The lodgings of Master Gilbert, Bernard’s lawyer, were just within the Temple-gate, on an upper floor, looking out on Temple-bar. They soon gained access to the lower floor, the door of which was open. Within, on their entry, they found three individuals—one of whom was Master Gilbert’s scrivener, or clerk; and the remaining two, who were no other than Abigail and Zedekiah, have already appeared on the stage of our history.
The two servants, who had been sitting down just before, started up on the appearance of Bernard, and advanced to accost him.
“Who are these?” inquired Hildebrand.
“The servants of the Lord,” answered Abigail.
Bernard smiled. “They are poor, honest clowns,” he said to Hildebrand, “whom I would, with thy leave, provide for in thy household.”
“Have it so!” returned Hildebrand. “But where didst thou pick them up?”
“They were the servants of Shedlock,” replied Bernard.
“’Twas a goodly sight—a night-burying!” remarked Zedekiah.
“Ay, ay, but be of good cheer!” said Bernard. “You hear, you have both a provision! Now, Master Hildebrand, let us on!”