Edward had put on the old hunting-shirt, which came below
his knees, and stood with a mug of water in his hand by the bedside of
the two girls. Jacob went to the outer room, to remove the platters
laid out for dinner; and he had hardly done so when he heard the noise
of the troopers, and soon afterward a knock at the cottage-door.
"Come in," said Jacob.
"Who are you, my friend?" said the leader of the troop, entering the
door.
"A poor forester, sir," replied Jacob, "under great trouble."
"What trouble, my man?"
"I have the children all in bed with the small-pox."
"Nevertheless, we must search your cottage."
"You are welcome," replied Jacob; "only don't frighten the children,
if you can help it."
The man, who was now joined by others, commenced his search. Jacob
opened all the doors of the rooms, and they passed through. Little
Edith shrieked when she saw them; but Edward patted her, and told her
not to be frightened. The troopers, however, took no notice of the
children; they searched thoroughly, and then came back to the front
room.
"It's no use remaining here," said one of the troopers. "Shall we be
off! I'm tired and hungry with the ride."
"So am I, and there's something that smells well." said another.
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