Within , upon a foul old russet cloak , the ferryman lay stretched and shivering ; a great hulk of a man , but lean and shaken by the country fever . `` Hey , Master Shelton , '' he said , `` be ye for the ferry ? Ill times , ill times ! Look to yourself . There is a fellowship abroad . Ye were better turn round on your two heels and try the bridge . '' `` Nay ; time 's in the saddle , '' answered Dick . `` Time will ride , Hugh Ferryman . I am hot in haste . '' `` A wilful man ! '' returned the ferryman , rising . `` An ye win safe to the Moat House , y ' have done lucky ; but I say no more . '' And then catching sight of Matcham , `` Who be this ? '' he asked , as he paused , blinking , on the threshold of his cabin . `` It is my kinsman , Master Matcham , '' answered Dick . `` Give ye good day , good ferryman , '' said Matcham , who had dismounted , and now came forward , leading the horse . `` Launch me your boat , I prithee ; we are sore in haste . '' The gaunt ferryman continued staring . `` By the mass ! '' he cried at length , and laughed with open throat .
XXXXX coloured to his neck and winced ; and Dick , with an angry countenance , put his hand on the lout 's shoulder .
Dick Ferryman House Master Matcham Shelton Time fellowship haste kinsman