Page:Long pack, or, The robbers discovered (3).pdf/11

11 he really thought so, or only said so, is hard to determine. “Faith, Alice," said he again, “if you will let me, I'll shoot it.” “ I tell you to hold your peace, you fool," said Richard, “No," said Edward, in the mul- titude of counsellors there is safety; and I will maintain this to be our safest plan. Our master's house is consigned to our care, and the wealth that it contains may tempt some people to use stratagems. Now, if we open up the man's pack, he may pursue us for dam- ages to any amount, but if I shoot it, what amends can he get of me? If there is any thing that should not be there, Lord, how I will pepper it! And if it is lawful goods, he can only make me pay for the few that are damaged, which I will get at valuation; so, if none of you will acquiesce, I will take all the blame upon myself, and ware a shot upon it.” Richard said whatever was the conse- quence he would be blameless. A half delirious smile rather distorted than beauti- fied Alice's pretty, face, but Edward took of for an assent to what he had been advanc ilir, so, snatching up Copenhagen in one hain, and the candle in the other, he lasted doun the passage, and without hesitating one moment, fired at the pack. Gracious Heaven! The blood gushed out upon the foor ike a torrent, and a hideous roar, followed by the groans of death, issued