I have no fear for the result if you are prudent;
these few months past, during which I have only been a burden to you,
have proved that you and Humphrey can find a living here for
yourselves and your sisters; and it is fortunate, now that the forest
laws are about to be put in force, that you have made the farm so
profitable. If I might advise, let your hunting in the forest be
confined to the wild cattle; they are not game, and the forest laws do
not extend to them, and the meat is as valuable as venison--that is to
say, it does not sell so dear, but there is more of it; but stick to
the farm as much as you can; for you see, Edward, you do not look like
a low-born forester, nor ought you to do so; and the more quiet you
keep the better. As for Oswald Partridge, you may trust him; I know
him well; and he will prove your friend for my sake, as soon as he
hears that I am dead. Leave me now--I will talk to you again in the
evening. Send Alice to me, my dear boy."
Edward was much distressed to perceive the change which had taken
place in old Jacob. He was evidently much worse; but Edward had no
idea how much worse he was. Edward assisted Humphrey in the farm, and
in the evening again went to Jacob, and then told him of the
arrangement he had made to meet Oswald Partridge on the following
morning.
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