found himself somewhat at a loss whether to turn or ride straight
onward. While pausing for a moment, as to which way he should take, the
mellow whistle of some person behind him indulging in a light-hearted
Irish air, caused him to look back, when he saw a well-made, compact,
good-looking young fellow approaching, who, finding his attention
evidently directed to him, concluded his melody and respectfully touched
hia hat."

"Pray, my good friend," said Woodward, "can you direct me to Rathfillan,
the residence of Mr. Lindsay, the magistrate?"

"Misther Lindsay's, is it?"

"Yes; I said so."

"Well, I think I can, sir."

"Yes; but are you sure of it?"

"Well, I think I am, sir."

"You think! why, d--n it, sir, do you not know whether you are or not?"

"May I ax, sir," inquired the other in his turn, "if you are a religious
character?"

"WHy, what the devil has that to do with the matter in question?" said
Woodward, beginning to lose his temper. "I ask you to direct me to
the residence of a certain gentleman, and you ask me whether I am a
religious character? What do you mean by that?"