DEATH OF THE OTTER-KILLER. 339 



opposite conclusion, and either prove the security or 

 insecurity of the country. 



Not a living being had remained within the walls, 

 and, consequently, for several hours, the house and 

 household goods were abandoned to the mercy of 

 chance and chance travellers. The guardian saint, 

 however, acquitted herself like a gentlewoman. We 

 found everything in pious order ; and had the Lodge 

 been under the especial care of the glorious Santa 

 Barbara herself, watch and ward could not have been 

 more faithfully maintained. 



