I was now come forth on a good thoroughfare, which led (as well as
I could judge) in my direction. It brought me almost immediately
through a piece of street, whence I could hear close by the
springing of a watchman's rattle, and where I suppose a sixth part
of the windows would be open, and the people, in all sorts of night
gear, talking with a kind of tragic gusto from one to another.
Here, again, I must run the gauntlet of a half-dozen questions, the
rattle all the while sounding nearer; but as I was not walking
inordinately quick, as I spoke like a gentleman, and the lamps were
too dim to show my dress, I carried it off once more. One person,
indeed, inquired where I was off to at that hour.

I replied vaguely and cheerfully, and as I escaped at one end of
this dangerous pass I could see the watchman's lantern entering by
the other. I was now safe on a dark country highway, out of sight
of lights and out of the fear of watchmen. And yet I had not gone
above a hundred yards before a fellow made an ugly rush at me from
the roadside. I avoided him with a leap, and stood on guard,
cursing my empty hands, wondering whether I had to do with an
officer or a mere footpad, and scarce knowing which to wish. My
assailant stood a little; in the thick darkness I could see him bob
and sidle as though he were feinting at me for an advantageous
onfall. Then he spoke.

'My goo' frien',' says he, and at the first word I pricked my ears,
'my goo' frien', will you oblishe me with lil neshary infamation?
Whish roa' t' Cramond?'

I laughed out clear and loud, stepped up to the convivialist, took
him by the shoulders and faced him about. 'My good friend,' said