Alan and Norman joined them, having heard a grievous history of the lawlessness of the people from a foreman with whom they had met.

There seemed to be no visible means of improvement.

The parish church was Stoneborough, and there the living was very poor, the tithes having been appropriated to the old Monastery, and since its dissolution having fallen into possession of a Body that never did anything for the town.

The incumbent, Mr.Ramsden, had small means, and was not a high stamp of clergyman, seldom exerting himself, and leaving most of his parish work to the two under masters of the school, Mr.Wilmot and Mr.Harrison, who did all they had time and strength for, and more too, within the town itself.

There was no hope for Cocksmoor! "There would be a worthy ambition!" said Etheldred, as they turned their steps homeward.