"But, be that as it may," says he, "you're improving tenants, and I'm confident my brother will consider ye; so what you'll do is, you'll give up the possession to-morrow to myself, that will call for it by cock-crow, just for form's sake; and then go up to the castle with the new LASE ready drawn, in your hand, and if all's paid off clear of the rent, and all that's due, you'll get the new LASE signed; I'll promise you that upon the word and honour of a gentleman." And there's no going beyond that, you know, sir.

So my boy came home as light as a feather, and as gay as a lark, to bring us the good news; only he was afraid we might not make up the rent, guineas and all; and because he could not get paid for the work he done, on account of the mistake in the overseer's tally, I sold the cow to a neighbour--dog-cheap; but needs must, as they say, when old Nick DRIVES,' said the widow, smiling.

'Well, still it was but paper we got for the cow; then that must be gold before the agent would take or touch it so I was laying out to sell the dresser, and had taken the plates and cups, and little things off it, and my boy was lifting it out with Andy the carpenter, that was agreeing for it, when in comes Grace, all rosy, and out of breath--it's a wonder I minded her run out, and not missed her.

"Mother," says she, "here's the gold for you! don't be stirring your dresser."-- "And where's your gown and cloak, Grace ?" says I.But I beg your pardon, sir; maybe I'm tiring you ?' Lord Colambre encouraged her to go on.
'"Where's your gown and cloak, Grace!" says I.--"Gone," says she.

"The cloak was too warm and heavy, and I don't doubt, mother, but it was that helped to make me faint this morning.