"
Although the stranger manifested none of that impatience which the heir of
the Wish-Ton-Wish appeared to think one so situated might in all reason
feel, thus invited he did not hesitate to comply. As he followed in the
footsteps of his host, his tread, however, was leisurely and dignified;
and once or twice, when the other half delayed in order to make some
passing observation of courtesy, he betrayed no indiscreet anxiety to
enter on those personal indulgences which might in reality prove so
grateful to one who had journeyed far in an inclement season, and along a
road where neither dwelling nor security invited repose.
"Here is warmth and a peaceful welcome," pursued Content, ushering his
guest into the centre of a group of fearfully anxious faces. "In a little
time, other matters shall be added to thy comfort."
When the stranger found himself under the glare of a powerful light, and
confronted to so many curious and wondering eyes, for a single instant he
hesitated. Then stepping calmly forward, he cast the short riding-cloak,
which had closely muffled his features, from his shoulders, and discovered
the severe eye, the stern lineaments, and the athletic form of him who had
once before been known to enter the doors of Wish-Ton-Wish with little
warning, and to have quitted them so mysteriously.
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