Plot and Counterplot. 123

ever prayed before. And God did help me. I re-
mained there a long time, sometimes praying, some-
times pondering how best to do what was before
me ; and when I rose up, I felt calm and resolved
—I could see my way.

My plan was to write a letter to Mr. Prickard,
warning him, but giving no names; and to go to the
great house next morning, before the family was
down, and throw it in at a window. If I must
break a pane of glass, I must; but I would avoid
that, if possible. Then, hardest task of all, I would
return home and tell my father what I had done,
that he and his companions might give up their
intended outrage, and act so as to avoid suspicion.
He would beat me, kill me, perhaps ; but I should
have done what was right.

I wrote my letter that evening, in a stiff printing
hand, lest Master George should recognise the
writing. It was as follows :—

“MR. PRICKARD.

“Str,—Hereby you are begged to be informed
that an attack is to be made to-morrow night on
your person and property, if you do not protect
it, especially the coal-house and haggart ; which, if
you do, you will do well. Farewell.”