I must be a great deal at the cottage when Humphrey is
away, for Pablo will have a great charge upon him--what with the
dairy, and horses, and breed of goats, and other things--more than he
can attend to; but as soon as Humphrey returns, I will come to you and
make preparations for our departure. Till then, farewell, both of you.
We must see to provision you for three weeks or a month, before
Humphrey starts."
Edward bade them a hearty farewell, and then rode to the cottage.
Although Alice and Edith had been somewhat prepared for leaving the
cottage, yet the time was so very uncertain, that the blow fell heavy
upon them. They were to leave their brothers whom they loved so
dearly, to go to strangers; and when they understood that they were to
leave in two days, and that they should not see Edward again, their
grief was very great; but Edward reasoned with Alice and consoled her,
although with Edith it was a more difficult task. She not only
lamented her brothers, but her cow, her pony, and her kids; all the
dumb animals were friends and favorites of Edith; and even the idea of
parting with Pablo, was the cause of a fresh burst of tears. Having
made every arrangement with Humphrey, Edward once more took his leave,
promising to come over and assist Pablo as soon as he could.
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