The two returned to the
verandah, and, before the lawyer went in to breakfast, his patient bade
him an affectionate farewell, adding, "s'haylp me, Mr. Corstine, ef I
don't be true to my word to you and the old woman about that blamed
liquor. What I had I turned out o' doors this mornin', fust thing, and I
shaant take in no more. That there bailiff's done me a good turn, and I
won't ferget him, nor you nuther, Doctor, ef so be it's in my power to
haylp you any." Coristine took his leave of the simple-hearted fellow,
and went to join the company at the breakfast table. Mr. Nash was there,
but, for convenience of eating and not to astonish the host and hostess,
he had placed his beard and moustache in his pocket. It was handy,
however, and could be replaced at a moment's warning.
Batiste brought round the detective's horse, and the lawyer, in borrowed
riding gaiters, bestrode him, hooking on to the back of the saddle a
bundle somewhat larger than a cavalry man's rolled-up cloak. The bundle
contained Mr. Nash's selected properties. That gentleman allowed Madame
to fasten the straps of Coristine's knapsack on his shoulders, while
Pierre did the same for Wilkinson.
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