They placed the body on a hurdle, then they covered it over with a couple of sacks, and bore it along until they reached Stoke Ferry Farmhouse.
They had the discretion to place it on a bench in a granary, the door of which they locked, and when all this had been effected in a gentle and thoughtful manner the farmer was made acquainted with the whole proceedings, at which he expressed his satisfaction.
Patty Jamblin went into hysterics, and the village surgeon was sent for, who pronounced her to be in a very dangerous state.
After recovering in a measure from the first shock she remained in a prostrate condition, and appeared to be but partially conscious of all that was going on.
Her father was more concerned about her than aught else, and perhaps this was a merciful dispensation of Providence.
As it was, to a certain extent it diverted his thoughts from the great and irreparable loss he had sustained.
CHAPTER LVIII.
AFTER THE MURDER—THE INQUEST.
The terrible crime committed in Larchgrove-road, the news of which spread like wildfire on the following morning, caused a thrill of horror for miles around. At Broxbridge, Sulwich, and a host of other places, it formed the sole topic of conversation.
As the cry of fire will frighten the worst sluggards from their beds, so did the tidings of the frightful murder awaken the whole country from its lethargy.