They are all ready with a story that they are on the watch for some heretic in hiding in the woods.

I spoke to one to see what he would say, and he began about the hunchback of the fair, whom they have not caught yet, and professed to be watching for him.

Doubtless they would all say the same did any question them; but they strive to keep out of sight as far as may be, and some have found hollow trees where they might pass days and nights and none be the wiser." There could be no study for the boys that day; they were too deeply moved and excited.

Moreover, Edred had his father's charge to keep, and as sundown was nigh at hand, the two brothers visited every gate and portal and saw the house made fast within and without.
An air of excitement and mystery seemed to permeate the place.

The servants had caught some of the infection, and whispers of loyalty and affection were murmured many times in the boys' ears as they pursued their round.