Page:Scots piper's queries, or, John Falkirk's cariches (1).pdf/23

 form him of the affair. Roger determined to be at the justices as soon as the Quaker, and set out accordingly the next morning early.

On the road, Roger espied the Quaker's horse tied to the door of a small hedge ale-house, to which he immediately went; and, peeping thro' a window, perceived Aminadab and the landlord's wife, transacting some affairs which could not be termed absolutely decent. At this unexpected sight Roger was greatly overjoyed, knowing he could intimidate the Quaker at any time, by letting him understand what he was privy to, which would excite the rage of his own conjugal termagant.

Roger entering the house, drank a pint of ale with all possible speed; and then informed the servant that Mr. Holdforth and he had agreed to ride spell and spell, or what is otherwise called ride and tye: a method practised in the country when two go a journey together, and have but one horse between them; one riding first and leaving the horse at a place appointed; or if neither of them know the way, tying him to the door of some public house, in such a manner as the other must absolutely see it; and, describing to the people of the house the person they are to deliver the horse to; in this manner they proceed during the whole journey.

Roger having got possession of Aminadab's horse, rode it to the town where the justice of the peace lived, and there struck up a bargain with a great deal of expedition, and sold it; then waited at the justice's door for the Quaker.

Poor Aminadab, whole corpulency was no great friend to his walking, in a short time after came puffing and blowing towards the justice's. Roger immediately informed him, that being very much tired by his journey, and seeing his horse stand idle at a door, he had made bold to use him: and, finding a chap who was willing to give a good