Fitz of Fitz-Ford; a legend of Devon - University Library

FITZ OF FITZ-FORD. 25
be relieved of their burthen, by the bridle,
slowly ascended the steep tog-ether as Levi
thus pursued his discourse.
'^Benjamin," said he, '^'^
thou art young:
seventeen summers have scarce passed over
thy head, and before I would trust thee, I
was willing- to prove if thou wast worthy and
prudent. And though thou art somewhat
g-iven to murmur at thy toils, yet I have found
thee faithful—keep a close tong-ue still, Benja-
min, for what I have to say must be for no ear
save thine own."
'' Master Levi," replied the nephew, '' there
is little danger of my betraying your counsel,
since, should you turn me adrift on the wide
world, I have no other prospect but starvation :
the London service I did with the fat city Na-
zarenes in Cheap, having cured me of all desire
to serve a people who used me worse than I
would use my beast, though he be the most
obstinate of his kind that ever bore rider or
crook."*
'' My own life has been one of crosses and
* The crook here alluded to is peculiar to Devon. It is
formed of wood, and used in the place of panniers. Its ap-
pearance is highly picturesque. The load sometimes carried
on these crooks is immense.
VOL. I. C