Now, there cannot be the slightest doubt that a poacher named John Wise, better known as 'Rabbit Jack,' who resides in this town, chose that New Year's Eve as an excellent time to net the meadows behind the Hall.

He had heard about Mrs.Eastham's dance, and knew that on such a night the estate keepers would have more liking for fun with the coachmen and maids than for game-watching.

He entered the park soon after midnight, and saw a gentleman walk up the avenue towards the house.

He waited a few minutes, and crept quietly along the side of the hedge--in the park, of course.

Being winter time, the trees and bushes were bare, and he was startled to see the same gentleman, with his coat buttoned up, standing in the shade of the yews close to the Hall.