As the pony was quite tired
with the fast pace that Edward had ridden, Edward pulled up to a walk,
and as they went along acquainted Humphrey with what had passed.
"Is your arm very painful?"
"Yes, it is, indeed," replied Edward; "but it can't be helped."
"No, of course not, but it may be made more easy. I know what will do
it some good; for I recollect, when Benjamin burned his hand at
Arnwood, what they applied to it, and it gave him great relief."
"Yes, very likely; but I am not aware that we have any drugs or
medicine in the cottage. But here we are: will you take Billy to the
stable, while I go on to old Jacob?
"Thank God that you are come, Edward," said the old forester, "for I
was anxious to see you before I die; and something tells me that I
have but a short time to remain here."
"Why should you say so! Do you fed very ill?"
"No, not ill; but I feel that I am sinking fast. Recollect that I am
an old man, Edward."
"Not so very old, Jacob; Oswald said that you were not more than sixty
years old."
"Oswald knows nothing about it. I am past seventy-six, Edward; and you
know, Edward, the Bible says that the days of man are threescore years
and ten; so that I am beyond the mark. And now, Edward, I have but few
words to say.
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