It was only when alone with Lord Claud that he asked rather anxiously if he thought it could be true.
"I doubt it," was the reply; "it is a common thing for men to make the boast, but it seldom proves correct.

Was it true that there were others besides the troopers on the road?
I thought I saw more figures than I looked for, but knew not whether all were soldiers or not." "There were others," answered Tom; "but I had no time to see what manner of men they were.

There was much shouting and cursing, and I heard one man give an exultant laugh when I turned and fired; but more than that I know not." Lord Claud looked thoughtful.
"Well, Tom, it boots little to meet danger half way.

'Tis always best to put on a bold front and set it at defiance.

But this remember, that Nell Gwynne shall be kept in readiness for you by night and day.