ip Harclay shall be engraven
upon my heart, next to my Lord and his family, for ever."

Sir Philip raised the youth and embraced him, saying, "If ever you want
a friend, remember me; and depend upon my protection, so long as you
continue to deserve it."

Edmund bowed low, and withdrew, with his eyes full of tears of
sensibility and gratitude. When he was gone, Sir Philip said, "I am
thinking, that though young Edmund wants not my assistance at present,
he may hereafter stand in need of my friendship. I should not wonder
if such rare qualities as he possesses, should one day create envy,
and raise him enemies; in which case he might come to lose your favour,
without any fault of yours or his own."

"I am obliged to you for the warning," said the Baron, "I hope it will
be unnecessary; but if ever I part with Edmund, you shall have the
refusal of him."

"I thank your Lordship for all your civilities to me," said the knight;
"I leave my best wishes with you and your hopeful family, and I humbly
take my leave."

"Will you not stay one night in the castle?" returned my Lord; "you
shall be as welcome a guest as ever."

"I acknowledge your goodness and hospitality, but this house fills me
with melancholy recollections; I came hither with a heavy heart, and it
will not be lighter while I remain here. I shall always remember your
lordship with the highest respect and esteem; and I pray God to preserve
you, and increase your blessings!"

After some further ceremonies, Sir Philip departed, and returned to old
Wyatt's, ruminating on the vicissitude of human affairs, and thinking on
the changes he had seen.

At his return to Wyatt's cottage, he found the family assembled
together. He told them he would take another night's lodging there,
which they heard with great pleasure;--for he had familiarised himself
to them in the last evening's conversation, insomuch that they began to
enjoy his company. He told Wyatt of the misfortune he had sustained by
losing his servant on the way, and wished he could get one to attend
him home in his place. Young John looked earnestly at his father, who
returned a look of approbation.

"I perceive one in this company," said he, "that would be proud to serve
your honour; but I fear he is not brought up well enough."

John coloured with impatience; he could not forbear speaking.

"Sir, I can answer for an honest heart, a willing mind, and a light pair
of heels; and though I am somewhat awkwa