`` Sir , '' he said , `` I knew your father , who was a man of honour , and this inclineth me to be the more lenient ; but I may not hide from you that heavy charges lie against your character . Ye do consort with murderers and robbers ; upon a clear probation ye have carried war against the king 's peace ; ye are suspected to have piratically seized upon a ship ; ye are found skulking with a counterfeit presentment in your enemy 's house ; a man is slain that very evening -- '' `` An it like you , my lord , '' Dick interposed , `` I will at once avow my guilt , such as it is . I slew this fellow Rutter ; and to the proof '' -- searching in his bosom -- `` here is a letter from his wallet . '' Lord Risingham took the letter , and opened and read it twice . `` Ye have read this ? '' he inquired . `` I have read it , '' answered Dick . `` Are ye for York or Lancaster ? '' the earl demanded . `` My lord , it was but a little while back that I was asked that question , and knew not how to answer it , '' said Dick ; `` but having answered once , I will not vary . My lord , I am for York . '' The earl nodded approvingly . `` Honestly replied , '' he said . `` But wherefore , then , deliver me this letter ? '' `` Nay , but against traitors , my lord , are not all sides arrayed ? '' cried Dick . `` I would they were , young gentleman , '' returned the earl ; `` and I do at least approve your saying . There is more youth than guile in you , I do perceive ; and were not Sir Daniel a mighty man upon our side , I were half-tempted to espouse your quarrel . For I have inquired , and it appears ye have been hardly dealt with , and have much excuse . But look ye , sir , I am , before all else , a leader in the queen 's interest ; and though by nature a just man , as I believe , and leaning even to the excess of mercy , yet must I order my goings for my party 's interest , and , to keep Sir Daniel , I would go far about . ''
`` My lord , '' returned XXXXX , `` ye will think me very bold to counsel you ; but do ye count upon Sir Daniel 's faith ?
Daniel Dick Risingham Rutter York evening inclineth presentment slew war