The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 396: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

FRESH PERILS 319 fireplace where he was seated, saying, “ Let him in, by all means.’ The landlord coughed aloud in order to prevent that whisper reaching the baronet; and assuming an air of pro- found civility, he said, ‘* Pray walk in, sir. I am sorry that a gentleman of your rank and consideration should have been so scurvily treated in this here neighbourhood.” Sir Douglas Huntingdon accordingly entered the place; and as there was no passage of any kind, he at once found himself in what may be called the parlour or tap-room of that little ale-house. There were numerous Windsor chairs ranged around the walls, a huge deal table in the middle of the room, several spittoons upon the sanded floor, and a cheerful fire blazing in the grate. On the table were jugs of ale, a tray of pipes, and a paper of tobacco; and seated around the hearth were the Hangman, Sally Melmoth, and Jack the Foundling. Daniel Coffin was the first to make way for the baronet, and so very polite and civil was he that Sir Douglas failed to receive any evil impression from his particularly sinister countenance. The landiord, remarking ‘“ that it was very cold, and that his guest would no doubt like something warm,” hastened into a little bar parlour opening from the end of the room, and speedily returned with a reeking tumbler of brandy and water. ‘““ And so, sir, you was unfortunate enough to get robbed, was you?” said the landlord, as he resumed his own seat in the chimney-corner. ‘“ Only think,’ he continued, addressing himself to the Hangman, “of the gentleman being compelled to fly for his life. But what a good young woman it must have been that gave him such a hint.” “Yes,’’ observed Daniel Coffin, “I heard the gentleman telling you the story at the door a minute ago, and I thought to myself what a lucky thing it was he got off so nice. But I really tremble for the poor young woman, in case she should be suspected by her companions.’ “Ah! you may well say that,’’ exclaimed the landlord, taking his cue from the Hangman’s words. “ The rascals that infest this here neighbourhood are the most murderous, villainous cutthroats that ever was; and if they only once as much as suspected the young woman — ”’ “Oh, don’t talk of it!” cried Sally Melmoth, pretending CORNICE OOOlKS (C(O)