but, late in
the evening, I was met by some smugglers. Without ceremony, they
demanded who I was, and where I was going? I answered these questions to
their satisfaction; when, judging by my garb I should suit their
service, they, without farther interrogation, informed me I must go with
them. As my life was fully in their power, I thought it most prudent to
assent with an appearance of good-will, and therefore readily
accompanied them on board a cutter they had lying a little distance from
the shore. Our sails were immediately set, and we passed before the wind
with such rapidity as soon freed me from my fears of Talton. We
proceeded to the coast of Holland, where with some difficulty I escaped
from my companions, and got on board a trading vessel belonging to
Cardigan; and, wishing to see your Ellenor and Mrs. Blond, immediately
on my arrival there set out for Caermarthen, which I reached in the
evening.

"Fearful of passing near the hall, lest any of the servants should
discover me, I went by the village; but, my precaution was useless: an
old man, who had formerly been in the service of my grandfather,
accidentally followed, and knew me notwithstanding my disguise; and,
misled by the report of my death, declared to some of his neighbours he
had seen my spectre! As I was hastening to the humble dwelling of Mrs.
Blond, I was stopped by the appearance of Mallet, my mother's steward;
and, knowing the consequence which must ensue if I were seen by him, I
fled to the cottage of old Owen for shelter. Owen had that instant
entered, and was relating his tale to his wife, when my re-appearance
and voice convinced him of his mistake. He acquainted me with the tale
which was circulated of my death, and regretted the freedom with which
he had mentioned seeing me that evening: for Owen well knew the
circumstances which had driven me from my home; and, as Mr. Talton was
returned, advised me instantly to fly Caermarthen; promising, if any
notice should be taken of what he had uttered, to conduct himself in
such a manner as should effectually screen me from danger. I thanked
him, and, finding Mallet was gone, hastened to the residence of your
Ellenor. But, alas! Captain, it was deserted; she had left her ancient
asylum, with Mrs. Blond, but a few days before! This intelligence I
learned from a servant who was left in the house, and who likewise told
me some particulars, that"--

Sir Henry paused--hesitated!

"I was obliged to e