‘These motives then, not to think of others, led me to plan this excursion; and now will you be as candid, and say what is your project?’
‘I am bound for a little village called Cruhan: a very poor, unenticing spot; but I want to see the people there, and hear what they say of these rumours of new laws about the land.’
‘And can they tell you anything that would be likely to interest you?’
‘Yes, their very mistakes would convey their hopes; and hopes have come to mean a great deal in Ireland.’
‘Our roads are then the same. I am on my way to Croghan Castle.’
‘Croghan is but a mile from my village of Cruhan,’ said he.
‘I am aware of that, and it was in your village of Cruhan, as you call it, I meant to stable my pony till I had finished my sketch; but my gentle page, Larry, I see, has deserted me; I don’t know if I shall find him again.’
‘Will you let me be your groom? I shall be at the village almost as soon as yourself, and I’ll look after your pony.’
‘Do you think you could manage to seat yourself on that shelf at the back?’
‘It is a great temptation you offer me, if I were not ashamed to be a burden.’