But now I knew that the news of my death would soon spread, hard on the publishing of the sentence of outlawry, for the doings of an outlaw are of the first interest to those among whom he may wander.

As it was, indeed, to my guide, who spoke so much thereof that I knew he would be full of it, and tell it to all whom he met.

And when he told me he should go back through the town I was glad, for so Matelgar would have news of the same, confirming the tale of his man, though not accounting for his captain.

Whereby he would be puzzled, and his life would be none the easier, for I knew he would dread my vengeance, though it might be hard for me to compass.
At last we crossed the river, and went a little way together into the woods beyond, till we came to the road which should lead the collier back to Bridgwater town.

And there I made him give me directions for crossing the Quantocks, as though I would go by Triscombe--which I feigned to know not, save by name given for my guidance on my way.
I looked for him to ask reward, but he did not, and what the hermit had told him I could not say, unless he had promised him reward on his return.