Page:Surprising life and adventures of the gentleman-robber, Redmond O'Hanlon (2).pdf/14

14 and was resolved to steal away, but was prevented by the men's walking to and fro to keep themselves warm, until observing a smoke at a distance, they drew near, thinking to refresh themselves. They found a village, where they were furnished with fresh provisions. As they were returning to renew the search, they observed a man at some distance, making to a cabin, whom they pursued, and found that they were still on the right scent. But Redmond looking behind him, though he was exceedingly hungry, altered his course, and the pursuit was renewed with great warmth; and he was obliged to hide himself next evening on the top of a mountain, where he remained until break of day, and then he went to one of his friend's houses to get something to eat.

At his coming up to the door, one of the dogs began to bark, which alarmed the pursuers to the centre, who lay not far off; whereupon they all came up in a body, and surrounded the house, just as Redmond sat down with a cake of bread, some butter, and a cau of milk before him. It was now the third day since he had eaten a morsel, and being almost spend for want of food, was just going to put the first bit in his mouth, when the captain of the little army appeared at the door, with a very kind salutation, which Redmond returned with a gentleman–like saying. Sir, I acknowledge that I am your prisoner, and shall comply with your orders immediately; but gentlemen, you have been hunting me these two days past, as I never was hunted in my life. I had not time to put one bit in my mouth, until now, and I beg, sir, you'll just leave me to eat my last breakfast with my friends; as soon as I have done you shall carry me where you please, and it will be no small honour to have the credit of taking Redmond O'Hanlon; only don't disturb me until I am ready. This privilege