Summary

The last boat docks around 9 o'clock at the small New England colony, containing a lone traveler. This young man, Robin, has promised extra payment for the late service, and the ferryman has readily agreed to the arrangement. As Robin searches his pockets for the tip, the ferryman steals a glance at his face. The ferryman notes that the man is barely 18 and obviously from the country. The ferryman guesses correctly that this is the youth's first visit to town. His clothes are well worn, but still in good shape, and of good quality. He carries a heavy cudgel, or stick, and a wallet, and he has curly locks, well-shaped features and bright eyes.

As Robin eagerly steps off the boat and begins to walk, it occurs to him that he does not know where he is going. Robin stops to get...