s to correspond with the one which
he was about to assume.

"I am most puzzled about a hat, Humphrey," said Edward: "I hate those
steeple-crowned hats, worn by the Roundheads; yet the hat and feather is
not proper for a secretary."

"I would advise you to submit to wear the steeple-crowned hats,
nevertheless," said Humphrey. "Your dress, as I consider, is a sort of
disgrace to a cavalier born, and the heir of Arnwood; why not,
therefore, take its hat as well? As secretary to the Intendant, you
should dress like him; if not, you may occasion remarks, especially when
you travel on his concerns."

"You are right, Humphrey, I must not do things by halves; and unless I
wear the hat I might be suspected."

"I doubt if the Intendant wears it for any other reason," said Humphrey.

"At all events, I will not go to the height of the fashion," replied
Edward, laughing. "Some of the hats are not quite so tall as the
others."

"Here is the shop for the hat and for the sword-belt."

Edward chose a hat and a plain sword-belt, paid for them, and desired
the man to carry them to the hostelrie.

While all these purchases on the part of Edward, and many others by
Humphrey, such as nails, saws, tools, and various articles which Alice
required for the household, were being gathered together, the landlord
had sent out to inquire for the goats, and found out at what price they
were to be procured. Humphrey left Edward to put away their goods into
the cart, while he went out a second time, to see the goats; with the
man who had them for sale he made an agreement for a male and three
females with two kids each at their sides, and ten more female kids
which had just been weaned. The man engaged to drive them from
Lymington, as far as the road went into the forest, on the following
day; when Humphrey would meet him, pay him his money, and drive them to
the cottage, which would only be three miles from the place agreed upon.
Having settled that satisfactorily, he returned to Edward, who was all
ready, and they returned home.

"We have dipped somewhat into the bag to-day, Edward," said Humphrey;
"but the money is well spent."

"I think so, Humphrey, but I have no doubt that I shall be able to
replace the money very soon, as the Intendant will pay me for my
services. The tailor has promised the clothes on Saturday without fail;
so that you or I must go for them."

"I will go, Edward; my sisters will wish you to stay with them now