It shall naught avail us ; but an I be to hang , it shall not be for lack of swearing . '' And then , while Dick gave himself over to his reflections , the old rogue curled himself down into a corner , pulled his monkish hood about his face , and composed himself to sleep . Soon he was loudly snoring , so utterly had his long life of hardship and adventure blunted the sense of apprehension . It was long after noon , and the day was already failing , before the door was opened and Dick taken forth and led up-stairs to where , in a warm cabinet , Earl Risingham sat musing over the fire . On his captive 's entrance he looked up . `` 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 ? ''
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Dick Rutter York evening fire noon presentment slew up-stairs war