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172 had seen any such man as he had described. The next day was spent in the same search, and with no better success.

“So be it then!” said William internally: “the days that remain for my purpose are numbered. This very night I will go to the cross-road in the forest. It is a lonely spot; nobody will be there to witness my nocturnal labours: and I’ll take care not to quit the circle till my work is done.”

Twilight had set in; and William had provided himself with lead, bullet-mould, coals, and all other requisites, that he might be ready to slip out of the house unobserved immediately after supper. He was just on the point of departing, and had already wished the forester a good night, when the latter stopped him and took his hand.

“William,” said he, “I know not what is come to me, but so it is, that this evening I have an awe upon my mind, as if from some danger,