He now heard a rustling in the bushes by the cavern's
mouth. He saw, or fancied he saw, something rise therefrom and suddenly
disappear. It was the demon, doubtless, retiring with his prey. He
scarcely dared to breathe lest the hobgoblin should observe and seize
him likewise. But his presence was unnoticed. He, however, thought that
the blast grew louder, and a moan more melancholy and appalling arose
from the river. Again Oliver Tempest was at his side.
"Take this, and do thy bidding." He thrust the billet into his hand,
which the unfortunate recipient might not refuse.
Trembling in every limb, he approached the place of concealment; but he
was too wary now to let go his hold of the fallen trunk.
He whistled thrice, and the ground again seemed to give way. A light
glared from beneath, and he cautiously descended the pit.
The grim porter was waiting for him below. He fell as though rushing
into the very jaws of the monster, who was but whetting his tusks ere he
should devour him.
"Here again!" croaked the ugly dwarf; "what brings thy long legs back
from Christendom?"
"I know not, master; but if you are i' the humour to read, I've a scrap
in my pouch at your high mightiness' service.
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