"If I wanted to get away I could have done so in a moment; for I have a pistol in my pocket, and could have shot you the moment you turned your lantern away from me." Somewhat startled at this information the constable released his hold, satisfied that his prisoner could not escape by speed.

As a measure of precaution he made her walk a pace or two ahead, and kept the light of his lantern upon her while he held his pistol ready for action in his hand in case she should suddenly turn upon him.

They went through the village, and five minutes afterward entered the gate of the vicarage.
On reaching the door Mrs.Conway rang the bell.

A moment later a window above opened.
"What is it ?" a man's voice asked.

"Am I wanted anywhere ?" "I am the mounted patrol, sir," the constable said, "and I have met a suspicious sort of person in the road.