The deuce of it was, however, that, owing to the darkness of the night, there was not one among them who could have known Fergus the next day if they had met him.

They knew, however, that O'Donnel, the Rapparee, was a good authority on the subject, and the discovery of the pretended mendicant's imposture was a proof of it.

On this account, when they had reached the _boreen_ alluded to, on their return from Graham's, they came to the resolution of leaving their horses in charge, as had been suggested to them, and in silence, and with stealthy steps, pounce at once into the widow's cabin.

Before they arrived there, however, we shall take the liberty of preceding them for a few minutes, and once more transport our readers to its bright but humble hearth.
About three hours or better had elapsed, and our two friends were still seated, maintaining the usual chat with Mrs.Buckley, who had finished her prayers and once, more rejoined them.
"Fergus, like a good fellow," whispered Reilly, "slip out for a minute or two; there's--a circumstance I wish to mention to Molly--I assure you it's of a very private and particular nature and only for her own ear." "To be sure," replied Fergus; "I want, at all events, to stretch my legs, and to see what the night's about." He accordingly left the cabin.
"Mrs.Buckley," said Reilly, "it was not for nothing I came here to-night.

I have a favor to ask of you." "Your favor's granted, sir," she replied--"granted, Mr.Reilly, even before I hear it--that is, supposin' always that it's in my power--to do it for you." "It is simply to carry a letter--and be certain that it shall be delivered to the proper person." "Well," she replied, "sure that's aisily done.