Page:History of the blind beggar of Bethnal Green (2).pdf/18

18 Knight, who they feared had carried her away by force.

Thus, there was great confusion and hurry; and the townsmen taking the nearest way got before them, ere they arrived at Bethnal Green, and fell upon him, without giving him leave to speak for himself, so there being a sharp contest, until such time as some persons coming by, parted them. When they being informed of the truth of the matter, asked his pardon, which he granted, and dismissing them, went on his way, till coming to the old man's house, they alighted, which made him start from the fire and put his head out of the window, not knowing the meaning of the horses trampling at the door. Presently the Knight's uncle came up, puffing and blowing at a strange rate: Why, how now nephew! what is this I hear of you? are you mad? to disgrace your family by marrying a beggar's brat!! O for shame! for shame! consider better than make yourself a laughing-stock to men, by such a match. How comes this about, you saucy baggage, But however, I say, nephew, leave her, and I will provide for you a