"He hath but made off with certain skins of parchment, in a frolic doubtless but the burgomaster is answerable to the burgh for their safe keeping, so he is in care about them; as for the youth, he will doubtless be quit for a reprimand." This smooth speech completely imposed on Catherine; but her daughter was more suspicious, and that suspicion was strengthened by the disproportionate anger and disappointment Dierich showed the moment he learned Gerard was not at home, had not been at home that night.
"Come away then," said he roughly.

"We are wasting time." He added vehemently, "I'll find him if he is above ground." Affection sharpens the wits, and often it has made an innocent person more than a match for the wily.

As Dierich was going out, Kate made him a signal she would speak with him privately.

He bade his men go on, and waited outside the door.

She joined him.
"Hush!" said she; "my mother knows not.