It seemed needless to remark that this was before the days of revolvers and patent cartridges; we had then to load in the old fashion, and had merely got as far as the introduction of the percussion cap.
I had never before carried anything more deadly by way of protection than a life-preserver, but as my friend seemed to mean a kindness, I made no ado about accepting his offer; and having “capped” it there and then, I consigned it to the side pocket of a pilot coat, which I wore buttoned over my uniform.
My journey down to Suffolk calls for no particular notice. In due time the railway deposited me at my destination, and left me with plenty of leisure to call upon the governor of the prison over night, with a view to my carrying off my charge the next morning. I asked what sort of a customer I would have to deal with, and must confess that I did not feel much encouraged with the reply,
“He is what I would call a nasty customer,” was the answer. “He has given us a deal of trouble while we have had charge of him; continually breaking prison rules, and more than once he has tried to commit suicide in the most determined manner by tearing open the veins in his arms with his finger-nails.”
This account of matters was not, as may well be supposed, at all enlivening; and when the governor added that the man was a perfect giant, and had been a “navvy” before he fell into evil courses, I began to fear that my work was cut out for me. However, there was no help for it.
The inn where I had taken up my quarters stood right opposite the gaol entrance, and as the street was somewhat of the narrowest, the most complete view of all comers and goers could be commanded from the front of my temporary residence.
Next morning found me seated at a very comfortable breakfast, and the weather being fine, the window of the private parlour was open, affording a perfect view of all that might take place at the prison door opposite.
While I was absorbed in the good cheer before me, I was startled by an exclamation from both the landlady and her daughter, which caused me to look up and instinctively to glance across the street.
“Did you ever see such a big, coarse, and clumsy-looking woman?” exclaimed the younger of my entertainers.
“Or is it a woman at all?” added her mother.