Booth, however, was out of hearing.
Sir Leycester then proceeded to the centre of the wood, keeping a sharp look-out on either side as he rode along.
The others had already arrived at the appointed spot, but had nothing to tell.
The baronet felt very much inclined to swear; but, just at the moment, a burly farmer, named Marple, who used to hunt with him, came up, mounted on a well-bred horse.
On hearing what was going on, Marple told the baronet he had just seen a couple of gipsies, who appeared to be hiding on the banks of the Weever, and offered to take him to the exact spot.
“No doubt they are the rogues you are looking for, Sir Leycester,” he added.
“No doubt of it!” cried the baronet, joyfully. “Come along!”
He then rode off with Marple, taking the two grooms with him, and leaving the turf-cutters behind, to wait for Booth and the hounds.
The river Weever described a wide half-circle round the east side of the wood, the spot referred to by Marple being about half a mile off.
As they rode at a rattling pace, they were there in a few minutes; but when they approached the river, they proceeded cautiously.