He will be in Exeter, miles away, probably working at papers of the law with my other friend, Peter Hawkins.

So!" We went thoroughly into the business of the purchase of the estate at Purfleet.

When I had told him the facts and got his signature to the necessary papers, and had written a letter with them ready to post to Mr.Hawkins, he began to ask me how I had come across so suitable a place.

I read to him the notes which I had made at the time, and which I inscribe here.
"At Purfleet, on a byroad, I came across just such a place as seemed to be required, and where was displayed a dilapidated notice that the place was for sale.

It was surrounded by a high wall, of ancient structure, built of heavy stones, and has not been repaired for a large number of years.