He was
conveyed into the chapel, more water was given him, smelling-salts
applied, and in due time he regained his senses; but his father, on
his return to the vestry, announced that after what had happened the
meeting had perhaps better be adjourned. He felt it impossible to go
any further just then. Tanner's Lane Church, therefore, departed,
much musing, and was never again summoned on that business. Mr.
Allen had some thoughts of demanding another meeting and a formal
acquittal, but the pastor was suddenly struck with paralysis, and
although he lingered for nearly two years, he preached no more. So
it came to pass that George and his father are on the church books
till this day. There was, of course, endless gossip as to the
meaning of Mr. Allen's appeal. Whether George ever knew what it was
is more than I can say, but it is certain that Cowfold never knew.
Mr. Allen always resolutely repelled all questions, saying that it
would be time enough to go further when he was next attacked. The
Broads, mother and daughter, asserted that no doubt Thomas had a mark
upon the back of his hand, but that it had been caused by a nail in a
fence, and that he had fainted through indisposition.
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