"I will do my share," said Scott, smiling.
"Yes, you look like a brave boy." Then, turning to the young man, "I thank you for your kind offer, but I think we will stay with Red Ralph for this one night."
Already it was getting dark, and the air was chill.
"Let us go back, Scott," said the earl. "It is not very late, but I feel sleepy, and I think I shall retire early."
"Very well, sir."
It was not quite nine o'clock when they entered the farmhouse. There was a fire of logs in the fireplace, and before it, with his legs stretched out, sat Red Ralph. But he was not alone.
A man of dark complexion sat opposite him. He was tall and swarthy, and, though differing in appearance seemed a fitting companion for Red Ralph. Both had pipes in their mouths, and the room was pervaded by the fumes of bad tobacco.
"Well, stranger, you took a long walk," said Red Ralph, turning in his chair.
"We sat down under a tree to rest," responded the earl. "Can we have a candle?"
The woman got up from her chair at the back of the room and lighted one.