Page:The Children of the New Forest - 1847 - Marryat.djvu/269

 have my sisters and you in my thoughts, and will not be rash under any circumstances."

"Thank you, Edward; may God bless you, and preserve you!"

Edward first kissed Patience's hand, that was held in his own; but perceiving the tears starting in her eyes, he kissed them off, without any remonstrance on her part, and then left the room. In a few moments more, he was mounted on a fine powerful black horse, and followed by Sampson, on his road to London.

We will pass over the journey, which was accomplished without any event worthy of remark. Edward had, from the commencement, called Sampson to his side, that he might answer the questions he had to make upon all that he saw, and which the reader must be aware was quite new to one whose peregrinations had been confined to the New Forest and the town adjacent. Sampson was a very powerful man, of a cool and silent character, by no means deficient in intelligence, and trustworthy withal. He had long been a follower of the Intendant, and had served in the army. He was very devout; and generally, when not addressed, was singing hymns in a low voice.

On the evening of the second day, they were close to the metropolis, and Sampson pointed out to Edward, St. Paul's Cathedral and Westminster Abbey, and other objects worthy of note.

"And where are we to lodge, Sampson?" inquired Edward.

"The best hotel that I know of for man and beast is the 'Swan with Three Nicks,' in Holborn. It is not over frequented by roysterers, and you will there be quiet, and, if your affairs demand it, unobserved."

"That will suit me, Sampson: I wish to observe and not be observed, during my stay in London."

Before dark, they had arrived at the hotel, and the horses were in the stable. Edward had procured an apartment to his