All this
furnished matter for a quantity of conversation in the taverns; and it
was freely discussed by the sentimental whether or no, if the priest
yielded and conformed, he would yet find Mistress Manners willing to wed
him.
* * * * *
Signs of the Armada rejoicings still survived in the market-place as the
judges rode in. Streamers hung in the sunshine, rather bedraggled after
so long, from the roof and pillars of the Guildhall, and a great
smoke-blackened patch between the conduit and the cross marked where the
ox had been roasted. There was a deal of loyal cheering as the
procession went by; for these splendid personages on horseback stood to
the mob for the power that had repelled the enemies of England; and her
Grace's name was received with enthusiasm. Behind the judges and their
escort came a cavalcade of riders--gentlemen, grooms, servants, and
agents of all sorts. But not a Derby man noticed or recognised a thin
gentleman who rode modestly in the midst, with a couple of personal
servants on either side of him. It was not until the visitors had
separated to the various houses and inns where they were to be lodged,
and the mob was dispersing home again, that it began to be rumoured
everywhere that Mr. Topcliffe was come again to Derby on a special
mission.
II
The tidings came to Marjorie as she leaned back in her chair in Mr.
Biddell's parlour and listened to the last shoutings.
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