When the summer came again he contrived and carried out a robbery on a more extensive scale.
He had for a long time contemplated making an incursion on a large warehouse in Nottingham. He had journeyed thither, and had made a careful inspection of the scene of his proposed operation.
Bandy-legged Bill had to act in concert with our hero, who felt assured that he would be successful in his forthcoming enterprise.
During the latter months of the year, when fishing on the Trent was considered good, a man of fairly gentlemanly appearance, with black hair and a closely shaven face, presented himself at one of the boating stations at Nottingham.
The manager came forward and asked our hero what he could do for him.
“Ah, you see, I have but indifferent health,” observed Peace, “and a change of scene is absolutely necessary, so my doctor says. I think of having a week’s fishing.”
“Yes, sir, and I have no doubt you will benefit by the change,” returned the manager. “Do you require a waterman?”
“No, I can manage very well by myself; all I need is a boat. My tackle I have with me at a house in the neighbourhood. I want a good-sized boat, for, let me see, say a week or so.”
“Yes, sir, we can accommodate you. Step this way, if you please, and make choice of a boat.”
Peace accompanied the speaker to the appointed spot, and after much consideration and haggling a bargain was struck for the fishing-boat.