Page:The Children of the New Forest - 1847 - Marryat.djvu/239

 of flowers, and several other little things as presents from Patience Heatherstone, and Pablo set off on his return.

"Well, Edward, you do look like a—" said Clara, stopping.—

"Like a Secretary, I hope," added Edward.

"Well, you don't look like a forester; does he, Patience?" continued Clara.

"You must not judge of people by their clothes, Clara." "Nor do I," replied Clara. "Those clothes would not look well upon Oswald, or the other men, for they would not suit them; buth they do suit you: don't they, Patience?"

Patience Heatherstone, however, did not make any answer to this second appeal made by Clara.

"Why don't you answer me, Patience?" said Clara.

"My dear Clara, it's not the custom for young maidens to make remarks upon people's attire. Little girls like you may do so."

"Why, did you not tell Pablo that he looked well in his new clothes?"

"Yes, but Pablo is not Mr. Armitage, Clara. That is very different."

"Well, it may be, but still you might answer a question, if put to you, Patience; and I ask again, does not Edward look much better in the dress he has on, than in that he generally has worn?"

"I think it a becoming dress, Clara, since you will have an answer."

"Fine feathers make fine birds, Clara," said Edward, laughing; "and so that is all we can say about it."

Edward then changed the conversation. Soon afterwards dinner was announced, and Clara again observed to Edward.

"Why do you always call Patience, Mistress Heatherstone?