If no one else, the porter in the lodge at the church door would be there, for he or his representative never left it, being always on the watch lest some thief should attempt to enter the treasury, or steal the sacred vessels.
But as he ascended the hill he met a shepherd, whose dogs prepared to fly at him, recognising a stranger.

For a moment the man seemed inclined to let them wreak their will, if they could, for he also felt inclined to challenge a stranger, but, seeing Felix lower his spear, it probably occurred to him that some of his dogs would be killed.

He therefore ordered them down, and stayed to listen.

Felix learnt that there was no bridge across the creek, and only one over the river; but there was a ferry for anybody who was known.

No strangers were allowed to cross the ferry; they must enter by the main road over the bridge.
"But how am I to get into the place then ?" said Felix.