Chapter 1: Recalled to Life The Dover mail was struggling up Shooter's Hill one November night in 1775.

The road was dark and muddy and the passengers were all walking beside the coach to make the work of the horses easier. There were three passengers, all wearing heavy coats and boots.

They trudged wearily up the hill through the heavy mist, not speaking to each other. There was a great fear of highwaymen in those days and the guard and driver of the Dover mail were anxious.

They watched the passengers suspiciously. Just as the coach reached the top of the hill, the driver heard a noise in the darkness ahead.

He listened intently for a moment, then he was sure - there was a horse approaching at a gallop! The guard had heard the noise as well and he drew out his blunderbuss.

The passengers had also heard the horse and they stood in silence near the coach. The sound of the horse was very clear and the guard called out loudly:'Stop! Stop, or I'll fire! '

The rider stopped his horse very quickly. The passengers peered uneasily through the mist, but they could not see the rider or his horse.

Is that the Dover mail? ' the man on the horse called out. The guard aimed his weapon carefully.

Why do you want to know? ' he replied loudly. I want a passenger, ' the voice replied.

I'm looking for Mr Jarvis Lorry. One of the passengers stepped forward when he heard his name and spoke quickly to the guard.