God bless you, dear children, and may you live to see many
returns, and happy returns, of the day;" and Jacob was so much moved
as he said this, that a tear was seen rolling down his furrowed cheek.
The second winter now came on. Jacob and Edward went out hunting
usually about twice a-week; for the old forester complained of
stiffness and rheumatism, and not feeling so active as he used to be.
Humphrey now accompanied Edward perhaps one day in the week, but not
more, and they seldom returned without having procured venison, for
Edward knew his business well, and no longer needed the advice of
Jacob. As the winter advanced, Jacob gave up going out altogether. He
went to Lymington to sell the venison and procure what was necessary
for the household, such as oatmeal and flour, which were the principal
wants, but even these journeys fatigued him, and it was evident that
the old man's constitution was breaking fast. Humphrey was always
busy. One evening he was making something which puzzled them all. They
asked him what it was for, but he would not tell them.
"It's an experiment that I am trying," said he as he was bending a
hazel stick. "If it answers, you shall know: if it does not, I've only
had a little trouble for nothing.
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