Mr. Fudby bristled.

“At my expense, sir? Do ye say at my expense? I am surprised! I repeat⁠—I am surprised!”

“Indeed, sir? I can order the town-crier out, describing the horse, and⁠—er⁠—offering a reward for the capture of any man on such an animal. But⁠—” he shrugged and looked across at the town-clerk⁠—“I do not imagine that ’twould be of much use⁠—eh, Mr. Brand?”

The clerk pursed his lips and spread out his hands.