Cuthbert answered that he sought news of Master Robert Catesby, who had bidden him inquire at that place for him.

As that name passed his lips he saw a change pass over the face of his questioner, and the answer was given with a decided access of friendliness.
"He is not here now, but he will be here anon.

He comes to dine shortly after noon, and will spend some hours here today on business.

If it please you, you can wait for him." "I thank you, but I will come again later," answered Cuthbert, who was by no means enamoured of the place or the company.
He was surprised that his travelling companion, who appeared a man of refined speech and habits, should frequent such an evil-looking place as this.

But the habits of the dwellers in cities were as yet strange to him, and it might be his ignorance, he thought, which made it appear suspicious to him.
"And if he asks who has inquired for him, what shall I say ?" asked the host, whilst the men at the table continued to stare and listen with every appearance of interest.
"My name is Trevlyn," answered Cuthbert shortly, disliking, he hardly knew why, the aspect and ways of the place.
He fancied that a slight sensation followed this announcement.
Certainly the landlord bowed lower than there was occasion for as he held open the door for his visitor to pass out.