At length the sable covering had spread itself over the earth.

About eight o'clock, I ventured to descend from the mow of the barn into the road.

The little dog the while began a furious fit of barking, so much so, that I was sure that with what his master had learned about me, he could not fail to believe I was about his premises.

I quickly crossed the road, and got into an open field opposite.

After stepping lightly about two hundred yards, I halted, and on listening, I heard the door open.