_Instructions in what manner, at what time, and what Road is
most safe to ride._
There are so many ways to rob the innocent, that it behoveth every man
to be very circumspect, how, when, and where he rides. If you have a
quantity of money about you, chuse rather to ride by night then day; for
by this means you are freed from any Horseman or Cutter whatever. But
this course cannot seal your protection from base sheep-stealing
penny-Rogues, the baseness and lowness of whose spirits will stoop for a
Noble, though they hang for their pains; therefore take heed of their
long poles, and that they do not suddenly start out and lay hold on your
bridle. As for the nobler sort of Rogues, this they believe as an
undeniable Maxime, that none will ride by night that are worth the
robbing. Besides, they are oblig’d to take their Inn betimes, lest
through mistrust they should be apprehended: Moreover, they hardly dare
adventure in the dark, because they cannot discern what dangerous
defences the assailed have, as Pistols, or other private weapons in
readiness, nor see their own advantages: and withall, it will be no
difficult matter to convey in the obscurity of the night, what they have
undiscovered, into some ditch. Chuse to travel in byroads, for it is a
general rule with High-way-men to keep their station on the greatest
Roads, that of the number that pass by, they may select such as they
think will prove the richest booties. Here now as a Corollary, take
notice of a foolish custom: Some when they ride by any place that
commonly speaks danger, they will bustle up together side by side; which
is the usual overthrow of such. Wherefore take my counsel here, when ere
you ride, in fear especially, ride far asunder, at least a stones throw:
by so doing none durst set upon you, fearing lest this stragling order
give some leave to escape undoubtedly, and so raise the Country in their
pursuit.