That's his message.'
'When did you see him?' asked Hugh, hastily.
'On his way to prison, where he was taken by a party of soldiers. They
took a by-road, and not the one we expected. I was one of the few who
tried to rescue him, and he called to me, and told me to tell Hugh where
he was. We made a good struggle, though it failed. Look here!'
He pointed to his dress and to his bandaged head, and still panting for
breath, glanced round the room; then faced towards Hugh again.
'I know you by sight,' he said, 'for I was in the crowd on Friday, and
on Saturday, and yesterday, but I didn't know your name. You're a bold
fellow, I know. So is he. He fought like a lion tonight, but it was of
no use. I did my best, considering that I want this limb.'
Again he glanced inquisitively round the room or seemed to do so, for
his face was nearly hidden by the bandage--and again facing sharply
towards Hugh, grasped his stick as if he half expected to be set upon,
and stood on the defensive.
If he had any such apprehension, however, he was speedily reassured by
the demeanour of all present. None thought of the bearer of the tidings.
He was lost in the news he brought.
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