This will obtain me such assistance as I may require, and for due observance of my authority.

I shall likewise take with me a peace-officer, or constable." "You will do well, Master Potts," said Nicholas; "still you must not put faith in all the idle tales told you, for the common folk hereabouts are blindly and foolishly superstitious, and fancy they discern witchcraft in every mischance, however slight, that befalls them.

If ale turn sour after a thunder-storm, the witch hath done it; and if the butter cometh not quickly, she hindereth it.

If the meat roast ill the witch hath turned the spit; and if the lumber pie taste ill she hath had a finger in it.

If your sheep have the foot-rot--your horses the staggers or string-halt--your swine the measles--your hounds a surfeit--or your cow slippeth her calf--the witch is at the bottom of it all.