d
certainly not have, saved me. Beyond doubt, then, was I indebted to the
stranger for the truce so unexpectedly entered upon.

The change in Holt's demeanour was not more sudden than complete. At
first, an air of astonishment had been observable; after that, an
expression of inquietude--becoming each moment more marked. No longer
did he exhibit the proud aspect of a man, who felt himself master of the
ground; but, on the contrary, appeared cowed and quailing in the
presence of the new-comer--whom he had met at the entrance, and at once
invited into the enclosure. This manner was observable in the
half-mechanical courtesy, with which he removed the bars, and took hold
of the stranger's horse--as also in some phrases of welcome, to which he
gave utterance in my hearing.

For myself, I was no longer regarded, any more than if I had been one of
the dead-woods that stood around the clearing. The squatter passed,
without even looking at me--his whole attention seemingly absorbed by
the new arrival! It was natural I should regard with curiosity an
individual, whose presence had produced such a wonderful effect; and my
scrutinising gaze may have appeared rude enough to him. I cannot say
that he elicited my admiration. On the contrary, his appearance
produced an opposite effect. I beheld him with, what might be termed an
instinct of repulsion: since I could assign no precise reason for the
dislike with which he had inspired me on sight. He was a man of about
thirty years of age; of a thin spare body, less than medium height; and
features slightly marked with, the _bar sinister_. A face without
beard--skin of cadaverous hue--nose sharply pointed--chin and forehead
both receding--eyes small, but sparkling like those of a ferret--and
long lank black hair, thinly shading his cheeks and brows--were the
prominent characteristics of this man's portrait. His dress was of a
clerical cut and colour--though not of the finest fabric. The coat,
trousers, and vest were of black broad-cloth--the coat and waistcoat
being made with standing collars, similar in style to those worn by
Wesleyan ministers--or more commonly by Catholic priests--while a white
cravat not over clean and a hat with curving boat-brim, completed the
saintly character of the costume.

Judging from his personal appearance, I concluded that I saw in the
individual before me the Methodist minister of Swampville. If so, it
would account for the obsequiousness