Page:Popular Tales and Romances of the Northern Nations (Volume 3).djvu/206

194 of making a little hunting excursion in company with the young forester. “For,” said he, “it is all right to keep up old usages: but, between ourselves, the hunter’s skill is best shewn in the forest. So jump up, Mr. Forester elect; and let’s away to the forest!”

William turned pale, and would have made excuses; but, as these availed nothing with the commissioner, he begged at least, that he might be allowed to stand his trial first. Old Bertram shook his head thoughtfully:—“William, William!” said he with a deep tremulous tone. William withdrew instantly; and in a few moments he was equipped for the chace, and with Bertram followed the commissioner into the forest.

The old forester sought to suppress his misgivings, but struggled in vain to assume a cheerful aspect. Katharine too was dejected and agitated; and went about her household labours as if dreaming. “Was it not possible,” she had asked her father, “to put off the trial?” “I thought of that also,” replied he, and he kissed her in silence. Recovering himself imme-