CHAPTER XV .-- FIRST AID TO A POSTCHAISE AND A POSTILLION--MORE.
HOSPITALITY.
I listened attentively, but I could hear nothing but the loud clashing of branches, the pattering of rain, and the muttered growl of thunder.

I was about to tell Belle that she must have been mistaken, when I heard a shout, indistinct, it is true, owing to the noises aforesaid, from some part of the field above the dingle.

"I will soon see what's the matter," said I to Belle, starting up.

"I will go, too," said the girl.

"Stay where you are," said I; "if I need you I will call;" and, without waiting for an answer, I hurried to the mouth of the dingle.