If I had not been far too anxious to think of playing tricks, I should certainly have declared that it was needless, with such a tower of strength by my side, to disturb the landlord.

I dare not assert that Mr.
Finch actually detected the turn my thoughts were taking--I can only declare that he did certainly shout for Gootheridge in a violent hurry, the moment we were in sight of the inn.
The landlord came out; and, hearing what our errand was, instantly consented to join us.
"Take your gun," said Mr.Finch.
Gootheridge took his gun.

We hastened on to the house.
"Were Mrs.Gootheridge or your daughter at Browndown today ?" I asked.
"Yes, ma'am--they were both at Browndown.

They finished up their work as usual--and left the house more than an hour since." "Did anything out of the common happen while they were there ?" "Nothing that I heard of, ma'am." I considered with myself for a minute, and ventured on putting a few more questions to Mr.Gootheridge.
"Have any strangers been seen here this evening ?" I inquired.
"Yes, ma'am.

Nearly an hour ago two strangers drove by my house in a chaise." "In what direction ?" "Coming from Brighton way, and going towards Browndown." "Did you notice the men ?" "Not particularly, ma'am.