In vain Wood protested his innocence.

The ruffian's companions took his part.

And the infant, in all probability, would have been snatched from its preserver, if a posse of the watch (sent out to maintain order and protect property) had not opportunely arrived, and by a vigorous application of their halberts dispersed his persecutors, and set him at liberty.
Mr.Wood then took to his heels, and never once looked behind him till he reached his own dwelling in Wych Street.

His wife met him at the door, and into her hands he delivered his little charge.
END OF THE FIRST EPOCH.
EPOCH THE SECOND.
1715.
THAMES DARRELL..