Instantly divining Demdike's purpose, and seeing his chance lost, he mingled with the lookers-on, who covered his retreat.
Nor could he be found when sought for by the guard.
"See you provide a substitute quickly, sir," cried the earl, angrily, to the officer.
"It is needless to take further trouble, my lord," replied Demdike "I am come to offer myself as executioner." "Thou!" exclaimed the earl.
"Ay," replied the other.

"When I heard that the men from Lancaster were fled, I instantly knew that some scheme to frustrate the ends of justice was on foot, and I at once resolved to undertake the office myself rather than delay or risk should occur.

What this man's aim was, who hath just offered himself, I partly guess, but it hath failed; and if your lordship will intrust the matter to me, I will answer that no further impediment shall arise, but that the sentence shall be fully carried out, and the law satisfied.

Your lordship can trust me." "I know it," replied the earl.

"Be it as you will.