“Thank you,” said Gray.
The thief, for such indeed he was, now proceeded to a cupboard, and handed to Gray therefrom a bottle covered with protective wicker-work, saying,—
“Drink; you’ll find that the best stuff.”
Gray took a hearty draught of the contents, which consisted of exceedingly strong raw spirit.
“Don’t you feel better?” said the man.
“Yes,” replied Gray, “a great deal better.”
“Very good. Now, you see, short reckonings make long friends.”
“What do you mean?”
“Oh, you know the reg’lar terms of business. It’s share and share alike with all who help a lame dog over a stile.”
“I am quite willing,” said Gray, “to award—”