‘As many of the present assemblage as choose. My lads, how many of you will remain here, and how many will go a little way with me and Mr. Moore on the Stilbro’ road, to meet some men who have been waylaid and assaulted by frame-breakers?’

The small number of three volunteered to go, the rest preferred staying behind. As Mr. Moore mounted his horse, the Rector asked him in a low voice whether he had locked up the mutton-chops, so that Peter Augustus could not get at them. The manufacturer nodded an affirmative, and the rescue party set out.