Page:Peterruggmissing00austrich.djvu/25

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THE MISSING MAN.
19

Are the streets gone? Orange Tree Lane is at the head of Hanover Street, near Pemberton's hill." "There is no such lane now." "Madam! you cannot be serious. But you doubtless know my brother, William Rugg. He lives in Royal Exchange Lane, near King Street." "I know of no such lane; and I am sure there is no such street as King Street in this town." "No such street as King Street? Why, woman! you mock me. You may as well tell me there is no King George. However, madam, you see I am wet and weary. I must find a resting place. I will go to Hart's tavern near the market." "Which market, sir? for you seem perplexed; we have several markets." "You know there is but one market near the town dock." "O, the old market. But no one has kept there these twenty years."

Here the stranger seemed disconcerted, and muttered to himself audibly, "Strange mistake. How much this looks like Boston. It certainly has a great resemblance to it; but I perceive my mistake now. Some other Mrs. Rugg, some other Middle Street." Then said he, "madam, can you direct me to Boston?"