easure to hear my father's conduct praised
by you!"

"Why, of course, Mistress Patience, all of my way of thinking must
praise him. Your father is in London, I hear?"

"Yes, he is; and that reminds me that you must want some refreshment
after your walk. I will call Phoebe." So saying, Patience left the
room.

The fact was, Mistress Patience was reminded that she had been sitting
with a young man some time, and alone with him--which was not quite
proper in those times, and when Phoebe appeared with the cold viands,
she retreated out of hearing, but remained in the room.

Edward partook of the meal offered him in silence, Patience occupying
herself with her work, and keeping her eyes fixed on it, unless when she
gave a slight glance at the table to see if anything was required. When
the meal was over, Phoebe removed the tray, and then Edward rose to take
his leave.

"Nay, do not go yet--I have much to say first; let me again ask you how
we can serve you."

"I never can take any office under the present rulers of the nation; so
that question is at rest."

"I was afraid you would answer so," replied Patience gravely: "do not
think I blame you; for many are there already who would gladly retrace
their steps if it were possible. They little thought, when they opposed
the king, that affairs would have ended as they have done. Where do you
live, sir?"

"At the opposite side of the forest, in a house belonging to me now, but
which was inherited by my grandfather."

"Do you live alone--surely not?"

"No, I do not."

"Nay, you may tell me anything, for I would never repeat what might hurt
you, or you might not wish to have known."

"I live with my brother and two sisters, for my grandfather is lately
dead."

"Is your brother younger than you are?"

"He is."

"And your sisters, what are their ages?"

"They are younger still."

"You told my father that you lived upon your farm?"

"We do."

"Is it a large farm?"

"No; very small."

"And does that support you?"

"That and killing wild cattle has lately."

"Yes, and killing deer also until lately?"

"You have guessed right."

"You were brought up at Arnwood, you told my father; did you not?"

"Yes, I was brought up there, and remained there until the death of
Colonel Beverley."

"And you were educated, were you not?"

"Yes; the chaplain taught me what little I do know."

"Then, if you were brought up in the house and educated by the chapl