e to the value of
various articles, and to the best method of disposing of his venison.

Oswald answered all his questions, and Edward took down notes and
directions on paper.

Oswald remained with them for two days, and then bade them farewell,
exacting a promise from Edward that he would come to the ranger's
cottage as soon as he could. "Should the Intendant come back before he
is expected, I will come over and let you know; but I think, from what I
heard him say, he expected to be at least a month in London."

Edward promised that Oswald should see him in less than ten days, and
Oswald set out on his journey.

"Humphrey," said Edward, as soon as Oswald was gone, "I have made up my
mind to go to Lymington to-morrow. We must have some flour, and many
other articles, which Alice says she can no longer do without."

"Why should we not both go, Edward?" replied Humphrey.

"No, not this time," replied Edward. "I have to find out many things
and many people, and I had rather go by myself; besides, I cannot allow
my sisters to be left alone. I do not consider there is any danger, I
admit; but something might happen to them. I should never forgive
myself. Still, it is necessary that you should go to Lymington with me
some time or another, that you may know where to purchase and sell, if
required. What I propose is, that I will ask Oswald to come and stay
here a couple of days. We will then leave him in charge of our sisters,
and go to Lymington together."

"You are right, Edward; that will be the best plan."

As Humphrey made this remark, Oswald re-entered the cottage.

"I will tell you why I have returned, Mr Edward," said Oswald. "It is
of no consequence whether I return now or to-morrow. It is now early,
and as you intend going to Lymington, it occurred to me that I had
better go with you. I can then show you all you want, which will be
much better than going by yourself."

"Thank you, Oswald, I am much obliged to you," said Edward.

"Humphrey, we will get the cart out immediately, or we shall be late.
Will you get it, Humphrey? For I must go for some money, and speak to
Alice."

Humphrey went immediately to put the pony in the cart, when Edward said:

"Oswald, you must not call me Mr Edward, even when we are alone; if you
do, you will be calling me so before other people, and, therefore,
recollect in future, it must be plain Edward."

"Since you wish it, certainly," replied Oswald; "indeed it w