the garden hedge to reach the back of the
stables unperceived, while I proceeded along the gate; it was opened
by the host in person. He started; but, with assumed indifference,
observed, "What sad news the dragoon has brought!"

"I don't believe the half of it. These things are always exaggerated.
Landlord, I'll push on a stage or two, and the worst that can happen
is to return, should the route prove dangerous. I know that here I
have a safe shelter to fall back upon."

"Safe!" exclaimed the innkeeper. "All the rabble in the country would
not venture within miles of where ye are; and, notwithstanding bad
reports, there's not a loyaler barony in the county. Faith! Colonel,
although it may look very like seeking custom, I would advise you
to keep your present quarters. You know the old saying, 'Men may
go farther and fare worse.' I had a lamb killed when I heard of the
rising, and specially for your honor's dinner. Just look into the barn
as ye pass. Upon my conscience! it's a curiosity!"

He turned back with me; but before we reached the place, the dark
stranger I had seen before beckoned from a back window.

"Ha! an old and worthy customer wants me."

Placing his crooked finger in his mouth. he gave a loud and piercing
whistle. The _quondam_ whipper appeared at a stable-door with a
horse-brush in his hand.

"Pat, show his honor that born beauty I killed for him this morning."

"Coming, Mr. Scully--I beg ye'r honor's pardon--but ye know that
business must be minded," he said, and hurried off.

No man assumes the semblance of indifference, and masks his feelings
more readily than an Irishman, and Pat Loftus was no exception to his
countrymen. When summoned by the host's whistle, he came to the door
lilting a planxty merrily,--but when he re-entered the stable, the
melody ceased, and his countenance became serious.

"I hid behind the straw, yonder, Colonel, and overheard every syllable
that passed, and under the canopy bigger villains are not than the two
who are together now. There's no time for talking--all's ready," and
he pointed to the harnessed post-horses, "Go in, keep an eye open, and
close mouth--order the carriage round--all is packed--and when we're
clear of the town I'll tell you more."

When my father's determination was made known, feelingly did the host
indicate the danger of the attempt, and to his friendly remonstrances
against wayfaring, Mr. Scully raised a warning voice. But my father
was d