"Then it must be done the day. We've delayed too long already."




CHAPTER XXVIII.

AFTER WORD COMES WEIRD.


I.

When Ralph lay down in his bed that night in a coffee-house in China
Lane, there was no conviction more strongly impressed upon his mind
than that it was his instant duty to leave Lancaster. It was obvious
that he was watched, and that his presence in the old town had excited
suspicion. The man who had pestered him for many days with his
unwelcome society was clearly in league with the other man who had
insulted the girl. The latter rascal he knew of old for a declared and
bitter enemy. Probably the pair were only waiting for authority,
perhaps merely for the verification of some surmise, before securing
the aid of the constable to apprehend him. He must leave Lancaster,
and at once.

Ralph rose from his bed and dressed himself afresh. He strapped his
broad pack across his back, called his hostess, and paid his score.
"Must the gentleman start away at midnight?" Yes; a sudden call
compelled him. "Should she brew him a pot of hot ale?--the nights were
chill in winter." Not to-night; he must leave without delay.