 Book three, chapter seven, of The Lancashire Witches, a romance of Pendle Forest, by William Harrison Ainsworth. Book three, Houghton Tower. Chapter seven, The Royal Declaration Concerning Lawful Sports on the Sunday. Not many paces after the king marched the duke of Buckingham, then in the zenith of his power and in the full perfection of his unequal beauty, eclipsing all the rest of the nobles in splendour of apparel, as he did in stateliness of deportment. Also the returning the salutations made to him, which were scarcely less referential than those addressed to the monarch himself, the prime favourite moved on, all eyes following his majestic figure to the door. Buckingham walked alone, as if he had been a prince of the blood, but after him came a throng of nobles, consisting of the Earl of Pembroke, High Chamberlain, the Duke of Richmond, Master of the Household, the Earl of Nottingham, Lord High Admiral, Viscount Brackley, Lord Howard of Effingham, Lord Zouche, President of Wales, with the Lord's knowledge, Mordant, Compton, and Grey of Groby. One or two of the noblemen seemed inclined to question Richard as to what had passed between him and the king, but the young man's reserved and somewhat stern manner deterred them. Next came the three judges, Dodridge, Crook and Houghton, whose countenance is war and enforced gravity, for if any faith could be placed in rubricant cheeks and portly persons, they were not indisposed to self-indulgence and conviviality. After the judges came the Bishop of Chester, the king's chaplain, who had officiated on the present occasion, and who was in his full pontifical robes. He was accompanied by the Lord of the Mansion, Sir Richard Houghton, a hail-handsome man between fifty and sixty, with silvery hair and beard, a robust but commanding person, no fresh complexion, and features, by no means warranting, from any marked dissimilarity to those of his son, the king's scandalous jest. A crowd of baronets and knights succeeded, including Sir Arthur Caple, Sir Thomas Brudenwell, Sir Edward Montague, Sir Edmund Trafford, Sheriff of the County, Sir Edward Mosley, and Sir Ralph Asherton. The latter looked grave and anxious, and as he passed his relatives, said in a low tone to Richard, I'm told Alison is to be here today. Is it so? She is, replied the young man, but why do you ask? Is she in danger? If so, let her be warned against coming. Oh, no account! replied Sir Ralph, that would only increase the suspicion already attaching to her. No, she must face the danger, and I hope she will be able to avert it. But what is the danger? Asked Richard in heaven's name, speak more plainly. I cannot do so now, replied Sir Ralph. We will take counsel together and on. Her enemies are at work, and if you tarry here a few minutes longer you will understand whom I mean. And he passed on. A large crowd now poured indiscriminately out of the chapel, and amongst it Nicholas perceived many of his friends and neighbours. Mr Townley of Townley Park, Mr Parker of Browse Home, Mr Shuttleworth of Gorthorp, Sir Thomas Metcalfe and Roger Knowle. With the latter was Master Potts, and Richard was then at no loss to understand against whom Sir Ralph had warned him. A fierce light blazed in Roger Knowle's keen eyes as he first remarked the two Aschitans, and a smile of gratified vengeance played about his lips, but he quelled the fire in a moment, and compressing his hard mouth more closely, bowed coldly and ceremoniously to them. Metcalfe did the same. Not so, Master Potts, halting for a moment he said with a spiteful look, Look to yourself, Master Nicholas, and you too, Master Richard, a day of reckoning is coming for both of you. And with this he sprang nimbly after his client. What means the feller? cried Nicholas. But that we are here, as it were, and in the precincts of our palace I had after him, and cuddle him soundly for his insolence. And where's that you'd be after Dingin'man? cried a sharp voice behind him. No, that poor, affectless body that has just skippet off! If say, you'll take the wrong suit by the lug, and I can't so you to let him buy it, for he's high favour with the king. Turning at this address, Nicholas recognised the king's jester, Archie Armstrong, a merry little knave with light blue eyes, long yellow hair hanging about his ears, and a sandy beard. There was a great deal of mother wit about Archie, and quite as much shrewdness as folly. He wore no distinctive dress as jester, the bauble and cockscomb having long been discontinued, but was simply clad in the royal livery. And so Master Potts is in favour with his majesty, eh, Archie? Asked the squire, hoping to obtain some information from him. And see what you did there for yesterday when you hunted at my scuff, replied the jester. But how have I forfeited the king's good opinion? Asked Nicholas, come, you're a good fellow, Archie, and will tell me. Eh, didn't I think to fleach me, man? replied the jester cunningly, I can what I can, and that's mere than you'll get for me were all you spearing. The king's secrets are safe, eh, Archie, and for a good reason that he's never told them. For a good huntsman and seers his majesty, but there's a kind of game he likes better than another, and that's to be found mostly at these parts. I mean witches, and I like feeful carlins, we men hear the country ridder them, and that's what his majesty intends, and if you're a wise man you'll lend him a helping hand, but I'm a then to just tune. And with this the jester caped off, leaving Nicholas like one stupefied. He was roused, however, by a smart slap on the shoulder from Sir John Finnett. What, pondering over the mask, Master Nicholas, or thinking of the petition you have to present to his majesty, cried the master of the ceremonies, let neither trouble you. The one will be well played, I doubt not, and the other, well received, I'm sure, for I know the king's sentiments on the subject. Eh, but touching the dame, Master Nicholas, have you found one willing and able to take part in the mask? I've found several willing, Sir John, replied Nicholas, but as to their ability, however, that's another question. One of them may do as a makeshift. They're all in the base-cot, and shall wait on you when you please, and then you can make your election. So far well, replied Finnett, it may be that we shall have Ben Johnson here to-day, rare Ben, the prince of poets and mask writers, so Richard Houghton expects him. Finnett is preparing a mask for Christmas, to be called the vision of delight, in which his highness the prince is to be a principal actor, and some verses which have been recited to me are amongst the daintiest ever indicted by the bard. It will be a singular pleasure to me to see him, said Nicholas, for I hold Ben Johnson in the highest esteem as a poet. I, above all of them, lest it be well Shakespeare. Aye, you do well to accept Shakespeare, rejoin Sir John Finnett. Great as Ben Johnson is, and for wit and learning no man surpasses him, he is not to be compared with Shakespeare. Who for profound knowledge of nature and all the highest qualities of dramatic art is unapproachable. But ours is a learned court, Master Nicholas, and therefore we have a learned poet, but a right good fellow is Ben Johnson, and a boon companion, though somewhat prone to his sarcasm as you will find if you drink with him. Over his cups he will rail at courts and courtyards in good set terms, I promise you, and I myself have come in for his jibes. However, I love him nonetheless for his quips, for I know it is his humour to utter them, and so overlook what, in another and less deserving person, I should assuredly resent. But he's not that young man who is now going forth your cousin, Richard Ascherton. I thought so. The king has had a strange tale whispered in his ear that the youth has been bewitched by a maiden, and it's a nutter, I think she is named, of whom he is in element. I know not what the truth may be in the charge, but the youth himself seems to warrant it for he looks ghastly ill. A letter was sent to his majesty at Myerscuff, communicating this and certain other particulars, with which I'm not acquainted, but I know they relate to some professors of the black art in your country, the soil of which seems favourable to the growth of such noxious weeds, and at first he was much disturbed by it, but in the end decided that both parties should be brought hither, without being made aware of his design, that he might see and judge for himself in the matter. Accordingly a messenger was sent over to Middleton Hall as from Sir Richard Halton, inviting the whole family at the tower, and giving Sir Richard Ascherton to understand it was the king's pleasure he should bring with him a certain young damsel named Alice and Nutter, of whom mention had been made to him. Sir Richard had no choice but to obey, and promised compliance with his majesty's injunctions. An officer, however, was left on the watch, and this morning reported to his majesty that young Richard Ascherton had already set out for the intention of going to Preston, but had passed the night at Walton Lydale, and that Sir Richard, his daughter Dorothy, and Alice and Nutter would be here before noon. His majesty has laid his plans carefully, replied Nicholas, and I can easily conjure from whom he received the information which is as false as it is malicious, but are you aware, Sir John, upon what evidence the charge is supported? For me, a suspicion is not enough. In cases of witchcraft suspicion is enough, replied the night gravely. Slender proofs are required. The girl is the daughter of a notorious witch that is against her. The young man is ailing that is against her too, but her witness, I believe, will be produced, though who I cannot say. Now, gracious, what wickedness there must be in the world when such a charge can be brought against one so good and so unoffending? cried Nicholas, a maiden more devout than Alice and never existed, nor one holding the crime she is charged with in greater abominance. She, in joe Richard, she would lay down her life for him, and would have been his wife, but for scruples the most delicate and disinterested on her part. But we will establish her innocence before His Majesty, and confound her enemies. It is with that hope that I have given you this information, Sir, of which I am sure you will make no improper use, replied Sir John. I have heard a similar character to that which you have given of Alice, and I am unwilling she should form a victim to art or malice. Be upon your God too, Master Nicholas, for other investigations will take place at the same time, and some matters may come forth in which you are concerned. The king's arms are long, and reach and strike far, and his eyes see clearly when not hoodwinked, there are when other people see for him. And now, good sir, you must want breakfast. Here, Farringdon, he added to an attendant, show Master Nicholas Asherton his lodging in the base court, and attend upon him as if he were your master. I will come for you, sir, when it is time to present the petition to the king. So, saying, he bowed and walked forth, turning into the upper quadrangle, while Nicholas followed Farringdon into the lower court, where he found his friends waiting for him. Speedily ascertaining where their lodgings were situated, Farringdon led them to a building on the left, almost opposite the Great Bonfire, and ascending a flight of steps, ushered them into a commodious and well-furnished room, looking into the court. This done, he disappeared, but soon afterwards returned with two yeoman of the kitchen, one carrying a tray of provisions upon his head, and the other sustaining a basket of wine under his arm, and a snowy napkin being laid upon the table, trenches, viands, and flasks were soon arranged in a very tempting order. So tempting indeed that the squire, notwithstanding his assertion that his appetite had been taken away, fell to work with his customary vigor, and plied a flask of excellent bordeaux so incessantly that another had to be placed before him. Sherbourne did equal justice to the good cheer, and Richard not only forced himself to eat, but to the squire's great surprise swallowed more than one deep draft of wine. Having thus administered to the one of the guests, and seeing his presence was no longer either necessary or desired, Farringdon vanished, first promising to go and see that all was got ready for them in the sleeping apartments. Notwithstanding the man's civility, there was an over-efficiousness about him that made Nicholas suspect he was placed over them by Sir John Finnet to watch their movements, and he resolved to be upon his guard. Ah, glad to see you drink, lad! He observed to Richard, as soon as they were alone, a cup of wine will do you good. Do you think so? replied Richard, filling his goblet anew. I want to get back my spirits and strength to sustain myself, no matter how, to look well. If I can only make this frail machine carry me stoutly through the king's visit, I care not how soon it falls to pieces afterwards. Ah, see your motive, Dick! replied Nicholas. You ought to turn away suspicion from Alison by this device, but you must not go to excess, or you will defeat your scheme. I will do something to convince the king he is mistaken in me that I am not bewitched, cried Richard, rising and striding across the room. Bewitched! and by Alison, too, I could laugh at the charge, but that it is too horrible, had any other than the king breathed it, I would have slain him. His majesty has been abused by the malice of that navish attorney Potts, who has always manifested the greatest hostility towards Alison, said Nicholas, but he will not prevail, for she has only to show herself to dispel all prejudice. You're right, Nicholas, cried Richard, and yet the king seems already to have prejudged her, and his obstinacy may lead to her destruction. Speak not so loudly, Dick, in heaven's name, said the squire in alarm. These walls may have ears, and echoes may repeat every word you utter. Then let them tell the king that Alison is innocent, cried Richard, stopping and replenishing his goblet. Here's to her health and confusion to her enemies. Now drink that toast with pleasure, Dick, replied the squire, but I must forbid you more wine. You're not used to it, and the fumes will mount to your brain. Come and sit down beside us, that we may talk, said Sherbourne. Richard obeyed, and leaning over the table, asked in a low deep tone, Where is Mistress Nutter, Nicholas? The squire looked towards the door before he answered, and then said, I'll tell you, after the destruction of milking down and the band of robbers, she was taken to a solitary hut near Barley Bow, that the foot of Pendle Hill, and the next day was conveyed across Boland Forest to Bolton in the file, on the borders of Morkham Bay, with the intention of getting her on board some vessel bound for the Isle of Man. Arrangements were made for this purpose, but when the time came she refused to go, and was brought secretly back to the hut near Barley, where she's been ever since, though her place of concealment was hidden even from you and her daughter. The captain of the robbers, Fogg or Demdike, escaped, did he not? said Richard. Ah, in the confusion occasion by the blowing up of the tower, he managed to get away, replied Nicholas, and we were unable to follow him as our intentions had to be bestowed upon Mistress Nutter. This was the more unlucky, as through his instrumentality, Jem and his mother Elizabeth were liberated from the dungeon in which they were placed in Whaley Abbey, prior to their removal to Lancaster Castle, and none of them have been heard of since. And I hope we'll never be heard of again, cried Richard. But is Mistress Nutter's retreat secure, think you? May it not be discovered by some of Noel's emissaries? Ah, just not, replied Nicholas, but her voluntary surrender is more to be apprehended, for when I last saw her on the night before starting for Myersgolf, she told me she was determined to give herself up for trial, and her motives could scarce be combated, for she declared that unless she submits herself to the justice of man and expiates her offence, she cannot be saved. She now seems as resolute in good as she was here to for resolute in evil. If she perishes thus her self-sacrifice, for thus it becomes, will be Hallison's death-blow, cried Richard. So I told her, replied Nicholas, but she continued inflexible. I am born to be the course of misery to others, and most to those I love most, she said, but I cannot fly from justice. There's no escape for me. She's right, cried Richard. There is no escape but the grave, whether we are all three, hurrying, a terrible fatality attaches to us. Nay, say not so, Dick, rejoined Nicholas. You're young, and not this shock may be severe, yet when it is past you will be recompensed to help by many years of happiness. I am not to be deceived, said Richard. Look me in the face, and say honestly if you think me long lived. You cannot do it. I have been smitten by a mortal illness, and am wasting gradually away. I am dying. I feel it. Know it, but though it may abridge my brief term of life I will purchase present health and spirits at any cost, and save Hallison. Oh! he exclaimed, putting his hand to his heart, with a fearful expression of anguish. What is the matter? cried the two gentlemen, greatly alarmed and springing towards him. But the young man could not reply. Another and another agonising spasm shook his frame, and cold damps broke out upon his pallid brow, showing the intensity of his suffering. Nicholas and Sherbourne regarded each other anxiously, as if doubtful how to act. Child, I summon assistance, said the latter, in a low tone. But softly as the words were uttered, they reached the ears of Richard. Rousing himself by a great effort, he said, Oh! no account! The fit is over. I am glad this has seized me now, for I shall not be liable to a recurrence of it throughout the day. Lead me to the window. The air will presently revive me. His friends complied with the request, and placed him at the open casement. Great bustle was observable below, and the cause was soon manifest, as the chief huntsman, clad in green, with buff boots, drawn high upon the thigh, for horn about his neck, and mounted on a strong black-kirtle, rode forth from the stables. He was attended by a noble bloodhound, and on gaining the middle of the court, put his bugle to his lips, and blew a loud, blithe call that made the walls ring again. The summons was immediately answered by a number of grooms and pages, leading a multitude of rich liquor-parisoned horses towards the upper end of the court, where a gallant troupe of dames, nobles, and gentlemen, all attired for the chase, awaited them, and where, amidst much mirth and bandying of lively jest and compliment, a general mounting took place. The ladies, of course, being placed first on their steeds. While this was going forward, the hounds were brought from the kenneling-couples, relays having been sent down into the park more than an hour before, and the yard resounded with their joyous baying, and the naying of their impatient steeds. By this time also the chief huntsman had collected his forces, consisting of a dozen prickers, six habited like himself in green, and six in russet, and all mounted on stout-curtles. Those in green were intended to hunt the heart, and those in russet the wild boar, the former being provided with hunting-poles, and the latter with spears. Their girdles were well lined with beef and pudding, and each of them, acting upon the advice of a worthy master, George Turbaville, had a stoned bottle of good wine at the pommel of his saddle. Besides these, there were a whole host of violets of the chase on foot. The chief falconer, with a long-winged hawk in her hood and jesses upon his wrist, was stationed somewhat near the gateway, and close to him were his attendants, each having on his fists a falcon gentle, a Barbary falcon, a Merlin, a Goss hawk, or a Sparrow hawk. Thus all was in resinous, and hound, hawk, and man, seemed equally impatient for the sport. At this juncture the door was thrown open by Farrington, who announced to John Finnett, It is time, Master Nicholas Asherton, said the master of the ceremonies. I am ready to attend you, Sir John, replied Nicholas, taking a parchment from his doublet and unfolding it. The petition is well signed. So aces are, replied the knight, glancing at it. Will not your friends come with you? Most assuredly, replied Richard, for he had risen on the knight's appearance, and he followed the others down the staircase. By direction of the master of the ceremonies, nearly a hundred of the more important gentlemen of the county had been got together, and this train was subsequently swelled to thrice the amount from the accessions it received from persons of inferior rank when its object became known. At the head of this large assemblage Nicholas was now placed, and accompanied by Sir John Finnett, who gave the word to the procession to follow them, he moved slowly up the court. Passing through the brilliant crowd of equestrians, the procession halted at a short distance from the doorway of the Great Hall, and James, who had been waiting for its approach within, now came forth, amid the chairs and plaudits of the spectators. Sir John Finnett then led Nicholas forward, and the latter, dropping on one knee, said, May it please your Majesty, I hold in my hand the petition, signed, as, if you will dare to cast your eyes over it, you will perceive, by many hundreds of the lower orders of your loving subjects in this your county of Lancaster, representing that they are debarred from lawful recreations upon Sunday, after afternoon service, and upon holidays, and praying that the restrictions imposed in fifteen seventy-nine by the earls of Derby and Huntington, and by William Bishop of Chester, commissions to her late Highness Elizabeth of Glorious Memory, your Majesty's predecessor, may be withdrawn. And with this he placed in the King's hand the petition, which was very graciously received. The content of our loving subjects in Lancaster shall not pass unnoticed, sir. Said James. Sorry we to say it, but this country of ours is a hair infested with orc inclining to puritism and papistry, both of which sects are adverse to the cause of true religion. All this birth is not only tolerable, but praiseworthy, and the prohibition of it is likely to breed discontent, and for this our enemies can fool well. For when, he continued, loudly and emphatically, when shall the common people have lived to exercise, if not upon Sundays and holidays, seeing them as labour and win their living on all other days? Your Majesty speaks that King Solomon himself, observed Nicholas, amid the loud cheering. Our will and pleasure, then, is, pursued James, that our good people shall not be deprived of any lawful recreation that shall not tend to a breach of the laws or a violation of the Kirk, but that after the end of divine service they shall not be disturbed, lettied, or discouraged from any lawful recreation, as dancing and such like, either of men or women, archery, leaping, vaulting, or any other harmless recreation, nor for other having of may games, wits and hails, or Morris dancing, nor for setting up of may-paws and other sports, they are withused, providing the same behead in due and convenient time, without impediment or neglect of divine service. And our will, further is, that women shall have leave to carry rushes to their church, for the decoring of it according to all custom, but we prohibit all unlawful games on Sundays and beer-baiting and bowl-baiting, interludes, and bad and common folk, markidatser, playing at bowls. Author's note. This speech is in substance the monarch's actual declaration concerning lawful sports, promulgated in 1618 in a little tractate, generally known as the Book of Sports, by which he would have conferred a great boon on the lower orders, if his kindly purpose had not been misapprehended by some, and ultimately defeated by bigots and fanatics. King James deserves to be remembered with gratitude, if only for this manifestation of sympathy with the enjoyment of his people. He had himself discovered that the restrictions imposed upon them had set up filthy tipplings and drunkenness, and bred a number of idle and discontented speeches in the ale-houses. End of note. The royal declaration was received with loud and reiterated cheers, amidst which James mounted his steed, a large black docile-looking charger, and rode out of the court followed by the whole cavalcade. Trumpets were sounded from the battlements as he passed through the gateway, and shouting crowds attended him all the way down the hill until he entered the avenue leading to the park. At the conclusion of the royal address the procession headed by Nicholas immediately dispersed, and such as meant to join the chase set off in quest of steeds. Foremost amongst these was the squire himself, and on approaching the stables he was glad to find Richard and Sherbourne already mounted, the former holding his horse by the bridle, so that he had nothing to do but vault upon his back. There was an impatience about Richard, very different from his ordinary manner that surprised and startled him, and the expression of the young man's countenance long afterwards haunted him. The face was deathly pale, except that on either cheek burned a red feverish spot, and the eyes blazed with unnatural light. So much was the squire struck by his cousin's looks, that he would have dissuaded him from going forth, but he saw from his manner that the attempt would fail. While a significant gesture from his brother-in-law told him he was equally uneasy. Scarcely had the principal nobles pass through the gateway, then, in spite of all efforts to detain him, Richard struck spurs into his horse and dashed among the cavalcade, creating great disorder, and rousing the ire of the Earl of Pembroke, to whom the marshalling of the train was entrusted, but Richard paid little heed to his wrath, and perhaps did not hear the angry expressions addressed to him, for no sooner was he outside the gate than instead of pursuing the road down which the king was proceeding, and which has been described as hewn out of the rock, he struck into a thicket on the right, and in defiance of all attempts to stop him, and at the immediate risk of breaking his neck, rode down the precipitous sides of the hill, and reaching the bottom in safety, long before the royal cavalcade had attained the same point, took the direction of the park. His friends watched him commence this perilous descent in dismay, but no much alarm they were unable to follow him. Poor lad! I am fearful that he has asked his answers, said Sherbourne. Hey, is what the king would feel fair and not long for this world? replied Nicholas, shaking his head. End of Chapter 7 Book 3 Chapter 8 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 3 Houghton Tower Chapter 8 How King James hunted the heart and the wild boar in Houghton Park Galloping on fast and furiously, Richard tracked a narrow path of greensword lying between the tall trees composing the right line of the avenue and the adjoining wood. Within it grew many fine old thorns, diverting him now and then from his course, but he still held on till he came within a short distance of the chase, when his attention was caught by a very singular figure. It was an old man, clad in a robe of coarse-brown surge, with a cowl drawn partly over his head, a rope girdle like that used by a cordelia, sandal shun, and a venerable white beard descending to his waist. The features of the hermit, for such he seemed, were majestic and benevolent. Seated on a bank overgrown with wild time, beneath the shade of a broad-armed elm, he appeared so intently engaged in the perusal of a large open volume laid on his knee that he did not notice Richard's approach. Deeply interested, however, by his appearance, the young man determined to address him, and, reigning in his horse, said respectfully, save your father. Pass on, my son, replied the old man, without raising his eyes, and hinder not, my studies, but Richard would not be thus dismissed. For chance you are not aware, father, he said, that the king is about to hunt within the park this morning. The royal cavalcade has already left out and tower, and it will be here air many minutes. The king and his retinue will pass along the broad avenue as you should have done, and not through this retired road, replied the hermit, they will not disturb me. I would feign know the subject of your studies, father, inquired Richard. You are inquisitive, young man. Returned the hermit, looking up and fixing a pair of keen gray eyes upon him, but I will satisfy your curiosity if by so doing I shall rid me of your presence, I am reading the book of fate. Richard uttered an exclamation of astonishment. And in it your destiny is written, pursued the old man, and a sad one it is, consumed by a strange and incurable disease which, may at any moment prove fatal, you are scarcely likely to survive the next three days, in which case she you love better than existence will perish miserably, being a judge to have destroyed you by witchcraft. It must indeed be the book of fate that tells you this, cried Richard, springing from his horse and approaching close to the old man. May I cast eyes upon it? No, my son, replied the old man, closing the volume. You would not comprehend the mystic characters, but know I, except my own, must look upon them. What is written will be fulfilled. Again I bid you pass on. I must speedily return to my hermit's cell in the forest. May I attend you thither, father? asked Richard. To what purpose? Rejoined the old man. You have not many hours of life. Go then, and pass them in the fierce excitement of the chase. Pull down the lordly stag, slaughter the savage boar, and as you see the poor denizens of the forest perish, think that your own end is not far off. Ah, do you hear that boding cry? It is the croak of a raven newly alighted in the tree above us. replied Richard. The sagacious bird will ever attend the huntsman in the chase in the hope of obtaining a morsel when they break up deer. Such is the custom of the bird I want well, said the old man, but it is not in joyous expectation of the raven's bone that he croaks now, but because his fell instinct informs him that the living dead is beneath him. And as if in answer to the remark the raven croaked exultingly, and rising from the tree wheeled in a circle above them. Is there no way of averting my terrible destiny, father? cried Richard despairingly. Ah, if you choose to adopt it, replied the old man, when I said your ailment was incurable, I meant my ordinary remedies. But it will yield to such as I alone can employ. The malignant and fatal influence under which you labour may be removed, and then your instant restoration to health and vigor will follow. But how, father? how? cried Richard eagerly. You have simply to sign your name in this book. Rejoin the hermit, and what you desire shall be done. Here is the pen, he added, taking one from his girdle. But the ink, cried Richard. Perique your arm with your dagger, and dip the pen in the blood. Replied the old man, that will suffice. And what follows if I sign, demanded Richard, staring at him? Your instant cure. I will give you to drink of a wondrous elixir. But to what do I bind myself? asked Richard. To serve me? replied the hermit, smiling. But it is a light service, and only involves your appearance in this wood once a year. Are you agreed? I know not, replied the young man, distractedly. You must make up your mind speedily, said the hermit, for I hear the approach of the royal cavalcade. And as he spoke, the mellow notes of a bugle, followed by the baying of hounds, the jingling of bridles, and the trampling of a large troop of horse, were heard at a short distance down the avenue. Tell me who you are, cried Richard. I am the hermit of the wood, replied the old man. Some people call me hobdhurst, and some by other names. But you will have no difficulty in finding me out. Luke Yonder, he added, pointing through the trees, and glancing in the direction indicated, Richard beheld a small party on horseback, advancing across the plain, consisting of his father, his sister, and Allison, with their attendance. To she! to she! he cried. Can you hesitate when it is to save her? demanded the old man. Heaven help me, or I am lost! fervently ejaculated Richard, gazing on high, while making the appeal. When he looked down again, the old man was gone, and he saw only a large black snake gliding off among the bushes. Buttering a few words of thankfulness for his deliverance, he sprang upon his horse. It may be the arch-temper is right, he cried, and that but a few hours of life remained to me. But if so, they shall be employed in endeavours to vindicate Allison, and defeat the snares by which she is beset. With this resolve he struck spurs into his horse, and set off in the direction of the little troop. Before however he could move up to them, their progress was arrested by a persuievent, who, riding in advance of the Royal Cavalcade, motioned them to stay till it had passed, and the same person, also perceiving Richard's purpose, called to him authoritatively to keep back. The young man might have disregarded the injunction, but at the same moment the king himself appeared at the head of the avenue, and remarking Richard, who was not more than fifty yards off on the right, instantly recognised him, and shouted out, Come hither, young man, come hither! Thus baffled in his design, Richard was forced to comply, and uncovering his head rode slowly towards the Monarch. As he approached, James fixed on him a glance of the sharpest scrutiny. Oh, it's life you have been going to fangate, young sir! He cried, It might not be demented to rain down a hill in that fashion, and as if your craig were of near mount, it's will you have come off skisless. Are you tired of life? Or was it the muddle-deal himself that drove Yarn? Can it be you find an excuse, man? Dead in Argyan! The Lord's tent will draw the nails through to our door, and there will be lasses within, trying as Lord's tins that drag men to their perdition. Stands the magnate yonder, eh? He added, glancing towards the little group before him. Good faith! The last man be important, which to exercise such influence, and we would fancy the effect she has on you in near. Sir Richard Houghton, he called out to the knight, who rode a few paces behind him, we pray you present Sir Richard Ascherton and his dothard to us. Had he dared to do so, Richard would have thrown himself at the king's feet. But all he could venture upon was to say, in a low earnest tone, Do not prejudge Alice and Sir? On my soul she is innocent. The king prejudges Neyman. replied James, in a tone of rebuke, and like the white prince of Israel, whom it is his wish to resemble, he sees with it Aenean, and hears with it Aenears, before he forms conclusions. That is all I can desire, sir, replied Richard. Far be it from me to doubt your Majesty's discrimination, all love of justice. He shall have proofs of faith, man, for we are done. Said James, ah, here comes our host, and the twail lass is with him. She with her lint-white locks is your sister, we guess, and dither is Alice, by our droves of wheel-feared lass. But Satan is a delusive, women resist his snares. The party now came on, and were formally presented to the monarch, by Sir Richard Houghton. Sir Richard Ascherton, a middle-aged gentleman, with handsome features, though somewhat haughty in expression, and stately in deportment, was very graciously received. And James thought fit to pay a few compliments to Dorothy, covertly regarding Alice in the wild, and yet not neglecting Richard, being ready to intercept any signal that should pass between them. None, however, was attempted, for the young man felt he should only alarm and embarrass Alice in by any attempt to caution her, and he therefore endeavored to assume an unconcerned aspect and demeanour. Yeah, we hear the beauty of the Lancashire lass is highly recommended, said the King, but faith it passes expectation. Two lovelier damsels than these, we know you beheld. Bath are rare specimens of nature's handiwork. Oh, your Majesty is pleased to be complimentary, rejoins Sir Richard Ascherton. Nay, Sir Richard, we are a guiant of flittering, though often be loomed or still. Bath are bonny lasses, we repeat. Let's see, this is Alice and Nutter. It would be Ailssey in our reined Scottish tongue, to which your Lancashire vernacular closely approximates, Sir Richard. Oh, ill-fair, Alice, he added, eyeing her narrowly. He lost your mother, we understand. The young girl was not discomposed by this question, but answered in a firm melancholy tone. Your Majesty, I fear, is too well acquainted with my unfortunate mother's history. Oh, ill-widdler, deny her and her somewhat her disadvantage, replied the King. But your aim looks going far to contradict the report's fair mead. Place no faith in them, then, Sir? replied Alice and sadly. What? Then you admit your mother's guilt? cried the King sharply. I neither admitted nor deny it, Sir, she replied. It must be for your Majesty to judge her. Well, we'll answer them, uttered James, but I must not forget that the dale himself can court scripture to serve his purpose. But she, holding abhorrence, the crime lead to your mother's charge, eh? He added aloud. In utter abhorrence, replied Alice and. Good, very good, rejoined the King. But entertaining this feeling, how comes it your screen, Sir, heinous and offender for justice? A natural feeling should be allowed to weigh in such a guess. Nor should it sigh with me, replied Alice, because I believe my poor mother's eternal welfare would be best consulted if she underwent temporal punishment. Neither is she herself anxious to avoid it. Oh, then why does she keep out of the way? Why does she no surrender herself? cried the King. Because—and Alice and Snot. Because what? demanded James. Pardon me, Sir, I must decline answering further questions on the subject, replied Alice and. Whatever concerns myself or my mother alone, I will state freely, but I cannot compromise others. Aha! Then there are others concerned in it, cried James. Without as much, we will interrogate you further hereafter. But a word near. We trust your devote and constant in your religious exercises, Dumsel. I will answer for that, Sire. Interposed to Richard Asherton, Alice and's whole time is spent in prayer for her unfortunate mother. If there be a fault, it is that she goes too far and injures her health by her zeal. A good fault, that's her, Richard, observed the King approvingly. It besieges me not to speak of myself, Sire, said Alice, and I am loath to do so, but I beseech your Majesty to believe that if my life might be offered as an atonement for my mother, I would freely yield it. Eh! good faith, she stuggers me in my opinion, uttered James, and I am unable to look into the matter more closely. The lass is fair different from what I imagined her, but the wiles are set and are not to be comprehended, and he will put on the semblance of righteousness when seeking to beguile the righteous. Eh! weel, Dumsel, he added aloud, and you speak feelingly and properly, and as a daughter should speak, and we respect your feelings, provided they can be such as you represent them, and now dispose yourselves for the chase. I must pray your Majesty to dismiss me, said Alice, it is a sight in which at any time I take small pleasure and now it is especially distasteful to me. With your permission I will proceed to Houghton Tower. I also crave your Majesty's leave to go with her, said Dorothy. I will attend them, interpose Richard. No, your Munsterious young sir, cried the King, you are a good father of Will gang Liam. Sir John Finnet, he added, calling to the master of the ceremonies and speaking in his ear, see that they be followed, and that a special watch be kept or Alison, and also all of this use. Do you mind me? In fact, or are the Ashton clan? And now, he cried in a loud voice, let them blow the stake. The Chief Huntsman, having placed the bugle to his lips and blown a strike with two winds, a short consultation was held between him and James, who loved to display his knowledge as a woodsman. And while this was going forward, Nicholas and Sherbourne, having come up, the squire dismounted, and committing robin to his brother-in-law, approached the monarch. If I may be so bold as to put in the word, my liege, he said, I can show you where a heart of ten is assuredly harboured. I vowed him, as I rode through the park this morning, and cannot therefore be mistaken. His head is high and well panned, great beamed and in good proportion, well bird and well purled. His stately night, long and well fed. Did you mark the slot, sir? inquired James. I did my liege, replied Nicholas, and a long slot it was. The toes great, with round short joint bones, large shin bones, and the dew-clothes close together. I'll uphold him for a great old heart as ever proffered, and one that shall show your majesty rare sport. And we'll take your word for the matter, sir, said James. Fear as good a woodman as any we are in our dominions. Bring us to him, then. Well, it plays your majesty to ride towards your own blade, said Nicholas, and for you reach it thou shall be roused. James ascending to the arrangement, Nicholas sprang upon his steed, and calling to the chief huntsman, they galloped off together, accompanied by the blood-hand. The royal cavalcade following somewhat more slowly in the same direction. A fair sighted was to see that splendid company, careering over the plain, their feathered caps and gay mantles glittering in the sun, which shone brightly upon them. The morning was lovely, giving promise that the day, when further advanced, would be intensely hot, but at present it was fresh and delightful. Then the whole company, exhilarated by the exercise and by animated conversation, were in high spirits, and perhaps among the huge party which numbered nearly three hundred persons, one alone was prey to despair. But though Richard Asherton suffered thus internally, he bore his anguish with spartan firmness, resolved, if possible, to let no trace of it be visible in his features or deportment, and he so far succeeded in conquering himself that the king, who kept a watchful eye upon him, remarked to Sir John Finnet as they rode along, that the singular improvement had taken place in the young man's appearance. The cavalcade was rapidly approaching the glade at the lower end of the chase, when the lively notes of a horn were heard from the adjoining wood, followed by the deep baying of a blood-hand. The ha! they bruised him, cried the king, joyfully placing his own bugle to his lips and sounding an answer. Upon this the whole company halted in anxious expectation. The hounds baying loudly. The next moment a noble heart burst from the wood, whence he had been driven by the shouts of Nicholas and the chief huntsman, both of whom appeared immediately afterwards. By my faith a great hut as ever was hunted, explained the king. There, boys, there to them, to them! Dashing after the flying heart the hounds made the welkin ring with their cries. Many lovely damsaws were there, but non thought of the cruelty of the sport. Non sympathised with the noble animal they were running to death. The cries of the hounds, now loud and ringing, now deep and dolling, accompanied by the hooping of the horseman, formed a stirring concert, which found a response in many a gentle bosom. The whole cavalcade was spread widely about, for non were allowed to ride near the king. Over the plain they scoured, fleet as the wind, and the heart seemed to be making for a fell, forming part of the hill near the mansion. But ere he reached it, the relays stationed within a cover burst forth, and, turning him aside, he once more dashed fleetly across the broad expanse, as if about to return to his old lair. Now he was seen plunging into some bosky dell, and after being lost to view for a moment, bounding up the opposite bank, and stretching across a tract thickly covered with fern. Here he gained upon the hounds, who were lost in the green wilderness, and their cries were hushed for a brief space. But anon they burst forth anew, and the pack were soon again in full cry, and speeding over the open ground. At first the cavalcade had kept pretty well together, but on the return the case was very different, and many of the dames being unable to keep up with the hounds fell off, and as a natural consequence many of the gallants lingered behind too, thus only the keenest huntsmen held on. Among these, and about fifty yards behind the king, were Richard and Nicholas. The squire was right when he predicted that the heart would show them good sport. Plunging into the wood, the hard-pressed beast knocked up another snag, and took possession of his lair, but was speedily roused again by Nicholas and the chief huntsman. Once more he is crossing the wide plain, with hounds and huntsmen after him. Once more he is turned by a new relay. But this time he shapes his course towards the woods skirting the Darwin. It is a piteous sight to see him now, his coat black and glistening with sweat, his mouth embossed with foam, his eyes dull, big tears coursing down his cheeks, and his noble head carried low. His end seems nigh, for the hounds, though weary to redouble their energies, and the monarch cheers them on. Again the poor beast directs his head. If he can only reach Yon Coppus, he is safe. Despair nerves him, and with gigantic bounds he clears the intervening space, and disappears beneath the branches. Quickly as the hounds come after him, they're at fault. He has taken to the soil, sir, cried Nicholas, coming up, to the river, to the river, you may see by the broken branches he's gone this way. Forcing his way through the wood, James was soon on the banks of the Darwin, which here ran deep and slow. The heart was nowhere to be seen, nor was there any slot on the farther side to denote that he had gone forth. It was evident, therefore, that he had swam down the stream. At this moment a shout was heard a hundred yards lower down, proceeding from Nicholas, and riding in the direction of the sound, the king found the heart at bay on the further side of the stream, and nearly up to his haunches in the water. The king regarded him for a moment anxiously. The poor animal was now in his last extremity, but seemed determined to sell his life dearly. He stood on a bank projecting into the stream, round which the water flowed deeply, and could not be approached without difficulty and danger. He had already gored several hounds, whose bleeding bodies were swept down the current, and though the others bade round him, they did not dare to approach him, and could not get behind him, as a high bank arose in his rear. Have I your majesty's permission to dispatch him? asked Nicholas. Aye, marry, if you cancel! But wear the tines, wear the tines, if thou be hurt with heart, it brings thee to the beer as the old ballad huffet, and the adage is true as we yourselves have seen. Nicholas, however, he did not the caution, but drawing his wood-knife, and disencumbering himself of his cloak, he plunged into the stream, and with one or two strokes reached the bank. The heart watched his approach, as if defining his purpose, with a look half menacing, half reproachful, and when he came near, dashed his antlered head at him, nimbly eluding the blow, which, if it had taken effect, might have proved serious, Nicholas plunged his weapon into the poor brute's throat, who instantly fell with a heavy splash into the water. We'll stricken! We'll stricken! shouted James, who had witnessed the performance from the opposite bank. But how shall we get the carcass here? That's easily done, sir, replied Nicholas, and taking hold of the horns, he guided the body to a low bank, a little below where the king stood. As soon as it was dragged ashore by the prickers, James put his bugle to his lips, and blew a moat. A prize was thrice-sounded by Nicholas, and soon afterwards the whole company came flocking round the spot, whooping the death-note. Meanwhile the hounds had gathered round the fallen hearts, and were allowed to wreak their fury on him by tearing his throat, happily after sensibility was gone, while Nicholas, again bearing his knife, cut off the right forefoot, and presented it to the king. While this ceremony was performed, the violets of the kennel, having cut down a great heap of green branches and strewn them on the ground, laid the heart upon them on his back, and then bore him to an open space in the wood, where he was broken up by the king, who prided himself upon his skill in all matters of woodcraft. While this office was in course of execution, a bowl of wine was poured out for the monarch, which he took, advertising as he did so to the common superstition, that if a huntsman should break up a deer without drinking, the venison would putrify. Having drained the cup, he caused it to be filled again, and gave it to Nicholas, saying the liquor was needful to him after the drenching he had undergone. James then proceeded with his task, and just before he completed it, he was reminded by a loud croak above him that a raven was at hand, and accordingly, taking a piece of gristle from the spoon of the brisket, he cast it on the ground, and the bird immediately pounced down upon it and carried it off in his huge beak. After a brief interval, the seek was again winded. Another heart was roused, and after a short but swift chase, pulled down by the hounds, and dispatched with his own hand by James. So Richard Houghton then besought the king to follow him, and led the way to a verdant hollow surrounded by trees, in which shady and delicious retreat preparations had been made for a slight silver ripast. Upon a mossy bank beneath a tree, a cushion was placed for the king, and before it on the sword was laid a cloth, spread with many dainters, including Neat's tongues powdered well and jambons of the hog, with sausages and savoury knacks to set men's mind to gog. Cold capons and pigeon pies, close at hand was a clear cold spring, in which numerous flasks of wine were immersed. A few embers, too, had been lighted, on which carbonados of venison were prepared. No great form or ceremony was observed at the entertainment. Sir John Finney and Sir Thomas Houghton were in closer tendance upon the monarch, and ministered to his wants. But several of the nobles and gentlemen stretched themselves on the sword, and addressed themselves to the vians set before them by the pages. None of the dames dismounted, and few could be propelled upon to take any refreshment. Besides the flasks of wine, there were two barrels of ale in a small cart, drawn by a mule, both of which were broached. The whole scene was picturesque and pleasing, and well calculated to gratify one so fond of Sylvan sports as the monarch for whom it was provided. In the midst of all this tranquility and enjoyment, an incident occurred which interrupted it as completely as if a thunderstorm had suddenly come on. Just when the mirth was at the highest, and when the flowing cup was at many a lip, a tremendous bellowing, followed by the crashing of branches, was heard in the adjoining thicket. All started their feet at the appalling sound, and the king himself turned pale. What in Hyln's name can it be, Sir Richard? he inquired. It must be a drove of wild cattle, replied the baronet trembling. Wild cattle! ejaculated James in great alarm, and say near us, downs we shall be trampled, and go into death by those boars of basin. Sir Richard, you are a forced traitor, thus to endanger the siftry of your sovereign, and you shall answer for it if harm comes to it. Ah, you are unable to account for its hire, stammered the frighten baronet. I gave special directions to the prickers to drive the beasts away. Ah, you shudder keep such devils in your park, man! cried the monarch. Eh, what's that? Amidst all this consternation and confusion, the bellowing was redoubled, and the crashing of branches drew nearer and nearer, and Nicholas Asherton rushed forward with the king's horse, saying, Mount Sir, mount, and away! But James was so much alarm that his limbs refused to perform their office, and he was unable to put foot in the stirrup. Seeing his condition, Nicholas cried out, Pardon my ledge, but at moment a better light the present one must not stand on ceremony. So, saying, he took the king round the waist, and placed him on his steed. At this juncture a loud cry was heard, and a man in the extremity of terror issued from the wood and dashed towards the hollow. Close on his heels came the drove of wild cattle, and just as he gained the very verge of the descent, the foremost of the herd overtook him, and loading his curled head, caught him on the points of his horns, and threw him forward to such a distance that he alighted with a heavy crash, almost at the king's feet. Satisfied, apparently, with their vengeance, or alarmed by the numerous assemblage, the drove instantly turned tail, and were pursued into the depths of the forest by the prickers. Having recovered his composure, James had some of the attendants raised the poor wretch who was lying groaning upon the ground, evidently so much injured as to be unable to move without assistance. His garb was that of a forester, and his bulk, for he was stoutly and squarely built, had contributed, no doubt, to the severity of the fall. When he was lifted from the ground, Nicholas instantly recognized in his blackened and distorted features those of Christopher Demdike. What! he exclaimed, rushing towards him. Is it thou, villain? The sufferer only replied by a look of intense malignity. Eh, what you can who it is? demanded James. By my soul, I fear the poor fellow has missed of his veins broken. No matter if they be, replied Nicholas, and it may save the application of torture in case your Majesty desires to put any question to him. Chance has most strangely thrown into your hands one of the most e'enless offenders in the kingdom, who has long escaped justice, but who will at length meet the punishment of his crimes. The villain is Christopher Demdike, son of the foul hag who perished in the flames on the summit of Pendle Hill, and captain of a band of robbers. What! is the neighbour Warlock and the Reaver? demanded James, regarding Demdike with abhorrence mingled with alarm. Dorth sigh, replied Nicholas, and had not sat in to boat. He is a diabolical villain. Let him be taken to out and door, and kept in some strong and secure place, till we have leisure to examine them, said James, and see that he be visited by some skillful surgeon, for we wouldn't have him die and say Rob the Woody. Demdike, who appeared to be in great agony, now forced himself to speak. Or can make important disclosures to your Majesty? He said, in hoarse and broken tones, if ye will hear them, I am not the only of Pendle who has escaped from justice. He added, glancing vindictively at Nicholas, there is another, an Atari's wit and murderous, who is still scrammed from justice. I can reveal her eye in place. Yo, Majesty would not give heed to such a villain's fabrications, said Nicholas. Are the fabrications, sir, rejoin James, somewhat sharply? We run here and judge. The snake, though scotched, will still bite, it seems. We hang it at a highland cartherman without trial before this, and we may be tempted to talk the Lord to our own hands again. Bear the villain hence, see he be disposed as already directed, and take good care he is strictly guarded. And now give us a crossbow, sir Richard Houghton, and bid the prickers drive the deer for us, for we would try our skill as a marksman. And while Dem Dyke was placed on the litter of Green Bows, which had recently sustained a nobler burden in the fallen heart, and in this sort was conveyed to Houghton Tower, James rode with his retinue towards a long blade, where, receiving a crossbow from the huntsman, he took up a favourable position behind a large oak, and several herds of deer being driven before him, he selected his quarries, and deliberately took aim at them, contriving in the course of an hour to bring down four fat bucks, and to aim as many others, which were pulled down by the hounds, and with this slaughter he was content. Sir Richard Houghton then informed his Majesty that a huge bore, which in sporting phrase had left the sounder five years, had broken into the park the night before, and had been routing them among the fern. The age and size of the animal were known by the print of the feet, the toes being round and thick, the edge of the hoof worn and blunt, the heel large, and the guards, or due-claws, great and open, but from all of which appearances it was adjudged by the baronet, to be a great old bore not to be refused. James at once agreed to hunt him, and the hounds being taken away, six couples of magnificent nastiffs of the Lancashire breed were brought forward, and the monarch, under the guidance of Sir Richard Houghton and the chief huntsman, repaired to an adjoining thicket in which the bore fed and couched. On arriving near his den, a bore spear was given to the king, and the prickers, advancing into the wood, presently afterwards, reared the enormous brute. Sallying forth and freeming furiously, he was instantly assailed by the mastiffs, but notwithstanding the number of his assailants, he made light of them, shaking them from his bristly hide, crushing them beneath his horny feet, thrusting at them with his sharpened tusks, and committing terrible devastation among them. Repeated charges were made upon the savage animal by James, but it was next to impossible to get a blow at him for some time, and when at last the monarch made the attempt, he struck too low, and hit him on the snout, upon which the infuriated bore, finding himself wounded, sprang towards the horse, and ripped him open with his tusks. The noble charger instantly rolled over on his side, exposing the royal huntsman to the fury of his merciless assailant, whose tusks must have ploughed his flesh, if at this moment a young man had not ridden forward, and at the greatest personal risk approached the bore, and striking straight downwards, cleft the heart of the fierce brute with his spear. Meanwhile the king, having been disengaged by the prickers from his wounded steed, which was instantly put out of its agony by the sword of the chief huntsman, looked for his deliverer, and discovering him to be Richard Asherton, was loud in his expressions of gratitude. "'Fifth, ye man cleave a boon at your hands,' said James, it man never we said that the king is ungrateful. What can we do for you, lad?' "'For myself, nothing, sir,' replied Richard. "'But through another meekle is that way he would have us in fare,' cried the king with a smile. "'Ah, we'll, alas, it shall his strict justice done her. But for your own sake we money inquire into the matter. Meantime wear this,' he added, taking a magnificent sapphire ring from his finger. "'And if you should ever need a raid, send it to us as a token.' Richard took the gift, and knelt to kiss the hand so graciously extended to him. By this time another horse had been provided for the monarch, and the enormous boar, with his feet upwards and tied together, was suspended upon a pole, and borne on the shoulders of four stout violets as the grand trophy of the chase. When the royal company issued from the wood, a strike of nine was blown by the chief huntsman, and such of the cavalcade as still remained on the field being collected together, the party crossed the chase, and took the direction of Houghton Tower. By William Harrison Ainsworth Chapter 9 The Banquet On the king's return to Houghton Tower, warders were given by Sir Richard for the immediate service of the banquet, it being the hospitable baronet's desire, that festivities should succeed each other so rapidly as to allow of no tedium. The coudoy of the banquet hall on the monarch's entrance was magnificent, paneled with black lustrous oak, and lighted by mullion windows filled with stained glass, and emblazoned with the armorial bearings of the family. The vast and lofty hall was hung with banners, and decorated with panoplies and trophies of the chase. Three long tables ran down it, each containing a hundred covers. At the lower end were stationed the heralds, the persuivants, and a band of yeoman of the guard with the royal badge, a demi-rose, crowned, impaled with the demi-thistle, woven in gold on their doublets, and having fringed pole-axes over their shoulders. Behind them was a richly carved oak screen, concealing the passages leading to the buttery and the kitchens, in which the clerk of the kitchen, the pantlers, and the yeoman of the cellar, and eury were hurrying to and fro. Above the screen was a gallery, occupied by the trumpeters and minstrels, and overall was a noble rafter-roof. The tables were profusely spread and glittered with silver dishes of extraordinary size and splendour, as well as with flagans and goblets of the same material and rare design. The guests, all of whom were assembled, were outnumbered by the prodigious array of serving men, pages, and yeoman waiters in the yellow and red liveries of the steward. Flourishes of trumpets announced the coming of the monarch, who was preceded by Sir Richard Houghton, bearing a white wand, and ushered with much ceremony to his place. At the upper end of the hall was a raised floor, and on either side of it an orial window, glowing with painted glass. On this dais the king's table was placed, underneath a canopy of state, embroidered with the royal arms, and bearing James's kindly motto, biatae pacifiae. Seats were reserved at it for the Duke of Buckingham and Richmond, the earls of Pembroke and Nottingham, the lords Howard of Effingham and Grey of Groby, Sir Gilbert Houghton, and the Bishop of Chester. These constituted the favoured guests. Grace, having been said by the Bishop, the whole company took their seats, and the general stillness hitherto prevailing throughout the vast hall was broken instantaneously by the clatter of trenches. A famous feast it was, and worthy of commemoration. Masters Morris and Miller, the two cooks who contrived it, as well as the labourers for the rangers, for the pastries, for the boiled meats, for the pullets, performed their respective parts to admiration. The result was all that could be desired. The fare was solid and substantial, consisting of dishes which could be cut and come to again. Among the roast meats were chines of beef, haunches of venison, jigs of mutton, fatted geese, capons, turkeys, and sucking-pigs. Amongst the boiled, pullets, lamb, and veal. But baked meats chiefly abounded, and amongst them were to be found red deer pasty, hair pie, gammon of bacon pie, and baked wild boar. With the salads, which were nothing more than what would nowadays be termed vegetables, were mixed all kinds of sourced fish, arranged according to the sower's directions. The salad spread about the table, the fricassees mixed with them, the boiled meats among the fricassees, roast meats among the boiled, baked meats among the roast, and carbonados amongst the baked. This was the first course merely. In the second were all kinds of game and wildfowl, roast herons, three in a dish, bitterns, cranes, bustards, curlews, dottles, and pee-wits. Besides these there were lumber pies, marrow pies, quince pies, artichoke pies, florentines, and innumerable other good things. Some dishes were specifically reserved for the king's table, as a baked swan, a roast peacock, and the jowl of a sturgeon, sourced. These, and a piece of roast beef, formed the principal dishes. The attendance at the royal table comprised such gentlemen as Warsaw Richard Houghton's liveries, and among these, of course, were Nicholas Asherton and Sherbourne. On seeing the former, the king immediately inquired about his deliverer, and on hearing he was at the lower tables, desired he might be sent for, and as Richard soon afterwards appeared, having on his return from the chase changed his somber apparel for gay retire, James smiled graciously upon him, and more than once, as a mark of special favour, took the wine-cup from his hands. The king did ample justice to the good things before him, and especially to the beef, which he found so excellent, that the carver had to help him for the second time. So Richard Houghton ventured to express his gratification, that his magistre found the meat good. Indeed, it is generally admitted, he said, that our Lancashire beef is well-fed and well-flavoured. Real-flavoured! explained James, as he swallowed the last juicy morsel, it is delicious, finer beef ne' man ever put teeth into, and I only wish all my loving subjects had as good a dinner as I had this day eaten. What joint do you call it, so Richard? he asked, with eyes evidently twinkling with a premeditated jest. This dish, replied the host, somewhat surprised, this sour is a loin of beef. A loin! exclaimed James, taking the carving-knife from the sour, who stood by. By my faith, that is not title honourable enough for joint so worthy. It wants a dignity, and it shall have it. Henceforth, he added, touching the meat with the flat of the long blade, as if placing the sword on the back of a night-expectant, henceforth it shall be sir loin, and see you call it, say. Give me a cup of wine, Master Richard Ascherton. All the nobles at the table laughed loudly at the monarch's jest, and as it was soon passed down to those at the lower table, the hall resounded with laughter, in which page and the tendon of every degree joined, to the great satisfaction of the good nature the originator of the merriment. Note. There is a laughable tradition, said Nichols, still generally current in Lancashire, that our night-making monarch, knighted at a banquet in Houghton Tower and loin of beef, the part ever since called the sir loin, and it is added by the same authority, if the king did not give the sir loin its name, he might not withstanding have indulged in a pun on the already coined word, the etymology of which was, at then, as now, as little regarded as the thing signified is well approved. Nichols' progress of James I. Volume III My dear dad and gossip appears in unwanted good spirits to-day, observed the Duke of Buckingham. Ah, we good reason, Stiney, replied the king, though he did not mind when we had better sport, other always accepting the bore-hunt, when we should have been rifted up by the cursed creaser's tusks. But for this braw, laddie, he added, pointing to Richard, You don't see what can be done for him, Stiney, we munt him at gut. Your Majesty's wishes have only to be expressed to be fulfilled, replied Buckingham, somewhat dryly. Where I, the lad, I wouldn't have placed so on Michael's dependence on the Duke's promises, remarked Archie Armstrong in a low tone to Nicholas. There's your Majesty made any further inquiries about the girl suspected of witchcraft, inquired Buckingham, renewing the conversation. Ah, wished, Stiney, wished, cried James. Didn't you see her you sold this morning? He added, in a low tone, Ah, I recollect you weren't there at the chase. A wheel I had conferred with her, and I am serperplexed in the matter. She's a well-fair lassie as any in the realm, and answers decorously and doustly. Such to say, her looks and manners are mightily in her favour. Then you mean to dismiss the matter without further investigation? Observed Buckingham, I always thought your Majesty delighted to exercise your sagacity in detecting the illusions practiced by Satan and his worshippers. Ah, say we do, replied James, but bend your bonny head this way till we whisper in your ear. We hire device for finding it all out, which can fail. And when you can it, you'll applaud your Beardad's wisdom and perfect mastery of the whole science of kingcraft. I wish your Majesty would make me acquainted with this notable scheme, replied Buckingham, with ill-conceived contempt. I might make it more certain of success. Then we shall not let the cut out of the bug just yet. Returned the king. We mean it as a surprise to you. Then whatever be the result, it is certain to answer the effect intended. Observed Duke. Gave, will you ever sceptical steen, you have of misdoting your endeared other than gossip? rejoined James. But you shall find we henna earn the title of the British Solomon for nothing. Soon after this the king arose and was ushered to his apartments by Sir Richard Houghton, with the same ceremony as had been observed on his entrance. He was followed by all the nobles, and Nicholas and the others being released from their duties who repaired to the lower end of the hall to Dine. The revel was now sufficiently boisterous, for as the dames had departed at the same time as the monarch, all restraint was cast aside. The wine-cup flowed freely, and the rafters rang with laughter. Under ordinary circumstances Richard would have shrunk from such a scene, but he now had a part to play, and therefore essayed to laugh at each jest, and to appear as reckless as his neighbours. He was glad, however, when the signal for general dispersion was given, for those of Richard Houghton was unwilling to stint his guests. He was fearful, if they sat too long over their wine, some disturbances might ensue, and indeed, when the revelers came forth and dispersed within the base-court, their flushed cheeks, loud voices, and unsteady gate showed that their potations had already been deep enough. Meanwhile, quite as much mirth was taking place out of doors as had occurred within the banqueting hall. As soon as the king sat down to dinner, according to promise the gates were thrown open, and the crowd outside admitted. The huge roast was then taken down, carved, and distributed among them, the only difficulty experienced being in regard to trenches, and various, and extraordinary, were the contrivances resorted to to supply the deficiency. This circumstance, however, served to heighten the fun, and as several casks of stout ale were broached at the same time, universal hilarity prevailed. Still, in the midst of so vast a concourse, many component parts of which had now began to experience the effects of the potent liquor, some little manifestation of disorder might naturally be expected, but all such was speedily quelled by the omen of the guard, and other officials appointed for the purpose, and amidst the uproar and confusion, harmony generally prevailed. While elbowing his way through the crowd, Nicholas felt his sleeve plucked, and turning perceived Nance Redfern, who signed him to follow her, and there was something in her manner that left him no alternative but compliance. Nance passed on rapidly, and entered the doorway of a building where it might be supposed they would be free from interruption. What do you want me, me, Nance? asked the squire, somewhat impatiently, and most begged to observe that I cannot be troubled farther on your account, and I'm greatly afraid as Persians may be thrown on my character if I'm seen talking with you. I throw words with me when I injure your character, squire, rejoin, Nance, and it's on your account that no one on my own that I have brought you here. I have important information to give you. What when you say, when I tell you, that Jem device, Elizabeth device, and her daughter, Yenid, are here? Breathing mischief again you, Richard Ascherton, and I listen. The devil, ejaculated Nicholas, and you'll find it the devil, I can promise you, unless their plans be frustrated, said Nance. That can be easily be done, replied Nicholas, I'll cause them to be arrested at once. Nene, that cannot be. Rejoin, Nance, your mind hides your time. What, and allow such miscreants to go at large and work any malice they please against me and my friends? Replied Nicholas, show me where they are, Nance, or I must take you a prisoner. Nene, you wouldn't do that, squire, she replied, in the tone of good human defiance. You wouldn't do it for two good reasons. First, because you'd be arming the friend who wants to serve you, and when do so, if you'll let her. And second, because if you were to raise a finger again me, I'd deprive you of speech and notion. When the right moment comes you shouldn't strike. But it's ne'er come yet. The throat is ne'er ripe enough to gather. I'm as anxious as you can be that the whole of the Dendak road should be swept away, and it shall be if you'll leave it to me. Well, I commit the matter entirely to you, said Nicholas. Apparently it cannot be in better hands. But are you aware that Christopher Dendak's a prisoner here in Upton Tower? He was taken this morning in the park. I know it, replied Nance, and I know also why he went there, and it were my intention to reveal his black design to you. However, it's been ordered differently. But in respect to others, wait till I give you the signal. They're disguised, but even if you see them and recognise them, don't let it appear till I give you the word, or you'll spoil all. Eh, your injunction shall be obeyed implicitly, Nance, rejoined Nicholas. I now have perfect reliance upon you. But when shall I say you again? That depends on the circumstances, she replied. To Nate, maybe, maybe to modern Nate. My plans won't be guided by those of others. But when next you'll seek me, you'll have to act. And without waiting an answer, she rushed out of the doorway, and mingling with the crowd was instantly lost to view, while Nicholas, full of the intelligence he had received, betalked himself slowly to his lodgings. Scarcely were they gone, when a door which had been standing ajar near them was opened wide, and disclosed the keen visage of master-pots. Here's a pretty plot-hatching. Here's a nice discovery I've made. So little requires the attorney. The whole Dendite family, with the exception of the old witch herself, whom I saw burnt on Pendle Hill, are at out-and-tower. This shall be made known to the King. I'll have Nicholas Ashton rested at once, and the woman with him whom I recognize as Nance Redfern. It will be a wonderful stroke, and will raise me highly in his majesty's estimations. Yet, stay. Will not this interfere with my other plans, rich Enid? Let me reflect. I must go cautiously to work. Besides, if I cause Nicholas to be arrested, Nance will escape, and then I shall have no clue as to the others. No, no, I must watch Nicholas closely, and take upon myself all the credit of the discovery. Perhaps, through jenit, I may be able to detect their disguises. That's all, if hence I will keep a sharp look out. Affairs are now drawing to a close, and I have only like aware and experienced fowler to lay my nets cleverly to catch the whole covey, and with these ruminations he likewise went forth into the base court. The rest of the day was one round of festivity and enjoyment, in which all classes participated. There were trials of skill and strength, running, wrestling, and cudgling matches, with an infinite variety of country games and shows. Towards five o'clock a rush-car decked with flowers and ribbons, and bestridden by men bearing garlands, was drawn up in front of the central building of the tower, in an open window of which sat James, a well-pleased spectator of the different pastimes going forward, and several lively dances were executed by a troupe of male and female Morris dancers, accompanied by a taber and pipe. But though this show was sufficiently attractive, it lacked the spirit of that performed at Whaley, while the character of Maid Marian, which then found so charming a representative in Allison, was now personated by a man, and if Nicholas Ascherton, who was among the bystanders, was not deceived, that man was Jem Device. Enraged by this discovery the squire was about to seize the Ruffian, but calling to mind Nancy's counsel he refrained, and Jem, if indeed it were he, retired with a large S bestowed by the Royal Hand, as a reward for his uncouth gambles. The Rushcart and Morris dancers having disappeared, another drolery was exhibited, called The Fool and His Five Sons, the names of the hopeful offspring of the sapient sire being Pickle Herring, Blue Hose, Pepper Hose, Ginger Hose, and Jack Allspice. The humour of this piece, though not particularly refined, seemed to be appreciated by the audience generally, as well as by the monarch, who laughed heartily at its coarse buffoonery. Next followed the plough and sword dance, the principal act as being a number of grotesque figures armed with swords, some of whom were yoked to a plough on which sat a piper playing lustily while dragged along. The plough was guided by a man clothed in a bare skin with a fur cap on his head, and a long tail like that of a lion dangling behind him. In this hirsuit personage, who was intended to represent the wood demon, Hobhurst, Nicholas again detected gem-device, and again was strongly tempted to disobey Nancy's instructions and denounce him, the rather that he recognised in an attendant female, in a fantastic dress, the Ruffian's mother, Elizabeth, but he once more desisted. As soon as the mum has arrived in front of the king, the dance began. With their swords held upright, the party took hands and wheeled rapidly round the plough, keeping time to a merry measure played by the piper, who still maintained his seat. Suddenly the ring was enlarged to double its former size, each man extending his sword to his neighbour, who took hold of the point, after which a hexagonal figure was formed, all the blades being brought together. The swords were then quickly withdrawn, flashing like sunbeams, and a four-square figure was presented. The dancers vaulting actively over each other's heads. Other variations succeeded, not necessary to be specified, and the sport concluded by a general clashing of swords, intended to represent a melee. Meanwhile Nicholas had been joined by Richard Asherton, and the latter was not long in detecting the two devices through their disguises. On making this discovery he mentioned it to the squire, and was surprised to find him already aware of the circumstance, and not less astonished when he was advised to let them alone, the squire adding that he was unable at that time to give his reasons for such counsel, but being good and conclusive, Richard would be satisfied of their propriety hereafter. The young man, however, thought otherwise, and notwithstanding his relative's attempt to dissuade him, announced his intention of causing the parties to be arrested at once, and with this design he went in search of an officer of the guard, that the capture might be affected without disturbance. But the throng was so close round the dance that he could not pierce it, and being compelled to return and take another course, he got nearer to the mazy ring, and was unceremoniously pushed aside by the mammas. At this moment both his arms were forcibly grasped, and a deep voice on the right whispered in his ear, While similar counsel was given him in other equally menacing tones, though in a different key on his left. Richard would have shaken off his assailants, and seized them in his turn, but power to do so was wanting to him. For the moment he was deprived of speech and motion, but whilst thus situated he felt that the sapphire ring given him by the king was snatched from his finger by the first speaker, whom he knew to be gem-device, while a fearful spell was muttered over him by Elizabeth. As this occurred at the time when the rattling of the swords engaged the whole attention of the spectators, no one noticed what was going forward except Nicholas, and before he could get up to the young man, the two miscreants were gone, nor could anyone tell what had become of them. How the wretches doneer mischief, asked the squire in a low tone of Richard, They have stolen the king's ring which I meant to use on Allison's behalf, replied the young man, who by this time had recovered his speech. Yeah, that's unlucky indeed, said Nicholas, but we can defeat any ill-design they may attend by acquaintance of John Finney with the circumstance. Take and pay, said the voice in his ear, the time is not yet gone. The squire did not look round, for he well knew that the caution proceeded from Nan's red-firm, and accordingly he observed to Richard, tarry a while and you'll be amply avenged, and with this assurance the young man was feigned to be content. Just then a trumpet was sounded, and a herald stationed on the summit of the broad flight of steps leading to the great hall proclaimed in a loud voice that a tilting match was about to take place between Archie Armstrong, Jester to his most gracious majesty, and Davy Drowman, who filled the same honorable office to his grace the Duke of Buckingham, and that a pair of gilt-heeled Chopins would be the reward of the successful combatant. This announcement was received with cheers and preparations were instantly made for the mock tourney. A large circle being formed by the yeoman of the guard, with an alley leading to it on either side, the two combatants mounted on gaudy, comparison hobby-horses rode into the ring. Both were armed to the teeth, each having a dish-cover braced around him in lieu of a breastplate, a newly scarred brass poringer on his head, a large pewter-platter instead of a buckler, and a spit with a bung on the point to prevent mischief in place of a lance. The Duke's jester was an obese little fellow, and his appearance in this warlike gear was so eminently ridiculous that it provoked rows of laughter, while Archie was scarcely less ridiculous. After coveting round the arena in imitation of knights of chivalry and performing their careers, their prankers, their false trots, their smooth ambles, and canterbury paces, the two champions took up a position opposite each other, with difficulty, as it seemed, reigning in their pouring charges, and awaited the signal of attack to be given by Sir John Finnet, the judge of the tournament. This was not long delayed, and the laissez-aller being pronounced, the prouche-a-valiers started forward with so much fury and so little discretion, that meeting halfway with a tremendous shock and butting against each other like two rams, both were thrown violently backwards, exhibiting amid the shouts of all the spectators their heels no longer hidden by the trappings of their steeds, kicking in the air. Encumbered as they were, some little time elapsed before they could regain their feet, and their lances having been removed in the meantime, by order of Sir John Finnet as being weapons of too dangerous a description for such truculent combatants, they attacked each other with their broad leavened daggers, dealing sounding blows upon home, halberdion, and shield, but doing little personal mischief. The strife raged furiously for some time, and as the champions appeared pretty well matched, it was not easy to say how it would terminate, when chance seemed to decide in favour of David Drowman, for in dealing a heavier blow than usual, Archie's dagger snapped in twain, leaving him at the mercy of his opponent. On this, the doubty Davy, crowing lustily like a shanticleer, called upon him to yield, but Archie was so wroth at his misadventure, that instead of complying he sprang forward, and with the hilt of his broken weapon dealt his elated opponent a severe blow on the side of the head, not only knocking off the porringer, but stretching him on the ground beside it. The punishment he had received was enough for poor Davy. He made no attempt to rise, and Archie, crowing in his turn, trampling on the body of his prostrate foe, and then capering joyously around it, was declared the victor, and received the guilt-chopings from the judge, amidst the laughter and acclimations of the beholders. With this the public sports concluded, and as evening was drawing on a pace, such of the guests as were not invited to pass the night within the tower took their departure. While shortly afterwards supper being served in the banqueting hall, on a scale of profusion and magnificence, quite equal to the earlier repast, the king and the hull of his train sat down to it.