The cottages scattered over the healthy country on the
boundaries of Dorsetshire and Hampshire were strictly examined by
Lumley; and the clown with whom Monmouth had changed clothes was
discovered. Portman came with a strong body of horse and foot to
assist in the search. Attention was soon drawn to a place well
suited to shelter fugitives. It was an extensive tract of land
separated by an inclosure from the open country, and divided by
numerous hedges into small fields. In some of these fields the rye,
the pease, and the oats were high enough to conceal a man. Others
were overgrown by fern and brambles. A poor woman reported that she
had seen two strangers lurking in this covert. The near prospect of
reward animated the zeal of the troops.... The outer fence was
strictly guarded: the space within was examined with indefatigable
diligence; and several dogs of quick scent were turned out among the
bushes. The day closed before the search could be completed: but
careful watch was kept all night. Thirty times the fugitives
ventured to look through the outer hedge: but everywhere they found
a sentinel on the alert: once they were seen and fired at: they then
separated and concealed themselves in different hiding places.
"At sunrise the next morning the search recommenced, and Buyse was
found. He owned that he had parted from the Duke only a few hours
before.
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