will be to the carriage in the cracking of a whip, Don't notice me,
good or bad."

He spoke, hopped over the garden hedge to reach the back of the
stables unperceived, while I proceeded along the gate; it was opened
by the host in person. He started; but, with assumed indifference,
observed, "What sad news the dragoon has brought!"

"I don't believe the half of it. These things are always exaggerated.
Landlord, I'll push on a stage or two, and the worst that can happen
is to return, should the route prove dangerous. I know that here I
have a safe shelter to fall back upon."

"Safe!" exclaimed the innkeeper. "All the rabble in the country would
not venture within miles of where ye are; and, notwithstanding bad
reports, there's not a loyaler barony in the county. Faith! Colonel,
although it may look very like seeking custom, I would advise you
to keep your present quarters. You know the old saying, 'Men may
go farther and fare worse.' I had a lamb killed when I heard of the
rising, and specially for your honor's dinner. Just look into the barn
as ye pass. Upon my conscience! it's a curiosity!"

He turned back with me; but before we reached the place, the dark
stranger I had seen before beckoned from a back window.

"Ha! an old and worthy customer wants me."

Placing his crooked finger in his mouth. he gave a loud and piercing
whistle. The _quondam_ whipper appeared at a stable-door with a
horse-brush in his hand.