We have no means
of ascertaining with any degree of certainty the musings and ruminations
of the seer in his progress, not having the power, or skill it may be,
like unto many profound and praiseworthy historians, who can portray the
form and colour of the mind as well as the cut and capacity of the
doublet. Suffice it to say, that he was so fully occupied in conning
over his errand as not to be aware that a certain malicious personage
was dodging his steps--to wit, our worthy owner of the mare, Barnabas
Hardcastle, who kept a strict watch about the premises, hoping to find
some clue to the discovery of his beast.
An hour elapsed ere they came forth; the Doctor bearing a covered light,
and after him the little spare form of Bartholomew Hickham, carrying
under his cloak sundry implements for the search.
Passing through the churchyard, they turned into the Dean's Gate,
creeping near the houses, whose overhanging gables poured down a copious
shower from their dripping eaves. The streets echoed but to the tread of
these adventurers, and to the howl of a solitary watch-dog roused by
their approach. They passed the gate without difficulty; the Doctor was
supposed to have been called forth on clerical duties, and the porter
accordingly permitted their egress, merely inquiring the probable time
of their return.
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