Page:The Children of the New Forest - 1847 - Marryat.djvu/267

 "This sword was then wielded by Colonel Beverley, the celebrated cavalier, was it?" said Patience, taking it from off the bed, and examining it.

"Yes, it was; and here, you see, are his initials upon the hilt."

"And why do you take it to London with you? surely it is not the weapon which should be worn by a secretary, Edward: it is too large, and cumbrous, and out of character."

"Recollect, that till these last few months I have been a forester, Patience, and not a secretary. Indeed I feel that I am more fit for active life than the situation which your father's kindness has bestowed upon me. I was brought up, as you have heard, to follow to the wars, had my patron lived."

Patience made no reply. Clara now joined them, and they commenced the task of examining the linen; and Edward left the room, as he wished to speak with Oswald. They did not meet again till dinner-time. Edward's sudden departure had spread a gloom over them all,—even the Intendant was silent and thoughtful. In the evening he gave Edward the letters which he had written, and a considerable sum of money, telling him where he was to apply if he required more for his expenses. The Intendant cautioned him on his behaviour in many points, and also relative to his dress and carriage during his stay in the metropolis.

"If you should leave London, there will be no occasion—nay, it would be dangerous, to write to me. I shall take it for granted that you will retain Sampson till your departure, and when he returns here I shall presume that you have gone north. I will not detain you longer, Edward: may Heaven bless and protect you!"

So saying, the Intendant went away to his own room.

"Kind and generous man!" thought Edward, "how much did I mistake you when we first met!"

Taking up the letters and bag of money, which still remained on the table, Edward went to his room, and having placed the let- The Children of the New Forest.