away from them!" replied Edward. "I will not go."

"Well, Master Edward," replied Jacob, "you must do as you please; but
it will be cruel to leave your sisters here; they and Humphrey must
come with me, and I can not manage to get them to the cottage without
you go with us; it is not far, and you can return in a very short
time."

To this Edward consented. The pony was soon loaded, and the little
girls, who were still playing in the garden, were called in by
Humphrey. They were told that they were going to pass the night in the
cottage, and were delighted at the idea.

"Now, Master Edward," said Jacob, "will you take your sisters by the
hand and lead them to the cottage? Here is the key of the door; Master
Humphrey can lead the pony; and Master Edward," continued Jacob,
taking him aside, "I'll tell you one thing which I will not mention
before your brother and sisters: the troopers are all about the New
Forest, for King Charles has escaped, and they are seeking for him.
You must not, therefore, leave your brother and sisters till I return.
Lock the cottage-door as soon as it is dark. You know where to get a
light, over the cupboard; and my gun is loaded, and hangs above the
mantlepiece. You must do your best if they attempt to force an
entrance; but above all, promise me not to leave them till I return. I
will remain here to see what I can do with your aunt, and when I come
back we can then decide how to act."

This latter ruse of Jacob's succeeded. Edward promised that he would
not leave his sisters, and it wanted but a few minutes of twilight
when the little party quitted the mansion of Arnwood. As they went out