"Why, it is in the door, Mattocks," rejoined Emmeline. "I saw it as we passed." The old sexton laughed aloud.
"That's true, my lady," he said; "but I've got a bird in there, and that's the truth. So that I would rather not open the door if I can help it. Not that I think you would tell, or this gentleman either; for it could do you no good, and might do the poor fellow some harm."
"Oh, be assured we will not tell anything," replied Smeaton. "But we must see the crypt, my good man. To me it is one of the most interesting parts of a church."
"Well, sir, must is must," answered the sexton, "and I cannot stop you, if you like to go. Only mind, you've promised not to tell about seeing any one there."
"We'll be as secret as a father confessor," answered Smeaton, gaily; "but first, I should like to look at your register-books. Cannot we see the inside of the vestry?"
The old man gazed earnestly in his face for an instant, and then replied, coldly and repulsively--
"You can see the inside of the vestry, sir, if you like; but the books are not there. They are always kept by the parson, under lock and key."
"Are they at his house?" asked Smeaton.
"I think not," replied the old man; "but all I know is, that they are not at the church. If you want any certificates out, you must ask the parson."
"Well, let us down to the crypt, then," replied Smeaton. "Can we see down there, think you?"