 Chapter 30 of the Star Chamber and Historical Romance, Volume 2. This is a LibriVox recording. A LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org, recording by Dion Giants, Salt Lake City, Utah. The Star Chamber and Historical Romance, Volume 2 by William Harrison Ainsworth, Chapter 30. How the Marriage was Interrupted After the presentation of the silver casket, as before described, the whole of the bridal party, with the exception of Avalon, who contrived to remain behind, passed on into the adjoining chamber where the priest was understood to be in waiting to perform the marriage ceremony. Apprehensive of the consequences of the discovery, which must inevitably be soon made, Avalon would have flown back to her own room, but was deterred from the strange noises and confusion she heard within it. Uncertain how to act, she at last resolved upon attempting an escape from the house and was hurrying forward in the hope of gaining the corridor unperceived, but the sound of voices outside again drove her back, and in this new dilemma she had nothing left but to take refuge behind the tapestry covering the walls, which, being fortunately loose and hanging upon the ground, effectually concealed her. Scarcely was she screened from observation in this manner when the door was thrown open, and a crowd of young gallants evidently from their bearing and the richness of their attire of high rank entered the apartment. Without exposing herself, Avalon was enabled, through the folds of the tapestry, to command a view of what was going forward. The youthful nobles, for such they were, who had just come in, were laughing loudly, and their jests were chiefly at the expense of the old userer whose marriage they had been invited to attend. After looking round for a moment, as if in search of someone to direct them wither to go, the foremost of them clapped his hands, where upon the thick curtains, which, in lieu of a door, guarded the entrance to the other room, were drawn aside, and disclosed a group of persons collected together within that chamber. In the midst of them were the bride and bridegroom, the former still enveloped in her veil, together with the priest and his assistant. At this site the band of youthful nobles set up a shout of laughter and rushed tumultuously forward, while the curtains, dropping to their place, closed upon the scene. Presently the outer door again opened, and this time to admit three persons, all of whom were magnificently dressed, and apparently of yet higher rank than those who had preceded them. As they were masked, their features could not be discerned, but they were all distinguished by rare personal grace. One of them indeed was remarkable for symmetry of figure, and his finely proportioned limbs were arrayed in habiliments of the most splendid material, adorned with pearls and precious stones, and richly embroidered. Yet he did not seem to hold the chief place among them. That, by common consent, seemed accorded to a young man, clad in black velvet, who, by the majesty of his deportment, and the gravity of his manner, appeared to exercise a certain sway over his companions, and to be treated by them when he spoke with marked respect. The third individual was habited in a Spanish cloak of Murray velvet, lined with cloth of silver, branched with Murray flowers, and wore a chain of gold richly set with precious stones round his neck, from which depended the order of the golden fleece. There was something in the presence of these three important personages that gave Evelyn a feeling of security, such as she had not experienced since her forcible detention by the two extortioners, and she almost felt inclined to throw herself at the feet of the one who appeared to be the principal of them and solicit his protection. But before she could execute her half-form design, the party had approached the entrance of the nuptial chamber, and the curtain being raised for their admittance excluded them for the moment from her view. All now appearing quiet, she again ventured from her hiding place and speeded towards the door, communicating with the gallery. But her departure was unexpectedly interrupted by the sudden entrance of another masked personage, tall in stature, and habited entirely in black, and in him she could not fail to recognize the messenger employed by Sir Giles Mompesson to bring her in the first instance to his habitation. Circumstances had subsequently occurred to induce her to change her opinion respecting this mysterious individual. Nevertheless his appearance at this juncture would have caused her to utter a cry of terror if she had not been reassured by the timely appearance of one upon whom she had reliance, and who raised his finger to his lips in token of silence. This was Luke Hatton, who at the very moment that lanyer appeared, issued from the chamber where the marriage ceremony was being performed. Be not alarmed, fair maiden, said lanyer, in a low voice. You are in no danger, and all your troubles, I trust, are well nigh ended. I thought you were in the marriage chamber. Give me your hand. You must assist at the mock ceremonial, taking place within there. I have no time for explanations, and indeed they are needless, since all will be speedily made clear to you. Devest yourself, I pray you, of this muffler. It is part of my plan that your features should now be revealed. You will understand why anon. With this he led her quickly towards the entrance of the inner chamber, and pushing aside the curtain, advanced a few steps beyond it, still holding her by the hand, and followed by Luke Hatton. The apartment, which was of considerable size and splendidly furnished, was full of wedding guests grouped around that portion of it, which was railed off for the accommodation of those more immediately connected with the ceremonial, amongst whom, as a matter of course, was Sir Giles Mompesson. Somewhat apart from the others were the three important persons who had arrived last, and the most exalted among them was seated on a raised chair contemplating the scene, while his companions stood near him. They had now taken off their masks, and even in that agitating moment Avalon recognized in the trio the Marquis of Buckingham, the Condé de Gondemare and Prince Charles. All the rest of the company remained standing, and some of the young nobles formed a small semi-circle behind the royal chair. Lanier's entrance with his fair companion could not have been better timed. They arrived at the particular juncture when Sir Francis, having presented the wedding ring to the priest, was in the act of receiving it back from him in order that it might be placed upon the finger of the bride, and the noise made by the promoter, who still wore his wizard, drew all eyes upon him, and upon the damsel by whom he was accompanied. A smile of intelligence passed between Prince Charles and Buckingham, and some remark was made by the latter, to which the Prince replied by a gesture, seeming to intimate that the interruption was not altogether unexpected by him. De Gondemare's looks also betrayed that he was likewise in the secret. Others of the company laughed, as if in anticipation of a jest, but the majority looked surprised, but none so much so as Sir Giles Montesson. As his eye fell upon the dark and ominous figure of Lanier, and shifted from him to Avalon, he appeared transported with rage, and dashing the ring from the hand of the astonished bridegroom, who, having his back toward the newcomers, was unaware of what was going forward, exclaimed, proceed no further. We have been deceived. Look there. Where? Where? cried Sir Francis. What is the matter, Sir Giles? You quite terrify me with your fierce looks. Help me to pick up the ring, and let the ceremony go on. It is well for you that it is not completed, replied Sir Giles, almost black in the face with color. You know not whom you are about to wed, but we will soon see. Off with your veil, Minion. Off with it, I say. Sir Giles, I will not permit this liberty, cried the old user. You shall not touch her. Whom should it be but my own dear, delectable Avalon? Look round, I say, and credit your own eyes, since you doubt my assertions, roared Sir Giles. Ten thousand furies, ejaculated Sir Francis, as he complied with the injunction. Why, there she is, in good truth, when I thought she was by my side. Whom, then, have I been about to take to my bosom? It matters not, replied Sir Giles. She, you desired, to wed, is yonder, and must take the other's place. That is, but I forget, he added, suddenly checking himself and lowering his tone. Not can be done, except according to rule, in this presence, your vanity must needs be gratified by bringing together all this courtly company to witness your marriage, and now they will only mock you. Sir Death, you are right, Sir Giles, rejoined the old user. I am become a mere laughing-stock to my guests. But at least I will see my false brides' features. You hear what I say, Madame, he added to Julian. Let me behold your face without more ado. As he uttered the command, the damsel threw off her veil, and stood blushing, half smiling, and half abashed, before the assemblage. Her natural charms, heightened by her attire, and by the peculiar situation in which she was placed, elicited general admiration. As I live, tis the pretty tire-woman, from Tottenham, engaged by Luke Hatten, to attend on Avalon, cried Sir Francis. But for heaven I have gained by the exchange. I like her better than the other, and will go through with the ceremony. Proceed, Sir Priest. At this declaration there was a shout of laughter from the assemblage, but the merriment was increased when DeGondemar, stepping up to the bride, said, I forbid the marriage, she belongs to me. But my claim is paramount to that of your excellency, cried the old userer. I cannot admit it, rejoined the other. Let the damsel decide for herself. Then I will accept neither, said Julian. Dick Taverner is already master of my heart, and no one but he shall have my hand. I have been brought here to play a part on the clear understanding that nothing serious was to come of it. And nothing serious shall come of it, fair maiden, said Prince Charles. I promise that on my princely faith. Then indeed I am easy, replied Julian, inclining herself reverentially towards the royal speaker. At this juncture, Sir Giles' mom peasant, who had been hitherto restrained by the presence of the royal guest, from any violent measures, was advancing with menacing looks towards Lanier, when the attention of Charles being directed to his movements by Buckingham, the prince instantly arose, and in a tone of authority not to be disputed, said, Not a step further, Sir Giles, I will take care that all needful explanations be given. But your highness cannot be aware that this is a heinous offender and traitor rejoined Sir Giles, pointing to Lanier. I was about to take means to prevent his escape. He has no intention of escaping, rejoined Charles, and I forbid anyone to leave this apartment without my permission. Will your highness suffer me to relieve this fair creature from the embarrassing position in which she is placed, said DeGondemire? The youth she has mentioned, and to whom she declares her affections are given, was confined in the fleet prison for an attack on me. But on my representation of the matter to the king, your father, his majesty's gracious consent was immediately accorded for his liberation. I am aware of it count, replied Prince Charles, but your highness may not be aware that the poor fellow is without pursued the ambassador. Will it please you to allow him to be brought in? The prince assented, on which DeGondemire, signed to Luke Hatton, who seemed waiting for the order, and disappearing for a moment, returned with the apprentice. Though evidently prepared for the scene that awaited him, and not overburdened with modesty, Dick Taverner could not help exhibiting considerable confusion. But the sight of his mistress somewhat restored him, and he pressed towards her. Sir Francis, however, stepped between them, exclaiming, Get hence, base Varlet, she is my wife. No such thing, cried Gillian. The ceremony has only been half performed. I am not married. I am yours, and yours only, dear sweet DeGondemire. You never shall be his. You are mine, exclaimed the old userer. I implore his highness the prince to let the marriage go forward. Nay, I shall not allow any compulsion to be placed on the damsel's inclinations, replied Charles, and able to repress a smile. She must choose for herself. In that case, your highness, my choice is soon made, replied Gillian, taking her lover's hand. And honest Dickon need not be under any alarm at such part of the marriage as has already taken place, observed DeGondemire. It has been a mock ceremonial throughout. This is no priest, but one of my lord of Buckingham's grooms, employed for the occasion. Then I have been a dupe all this time, cried Sir Francis furiously. Oh, per-blind dolt that I am! But he met with no commiseration from the assemblage who only laughed at his rage and absurd grimaces. Neil, and thank his highness for his goodness, said DeGondemire to the young couple, and then, if he will give you leave to do so, depart at once. Stay not a moment longer than you can help it in this house or in the neighborhood. Most assuredly I will not, your Excellency, returned Dick, it is much too near the fleet to be agreeable to me. I have to offer my heartfelt thanks to your Excellency for your kindly consideration of me, and I own that I have scarcely deserved it at your hands. Render your thanks, as I have said, to his highness, who is alone entitled to them, good fellow, said the ambassador. Take Jillian home to her grand sire, and wed her as soon as you can. She will need no dowry, he added, in a low tone, for she is already provided with thirty thousand marks. Honestly, come by, I hope, your Excellency, inquired Dick. I, I, thou suspicious blockhead, do as I have bidden thee, and get hence, more remains to be done to which thou art a hindrance. On this the young couple prostrated themselves before Prince Charles, who graciously gave his hand to Jillian to kiss, and then motioning them to rise, they were allowed to quit the room. Luke Hatton saw them safe out of the house, and very well it was he accompanied them, for they had many obstacles to encounter. Before quitting them, the apothecary delivered up the silver casket to Dick, bidding him take good care of it, as it contained his intended wife's dowry. Meanwhile, Sir Giles Mompesson, who had with difficulty controlled his impatience during the incidents previously described, advanced towards Prince Charles, and with a profound reverence said, Will it please your highness to terminate this idle scene, which, though apparently amusing to the company assembled, is by no means so entertaining to Sir Francis and myself? You shall have your wish, sir, rejoined Charles, in a stern tone, and with a freezing look, that seemed of ill, augury to the extortioner. It is my intention to terminate the scene. Stand forth, Clement Lanier, and let me hear what you have to declare in reference to this man. Hereupon the promoter, consigning Avalon to the care of a gentleman who advanced towards her for the purpose, and respectfully took her hand, stepped forward, and, removing his mask, confronted his enemy. End of Chapter 30 Chapter 31 of the Star Chamber and Historical Romance, Volume 2 This is a LibriVox recording. A LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org, recording by Dion Giants, Salt Lake City, Utah. The Star Chamber and Historical Romance, Volume 2 by William Harrison Ainsworth, Chapter 31 Accusations By this time a very different complexion had been imparted to the scene. The interruption of the marriage ceremony and the perplexities of the old user tricked out of his intended bride and bereft even of her substitute had afforded abundant amusement to the company, who, so far from feeling pity for the sufferer, seemed fastly to enjoy his mortification and disappointment. But all laughter died away, and every tongue became suddenly mute as Prince Charles, assuming the severe look and dignified deportment of a judge, commanded Clement Lanier to stand forward and prefer the charges he had to make against Sir Giles Mompesson. All eyes were fixed upon the extortioner and his accuser, and though etiquette prevented the company from advancing to nearer the royal seat, a dense semicircle was formed in front of it in the midst of which stood the two principal actors in the drama about to take place, together with the discomfited Sir Francis Mitchell. Sir Giles Mompesson was not without great misgivings. He saw that his case was already prejudged by the Prince, and the glance of inquiry with which he had consulted his patron, the Marquis of Buckingham, and which was answered by a cold menacing regard convinced him that little support was to be expected in that quarter. Nevertheless, though he felt himself inconsiderable jeopardy, he allowed no look or gesture indicative of uneasiness to escape him, and the courage that had borne him through many a trial still remained unshaken. Not so Sir Francis Mitchell. He also perceived the perilous position in which he and his partner were placed, and his abject manner showed how thoroughly he was daunted. Look wherever he would, he found no sympathy, everyone derided his distress. But far more than the two extortioners did their accuser command attention as he cast off his mask and displayed his appalling features, a thrill of surprise and horror pervaded such of the assemblage as had never seen them before. But the feeling was speedily lost in wonder, drawing himself up to his full height so that his lofty figure towered above those with whom he was confronted. He seemed to dart lightning glances against them. Even Sir Giles could not bear his scathing looks, and would have shielded himself from them if he could. Though fearful to behold, Lanyard's countenance had a terrible purpose impressed upon it which none could mistake. The effect produced by his appearance upon the spectators was shared even by Prince Charles, and a few minutes elapsed before the silence was broken. At length the Prince again spoke. I sit here, he said, as the representative of the Majesty of England, clothed with the authority of my royal father, and prepared to exercise it as he would do were he present in person. But though this seat is erected into a tribunal before which accusations against wrongdoers can be brought and sentence upon them pronounced, still whatever charges are now made and against whomsoever they may be preferred, those charges will have to be repeated to the lords of the Council of the Star Chamber before whom the accused will be taken. And any judgment now given will have to be confirmed by that high and honorable court. Of late the course of justice has been too often baffled and turned aside by the craft and subtlety of certain powerful and audacious offenders. Hence it has been the wish of the King's Highness in order that the laws may no longer be broken with impunity, that certain preliminary inquiries and investigations should be made on the spot itself where it is alleged that the crimes and misdemeanors have been committed. And according to the evidence afforded such measures as may be deemed fitting taken against the wrongdoers, all present have witnessed this mock ceremonial and have laughed at its conclusion. But mirth will be changed to indignation when it is known that the intended marriage was the result of a vile conspiracy on the part of Sir Giles Mompesson and Sir Francis Mitchell against a young, virtuous and unprotected maiden whose beauty had inflamed the breast of the elder. And it might have been expected, from that circumstance, the wiser of the two, into the details of their infamous scheme it will not be necessary now to enter, and it may suffice to say that the devoted attachment of the damsel to another was wholly disregarded. While the basest means were employed to induce her consent to a match so abhorrent to her feelings as must have been that with Sir Francis failing in this, however, the two conspirators went yet further. They forcibly carried off the maiden from her own dwelling and detained her against her will within this house till, by their arts, they imagined they had gained their point and that a love potion would accomplish all for them, that their persuasions and fair promises were unable to affect. But the damsel was guarded from all ill by an unseen friend, and the weapons of the conspirators were turned against themselves. You have witnessed how they have been duped, and as no mischief has resulted from this infamous endeavor, the mortification they have endured may be taken as part punishment of the offence. Stand forward, fair mistress Evelyn, Calvally, and substantiate what I have just declared. Thus adjured the maiden approached within a few paces of the prince and, having made a lowly salutation, said, All that your highness has advanced concerning me is correct. Enough, fair mistress, rejoined Charles, how say you, sirs, he continued in a stern tone to the two extortioners. Do you confess your guilt and sue for pardon? If so, down on your knees before this injured damsel and implore her forgiveness. A prey to violent terror, the old usurer instantly adopted the supplicatory posture recommended by the prince, but Sir Giles refused compliance. Having committed no offence, I sue for no pardon, he said, with his wanted audacity. I repel the charge with indignation, and in my turn accuse Clement Lanier and Luke Hatten of a conspiracy against me. This damsel is but their tool, as I will show if your highness will deign to give ear to me. It were mere waste of time to listen to idle fabrications, replied Charles. The evidence against you is complete, and my opinion upon it is formed. But what sayeth the maiden herself, is she willing that any grace be shown her persecutors? The redress I have already obtained at the hands of your highness is amply sufficient, replied Evelyn. Great as has been the misery these two persons have occasioned me, and grievously, as they have sought to injure me, I seek no further satisfaction. But would implore your highness to pardon them? Their own thoughts will be punishment enough. Amply sufficient, for nothing can be more bitter, cried the old usurer, while a scornful smile curled Sir Giles' lips. Spoken, as I expected, you would speak, fair maiden, said Charles, and were there nothing else against them? I might listen to your kindly intercessions, but other and darker disclosures have to be made, and when you have heard all, even your compassionate breast may be steeled against them. Retire for a moment, but do not leave the room, your presence may yet be needed. And bowing graciously to Evelyn, she withdrew under the care of the gentleman who had brought her forward, but still remained a spectatrous of the scene. And now, to proceed with the investigation, pursued Charles, what have you to allege against the two persons before you, he added, to Clément Lanier. Were I to relate all their enormities, most gracious prince, replied the promoter, the recital would be too painful for your hearing and that of this noble assemblage. But I will, in a word, declare that there is no kind of outrage, oppression, and extortion of which they have not been guilty. Their insatiable greediness has been fed by constant plunder, and alike cruel and rapacious nothing but the ruin and absolute destruction of their victims would content them. Merciless as creditors, they have ground their unfortunate debtors to the dust. The tears of the widow they have robbed of her husband and her means of existence. The despair of the orphan, whose fair prospects they have blighted, have failed to move them. They are literally unscrupulous as to the means of obtaining possession of property. They have forged wills, deeds, and other documents. Their ingenuity has been taxed to devise new means of unjust gain. And imposing upon the king's majesty by false representations, they have succeeded in obtaining his letters patent for certain monopolies which they have so shamefully abused as to bring his sovereign authority into discredit. Hold, cried Sir Giles Mompesson, to the first vague and general accusations brought against me and my co-patentee by this branded trader who, having been publicly punished for falsehood and libel, cannot be received as a witness. I have deigned no answer conceiving such accusations cannot be for a moment entertained by you, most gracious prince. But to this specific charge I give a flat denial and demand proof of it. I appeal to the most noble marquee of Buckingham, through whose interest Sir Francis Mitchell and myself obtained those patents for the licenses of inspection of ends and hostilities as well as for the manufacture of gold and silver lace, whether he has ever heard ought to our disparagement in our conduct of them. Do not appeal to me, sir, replied Buckingham coldly. Sir Giles has demanded proof of my charge, and I am prepared to produce it, said Lanier. As to the vagueness of my accusations, Your Highness will judge of that when the full catalogue of the offenses of these two extortioners with the damnatory proofs of them shall be laid before you. This memorial, signed by nearly the whole of the sufferers from their exactions perpetrated by means of the monopolies, will satisfy Your Highness of the truth of my statement, but I have also a witness to call. A witness here, muttered Sir Giles uneasily, this must be a deeply concerted scheme. Before you bring forward anyone, said Charles, addressing Lanier, Sir Giles must be set right on one point in which he is in error. Your credibility is not to be disputed, and I accept your testimony against him. Your Highness, cried the extortioner. Peace, sir, you shall be heard anon, said Charles. Produce your witness, he added to Lanier. At a sign from the promoter, Luke Hatten, who was standing near the doorway, stepped behind the tapestry and almost immediately reappearing with Madame Bonaventure, led her towards the Prince, before whom she prostrated herself. Arise, Madame, said Charles graciously. Your features are not unfamiliar to me. Me thinks you are the hostess of the French ordinary at the tavern of the three cranes in the ventry. Your Highness is in the right. I am, Madame Bonaventure. At Your Highness's service, replied the hostess, enchanted at this recognition on the part of the Prince. My Lord of Buckingham, I am well persuaded, will condescend to speak to the merits and respectability of my establishment. In sooth will I, good hostess, replied the Marquis. I can give your Bordeaux my heartiest commendation, to the best in London. Nay, I can speak to it myself and to the good order of the house to, having visited the tavern incognito, remarked the Prince, smiling. Is it possible? exclaimed Madame Bonaventure rapturously. Have I been so greatly honoured? Mandeu, and not to be aware of it. I must remind you of the cause of your appearance here, Madame Bonaventure, said Lanier. You are required to depose before His Highness as to the exactions you suffered from Sir Giles and his partner. His Highness shall hear all from me, rejoined the hostess. I should have been reduced to beggary had I submitted to their extortionate usage. I bore it as long as I could. But when absolute ruin stared me in the face, I had recourse to a noble friend who helped me in my extremity and delivered me by a stratagem. It was a fraudulent scheme, cried Sir Giles, a fraud upon His Majesty as well as upon those who enjoyed the privileges conferred by His letters patent. That I can contradict, sir, said Buckingham, since I myself was present on the occasion and stated in the hearing of the large company then assembled, several of whom are now before us that His Majesty relinquished all share of the ruinous fine of three thousand marks imposed by you and your co-patentee upon this good woman. And I trust you added, my lord, that the king's highness would never knowingly consent to have his ex-chequer enriched by such shameful means, said Charles, with a look of indignation. These monopolies were not granted by His Majesty for the wrongful profit of their holders. And since they have been turned to such iniquitous use, I will take upon me to declare that they shall all be suppressed. Do you attempt to deny, he continued to Sir Giles, that this outrageous fine was imposed? It were useless to deny it, replied the extortioner, with a malicious look at Buckingham. But the noble Marquis has not always disapproved so strongly of my proceedings. Nay, I can show that he himself has been secretly a party to like transactions. Ah, villain exclaimed Buckingham, do you venture to calumniate your protector? I shall leave you to the fate you so richly merit. Your foul and false assertions cannot affect me, but they are not likely to improve your case with his highness, who though aware of its impotency, will perceive the extent of your malice. If you dared, I doubt not, you would likewise assert that His Majesty himself was cognizant of your frauds and oppressions and approve them. I do assert, and will maintain it, I and prove it too, that the king's highness was aware how these monopolies were managed and derived a considerable revenue from them, said Sir Giles. You hear him, Prince, remarked Buckingham, with a disdainful smile. I would not have believed in such matchless effrontery had I not witnessed it, replied Charles. You may retire, Madame. He said to the hostess, who with a profound reverence withdrew, have you ought further to declare or any other witnesses to produce? He continued to lanyer. I have both your highness, replied the promoter. What more false accusations have you to bring against me? demanded Sir Giles folding his arms upon his breast and fixing his keen gaze upon lanyer. His highness shall hear, replied the promoter. I have a multitude of cases which I could adduce in support of my charges, all of which will be mentioned in due season. But I shall now content myself with one, and from it the nature of the rest may be inferred. But let me premise that in the greater part of these cases, and in all the more important of them, where grievous and irreparable wrong has been committed, the engine employed by these crafty and dangerous men has been the star chamber. The star chamber, exclaimed Charles, bending his brows. Your highness will now perceive the drift of this cunning knave's argument, said Sir Giles. Through me and my partner all those actions will bear the strictest scrutiny. He would covertly attack that high and honorable court, whose dignity we have ever been most zealous to maintain. And his motive for doing so is because he has incurred its censure. When I have heard his precise charges, I will reply to them. I, one by one, if he will bring forward the multitude of cases, he affirms he can produce against me. But meanwhile I can fearlessly declare my innocence of the wrong imputed to me. If I have been to blame in those monopolies, I am not the only one in fault, as time will show. Nay, there are greater culprits than I, looking hard at Buckingham, who regarded him disdainfully. But I deny that I have done more than I can fully justify. As regards other matters, and the way in which my wealth has been acquired, I have acted only with caution, prudence, and foresight. Is it my fault that there are so many persons who, from various causes, will have money, no matter what they pay for it, if they apply to me under such circumstances, and ruin ensues to them, am I to blame? I lend monies as a usurer, all men know it, tis my vocation, and that of my partner. And my answer is his answer. We have done nothing beyond the law, and the law, which has hitherto supported us, will support us still to affirm that we have employed the highest court of the kingdom as an instrument of oppression and extortion, is an assertion too monstrous to obtain a moment's credit. The star chamber is too jealous of its honor not to resent the imputation, and such a charge will not escape its censure. Nevertheless, at whatever risk I repeat the accusation, rejoined Lanier, and my words will not be forgotten by his highness and by all others who hear them. I assert that Sir Giles Mompesson has subtly and designately perverted the practice of that high and honorable court, causing it to aid his schemes of rapacity and injustice and using it as a means of stifling the cries of his victims and working out his purposes of vengeance. Hitherto he has succeeded in masking his designs with so much skill that they have escaped detection. But when the mischief he has done under the mask of justice and the wrongs and cruelties he has perpetrated in the name of the law shall be fully made known, no punishment will be deemed commensurate to his crimes. It is chiefly he and his partner who, by their evil doings, have brought the star chamber into disrepute and made it a terror to all just men who have dreaded being caught within the toils woven around it by these infamous wretches, and the court will do well to purge itself of such villainies and make a terrible example of those who have so dishonored it. The star chamber will never desert its faithful servants and such we have been, said Sir Giles, say rather this serpents it has nourished in its bosom, rejoined Lanier. That to my case years ago a gentleman possessed of noble estates in Norfolk was unfortunate enough to have some dealings with these two users who thus becoming acquainted with his circumstances marked him for their prey. He borrowed a large sum of money from them. The loan was not obtained for himself but for a younger brother. Here the voice of the promoter was choked with emotion and a few moments elapsed before he could proceed. I have said that the money was borrowed not for himself but for a younger brother whose recklessness and extravagance had plunged him deeply in debt. Would that his too generous relative had left him to his fate and allowed him to rot in a dungeon, but he rescued him from it only to take his place in the end. From this sad epic may all the unfortunate gentleman's calamities be dated. Certain tidal deeds and other instruments had to be deposited with Sir Giles and his partner as security for repayment of the sum borrowed. They were never returned. On the contrary, under one plea or another all the deeds relating to the property were obtained from its unsuspecting owner and then a mortgage deed covering the whole estates was forged by them. "'Tis false!' exclaimed Sir Giles. "'Have I your highness's gracious promise of pardon to all accept the principles in these great offenses?' pursued Lanier. "'As it may materially serve the ends of justice that such promise should be given I do not hesitate to comply with your request,' replied Charles. "'In that case I shall be able to confound the villains with a witness whom they little expect to be produced against them,' replied Lanier. "'Let Lupo-Vulp be called,' he added. The summons was responded to as before by Luke Hatton and the next moment the ill-favored scrivener emerged from behind the tapestry and made his way through the assemblage who recoiled with abhorrence from him towards the prince. "'Who art thou?' demanded Charles. "'I am named Lupo-Vulp, your highness, and have for many years been a money scrivener in the employ of these two gentlemen,' replied the individual addressed. "'Thou knowest all their transactions,' said Charles. "'No man better,' answered Lupo, "'unless it be claimant Lanier. "'You remember a certain deed of mortgage from Sir Ferdinando Mountain Sea to your two employers?' said Lanier. "'I remember it perfectly,' returned the scrivener, "'as I should do, seeing I prepared it myself. "'During all this time Lupo-Vulp had kept his eyes upon the ground and had never dared to raise them towards Sir Giles, though he felt that the gaze of the latter was fixed upon him. "'Was Sir Ferdinando's signature attached to that deed?' demanded Lanier. "'Look at me, Lupo, ere thou answerest,' cried Sir Giles. "'Look at me well and take heed what thou sayest. "'Be not influenced by him,' interposed Charles. "'Look only at me and speak truly as thou valueest thy safety if thou hideest ought or falsifiest ought. "'The heaviest punishment await thee.' "'The hark ye, Lupo,' said Sir Giles, in a low tone, "'be warned by me, utter a word to my detriment and as surely as thou art suborned to injure me, I will hang thee. "'I can do so, as thou knowest.' "'Fear him not, Lupo,' said Lanier. "'Thou hast his highness's gracious promise of pardon. "'If my life be but spared, most gracious prince,' said the scrivener, falling on his knees and clasping his hands together in supplication, "'I will reveal all I know, touching the malpractices of these two persons. "'Speak, then, without fear,' said Charles. "'I repeat my question,' said Lanier, and demand an explicit answer to it. "'What was the nature of that deed?' "'It was a forgery,' replied the scrivener. "'Sir Ferdinando Mouchancy had nothing whatever to do with it. "'His signature was imitated from other deeds in the possession of my employers, "'and his seal was likewise fabricated. "'What do you say to this, sir?' said Charles, to Sir Giles. "'I deny it, as I do all the rest,' he replied. "'Tis a foul conspiracy against me, as will appear in the end. "'This is only one amongst many such frauds committed by them,' your highness,' said the scrivener. "'Since I have your gracious promise of pardon, "'I will make a clean breast of it and reveal all I know. "'Many and many a fair estate has been wrongfully rested "'from its owner in this way by forged deed or will. "'I will name all the parties to your highness. "'Hereafter I will listen to thee, rejoin Charles, motioning him to rise, "'but I shall now confine myself to the case immediately before me.' "'Proceed, sir,' he added to Lanier. "'I have come to the saddest and darkest part of all,' said the promoter. "'Your highness has seen that a deed was forged to obtain possession "'of the mountain sea estates, and the fraudulent design was only too successful. "'It was in vain, sir Fernando denied all knowledge of the instrument. "'In vain he refused payment of the large sum demanded. "'His estates were seized by the extortioners, "'and he was deprived of the power of redemption. "'He commenced a suit against them in the star chamber, "'but here again he was baffled by the cunning and navery of sergiles, "'and having unwittingly incurred the censure of the court, "'he was cast into the fleet prison where he perished miserably. "'A lamentable history,' exclaimed Charles, "'is grievous to think that justice cannot be done him. "'Justice may be done his son,' said Buckingham, "'who has been oppressed in like manner with his father. "'Restitution may be made him of the estates of which he has been plundered. "'It is well,' said sergiles, glancing at Lanier. "'You will not enjoy them.' "'What means he?' inquired Charles. "'The estates were assigned to this treacherous nave, "'Your Highness,' said sergiles, pointing to Lanier, "'for a certain consideration, which was never performed. "'But while denying, as I do most energetically, "'that any underhand means whatever were used by us "'to obtain possession of those estates, "'and repeating my declaration that a most artful conspiracy "'has been formed against us, "'I assert, as will appear on investigation, "'that if I fail in sustaining my claim to the mountiancy estates, "'they cannot go to Sir Jocelyn, "'wherefore not,' inquired Charles, "'because Sir Ferdinando left them to his brother Osmond. "'I have possession of his will. "'It may be a forgery,' said Charles. "'Not so, Your Highness,' observed Lupo Vulp. "'This statement is correct.' "'I have it with me now,' cried sergiles, "'producing a document. "'Will it please Your Highness to look at it?' "'He added, handing it to the Prince. "'You will see that the estates are wholly left "'to Osmond, Mountiancy. "'If, therefore, Your Highness should seek "'to deprive me of them, "'you must bestow them, as they are herein bequeathed. "'And doubtedly, if this instrument be valid,' said Charles, "'looking at Lanyard, "'I do not dispute it, Your Highness,' said the promoter. "'But there is no proof that Osmond, Mountiancy, is living, "'Your Highness,' observed Lupo Vulp. "'He has not been heard of for many years. "'Not indeed, since the time when his debts "'were paid by Sir Fernando. "'Though sergiles has used every exertion for the purpose, "'he has never been able to discover any traces of him. "'And it is reasonable, therefore, to suppose that he is no more.' "'That is false,' cried sergiles. "'It is true I have long sought for him in vain. "'But within these few days I have obtained some tidings of him, "'which, if followed up, will assuredly lead to his detection. "'Nay more, Lanyard himself must know that he is alive, "'since from the intelligence I have received "'he must have been recently in company with him. "'Is this assertion correct?' said Charles, to the promoter. "'It is, Your Highness,' replied Lanyard. "'But I had good reasons for concealing the circumstances. "'Undoubtedly,' cried sergiles, "'because you had ascertained from the traitor Lupo "'that this will existed and feared a claim might be advanced "'to the estates. "'But they will never be yours or, Sir Jocelyn's, "'if not mine, they are Osmond mountaincies.' "'He says right,' remarked Charles. "'Then learn to your confusion, villain, "'O Osmond mountaincy stands before you,' cried the promoter, "'addressing sergiles, behold him in me.' "'You, Osmond mountaincy!' exclaimed sergiles, "'ying him with an astonishment which was shared by Sir Francis "'and by the greater part of the spectators. "'To judge from their manner, however, "'Prince Charles, together with Buckingham and DeGondemare "'did not seem unprepared for the announcement. "'I rejoined Osmond to sergiles. "'Look on me if you can. "'Never should my name have been revealed to you, "'except at a moment when there should have been "'no chance of its repetition on your part, "'but for my brother's will, "'of the existence of which I have only been lately aware "'and which has obliged me to avow myself, "'but for this I would have remained forever in obscurity "'and have perished, as I have lived,' the despised Clémont Lanier. "'The name of mountaincy should not have been shamed in me, "'but if I am the reproach of that ancient and honorable house "'and tarnished by any other member of it, "'I am also its avenger and will wipe out, "'effectually, the stains you have cast upon it. "'By your machinations, villain, was my brother destroyed. "'By your machinations has his son been imprisoned "'and his life endangered. "'By your machinations I myself was censured "'by the terrible star chamber "'and its severest punishments inflicted upon me. "'You knew not whom you tortured, "'and had you been aware of my real name, "'even this wrong might not have contented you. "'But no matter. "'From the hour when the tormentor, by your order, "'did his work upon me, I devoted myself to vengeance, "'slow, sure, vengeance, "'I resolved not to interfere with your career of villainy "'till you were full-blown in crime. "'And though I have had some difficulty "'in holding back my hand, I have been patient, "'the hour at length has arrived, "'and I hold you firmly in my grasp. "'I have crushed in pieces the whole of the fabric "'you have been at such pains to rear. "'Your estates and all your possessions "'will be forfeited to the crown, "'and if you escape with life, "'you will bear the indelible marks of disgrace "'which you have inflicted upon me. "'Overpowered by what he heard, "'Sir Giles threw himself at the feet of Charles. "'Do not sue to me, sir,' replied the Prince, "'regarding him with stern displeasure. "'Enough for you to know that I have been "'in this much-injured gentleman's secret. "'Let your nephew now be introduced, sir,' he added "'to Osmond, M.C. "'His nephew muttered, Sir Giles, as he arose. "'Nay, then, all is indeed lost. "'I have felt that for a long time,' groaned Sir Francis. "'End of Chapter 31. "'Chapter 32 of the Star Chamber "'and Historical Romance, Volume 2. "'This is a LibriVox recording. "'A LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. "'For more information or to volunteer, "'please visit LibriVox.org, "'recording by Dion Giants, Salt Lake City, Utah. "'The Star Chamber and Historical Romance, Volume 2, "'by William Harrison Ainsworth, Chapter 32. "'Judgment.' "'On the intimation of the Prince's wishes, "'tapestry was again raised to admit Sir Jocelyn, M.C., "'who, stepping forward, made a profound reverence to the Prince. "'I greet you well, Sir Jocelyn,' said Charles, "'in the kindest and most gracious tone, "'as the young knight advanced towards him. "'As your disgrace was public, "'so shall your restoration to the king's favor "'and likewise public. "'Your return to court will be a satisfaction to his majesty. "'Any imprudence of which you have been guilty "'will be entirely overlooked. "'All graver faults imputed to you have been explained "'so that no unfavorable impressions against you "'remain upon my royal father's mind or on mine. "'Let me assure you that you have now no more zealous friends "'than the Condé de Gondemar and the Marquis of Buckingham. "'For any wrong I may have done, Sir Jocelyn, "'I am heartily sorry,' said Buckingham, frankly, "'and he may rely on my present offer of friendship. "'And on mine, too,' subjoined de Gondemar, "'the services I have rendered him must be said against any mischief "'I have subsequently done. "'You make me more than amends,' said Sir Jocelyn, bowing to them, "'and I at once accept your proffered friendship. "'You are in the midst of friends and foes, Sir Jocelyn,' said Prince Charles, "'and have before you a newfound relative "'and not far distant from you, one whom, "'unless I am greatly mistaken, "'has the strongest hold upon your affections. "'But before you turn to her or to anyone, "'listen to the sentence which, in the King's name, "'I shall pronounce upon those two offenders "'a sentence which most assuredly will be ratified "'by the majesty in person "'and by the lords of the Council of the Star Chamber, "'before whom they will be brought. "'Hear me, then, ye wrongdoers, "'ye shall be despoiled "'of your unjustly acquired possessions, "'which will be asciated to the crown, "'where restitution is possible, it shall be made. "'Restitution by the crown, a likely thing,' muttered Sir Giles. "'Ye shall pay for your misdeeds "'in person,' pursued Charles, "'degraded from the knighthood, ye have dishonored, "'and with all the ceremonies of debasement, "'when ye have become Giles Mompesson "'and Francis Mitchell, Naves, "'ye shall undergo precisely "'the same ignominious punishment "'with all its dreadful details "'which ye caused to be inflicted upon him. "'You supposed to be Clément Lanier, "'this being done to you, "'and no part of the torture "'being on any plea omitted, "'ye shall be brought back to the fleet prison "'and be there incarcerated "'for the residue of your lives.' "'Mompesson heard this sentence "'apparently unmoved, "'though his flashing eye betrayed, "'in some degree, his secret emotion, "'not so his partner, "'flinging himself on his knees before the Prince, "'he cried in piteous tones. "'I confess my manifold offenses "'and own that my sentence "'is lenient in comparison with them, "'but I beseech your highness "'to spare me the mutilation and branding. "'All else I will patiently endure. "'He merits no compassion,' said Buckingham, "'and yet I would intercede for him. "'And your intercession shall avail "'to the extent which he himself hath mentioned, "'but no further rejoined Charles. "'I solicit nothing, "'and I confess nothing,' said Mompesson, "'in a tone of defiance. "'If I am ever brought to trial, "'I shall know how to defend myself, "'but I well know that will never be. "'I can make such revelations "'concerning those in high places. "'I, in the highest places,' he added, "'with a vindictive look at Buckingham, "'that they will not dare to molest me. "'The hound must be muzzled,' said Buckingham, "'in a low tone to the Prince. "'He must,' replied Charles, "'let the prisoners be removed. "'They are committed to the fleet prison.'" "'Prisoners,' exclaimed Mompesson. "'I, prisoners,' repeated Osmond Mounchancy, "'my prisoners. "'I have a star chamber warrant for your arrest. "'Behold it. "'Under this warrant his highness has committed you, "'and you will be taken hence to the fleet, "'where you, Giles Mompesson, shall occupy this cell, "'you destined for my nephew. "'Now your sword. "'Take it,' rejoined Mompesson, "'plucking the rapier from its sheath. "'Take it in your heart. "'You, at least, shall not live to enjoy your triumph.' "'But Osmond was too quick for him, "'and seizing his arm ere he could deal the meditated blow, "'with almost superhuman force, "'he rested the sword from him, "'and broke it beneath his feet. "'At the same time other personages appeared on the scene. "'These were the sergeant at arms "'and a party of halberdeers, "'advancing slowly towards the prisoners, "'the officer received the warrant from Osmond, "'while the halberdeers closed round the two extortioners. "'Before the prisoner, Mompesson, is removed,' said Charles, "'see that he delivers up to you his keys. "'Let an inventory be taken of all monies within the house, "'and let the royal seal be placed upon all boxes and caskets. "'All deeds and other documents must be carefully preserved "'to be examined hereafter, "'and let strict search be made, "'for I have heard there are many hidden depositories of treasure, "'especially within the prisoner's secret cabinet. "'Take heed that the strictest examination be made,' "'subjoined Buckingham, "'in accordance with his highness's behest, "'or the knave's smiles, "'as if he thought his precautions were so well taken "'that the searchers would be baffled. "'Fear nothing, my Lord Marquis,' replied the sergeant at arms. "'Now prisoner,' he added, "'to Mompesson, your keys.' "'While the officer was thus employed, "'Luke Hatton stepped forward. "'Those keys will be of little use,' he said to the prince. "'The extortioners have been beforehand with your highness. "'How, sir, what others?' demanded Charles, bending his brows. "'The extortioners' lawless band of attendants, "'generally known as his Mermedon's Your Highness,' replied Hatton, "'instinctively discerning, as it would seem, "'that all was over with their master. "'They had determined to quit his service "'from any notice of their intention. "'Not content with discerning him in the hour of danger, "'they have robbed him as well, "'robbed him of the bulk of his treasure. "'They have broken into his secret cabinet "'and stripped it of all its valuables "'that could be of use to them, "'and have not left one of his hidden hordes unvisited. "'Hell's curses upon them,' exclaimed Mompesson, "'with irrepressible rage, may they all swing upon the gibbet. "'The chief among them, a rascally Alsatian known as Captain Blutter, "'has been captured, pursued Luke Hatton, "'and a large sum, together with a rich casket of jewels, "'has been found upon him. "'And it is to be hoped that the officers "'will succeed in finding the others. "'Will your highness interrogate Blutter?' "'Not now,' replied Charles, "'let him be taken to the fleet. "'But there were other matters of more importance "'than the treasures, the deeds, and legal instruments. "'These, as being useless to the robbers, "'were probably left untouched. "'They were so, your highness,' replied Luke Hatton. "'Would they had burned them?' "'Ejaculated, Mompesson, would all had been destroyed. "'And he gave utterance to such wild exclamations of rage, "'accompanied by such frenzy gestures "'that the Halperdeers seized him and dragged him out of the room. "'The old usurer was removed at the same time. "'And now,' said Charles, rising from his chair, "'one thing only remains to be done ere I depart, "'and it will be pleasanter to me than ought "'that has preceded it. "'I must again address myself to you, Sir Jocelyn, "'Mountain Sea, I, and to you also, Fair Mistress Evelyn. "'I pray you to come near me,' he continued, "'with a gracious smile, to the damsel. "'And as she blushingly complied, "'for she half-divined his purpose, "'he said, as I have already told you, Sir Jocelyn, "'your restoration to the king's favor is complete, "'and your reappearance at court would be a gratification "'to his majesty. "'But after the events which have occurred, "'a brief retirement will, I conceive, be most agreeable to you, "'and I would counsel a visit to the hall of your ancestors. "'Nothing could be more in accordance with my own wishes, "'most gracious prince, if my newly-found relative "'will accept me as his guest.' "'Not as his guest, my good nephew,' said Osment, "'you are sole lord of Mountain Sea. "'I have made over the mansion and all the estates to you. "'They are yours, as by right they should be.' "'Sir Jocelyn's emotion was too great to allow him "'to express his gratitude in words. "'A noble gift,' exclaimed Charles. "'But you must not go there alone, Sir Jocelyn. "'You must take a bride with you. "'This fair lady has well approved her love for you "'as you have the depth of your devotion to her. "'Take her from my hands, take her to your heart, "'and may years of fondest wedded happiness attend you both. "'When you reappear at court, "'you will be all the more welcome if Lady Mountain Sea "'be with you.' So saying, he placed Evelyn's hand in that of her lover, "'and with a look of ineffable delight "'they knelt to express their gratitude. "'The prince and the courtly train passed out, "'and lastly, Sir Jocelyn and the object of his affections. "'Vanley did he seek for his relative and benefactor. "'Ozmund Mountain Sea had disappeared. "'But just as the young knight and his fair companion "'were quitting the house, "'Luke Hatton, followed by two porters, "'bearing a stout chest, approached them and said, "'Sir Jocelyn, you have seen the last of your uncle. "'He has charged me to bid you an eternal adieu. "'You will never hear of him again, "'unless you hear of his death. "'May no thoughts of him mar your happiness "'or that of her you love. "'This is what he bade me say to you. "'This chest contains the title deeds of your estates, "'and amongst them is a deed of gift from him to you. "'They will be conveyed by these porters, "'whether so ever you may direct them. "'And now, having discharged my office, I must take my leave. "'Stay, sir,' cried Sir Jocelyn, "'I would feign send a message to my uncle. "'I cannot convey it,' replied Luke Hatton. "'You must rest content with what I have told you. "'To you and to all others, "'Ozmund Mountain Sea is as the dead.' "'With this he hastily retreated. "'Three days after this the loving pair were wedded, "'and the ceremony which was performed with strict privacy, "'in accordance with the wishes of the bride, "'being concluded, they set out upon their journey into Norfolk. "'Sir Jocelyn had noticed, "'among the spectators of the marriage rights, "'a tall personage wrapped in a sable cloak, "'whom he suspected to be his uncle. "'But as the individual was half-hidden "'by a pillar of the ancient fabric, "'and as he lost sight of him before he could seek him out, "'he never could be quite sure of the fact. "'Sir Jocelyn's arrival at the hall of his ancestors "'was the occasion of great rejoicings. "'And in spite of the temptations held out to him, "'many years elapsed ere he and Lady Mountain Sea "'revisited the scene of their troubles in London.'" End of chapter 32. Concluding chapter of the Star Chamber and historical romance, volume 2. This is a LibriVox recording. A LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Dion Giants, Salt Lake City, Utah. The Star Chamber and historical romance, volume 2. By William Harrison Ainsworth. Concluding chapter retribution. As will have been foreseen, the judgment pronounced by Prince Charles upon Mompesson and his partner was confirmed by the king and the lords of the council when the two offenders were brought before them in the Star Chamber. They were both degraded from the honor of knighthood and Mitchell, besides being so heavily fined that all his ill-gotten wealth was rested from him, had to endure, riding through the streets in a posture, the reverse of the ordinary mode of equitation, named with his face towards the horse's tail. Two court-pots tied round his neck to show that he was punished for his exactions upon alehousekeepers and hostilekeepers and a placard upon his breast, detailing the nature of his offenses. In this way hooded and pelted by the rabble who pursued him as he was led along and who would have inflicted serious injuries upon him and perhaps dispatched him outright, had it not been for the escort by whom he was protected, he was taken in turn to all such taverns and houses of entertainment as had suffered most from his scandalous system of oppression. In the course of his progress he was brought to the three cranes in the ventry, before which an immense concourse was assembled to witness the spectacle. Though the exhibition made by the culprit seated as he was on a great ragged beast purposely selected for the occasion was sufficiently ludicrous and grotesque to excite the merriment of most of the beholders who greeted his arrival with shouts of derisive laughter, still his woe begone countenance and miserable plight for he was covered with mud from head to foot, moved the compassion of the good-natured Madame Bonaventure as she gazed at him from one of the upper windows of her hostel and the feeling was increased as the wretched old man threw a beseeching glance at her. She could stand the sight no longer and rushed from the window. In the same room with her there were four persons who had been partaking of a plentiful repast as was proved by the numerous dishes and flasks of wine garnishing the table at which they had been seated and they too, as well as the hostess on hearing the noise outside the tavern, had rushed to the windows to see what could cause so much disturbance. As they were all well acquainted with the old userer and his malpractices, the spectacle had a special interest to them as well as to the hostess and they were variously affected by it. The party we must state consisted of Master Richard Tavernor as the quantum apprentice was now styled and his pretty wife, Gillian, who now looked prettier than usual in her wedding attire for the ceremony uniting them in indissoluble bonds had only just been performed. Old Greenford, the grand-sher of the bride and Master John Wolfe of the Bible and Crown in Paul's churchyard bookseller, first while Dick's indulgent master and now his partner, Master Tavernor having very prudently invested the contents of the silver coffer in the purchase of a share in his employer's business with the laudable determination of bestowing himself zealously in it ever after and as another opportunity may not occur for mentioning the circumstance, we will add that he kept to his resolution and ultimately rose to high offices in the city. Dick's appearance had already considerably improved. His apparel was spruce and neat, but not showy and well became him, while his deportment even under the blissful circumstances in which he was placed had a sobriety and a quorum about it, really surprising and which argued well for his future good conduct. He began as he meant to go on and it was plain that John Wolfe's advice had produced a salutary effect upon him. Old Greenford looked the picture of happiness. With Master Richard's predilections for the three cranes we are well acquainted and it will not therefore appear unnatural that he should choose this his favorite tavern for his wedding dinner. Madame Bonaventure was delighted with the bride and brought the blushes to her fair cheeks by the warmth of her praises of her beauty, while she could not sufficiently congratulate the bridegroom on his good luck in obtaining such a treasure. The best in the house was set before them, both vians and wine, and ample justice was done by all to the good cheer. Cyprian, as usual, brought in the dishes and filled the flagons with the rare bordeaux. He had been directed by his mistress to introduce, but Madame Bonaventure personally superintended the repast carving the meats, selecting the most delicate bits for Gillian's a special consumption and seasoning them yet more agreeably with her lively cellies. The dinner had come to a close and they were just drinking the health of the bonnie and blushing bride when the clamor on the quay proclaimed the old user's arrival as he was the furthest person from her thoughts and as she had not heard of the day appointed for his punishment Madame Bonaventure was totally unprepared for the spectacle offered to her when she reached the window and her retreat from it, as we have related was almost immediate. To his shame, be it spoken, Master Richard Havner was greatly entertained by the doleful appear of his old enemy and could not help exulting over his downfall and distress, but he was quickly checked by his bride who shared in the hostess's gentler and more compassionate feelings so much indeed was the gentle Gillian touched by the delinquents supplicating looks that she yielded to the impulse that prompted her to afford him some solace and snatching up a flask of wine and a flag on from the table out of the room followed by her husband who vainly endeavored to stay her. In a moment Gillian was out upon the quay and the mounted guard stationed round the prisoner, dividing her purpose kindly drew aside to let her pass filling the goblet she handed it to the old man who eagerly drained it and breathed a blessing on her as he returned it. Some of the bystanders said the blessing would turn to a curse, but it was not so and so well pleased was Dick with what his good wife had done that he clasped her to his heart before all the crowd. This incident was so far of service to the prisoner that it saved him from further indignity at the moment the mob ceased to jeer him and the missiles at him and listened in silence to the public crier as he read aloud his sentence. This done the poor wretch and his escort moved away to the Catherine wheel in this still-yard where a less kindly reception awaited him. In taking leave, as we must now do of Master Richard Taverner and his pretty wife it gives us pleasure to say that we have regarded state as loving couples necessarily must be, we may add, that they lived long and were blessed with numerous issue, so numerous indeed that as we have before intimated Dick had to work hard all the rest of his days. In bidding adieu also to Madame Bonaventure which we do with regret, we have merely to state that she did not reign much longer by the destinies of the three cranes but resigned in favor of Cyprian who, as Missour Latour, was long and favorably known as the jovial and liberal host of that renowned tavern. Various reasons were assigned for Madame Bonaventure's retirement but the truth was that having made money enough she began to find the banks and foggy for her, especially during the winter months so the next time the skipper entered the river having previously made her arrangements she embarked on board his vessel and returned to the sunny shores of the Garonne. Mompesson's sentence, though far more severe and approprious than that of the elder extortioner, was thought to lenient and most persons were of opinion that considering the enormity of his offenses his life ought not to be spared but they judged unadvisedly death by the axe or even by the rope would have been infinitely preferred by the criminal himself to the lingering agonies he was destined to endure. Moreover there was retributive justice in the sentence that doomed him to undergo tortures similar to those he had so often inflicted on others. The pillory was erected at Charing Cross a numerous escort was required to protect him from the fury of the mob who would otherwise have torn him in pieces but though shielded in some degree from their active vengeance he could not shut his ears to their yells and execrations infuriated thousands were collected in the open space around the pillory eager to glut their eyes upon the savage spectacle and the shout they set up on his appearance was so terrific that even the prisoner, undaunted as he had hitherto shown himself was shaken by it and lost his firmness though he recovered it in some degree as he mounted the huge wooden machine conspicuous at a distance above the heads of the raging multitude. On the boards on which he had to stand there was another person besides the tormentor and the sight of him evidently occasioned the criminal great disquietude this person was attired in black with a broad-leaved hat pulled down over his brows. What doth this fellow here? demanded Mom Pesson. You do not need an assistant. I know not that, replied the tormentor a big brawny fellow habited in a leathern jerken with his arms bared to the shoulder taking up his hammer and selecting a couple of sharp pointed nails but in any case he has an order from the council of the star chamber to stand here and now prisoner he continued roughly and authoritatively place your head in this hole and your hands here. Since resistance would have been vain Mom Pesson did as he was bitten a heavy beam descended over his neck and wrists and fastened him down immovably while amid the exulting shouts of the spectators his ears were nailed during one entire hour the ponderous machine slowly revolved so as to exhibit him to all the assemblage and at the end of that time the yet more barbarous part of the sentence for which the ferocious mob had been impatiently waiting was carried out. The keen knife and the branding iron were called into play and in the bleeding and mutilated object for them now stamped with indelible infamy none could have recognized the once haughty and handsome Sir Giles Mom Pesson. A third person we have said stood upon the pillory he took no part in aiding the tormentor in his task but he watched all that was done with atrocious satisfaction not a groan not the quivering of a muscle escaped him he felt the edge of the knife to make sure it was sharp enough for the purpose and saw that the iron was sufficiently heated to burn the characters of shame deeply in. When all was accomplished he seized Mom Pesson's arm and in a voice that seemed scarcely human cried, now I have paid thee back in part for the injuries never mock me more in part groaned Mom Pesson is not thy vengeance fully satiated what more would thou have what more echoed the other with the laugh of a demon for every day of anguish thou gave us to my brother in his dungeon in the fleet I would have a month a year I would not have thee perished too soon and therefore thou shalt be better cared for than he was but thou shalt never escape never and at the last I will be by thy side it would almost seem as if that moment were come for as the words were uttered Mom Pesson fainted from loss of blood and intensity of pain and in this state he was placed upon a hurdle tied to a horse's heels and then fade back to the fleet as threatened he was doomed to long and solitary imprisonment and the only person beside the jailer admitted to his cell was his unrelenting foe a steel mirror was hung up in his dungeon so that he might see to what extent his features had been disfigured in this way three years rolled by years of uninterrupted happiness to Sir Jocelyn and Lady Mountain Sea as well as to Master Richard Havner and his dame but of increasing gloom to the captive in his solitary cell in the fleet of late he had become so fierce and unmanageable that he had to be chained to the wall he sprang at his jailer and tried to strangle him and gnashed his teeth his fists in impotent rage at Osmond Mountain Sea but again his mood changed and he would supplicate for mercy crawling on the floor and trying to kiss the feet of his enemy who spurned him from him then he felt sick and refused his food and as the sole means of preserving his life he was removed to an area chamber but as it speedily appeared this was only a device to enable him to escape from prison and it proved successful he was thought to be so ill that the jailer fancying him incapable of moving became negligent and when Osmond Mountain Sea next appeared the prisoner had flown how he had affected his escape no one could at first explain but it appeared on inquiry that he had been assisted by two of his old myrmidons Captain Blutter and Staring Hugh both of whom were prisoners at the time in the fleet Osmond's rage knew no bounds he vowed never to rest till he had traced out the fugitive and brought him back but he experienced more difficulty in the quest than he anticipated no one was better acquainted with the obscure quarters and hiding places of London than he but in none of these retreats could he discover the object of his search the potentates of Whitefriars and the Mint would not have dared to harbour such an offender as Mompesson and would have given him up at once if he had sought refuge in their territories but Osmond satisfied himself with the suggestion of every house in those sanctuaries that he was not there nor had anyone been seen like him the asylum for masterless men near Smart's Quay and all the other dens for thieves and criminals hiding from justice in and about the metropolis were searched but with the like ill result hitherto Mompesson had contrived entirely to baffle the vigilance of his foe at last Osmond applied to Luke Hatton thinking it possible his cunning might suggest some plan for the capture of the fugitive after listening with the greatest attention to all related to him the apothecary pondered for a while and then said it is plain he has trusted no one with his retreat but I think I can find him come to me on the third night from this and you shall hear further meantime you need not relax your own search though if it be as I suspect failure is sure to attend you obliged to be satisfied with this promise Osmond departed on the third night at a late hour he returned he did not however find Luke Hatton the apothecary it appeared had been absent from home during the last three days and the old woman who attended upon him was full of uneasiness on his account her master she said had left a letter on his table and on investigation it proved to be for Osmond in it the writer directed him in the event of his non-return before the time appointed to repair out delay well armed to the vaults beneath Mompesson's old habitation near the fleet and to make a strict search for him throughout them he also acquainted him with a secret entrance into the house contrived in the walls beneath the lofty northeastern turret on reading this letter Osmond at once understood his allies plan together with its manager and felt that as he had not returned he had in all probability fallen a victim to his rashness telling the old woman whether he was going and that inquiries might be made there for him on the morrow if he did not reappear with her master he set out at once for the place indicated we shall however precede him ever since Mompesson taken to the fleet his habitation had been deserted the place was cursed so much odium attached to it so many fearful tales were told of it that no one would dwell there at the time of its owners committal it was stripped of all its contents and nothing was left but bare walls and uncovered floors even these from neglect and desertion had become dilapidated and a drearier and more desolate place could not be imagined strict search had been made by the officers of the star chamber for concealed treasure but little was found the bulk having been carried off as before related by the murmidons nevertheless it was supposed there were other secret hordes if a clue to them could only be found Mompesson had been interrogated on the subject but he only made answers calculated to excite the cupidity of his hearers without satisfying them and they fancied he was deceiving them on the night in question to all outward appearance the house was somber and deserted as usual and the city watch who passed it at midnight and paused before its rusty gates and its nailed updoor fancied all was secure the moon was at the full shining brightly on the somber stone walls of the mansion on its windows and on the lofty corner turret whence Mompesson used so often to reconnoiter the captives in the opposite prison and as certain of the guard looked up at the turret they laughed at its present emptiness yet they little dreamed who was there at the time regarding them from the narrow loophole after the pause of a few minutes they moved on and the gleam of their halberts was presently seen as they crossed fleet bridge and march towards Ludgate about two hours afterwards the watch reappeared and while again passing the house the attention of their leader was attracted by an unusual appearance in the masonry near the northeast angle above which the tall turret was situated on closer examination the irregularity in the walls was found to be produced by a small secret door which was left partially open as if it had been recently used the suspicions of the party being aroused by this singular circumstance none of them having been aware of the existence of such a door they at once entered the house resolved to make strict search throughout it in the first instance they scaled the turret which the secret outlet communicated by a narrow winding staircase and then proceeding to the interior of the habitation pursued their investigations for some time without success indeed they were just about to depart when a sound resembling a deep groan seemed to arise from the cellars which they had not visited hearing this they immediately rushed down and made an extraordinary discovery to explain this however we must go back to the time when they first passed the house we then mentioned that there was a person in the turret watching their movements as they disappeared in the direction of Ludgate this individual quitted his post of observation and descending the spiral staircase threaded a long passage in the darkness like one familiar with the place until he arrived at a particular chamber which he entered and without pausing proceeded to a little cabinet beyond it the moonlight streaming through a graded window showed that this cabinet had been completely dismantled stones had been removed from the walls several of the boards composing the floor had been torn up and never replaced the intruder did not pass beyond the door but after gazing for a few minutes at the scene of ruin uttered an ejaculation of rage and retired his steps might have been next heard descending the great stone staircase he paused not for a moment within the entrance hall but made his way along a side passage on the left and down another flight of steps till he reached a subterranean chamber here all would have been profound obscurity had it not been for a lamp set on the ground which imperfectly illumined the place as the man took up the lamp and trimmed it with scissors and revealed all their hideousness no visage except that of osmond mountaincy could be more appalling than this persons and the mutilation was in both cases the same it is needless to say it was mom peasant his habiliments were sorted and his beard and hair grizzled by suffering rather than age but he was armed both with sword and dagger and his limbs looked muscular and active as ever casting a glance towards the entrance of the vault as if to make quite sure he was not observed though he entertained little anxiety on that score mom peasant stepped towards a particular part of the wall and touching a spring where not to be detected within the masonry except on minute examination flew open and disclosed another and smaller vault here it was at once evident was concealed the treasure that had escaped the clutches of the mermidons and the officers of the star chamber there was a large open chest at the further end full of corpulent money bags any one of which would have gladdened the heart of a miser on this chest mom peasant's gaze was so greedily fixed that he did not notice the body of a man lying directly in his path and well nice stumbled over it uttering a bitter implication he held down the lamp and beheld the countenance of Luke Hatten now rigid in death serdonic grin it had worn throughout life still impressed upon it there was a deep gash in the breast of the dead man and blood upon the floor a cursed spy and traitor cried mom peasant as he took hold of the body by the heels and dragged it to one corner thou wilt never betray me more what brought thee here I know not in death thou hast merited at my hands would a like chance might bring osmond mountaincy here and alone I would desire nothing more be thy wish gratified then cried a voice which mom peasant could not mistake looking up he beheld his enemy in an instant his hand was upon his sword and the blade gleamed in the lamp light and had likewise plucked forth his rapier and held a poignard in his left hand for a few moments they gazed at each other with terrible looks their breasts animated with an intensity of hatred which only mortal foes met under such circumstances can feel so fiercely bloodthirsty were their looks that their disfigured features seemed to have lost all traces of humanity yield the mirthurus villain cried osmond at length I will drag thee to the hangman call in thy fellows and thou shalt see whether I will yield rejoined mom peasant with a laugh of defiance I have none at my back rejoined osmond I will force thee to follow me alone then roared mom peasant that is all I desired and without a word more he commenced the attack during the brief colloquy just detailed he had noticed that his enemy was doubly armed and before beginning the conflict he drew his own dagger so that there was no greater advantage on one side than the other both were admirable swordsmen and in strength they were nearly matched but the combat was conducted with a ferocity that almost set skill at defiance after the exchange of a few desperate passes they closed and in the terrific struggle that ensued the lamp was extinguished the profound darkness prevented them from seeing the frightful wounds they inflicted on each other but both knew they were severely hurt though each hoped he was not so much injured as his adversary exhausted at length by loss of blood and ready to drop they released each other by mutual consent and after making a few more feeble and ineffectual thrusts leaned upon their swords for support wilt thou yield now villain demanded osmond horse voice or must I finish thee outright finish me echoed mampessen in tones equally horse strike another blow against me if thou canst but I well know thou art sped when I have recovered breath I will make short work with thee about it quickly then rejoined osmond I am ready for thee but thy boast was idle my breath twice has my poignard pierced thy breast thou wilt never use thy poignard again thy left arm is disabled rejoined mampessen besides my sword passed through thee almost to the hilt it glanced from my doublet I scarcely felt the scratch twas a scratch deep enough to let thy life blood out but since thou hast more felt have at thee again where art thou cried osmond staggering towards him here rejoined mampessen avoiding the thrust made at him and dealing one in return that stretched his adversary lifeless at his feet in the exultation of the moment he forgot his own desperate condition and with a fierce triumphant laugh set his foot upon the body of his prostrate foe but a mortal faintness seized him he essayed to quit the vault but it was too late his strength was utterly gone with an irrepressible groan he fell to the ground close beside his enemy there they lay the dying and the dead for more than an hour at the end of that time they were discovered by the watch yet breathed and as the torchlight fell upon the scene of horror he slightly raised his head and pointing to his slaughtered adversary with a ghastly smile expired the end end of concluding chapter end of the star chamber and historical romance volume 2 by William Harrison Ainsworth