第253页 / 共483页

"My heart beat quick; this was the hour and moment of trial,

which would decide my hopes or realise my fears. The servants

were gone to a neighbouring fair. All was silent in and around

the cottage; it was an excellent opportunity; yet, when I

proceeded to execute my plan, my limbs failed me and I sank to

the ground. Again I rose, and exerting all the firmness of which

I was master, removed the planks which I had placed before my

hovel to conceal my retreat. The fresh air revived me, and with

renewed determination I approached the door of their cottage.

"I knocked. 'Who is there?' said the old man. 'Come in.'

"I entered. 'Pardon this intrusion,' said I; 'I am a traveller in

want of a little rest; you would greatly oblige me if you would

allow me to remain a few minutes before the fire.'