'No, no!' interrupted Noel, "'Do not tell him that! "'Oh, you no longer charge her with it!' "'Then tell him that I too,' cried Potts, and that Master Noel has strangely, very strangely, altered his mind. "'My eye becomes subject to the fiend if I violate my promise,' said the magistrate. "'Aye, tell him that,' cried the attorney, "'tell him the worthy gentleman is constantly repeating that sentence. It will explain all. "'And now, reverend sir, let me entreat you to set out without delay, or your departure may be prevented.' "'I will go at once,' said Holden. As he was about to quit the apartment, Mistress Nutter appeared at the door. Confusion was painted on the countenance of all three. "'With the go-you, sir?' demanded the lady sharply. "'Not a mission which cannot be denied, madam,' replied Holden. "'You cannot quit my house at present,' she rejoined prerontorily. "'These gentlemen stay to dine with me, and I cannot dispense with your company.' "'My duty calls me hence,' rejoined the divine, "'with all thanks for your profit hospitality, I must beforesteclain it. "'Not when I command you to stay,' she rejoined, raising her hand. "'I am absolute mistress here.' "'Not over the servants of heaven, madam,' replied the divine, taking a Bible from his pocket, and placing it before him. "'Abide this sacred volume, I shield myself against your spells. Come on, you, to let me pass.' And as he went forth, Mistress Nutter, unable to oppose him, shrank back. End of Chapter 10