The sound proved to come from Jonah Wall, who was toiling after me, laden with a large basket.

I had no eagerness for Jonah's society, but rejoiced to see the basket; for my private store of food and wine had run low, and if a man is to find out what he wants to know, it is well for him to have a pasty and a bottle ready for those who can help him.
"What have you there ?" I called, waiting for him to overtake me.
He explained that he had been making purchases in the town and I praised his zeal.

Then I asked him suddenly: "And have you visited your friend Mr Tate ?" As I live, the fellow went suddenly pale, and the bottles clinked in his basket from the shaking of his hand.

Yet I spoke mildly enough.
"I--I have seen him but once or twice, sir, since I learnt that he was in the town.

I thought you did not wish me to see him." "Nay, you can see him as much as you like, as long as I don't," I answered in a careless tone, but keeping an attentive eye on Jonah.