You won't tell ?" "Not this time, maybe," was the reply; "but I wouldn't be in your shoes if you play this game next night;" and off he went.
Bill thought it well to quit the churchyard at once for some place where he was not likely to be seen; he had never played truant before, and for the next hour or two was thoroughly miserable as he slunk about the premises of a neighbouring farm, and finally took refuge in a shed, and began to consider his position.

He would remain hidden till nine o'clock, and then go home.

If nothing were said, well and good; unless some accident should afterwards betray him.

But if his mother asked any questions about the school?
He dared not, and he would not, tell a lie; and yet what would be the result of the truth coming out?
There could be no doubt that his father would beat him.
Bill thought again, and decided that he could bear a thrashing, but not the sight of the Yew-lane Ghost; so he remained where he was, wondering how it would be, and how he should get over the next school-night when it came.

The prospect was so hopeless, and the poor lad so wearied with anxiety and wakeful nights, that he was almost asleep when he was startled by the church clock striking nine; and, jumping up, he ran home.