I now confess that you are a master, as far as I can
see, in all branches of the craft. This is indeed a hart royal.
Twenty-five antlers, as I live! Come, out with your knife, and let us
finish; for if we are to go to the cottage, we have no time to lose.
It will be dark in half an hour." They hung all the quarters of the
stag as before, and then set off for Jacob's cottage, Edward proposing
that Oswald should take the cart and pony to carry the meat home next
morning, and that he would accompany him to bring it back.
"That will do capitally," said Oswald; "and here we are, if I
recollect right, and I hope there is something to eat."
"No fear of that--Alice will be prepared for us," replied Edward.
Their dinner was ready for them, and Oswald praised the cooking. He
was much surprised to see that Jacob had four grandchildren. After
dinner, he went into Jacob's room, and remained with him more than an
hour. During this conference, Jacob confided to Oswald that the four
children were the sons and daughters of Colonel Beverley, supposed to
have been burned in the firing of Arnwood. Oswald came out, much
surprised as well as pleased with the information, and with the
confidence reposed in him. He saluted Edward and Humphrey
respectfully, and said, "I was not aware with whom I was in company,
sir, as you may well imagine; but the knowledge of it has made my
heart glad.
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