“But the adventure did not end here.” “What, then, happened?” asked Death-wing. “We went into the forest, and hid part of our treasure until such time as we could convey it away more conveniently. “We lighted our fires in a deep hollow of the ground, and cooked the ducks and chickens, which, together with plenty of wine we had also stolen, made up a first-rate supper.” “So I should think.” “This is some of the very wine you are now drinking,” said the speaker to his chief. “Very good stuff it is,” said Death-wing, quaffing off a bumper, and smacking his lips. “Very good stuff it is; but it has one great fault—there is not enough of it. We must pay the farmer another visit, I think, shortly. Go on with your story.” “During the night, while we were drinking and smoking, and enjoying ourselves in the forest, never thinking that any one had observed us, or knew anything of what we had done, a gipsy woman crept up to me, and before I was aware of it, said, “‘The officers are on your track.’ “‘How do you know it?’ I answered. “‘I have just come from the farm, and all is in an uproar. They have got all the county officers there, and are preparing to follow you.’ “I laughed at this, for I knew they could never find out where we had got to. “However, I listened to the gipsy, and gave her some refreshment, and she became very chatty. “She seemed to know all about our doings, and said if she had a mind to do so she could find out you, Captain Death-wing, any day she liked.” “Indeed; she must be very clever, then.” “At all events that is what she said, and remarked that more than once she has seen rewards offered for you, but would never divulge who, what, nor where you were.” “A capital woman, and what was her name?” “Hannah!” “I know her,” said Death-wing, “but will not speak of her now. We have had business together more than once; she is a living repository of secrets. Go on.” “She told me that the farmer’s daughter was coming from London, and that she possessed presents of immense value which her intended lordly husband had given her as bridal presents.” “‘Is she coming alone?’ I asked. “‘No,’ was the reply; ‘but it is very easy to attack the escort and secure her; in fact, I have received orders from Lord Rochfort to do so.’ “‘You?’ I asked. “‘Yes, me,’ she proudly answered; ‘I have a numerous band at my command, and can do anything in that way.’” “‘And why does Lord Rochfort wish to have her captured?’ “‘Because her beauty has enslaved his elder brother, whom he does not desire to marry, for if his brother dies without issue Lord Rochfort succeeds to his vast estates.’ “‘But have you told him that you can or will do this?’ “‘No,’ she replied, ‘not positively; she may be escorted by a powerful party of well-mounted, well-armed men.’