“Whereas, Ellen Harmer, the daughter of old Harmer, the miller, of Darlington, was forcibly abducted from her father’s home by some person or persons unknown, on the night of the attempted murder of young Andrew, her acknowledged suitor;
“And whereas, it has come to the knowledge of Sir Richard Warbeck, the chief magistrate of Darlington, that two suspicious persons, with a carriage in attendance, were seen prowling about the village on the night in question;
“Therefore the above reward will be paid to any one who shall give such information as shall lead to the apprehension of the offender or offenders and enable the young maiden to be restored to the arms of her disconsolate father.
“The following particulars regarding the supposed unknown abductor may, perhaps, lead to his apprehension.
“About 35 years of age, 5 feet 8 or 9 inches in height, thick set and powerfully made; black moustache, whiskers (supposed to be false), close cut hair, wore a cloak, and had the appearance of a military man.”
For a moment or two old Bates could scarcely recover from his astonishment.
At last he gasped out, and in a suppressed tone,
“Why, they must relate to one and the same person, Jack.”
“I know they do.”
“But I never saw these proclamations on the walls about London yet.”