Forester told Marco about these animals as they walked along.
Marco was very fond of animals, and he began to anticipate great pleasure in seeing these.

When they came near the house, he ran forward to look at the wild geese.

The water dog ran to meet Forester.
He knew Forester, having often seen him there before.

Forester and Marco rambled about the yards, looking at the animals for some time, and then went to the water's edge, which was very near the house.

The ducks and geese were swimming in the water.