I told him that your
grandfather's cottage was his own property, and a grant to his
forefathers; that you were brought up at Arnwood, and had joined your
grandfather after the death of the colonel, and the murderous burning
of the house and all within it by his party. But the pretty little
daughter was more curious still. She cross-questioned me in every way
when her father was not present, and at last begged me as a favor to
tell you not to take the deer, as her father was very strict in his
duty, and, if caught, you would be imprisoned."
"Many thanks to her for her caution, but I hope to take one to-day,
nevertheless," replied Edward; "a hart royal is not meat for
Roundheads, although the king's servants may feast on them."
"That's truly said. Well, now I must see your woodcraft. You shall be
the leader of the chase."
"Think you we can harbor a stag about here?"
"Yes, in this month, no doubt."
"Let us walk on," said Edward. "The wind is fresh from the eastern
quarter; we will face it, if you please--or, rather, keep it blowing
on our right cheek for the present."
"'Tis well," replied Oswald; and they walked for about half an hour.
"This is the slot of a doe," said Edward, in a low voice, pointing to
the marks; "yonder thicket is a likely harbor for the stag.
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