d having no dog with him, he
could not overtake it, although he knew by its bleeding track that it
could not hold out much longer. That he followed it until nightfall,
and had it in view and close to him when he fell into the pit."

"Well, the story was not badly made up," said Edward, "only for a _stag_
read _man_; and what did the Intendant say to that?"

"He said that he believed you, and that Corbould's story was false--as,
if it had been a stag that he was following, no one would have known
that he had fallen into the pit, and he would have remained there till
now. I quite forgot to say, that when the Intendant said that he wished
to call at your cottage, the young mistress said that she would go with
him, as you had told her that you had two sisters living with you, and
she wished very much to see them and make their acquaintance."

"I am afraid that we shall not be able to prevent this visit, Oswald,"
replied Edward. "He is in command here, and the forest is in his
charge. We must see to it. I only should like, if possible, to have
notice of his coming, that we may be prepared."

"You need no preparation, sir, if he should come," replied Oswald.

"Very true," said Edward; "we have nothing to conceal, and if he finds
us in a pickle it is of no consequence."

"Rather the better, sir," replied Oswald. "Let your sisters be at the
wash-tub, and you and your brother carting manure; he will then be more
likely to have no suspicion of your being otherwise than what you assume
to be."

"Have you heard any news from London, Oswald?"

"Not as yet. I was away yesterday evening, when Master Heatherstone
came back, and I have not seen his man this morning. While you eat your
dinner I will go into the kitchen; and if he is not there, Phoebe will
be sure to tell me all that she has heard."

"Do not say that I am here, Oswald, as I do not wish to see the
Intendant."

"Mum's the word, sir; but you must stay in the cottage, or others will
see you, and it may come to his ears."

Oswald's wife then put before him a large pie, and some wheaten bread,
with a biggin of good beer. Edward helped Pablo to a large allowance,
and then filled his own platter; while thus occupied Oswald Partridge
had left the cottage, as agreed.

"What do you say, Pablo? Do you think you can walk back to-night?"

"Yes. Like walking at night. My people always do; sleep in a daytime."

"Well, I think it will be better to go home: Oswa