bare as ever, with great spaces
between the few specimens, and by degrees, as he gazed mournfully at
them, a thought began to take shape in his mind and to become more and
more enticing.

Why should not he and David go to Rumborough Camp alone? Certainly he
had an impression that it would be wrong, but as far as he could
remember it had never been distinctly forbidden, so what harm could
there be in it? He tried to remember if his father or mother had ever
said, "You are not to go alone to Rumborough Common." No. Try as hard
as he could he remembered no such words. In his heart of hearts Ambrose
was conscious all the time that if known such a thing would not be
allowed, for he and David never went beyond the fields round the house
unless Miss Grey or nurse were with them: they had occasionally been as
far as Farmer Hatchard's with a message, but that was the extreme limit.

He would not, however, let his mind dwell on this, for the expedition
began to appear so attractive, so bold, daring, and altogether
delightful, that all other considerations seemed dull and tame. He was
almost tempted to undertake it quite alone, but a little reflection
showed him that a companion would be decidedly useful. Rumborough
Common was a desolate and somewhat alarming place, and besides he might
find too many valuable curiosities to carry home by himself. David's
advice and help must certainly, therefore, be asked.

What would he think of it? Ambrose felt a little bit doubtful. Not
that David wanted either courage or enterprise for such an undertaking,
and if once started upon it he would be sure to carry it through with
undaunted perseverance, but--he was so matter-of-fact. He would
certainly say at once that it would be against rules, for he had a
tiresome way of looking things straight in the face, instead of turning
his eyes a little to one side when it was more convenient or pleasant to
do so.

At any rate, he must be asked to go; but Ambrose went on to consider
that this need not be done until Monday after their father and mother
had gone to Nearminster. That would be two days hence, which would give
him time to think over his plan and make preparations, so that all might
be ready to meet any difficulties from David. Ambrose began to feel
very important when he had settled all this in his mind; it was such an
immense idea that it was most difficult to keep it all within himself,
and he went about with such an air of