Sylvia's Lovers

'And when will he go?' asked poor Philip, in dismay.

'To-morrow: most probably as soon as the examination is over. The

evidence is clear as to his being present, aiding and abetting,--

indicted on the 4th section of 1 George I., statute 1, chapter 5.

I'm afraid it's a bad look-out. Is he a friend of yours, Mr

Hepburn?' 'Only an uncle, sir,' said Philip, his heart getting full; more from

Mr. Donkin's manner than from his words. 'But what can they do to

him, sir?' 'Do?' Mr. Donkin half smiled at the ignorance displayed. 'Why, hang

him, to be sure; if the judge is in a hanging mood. He's been either

a principal in the offence, or a principal in the second degree,

and, as such, liable to the full punishment. I drew up the warrant

myself this morning, though I left the exact name to be filled up by

my clerk.' 'Oh, sir! can you do nothing for me?' asked Philip, with sharp

beseeching in his voice. He had never imagined that it was a capital

offence; and the thought of his aunt's and Sylvia's ignorance of the

possible fate awaiting him whom they so much loved, was like a stab

to his heart.

'No, my good fellow. I'm sorry; but, you see, it's my duty to do all

I can to bring criminals to justice.' 'My uncle thought he was doing such a fine deed.' 'Demolishing and pulling down, destroying and burning

dwelling-houses and outhouses,' said Mr. Donkin. 'He must have some

peculiar notions.' 'The people is so mad with the press-gang, and Daniel has been at

sea hisself; and took it so to heart when he heard of mariners and

seafaring folk being carried off, and just cheated into doing what

was kind and helpful--leastways, what would have been kind and

helpful, if there had been a fire. I'm against violence and riots

myself, sir, I'm sure; but I cannot help thinking as Daniel had a

deal to justify him on Saturday night, sir.' 'Well; you must try and get a good lawyer to bring out all that side

of the question. There's a good deal to be said on it; but it's my

duty to get up all the evidence to prove that he and others were

present on the night in question; so, as you'll perceive, I can give

you no help in defending him.' 'But who can, sir? I came to you as a friend who, I thought, would

see me through it. And I don't know any other lawyer; leastways, to

speak to.' Mr. Donkin was really more concerned for the misguided rioters than

he was aware; and he was aware of more interest than he cared to

express. So he softened his tone a little, and tried to give the

best advice in his power.