“John Barry,” was the reply.
“Where now, Jack—where now?”
“What, Mr. Gooding, is it you? Has the tide turned? Can I walk along the shore to Levington?”
“The tide has only just turned; but, if you take the wood-path for a while to Nacton, you may then, if you like it, keep the shore along Orwell Park, and pass the old Hall to Levington. But what makes you leave good company at this time o’ night?”
“I have left them all very merry at the harvest supper, but I had a mind to see my friends.”
“Well, Jack, had it been any other man upon the farm, I should have been suspicious of you as a poacher; but I know you well, and can believe you. I should not trust some that you have left behind. I was just going down to the Priory, to see how you lads fared to-night.”
“Well, Mr. Gooding, you will find them all very glad to see you, and no doubt they will make you welcome; but will you trouble yourself to let master know where I am gone to-night, that he may close his doors without expecting to see me?”
“That I will; and, when I get there, I will propose your health, Jack, during your absence.”
“Do so, Mr. Gooding; and tell them all, they have my hearty good wishes for their health and happiness.”
“Good-night.”