_He much condemns the follies of his past actions, and in
token of his unfeigned repentance, gives some general
instructions to his Country-men, first how to know
Padders on the _Road_, by infallible signs; with other
remarques worthy the observation of any Traveller, laid
down in some consequent Chapters._
Being in this terrestrial Hell, (where darkness, horror and despair
surrounded me) my conscience started out of her dead sleep, and
presently demanded of me a severe account of what I had done. My guilt
was such, I had not a word to speak for my self, but wished my
production (as my actions were) inhumane. What did not then the
apprehension of an approaching and unavoidable death, suggest to my
thoughts! to have only dyed (though with the most exquisite, terrifying,
and soul-excruciating tortures) was not a thing the spirit of man should
shrink at; but the consideration of an eternal punishment hereafter,
justly inflicted on such who have offended an infinite God, absolutely
distracted me: So that methought I already heard the howls and hollow
grones of damned Souls, which add to the weight of their everlasting
misery. Having somewhat appeased my enraged conscience, by a faithful
promise and constant resolution to lead a new life, if I should escape
the danger of the Law, I determined with my self, to shew the first
Fruits of my reformation, by publishing something to the world, that
might serve as a guide for Travellers, how they might passe in safety on
their way. To that purpose I acquainted my Keeper with my good
intentions; but that being no particular profit to him, he valued not
the publick, and therefore rejected my good motion, till I greas’d his
fist, and then I had the accommodation of a Candle, Pen, Ink and Paper,
_&c._ The uncertainty of their attire, various disguises, non-constancy
of residence, and changeable names, makes me incapable to do what I
would: Therefore I will do what I can (according to my small experience,
occasioned by my no long continuance among them.) Riding on the Road (if
you have company) it may be two or three shall overtake you, and seem to
be much afraid of you: they will pretend to be even now set upon by half
a dozen stout fellows, but that they did beat the Rogues, forcing them
to fly for safety: and this fiction they use to seal with
basket-hilt-oaths: thus by your answers they will find whether you dare
fight; if not, they will wait an opportunity to act their roguery on
you; which having done, as a reward for what unwillingly you have left
them, they will pretend to give you a word shall protect you better than
your sword, from any injury shall be done you upon the like account: but
this is nothing else than a meer cheat, and no securing charm; for we
valued not words, when our wants were in pursuit of Monies. Not but that
we used some formal words among our selves, when ready to seize a prize;
and observing other company, either before or behind, to desist a while,
by which we knew what we had to do, and the ignorant Travellers
suspected no wrong.