mise of his being with them in six days at
farthest. These previous measures being taken, he, attended by Pipes,
set out with the ladies; and they had also a convoy for twelve miles
from Sophy's father, who, at parting, recommended them piously to
the care of Peregrine, with whom by this time, he was perfectly well
acquainted.

CHAPTER XXVII.

They meet with a dreadful Alarm on the Road--Arrive at their Journey's
end--Peregrine is introduced to Emily's Brother--These two young
Gentlemen misunderstand each other--Pickle departs for the Garrison.

As they travelled at an easy rate, they had performed something more
than one half of their journey, when they were benighted near an inn,
at which they resolved to lodge; the accommodation was very good, they
supped together with great mirth and enjoyment, and it was not till
after he had been warned by the yawns of the ladies, that he conducted
them to their apartment; where, wishing them good night, he retired to
his own, and went to rest. The house was crowded with country-people who
had been at a neighbouring fair, and now regaled themselves with ale and
tobacco in the yard; so that their consideration, which at any time was
but slender, being now overwhelmed by this debauch, they staggered into
their respective kennels, and left a lighted candle sticking to one of
the wooden pillars that supported the gallery. The flame in a little
time laid hold on the wood, which was as dry as tinder; and the whole
gallery was on fire, when Peregrine suddenly waked, and found himself
almost suffocated. He sprang up in an instant, slipped on his breeches,
and, throwing open the door of his chamber, saw the whole entry in a
blaze.

Heavens! what were the emotions of his soul, when he beheld the volumes
of flame and smoke rolling towards the room where his dear Emilia lay!
Regardless of his own danger, he darted himself through the thickest
of the gloom, when knocking hard, and calling at the same time to the
ladies, with the most anxious entreaty to be admitted, the door was
opened by Emilia in her shift, who asked, with the utmost trepidation,
what was the matter? He made no reply, but snatching her up in his arms,
like another Aeneas, bore her through the flames to a place of safety;
where leaving her before she could recollect herself, or pronounce one
word, but "Alas; my Cousin Sophy!" he flew back to the rescue of that
young lady, and found her already delivered by Pipes