unwillingly, as it seemed, that the Recluse was in the habit
of passing his hut, in the evening, on visits--as the General
supposed--to his friends in the village. The constable caught at the
bait, and, having lost all fear of any resistance, on the part of
the Solitary, persuaded Primus, with some difficulty, to allow him to
watch at his cabin, for his prey; engaging his assistance, at the same
time, should it become necessary. It was, accordingly, agreed, that
the same night should be devoted to enforce the demands of justice.

Just before the shades of evening shut in, Basset--agreeably to the
preconcerted plan, presented himself at the hut of the General, and
took his station at the window that commanded, for quite a distance, a
view of the road. The moon was shining, and her beams, reflected from
the snow, made it easy to distinguish objects. The constable sighed,
as he took his seat, and declared that, in all his experience,
he never had so much difficulty in his legal business. It was the
General's cue to encourage his visitor, and keep up his resolution.
He, therefore, said, in a cheerful tone--

"Folks say, dere is nebber no lane but hab one turn. Now, dis is de
turn. See, how de road twist round my house. Dat is a good sign."

"If I don't git him this time," said Basset, "I guess I might as well
give it up, and the State of Connecticut may just be reckoned beat."

"Don't ground you arms yet, Missa Basset. In de long run, de raal grit
allers carry de day."

"When I think it all over," said the constable, musing, "it seems kind
o' queer. I'm sort o' bewitched, and, if the days of witches wasn't