I do love this sword. I purchased it, as I told you,
at Lymington, and they told me that it belonged to Colonel Beverley.
It is for his sake that I love it. You know what obligations our
family were under to him."
"This sword was then wielded by Colonel Beverley, the celebrated
Cavalier, was it?" said Patience, taking it off the bed, and examining
it.
"Yes, it was; and here, you see, are his initials upon the hilt."
"And why do you take it to London with you? Surely it is not the
weapon which should be worn by a secretary, Edward; it is too large
and cumbrous, and out of character."
"Recollect, that till these last few months I have been a forester,
Patience, and not a secretary. Indeed, I feel that I am more fit for
active life than the situation which your father's kindness has
bestowed upon me. I was brought up, as you have heard, to follow to
the wars, had my patron lived."
Patience made no reply. Clara now joined them, and they commenced the
task of examining the linen; and Edward left the room, as he wished to
speak with Oswald. They did not meet again till dinner time. Edward's
sudden departure had spread a gloom over them all--even the intendant
was silent and thoughtful. In the evening he gave Edward the letters
which he had written, and a considerable sum of money, telling him
where he was to apply if he required more for his expenses.
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