“His Majesty has laid his plans carefully,” replied Nicholas, “and I can easily conjecture 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 mere suspicion is not enough?”

“In cases of witchcraft suspicion is enough,” replied the knight, 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 a witness, I believe, will be produced, though who I cannot say.”

“Gracious Heaven! 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 Alizon never existed, nor one holding the crime she is charged with in greater abhorrence.  She injure 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 you have given of Alizon, and am unwilling she should fall a victim to art or malice.  Be upon your guard, 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—­or when other people see for him.  And now, good sir, you must want breakfast.  Here Faryngton,” he added to an attendant, “show Master Nicholas Assheton to 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 Faryngton into the lower court, where he found his friends waiting for him.

Speedily ascertaining where their lodgings were situated, Faryngton led them to a building on the left, almost opposite to 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 yeomen 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, trenchers viands, and flasks were soon arranged in 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 vigour, and plied a flask of excellent Bordeaux so incessantly, that another had to be placed before him.  Sherborne did equal justice to the