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Rh abounded, while an orchard rich with promise of many fruits; ripe pears and famous pippins of the north and plums of every shape and hue; screened the dwelling from that wind against which the woods that formed its background were no protection.

"And you are well lodged! Your garden does you honour."

"I'll be honest enough to own I have no claim to the credit," said Gerard. "I am but a lazy chiel."

They entered the cottage, where a hale old woman greeted them.

"She is too old to be my wife, and too young to be my mother," said Gerard smiling; "but she is a good creature, and has looked after me many a long day. Come, dame," hesaid, “thou'lt bring us a cup of tea; 'tis a good evening beverage," he added, turning to Egremont, "and what I ever take at this time. And if you care to light a pipe, you will find a companion."

"I have renounced tobacco," said Egremont; "tobacco is the tomb of love," and Rh