For there were highway robbers and footpads, who seemed to have a seventh sense for the scenting of gold.

It was probable that they had spies and confederates in all sorts of places, and that they were warned beforehand when travellers rode with money and valuables upon their persons.
It was, therefore, small wonder that mother and sister looked with somewhat sinking hearts at the handsome young fellow, in his workman-like, if rustic, riding dress, as he sat upon his horse at the hall door, giving a last look round him at the little crowd gathered to see him ride away.
"You will write and tell us of your safe arrival in London; and be very careful how you cross Epping Forest," said the mother.
And young Tom answered gaily,--"Oh, never fear for me.

Wildfire and I can ride through and ride down anything! I will send a letter from London, but after that you must not look for anything but silence.

When men cross the seas, and live amid battles and marches, letters can scarce be written, still less safely carried." He stooped from his saddle, and once more kissed both mother and sister.

Then the servants and tenants crowded round, full of good wishes for a prosperous journey and a happy return; and Tom answered them with gay words of promise.