'They might have waited. The Lord knew that I was engaged upon His work. Why has He thus left me in the lurch?'
A cart approached. He hailed the driver.
'Have you seen, as you came along, two persons walking along the road towards London?'
'Ay; about half a mile ahead.'
'Half a mile! So much as that! I shall never catch them if I walk. You will have to give me a lift, and make all haste after them.'
He began to bargain with the driver, who, agreeing to his terms, permitted him to climb into his cart, and turning his horse's head, set off after those of whom he had spoken. But they were nowhere to be seen.
'It was here I passed them.'
'Probably they are a little further on. Drive more quickly. We shall see them in a minute. The winding road hides them, and the hedges.'
The driver did as he was bid. But though he went on and on, he saw nothing of those whom he was seeking. Mr. Treadman began to be alarmed.
'It is a most extraordinary thing. Where can He have got to? Is it possible that that lame fellow can have told Him of the message I was sending, and that He has purposely given me the slip? If so, I shall be placed in an embarrassing position. These people are sure to come. Mrs. Powell and Gifford will be off in an instant. They have been looking for the Lord too long not to make all haste to see Him now. For all I know, they may bring half London with them. If they find they have come for nothing, the situation will be awkward. My reputation will be damaged. I ask it with all possible reverence, but why is the Lord so little mindful of His own?'