“They be Londoners,” said the housemaid; “I can tell by their talk, and they allers do make a noise when they goes in the country.”
“What do they want down here, I wonder?”
“Can’t tell; but they ask for the best beds in the inn, and the best wine in the cellar, so they mun have plenty of money.”
While the servants were thus talking among themselves the old landlord and his kitchen domestics were busy in providing supper for the hungry travellers.
“Boots” was nearly run off his legs, and didn’t know what to do first.
He became confused, and forgot half of what he was told.
“Here, lad,” said one, “bring me some brandy. Quick. Hot, mind!”
“Brandy, sir, yes, sir. Hot sir? With or without? Just so, sir. Brandy hot without, sir? Thank’ee, sir.”
And off he shot.
But before he had fairly closed the door,