Page:The Children of the New Forest - 1847 - Marryat.djvu/102

 "It proves that the young man has had much practice, at all events," replied Mr. Heatherstone, smiling. "He has been living at the King's expense, but he must not follow it up at the cost of the Parliament. It would be well to take this young man as a ranger if we could; for although he is opposed to us, yet, if he once took our service, he would be faithful, I am sure. You can propose it to him, Oswald. The haunches of that Hart Royal must be sent up to General Cromwell to-morrow: the remainder we will give directions for, as soon as I have made up my mind how to dispose of it."

Oswald left the room, and came back to Edward. "General Cromwell is to have the haunches of your stag," said he to Edward, smiling; "and the Intendant proposes that you should take service as one of the rangers."

"I thank you," replied Edward, "but I've no fancy to find venison for General Cromwell and his Roundheads; and so you may tell the Intendant, with many thanks for his good will towards me, nevertheless."

"I thought as much, but the man meant kindly, that I really think. Now, Phœbe, what can you give us to eat, for we are hungry?"

"You shall be served directly," replied Phœbe. "I have some steaks on the fire."

"And you must find a bed for my young friend here."

"I have none in the house, but there is plenty of good straw over the stables."

"That will do," replied Edward; "I'm not particular."

"I suppose not. Why should you be?" replied Phœbe, who was rather old and rather cross. ""If you mount the ladder that you will see against the wall, you will find a good bed when you are at the top of it,"

Oswald was about to remonstrate, but Edward held up his finger, and no more was said.