The horses were in first-rate condition, and full of life and spirit.
They were delighted to find themselves travelling side by side again; and the riders were pretty well occupied for the first few miles of the road in curbing their gay spirits.
They had plenty of time to get to Harwich before the light failed them, and the servants knew the road and the best inns to bait at.
The journey was performed without misadventure; and Tom dismissed his retainers when he and his companion were safely installed in a good inn upon the quay, as the servants intended making one or two stages on the homeward road before stopping for the night.
Lord Claud had gone straight down to the harbour so soon as they arrived, leaving Tom to make arrangements for the night.

So far he had said almost nothing as to the errand upon which they were bent, and Tom had asked no questions, knowing he should be told what was needful in due time.

So when he had ordered a plentiful supper, he strolled out upon the quay, and presently saw his comrade returning with a satisfied look upon his face.
"Well, Tom, we are in luck's way.

There is a skipper in harbour who has unshipped his cargo, and is going back almost empty by the morning's tide.

He is glad enough to take us and our good horses safely across to Rotterdam; and, with the light, favouring breeze that has been blowing steadily these last three days, he declares we ought to make the anchorage there before nightfall.