The butler will give you some ale." Again Mr.Gall passed his thumb round the inside of his belt, testing the local pressure in anticipation of a pint.

He made a sort of half-military salute at the door and went out.

When the squire was alone he rose from his chair and paced the room, giving way to the agitation he had concealed in the presence of the constable.

He was very much disturbed at the news of Goddard's escape, as well he might be.

Not that he was aware that the convict knew of his wife's whereabouts; he did not even suppose that Goddard could ascertain for some time where she was living, still less that he would boldly present himself in Billingsfield.