Ye were better turn round on your two heels and try the bridge." "Nay; time's in the saddle," answered Dick.

"Time will ride, Hugh Ferryman.

I am hot in haste." "A wilful man!" returned the ferryman, rising.

"An ye win safe to the Moat House, y' have done lucky; but I say no more." And then catching sight of Matcham, "Who be this ?" he asked, as he paused, blinking, on the threshold of his cabin.
"It is my kinsman, Master Matcham," answered Dick.
"Give ye good day, good ferryman," said Matcham, who had dismounted, and now came forward, leading the horse.

"Launch me your boat, I prithee; we are sore in haste." The gaunt ferryman continued staring.
"By the mass!" he cried at length, and laughed with open throat.
Matcham coloured to his neck and winced; and Dick, with an angry countenance, put his hand on the lout's shoulder.
"How now, churl!" he cried.