It may be easily conceived how a young man of his disposition passed
his time, in this tantalizing situation. He ejaculated with great
fervency; but his prayers were not the effects of resignation.
He ran back on foot, with incredible speed, in order to meet his
valet, whom he unhorsed in a twinkling, and, taking his seat, began
to exercise his whip and spurs, after having ordered the Swiss to
follow him on the other gelding, and committed the lame hunter to
the care of Pipes.
Matters being adjusted in this manner, our adventurer prosecuted
the race with all his might; and, having made some progress,
was informed by a countryman, that the chaise had struck off into
another road, and, according to his judgment, was by that time
about three miles ahead; though, in all probability, the horses
would not be able to hold out much longer, because they seemed
to be quite spent when they passed his door. Encouraged by this
intimation, Peregrine pushed on with great alacrity, though he
could not regain sight of the desired object, till the clouds of
night began to deepen, and even then he enjoyed nothing more than
a transient glimpse; for the carriage was no sooner seen, than
shrouded again from his view.
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