If the old tradition were true that the gipsies had hidden the gold again in spite, it was possible that after this lapse of time the old hatred would have died out, and that somebody might be willing to betray the precious secret for a sufficient reward.

At any rate Cuthbert's idea of living in the forest and cultivating and studying these strange folk was amply worth a trial.

If his quest succeeded, the whole Trevlyn family would be once more wealthy and prosperous; if not, no harm would have been done, and the youth would have enjoyed his free life and new experiences after the winter spent in the confinement of the great city.
The travellers walked on through the twilight and until long after moonrise.

They had put a good twelve miles between them and London before they talked of halting.

They had no intention of seeking shelter for the night in any wayside hostelry.