.....An opening, in trees now cheered him with the hopes that the church bridge was at hand. The wavering reflection of a silver star in the bosom of the brook told him he was not mistaken. He saw the walls of the church dimly glaring under the trees beyond. He recollected the place where Brom Bone's ghostly competitor had disappeared."If I can reach that bridge," thought Icabod, I am safe." Just then he heard the black steed panting and blowing close behind him; he even fancied that he felt his hot breath. Another convulsive kick in the ribs. and old Gunpowder sprange upon the bridge; he thundered over the resounding planks; he gained the opposite side; and now Icabod cast a look behind to see if his pursuer should vanish according to rule,in a flash of brimstone. Just then he saw the goblin rising in his stirrups......

(to be continued!)

Sandy