his researches.


"In London, of course: all people of that kind come back to London," said
Mr. Gotobed. "Give me the heads in writing, that I may report to my
distinguished client. Most satisfactory. That young man will push his
way,--businesslike and methodical."




CHAPTER VII.

The cloud has its silver lining.

Thus turning his back on the good fortune which he had so carefully
cautioned Mrs. Saunders against favouring on his behalf, the vagrant was
now on his way to the ancient municipal town of Gatesboro', which, being
the nearest place of fitting opulence and population, Mr. Waife had
resolved to honour with the debut of Sir Isaac as soon as he had
appropriated to himself the services of that promising quadruped.
He had consulted a map of the county before quitting Mr. Merle's roof,
and ascertained that he could reach Gatesboro' by a short cut for foot-
travellers along fields and lanes. He was always glad to avoid the high
road: doubtless for such avoidance he had good reasons. But prudential
reasons were in this instance supported by vagrant inclinations. High
roads are for the prosperous. By-paths and ill-luck go together. But
by-paths have their charm, and ill-luck its pleasant moments.

They passed then from the high road into a long succession of green