THE PERFECT WIFE. became a matter of importance to regain these arms ; and for this purpose a plot was laid, to which many of the domestics at Owthorpe were accessory, to surprise the house with fifty men, and seize all the arms there. The con- spiracy was discovered by a little singing-boy, one of the Colonel's band, and, through his timely caution in revealing it, was frustrated, Mrs. Hutch- inson sending for assistance from the county militia, who met and dispersed the troop of disap- pointed robbers. The next alarm came from the opposite side. Certain taxes having been imposed by parliamentary assessment, a troop of turbulent soldiers who infested the neighbourhood came to Owthorpe, two of them entering the house to demand the money levied, while the others remained without to enforce its payment. The Colonel remonstrated ; high words ensued, and the men became so insolent that, although generally slow to anger, he drew his sword to chastise them. His chaplain, who was present, held his arm, Lucy opening the door to let the men escape ; while George Hutchinson, hearing the contention, hastened to the aid of his brother. The two soldiers, being re-inforced by their armed com- rades, grew still more aggressive ; when one of them, leaning against a door, pushed it open, and disclosed fifty or sixty men congregated in the prin- cipal hall. These men had come to request Colonel Hutchinson's arbitration, as chief magistrate, in 41
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