The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 36: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

THE CRIME 19 “ But what became of the body? How did you dispose of it? Where did you put it? ’’ demanded Ralph, with re- newed impatience. ‘““T waited in the wood till night came,’ answered the ruffian, ‘‘ and then I went and put the little stiff'un down at the door of a cottage about five or six miles from the castle. But now for the proofs,” continued the Cannibal, thrusting his hand into the capacious pocket of the great rough, shaggy coat which hung loosely upon him, and he produced all the upper garments that were likely to have clothed a babe of a couple of months old. Ralph seized them with avidity, and eagerly scrutinized each corner for some sign or symbol that should identify them as having belonged to his infant cousin. Nor did he search in vain. The cloak was elaborately embroidered with designs representing a peer’s coronet, and also the arms of the Saxondale family, while upon another garment the name of the Honourable Edmund Farefield was likewise worked in delicate embroidery. ‘““ Now are you satisfied?’ asked the Cannibal, his eyes leering horribly from beneath his dark, overhanging brows. “ But I can tell you more. When I stripped off that toggery from the tiny brat, | saw the mark of a strawberry on its shoulder, as plain as if it was a real one — but very small, though —that had been cut in halves, and one-half stuck on to its flesh not so big as a sixpence.”’ “TI am satisfied, quite satisfied,’ exclaimed Farefield. Then, as he pushed the garments across the table to Chiffin, he said, “‘ You must dispose of these as you think fit. But perhaps it will be best to burn them.”’ ‘““ Leave that to me,’’ answered the fellow, gathering up the things and thrusting them down into his capacious pocket. ‘“ Any further orders, Mr. Farefield? Anything more in my little way? ”’ “ Not at present,” rejoined Ralph. ‘‘ But do not be out of the way in case I should require you at any time during the next few weeks.” “ You can always hear of me at this place,” said the Canni- bal. “ You remember the sign? It’s the Billy Goat.” “I shall not forget. And now,’ added Farefield, ‘‘ for the remainder of the reward that was agreed upon between us.” CONnNIEOOOkKS (FO)