Over the edge of the roof a dark form climbed, plainly visible against the sky.
“It’s no wolf, Tom,” said Will, quickly.
“What, then?”
“A man. Don’t you see? Some belated traveler like ourselves.”
There was no doubt of Will’s statement, for the form climbed astride the roof pole, and, as the howling of the wolves sounded below him, shook his fist in their direction.
“Ye varmints,” the boys heard him cry, “I’ve cheated ye this time; but I guess this is the only tavern I’ll see to-night.”
His hat had fallen off in climbing to a place of safety, but some object in a box was clasped in one hand.
Curious, interested at this new phase in the occurrences of the night, the boys watched the man silently.
He kept talking down to the snarling wolves, seeking vainly to reach him, in a quaint, complaining tone.
Then he opened the box, and, to Will’s amazement, [drew forth a violin].