"If you really want a cottage in the country," said he, "and the most
absolute peace and quiet to be got in this world, I know of the very
hing on my land in Lancashire. It would drive me mad in a week; but
if you really care for that sort of thing - "

"An occupied cottage?" I interrupted.

"Yes; a couple rent it from me, very decent people of the name of
Braithwaite. The man is out all day, and won't bother you when he's
in; he's not like other people, poor chap. But the woman s all there,
and would do her best for you in a humble, simple, wholesome sort
of way."

"You think they would take me in?"

"They have taken other men - artists as a rule."

"Then it's a picturesque country?"

"Oh, it's that if it's nothing else; but not a town for miles, mind
you, and hardly a village worthy the name."

"Any fishing?"

"Yes - trout - small but plenty of 'em - in a beck running close
behind the cottage."

"Come," cried I, "this sounds delightful! Shall you be up there?"

"Only for a day or two," was the reply. "I shan't trouble you,