"What ails you, Tom?" said he, with much kindness of manner—"are you not well, lad?"
"Yes, I am well enough," said King; "I know not what came over me, but looking at Harrow, I thought of my school days, and what I was then, and that bright prospect reminded me of my boyish hopes."
"Tut—tut," said Dick, "this is idle—you are a man now."
"I know I am," replied Tom, "but I have been a boy. Had I any faith in presentiments, I should say this is the last sunset I shall ever see."
"Here comes our host," said Dick, smiling. "I've no presentiment that this is the last bill I shall ever pay."
The bill was brought and settled. As Turpin paid it, the man's conduct was singular, and awakened his suspicions.
"Are our horses ready?" asked Dick, quickly.
"They are, sir," said the landlord.
"Let us be gone," whispered Dick to King; "I don't like this fellow's manner. I thought I heard a carriage draw up at the inn door just now—there may be danger. Be fly!" added he to Jerry and the Magus. "Now, sir," said he to the landlord, "lead the way. Keep on the alert, Tom."
Dick's hint was not lost upon the two bowlers. They watched their comrades; and listened intently for any manifestation of alarm.