Page:Doctor Syn - A Smuggler Tale of the Romney Marsh.djvu/182

 "Yes, that's why I'm a coffin-maker. What would you expect to see inside a nailed-up coffin, eh?"

"Why, a dead 'un," said the boy.

"Exactly; and as folk ain't particular fond of amusin' themselves with a sight of dead 'uns they lets my coffins alone, do you see, and the spirit is treated with every respect and is allowed to go on its way very snug and all knocked up most particular solid."

"And the head of it all's the squire, is it?"

"I never said so," replied the sexton quickly; "but the less you think and say on that subject the better, for those who know the identity of the great chief would sooner have their eyes put out than betray him; so don't you hamper your young career with thinkin' about it. All you've got to do is to obey."

"And what do I get out of it?"

"Gold and the time of your life."

"And when do I start?"

"To-night."

"To-night?" faltered Jerk much relieved, for he had thought of his promise to help the captain, and was greatly thankful that the dates had not clashed.

"At half-past twelve at Old Tree Cottage; but don't go to the coffin-shop side. Tap at the back kitchen window."

"And half-past twelve, you say?"

"That's the time," answered Mipps, holding out his hands and seizing Jerk's in both his. "And I can tell