design was to go round the country, and work at his trade; and, at the
same time, to get such information as might be useful to his
employers."

[Illustration]

"Not long after he set out upon his adventures, he arrived just at
evening at a small house, at which he knocked, hoping to procure a
night's lodging.

"It was some time before he was heard. At length a girl came, and
inquired his errand.

"'I wish for a lodging to-night,' said Crosby--'if it may be'--

"'I don't know, sir,' replied the girl--'I'll go and ask mother.'

"The girl soon reappeared, and bade him walk in. On reaching the
kitchen, he made known his wishes, to the mistress of the family.

"'Lodgings! sir--did you ask for lodgings? we don't keep lodgings
here, sir.'

"'I suppose not, madam,' said Crosby, in a kind manner--'but I am
quite fatigued, and thought, perhaps, you would let me stay till
morning.'

"'I don't know but what you may. The man is gone from home. There's
such work now-a-days, that a body don't know nothing what to say or
do--pray, what do you carry in that huge pack?'