ahead. Where can he be going?"

"Probably one of the smugglers, who managed to make his escape,"
answered Voules.

"Whoever he is, we will stop him and ascertain why he is out at this
time of night. Stop, you fellow!" cried Lord Reginald; "we want to
speak to you."

The person, who apparently had not before heard them coming, only
increased his pace; on seeing which the young lord spurred on his horse.

The stranger, who might possibly have escaped by darting in among the
trees, instead of making the attempt, finding that his pursuers were
gaining on him, stopped and faced them, holding a thick stick, which
might properly have been called a club, in his hand.

"Throw down that bludgeon and come here," said Lord Reginald.

"Not while I am spoken to in that tone," answered the stranger. "I have
as much right to be out in this forest as you have."

"You must tell us who you are, and where you are going!" cried Lord
Reginald, riding up to him.

The stranger lifted up his club, exclaiming, "Hands off! If you attempt
to touch me, you must take the consequences."

Just then a gleam of light from the rising moon shone on the stranger's
face.

"I know the rascal!" cried Lord Reginald; "it's that young Hargrave.
Not the first time we have met tonight. You are one of the fellows who
made their escape from the excisemen; but you are not going to do so
from us; so yield at once! Come, help me, Voules!" and the young lord,
spurring forward his horse, attempted to seize Dick by the shoulder.

The latter sprang back, and, whirling round his club, struck Lord
Reginald a blow on the arm which effectually prevented him from using
it, and before Voules could lay hold of him, Dick had rushed off among
the trees, which quickly concealed him from view.

In vain Lord Reginald, in spite of the pain he was suffering, urged his
horse after him. The stems of the trees, growing thickly together,
prevented him from following, and Dick was soon safe beyond the pursuit
of the horsemen.

"This is provoking; but we will have him yet!" cried Lord Reginald.

"I am afraid the villain has broken your arm!" exclaimed Voules.

"It seems something like it from the pain I am suffering," answered Lord
Reginald; "however, the sooner we can get home to have it looked to the
better."

"Yes, indeed," said Voules; "I am deeply grieved. I would have shot the
young savage had I thought he would have had the audacity to strike
you."

"No,