No one in the village knew how these articles had been spirited into the cavern. No one of the villagers had assisted. Indeed, no one, except Robert, knew that the hermit was so well provided with comforts.
Our hero found his clothes on a chair at his bedside. They were drier and suitable for wearing.
“I may as well dress,” thought Robert. “I won’t go away till I’ve seen the hermit. I want to thank him again for taking such good care of me.”
He did not have to wait long, however. He had scarcely completed his toilet when the hermit appeared.
“So, my young friend, you arc quite recovered from your bath?”
“Yes, sir.”
“That is well.”
“I think, sir, I had better go home now, for my aunt will be anxious about me.”
“I sent a message to your aunt last evening. She knew before she went to bed that you were safe.”
“Thank you, sir!”