Thousands who took an active part
against the king will, when the opportunity is ripe, retrace their
steps; but I expect that we have much to suffer before that time will
come. And now, Edward Armitage, I have said more to you than I have to
any person breathing, except my own kinsman."
"I thank you for your confidence, sir, which not only will not be
betrayed, but will act as a warning to guide my future conduct."
"I meant it should. Be no longer rash and careless in avowing your
opinions. You can do no good to the cause, and may do yourself much
harm. And now I must ask you another question, which I could not
before the other people. You have surprised me by stating that Major
Ratcliffe had a son here; there must be some mistake, or the boy must
be an impostor. He had a daughter, an only daughter, as I have; but he
never had a son."
"It is a mistake that I fell into, sir, by finding a boy here, as I
stated to you at the inquest; and I considered it to be a boy, until I
brought her home, and she then discovered to my sisters that she was a
girl dressed in boys' clothes. I did not give that as explanation at
the inquest, as it was not necessary."
"I am right, then. I must relieve you of that charge, Edward Armitage;
she shall be to me as a daughter, and I trust that you will agree with
me, without any disparagement to your feelings, that my house will be
a more fit residence for her than your cottage.
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