I can show it, of course." "Well, then," said I, "I will take my man and answer for him.

Bring the writing to the house of the sheriff, where I lodge, and what is there set down I will pay you." Now there were a dozen idlers gathered by this time, and seeing that the trader hesitated, I called to one, who seemed to be a forester by his staff and green jerkin, and bade him fetch the sheriff, if he could find him.

I would have the matter settled here.

Whereon the slaver gave in.
"Well, then," he grumbled, "I hold you answerable for him.

Take him, and get your money ready.
"Let him free," he said, turning to his men.
That they did with somewhat more readiness than one would have expected.