“Humphrey, I am worried out of my life.  We are almost in a state of siege here.  Ever since that attempt at kidnapping Lucy that you so happily frustrated I have never felt easy about her.  She never goes forth unattended now:  those morning rides are at an end.  I have taken two more menservants to act as special guard for her, and they two, or myself and one of them, always accompany her, with well primed pistols, I warrant you.  Men have been seen at various times lurking about here, and I have taken pains to track them, and went so far as to commit one of them for loitering with intent to commit a felony.  But I had no proof, and an attorney fellow in Shrewsbury named Moggridge threatened me with all sorts of pains and penalties if I did not at once release the villain.”

“But what does the law say to it, sir?” I asked.

“The law is uncommon slow to say anything, confound it!  My lawyer in Bridgenorth was at first all for an accommodation, as he called it; he wanted me to make terms with that rogue Cludde, and a host of letters passed between him and Moggridge, who is Cludde’s attorney.  But that failed; of course it did, since I wouldn’t give way, and now my man has filed a bill in chancery to make Lucy a ward of court, with me as her guardian.  The other side is opposing, and the case will not come on till next sessions and maybe not then.  My man says we are bound to win, the court, as he declares, being very jealous of the rights of minors, especially where property is concerned.  But meanwhile we live in constant fear of the girl being carried off, and if they once get her there will be precious little chance of getting her back.”

“Can we not imprison Dick Cludde for the former attempt?” I suggested.  “Now that I am back I could give evidence against him.”

“He is away with his ship, and will be careful, you may be sure, not to show his nose again in these parts while there is any danger.”

“But the other fellow, Vetch—­has he been seen hereabouts?  I have often wondered what became of him after he left prison.”

“What is he like?”

“A tall, thin, weasel-faced fellow, with a sour look.”

“No, I have not seen or heard of him.”

“If I could hear of his whereabouts I would have him arrested for his complicity in my kidnapping.  I own I should feel more secure of Mistress Lucy’s safety if I knew he was laid by the heels.  Could you give me a warrant, sir, which I could execute if ever I met him?”

“I will certainly do so, though I doubt if he’ll ever give you the opportunity.  Villains of his stamp are uncommonly clever in running to earth.  But you shall have the warrant.”

“I shall see his uncle tomorrow,” I said.  “May I mention Mistress Lucy’s affairs to him?  He was accounted a good lawyer until that unhappy business of my father’s will, and as he has no reason to love the Cluddes, or his nephew either, I am sure he would give the best advice he knows.”