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168 we get the coast clear of the cutter's men and the red-coats!" said Ann, shortly. "And now, let's to our work; 'tis for us to search the road for this young spark. 'Tis but a matter of form, though; for he'll be back to his ship long ere this!"

"You think so?"

"I'm sure on't."

"Still, you'll have a hunt for him?"

"Ay, and if I find him, I pray Heaven I may find him alone. I should like to settle accounts with him—by myself—dearly, dearly!"

She spoke between her clenched teeth. And Ben laughed.

"Roight, Ann," said he. "Oi'll hand him over if he comes my way. O'dsfish; Oi'd never wish a man worse than to come your way while you be in that humor!"

"I always have a mind to pay my own scores myself," said Ann, viciously. "So do you, Ben. Take to the right, down towards the bridge, whilst I search in the bushes in front, yonder. There's many a hiding-place there the fellow might have chosen, if 'tis true that he's still on the watch."

"Oons, Oi'll not thwart thee. So here's for