  In a moment
he stood all alone, without friend or supporter, a target upon which
was concentrated a bitter fire of scornful and angry looks.  The Lord
Protector called out fiercely--

Cast the beggar into the street, and scourge him through the town--the
paltry knave is worth no more consideration!

Officers of the guard sprang forward to obey, but Tom Canty waved them
off and said--

Back!  Whoso touches him perils his life!

The Lord Protector was perplexed in the last degree.