“Do you know if the man who summoned Mr. Purcel before my father has gone out?”

“I don't know, plaise your honor.”

“Did any person go out within the last few minutes?”

“Yes, sir, there went a man out; maybe it was him.”

“You don't know Hourigan's appearance, then?”

“No, sir. Hourigan, was that his name?”

“Yes. Are you a native of this county?”

“Not exactly, sir; but I have friends in it.”

“Who are they?”

“The Ahernes, sir, up in the mountains behind Lisnagola beyant.”