Besides, his chance of escape, if quite alone, is greater than
if in company."
"And yet I feel a little mortified that he did not trust me,"
continued Edward; "my life was at his service."
"He could no more read your heart, than he could mine or others,"
observed Chaloner; "and any selection would have been invidious: on
the whole, I think he acted wisely, and I trust that it will prove so.
One thing is certain, which is, that all is over now, and that for a
long while we may let our swords rest in their scabbards. Indeed, I am
sickened with it, after what I have seen, and would gladly live here
with you, and help to till the land, away from the world and all its
vexations. What say you, Edward; will you and your brother take me as
a laborer till all is quiet again?"
"You would soon tire of it, Chaloner; you were made for active
exertion and bustling in the world."
"Nevertheless, I think, under two such amiable and pretty mistresses,
I could stay well contented here; it is almost Arcadian. But still it
is selfish for me to talk in this way; indeed, my feelings are
contrary to my words."
"How do you mean, Chaloner?"
"To be candid with you, Edward, I was thinking what a pity it is that
two such sweet girls as your sisters should be employed here in
domestic drudgery, and remain in such an uncultivated state--if I may
be pardoned for speaking so freely--but I do so because I am convinced
that, if in proper hands, they would grace a court; and you must feel
that I am right.
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