Before leaving Mr. Bascom's, however, Robert handsomely remunerated the
energetic constable for his valuable assistance, and after thanking him
warmly for his active and cordial aid in our behalf, requested his
company to the village.
As they approached the store, where the stage-coach was in waiting, they
found an unusual crowd awaiting their appearance. The news of the
robbery and arrest had by some means become known, and the eager faces
of nearly three score of curiosity-seekers greeted them upon their
arrival.
Old Jerry himself seemed to be impressed with an idea of additional
importance, as though he was about to be called upon to perform a noble
service of great responsibility to his country, in assisting to convey
such a distinguished company in his old coach. The farmers gathered in
little groups about the platform, and conversed in low tones, as they
furtively regarded with sentiments almost approaching a respectful awe,
the unwonted presence of the detectives and their charge. There was an
utter absence of the boisterous hilarity which had been manifested on
the preceding morning, and one might have thought that they had
assembled for the purpose of officiating at a funeral, so thoroughly
subdued and solemn did they all appear.
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