"
"That raises him in my estimation; but why then does he hold office?"
"He did not ask it; it was given to him, I really believe, because
they wished him out of the way; and he accepted it because he was
opposed to what was going on, and wished himself to be away. At least
I infer so much from what I have learned. It is not an office of power
or trust which leagues him with the present government."
"No; only one which opposes him to me and my malpractices," replied
Edward, laughing. "Well, Mistress Patience, you have shown great
condescension to a poor forester, and I return you many thanks for
your kindness toward me: I will now take my leave."
"And when will you come and see my father?"
"I can not say; I fear that I shall not be able very soon to look in
his injured face, and it will not be well for a poacher to come near
him," replied Edward: "however, some day I may be taken and brought
before you as a prisoner, you know, and then he is certain to see me."
"I will not tell you to kill deer," replied Patience; "but if you do
kill them no one shall harm you--or I know little of my power or my
father's. Farewell then, sir, and once more gratitude and thanks."
Patience held out her hand again to Edward, who this time, like a true
Cavalier, raised it respectfully to his lips.
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