It had but two rooms, the floor was of sanded earth, but it had windows on three sides, east, west, and south, and the door looked south.

Its furniture was a plank bed, a few shelves, a bench, two chairs, some utensils, a fireplace of stone, a picture of the Virgin and Child, and of a cardinal of the Church of Rome with a red hat--for the chair-maker had been a Roman Catholic, the only one of that communion in Hamley.

Had he been a Protestant his vices would have made him anathema, but, being what he was, his fellow-villagers had treated him with kindness.
After the half-day in which he was permitted to make due preparations, lay in store of provisions, and purchase a few sheep and hens, hither came David Claridge.

Here, too, came Faith, who was permitted one hour with him before he began his life of willing isolation.

Little was said as they made the journey up the hill, driving the sheep before them, four strong lads following with necessities--flour, rice, potatoes, and suchlike.
Arrived, the goods were deposited inside the hut, the lads were dismissed, and David and Faith were left alone.