Perhaps it was the hope of receiving something a little warmer than the cold air of the night which made the officer of the law linger over the blazing logs of wood on the massive andirons.
But Vernon, though he liked the fire's warmth as much as did the watchman, was eager to find Bob.
"Lead on. I must see the powder-monkey without delay."
"Powder-monkey! ha, ha, ha, that's good, it just suits. Eh?"
"What were you saying?" asked Vernon.
"Nothing, your honor."
"But you laughed——"
"Yes, your honor, I laughed—ha, ha, ha!—but at my thoughts."
"If your thoughts were so interesting I would like to laugh with you."
Vernon was in an unusually pleasant humor; perhaps the genial influence of the wine and the sharpness of the winter air combined made him feel bright and cheerful.