Hitherto, Mompesson had contrived entirely to baffle the vigilance of his foe.
At last, Osmond applied to Luke Hatton, thinking it possible his cunning might suggest some plan for the capture of the fugitive.

After listening with the greatest attention to all related to him, the apothecary pondered for awhile, and then said--"It is plain he has trusted no one with his retreat, but I think I can find him.

Come to me on the third night from this, and you shall hear further.

Meantime, you need not relax your own search, though, if it be as I suspect, failure is sure to attend you." Obliged to be satisfied with this promise, Osmond departed.

On the third night, at a late hour, he returned.