Grimes
said he heard guns, and we came upon the scoundrel in Lewis Acre, two
brace on his shoulder."
"The vultures are gathering to the prey," said his mother.
"I'm not arrived at lying still to be devoured!" said Bobus. "I gave
him the benefit of a doubt, and sent Grimes to warn him off; but the
fellow sent his card-—_his_ card forsooth, 'Mr. Gilbert Gould,
R.N.,'-—and information that he had Miss Menella's permission."
"Not credible," said Jock.
"Mrs. Lisette's more likely," said his mother. "I think he is her
brother."
"I sent Grimes back to tell him that Miss Menella had as much power
to give leave as my old pointer, and if he did not retire at once, we
should gently remove his gun and send out a summons."
"Why did you not do so at once?" cried Jock.
"Because I have brains enough not to complicate matters by a personal
row with the Goulds," said Bobus, "though I could wish not to have
been there, when the keepers would infallibly have done so. Shall I
write to George Gould, or will you, mother?"
"Oh dear," sighed Caroline, "I think Mr. Wakefield is the fittest
person, if it signifies enough to have it done at all."
"Signifies!" cried Jock. "To have that rascal loafing about! I
wouldn't be trampled upon while the life is in me!"
"I don't like worrying Mr.
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