I must mention one thing more--which I was almost forgetting, and which I cannot well show you to-night--namely, that I can use this water not only as a means of defence in the moat, but as an engine of offence also against any one setting unlawful or hostile foot upon the stone bridge over it.

I can, when I please, turn that bridge, the same by which you cross to come here, into a rushing aqueduct, and with a torrent of water sweep from it a whole company of invaders.' 'But would they not have only to wait until the cistern was empty ?' 'As soon and so long as the bridge is clear, the outflow ceases.

One sweep, and my water-broom would stop, and the rubbish lie sprawling under the arch, or half-way over the court.

And more still,' he added with emphasis: 'I COULD make it boiling!' 'But your lordship would not ?' faltered Dorothy.
'That might depend,' he answered with a smile.

Then changing his tone in absolute and impressive seriousness, 'But this is all nothing but child's play,' he said, 'compared with what is involved in the matter of this reservoir.