quite into the shade. Who were they? Who would have the audacity, in
the midst of a law-loving and law-abiding people, to trample on the
laws and defy the State? The constable could give no information. He
had not even seen a person. He had only heard a voice he never heard
before. Ought not some persons to be arrested on suspicion? Who should
they be? Who were obnoxious to suspicion? The friends of the Solitary
were among the most respectable people in the place. Would it be safe
to proceed against them? There would be some hazard in the experiment.
They would be sure to defend themselves to the uttermost, and if
successful as they probably would be, would make the movers in the
matter rue their officiousness.

Of such a nature were the various questions discussed around the
hearths, and in the bank and shops of the little town of Hillsdale.
The excitement was a perfect god-send to stir the sluggish blood of
winter. Above all it was attractive for the mystery that invested it.
But we will leave the village gossips to beat the air with their idle
speculations.




CHAPTER XIX.

I could endure
Chains nowhere patiently: and chains at home
Where I am free by birthright, not at all.

COWPER.