"And you will do well," answered the hag; "for I can promise you a fine treat in what you are about to see."
While the rector stepped aside to put on his cloak and hat, a strange smile curled the lips of the wrinkled harridan; but as Reginald again turned towards her, her countenance instantly resumed its wonted composure.
They then went out together.
CHAPTER CXXXI.
THE STATUE.
THE old woman led the way at a rapid pace towards Golden Lane, the rector following her at a little distance.
Although there was nothing improbable in the tale which the hag had told him, and nothing improper in the step which he was taking,—nevertheless he experienced a vague and indefinable idea of doing wrong.
Something told him that he ought to retreat; and at the same time a superior influence urged him onward.
And, therefore, he followed the old woman.
The wrinkled creature pursued her way, and at length turned into the dark and dirty court with which the reader is already well acquainted.
"This is a strange place, you will say," observed the old woman, as she pushed open the door of one of the houses in that court,—"this is a strange place to contain such a treasure."