Page 264 of 483

"Presently two countrymen passed by, but pausing near the

cottage, they entered into conversation, using violent

gesticulations; but I did not understand what they said, as they

spoke the language of the country, which differed from that of my

protectors. Soon after, however, Felix approached with another

man; I was surprised, as I knew that he had not quitted the

cottage that morning, and waited anxiously to discover from his

discourse the meaning of these unusual appearances.

"'Do you consider,' said his companion to him, 'that you will be

obliged to pay three months' rent and to lose the produce of your

garden? I do not wish to take any unfair advantage, and I beg

therefore that you will take some days to consider of your

determination.'