They planed the board away, but there it was.

They went deep, but it went deeper.

They put new boards down, but there was one great spot that came through still, and showed itself in the old place.

And--harkye--draw nearer--Mr Geoffrey made that room his study, and sits there, always, with his foot (as I have heard) upon it; and he believes, through thinking of it long and very much, that it will never fade until he finds the man who did the deed.' As this recital ended, and they all drew closer round the fire, the tramp of a horse was heard without.
'The very man!' cried John, starting up.

'Hugh! Hugh!' The sleeper staggered to his feet, and hurried after him.