"An orphan, sir, I found after the skirmish at the mill stream, who
was left with us till her friends can send after her."

"Well, well. You seem a worthy youth," said Mr. Elmwood, who was
certainly struck and touched by the silent uncomplaining resolution
of the mere stripling who had borne so heavy a burthen. "If you were
heartily one of us, I should be glad to make you woodward, instead of
old Tomkins, and build up yonder house for you, but I cannot do it
for one who is hankering after prelacy, and might use the place for I
know not what plots and conspiracies of the malignants."

Again Steadfast took refuge in a little bow of acknowledgment, but
kept his lips shut, till again the squire demanded, "What do you
think of it? There's a fair offer. What have you to say for
yourself?"

He had collected himself and answered, "I thank you, sir. You are
very good. If you made me woodward, I would serve your honour
faithfully, and have no plots or the like there. But, your honour, I
was bred up in the Church and I cannot sell myself."

"Why, you foolish, self-conceited boy, what do you know about it? Is
not what is good enough for better men than you fit to please you?"

To this Stead again made no answer, having said a great deal for him.

"Well," said Mr. Elmwood, angered at last, "if ever I saw a dogged
moon-calf, you are one! However, I let you go scot free this time,
in regard for your brother's good service, and the long family on
your hands, but mind, I shall put in an active woodward instead of