"And now we must be stirring, for the days grow shorter than they were, and I would fain be at home before dark, though we travel in good company," said the priest. "There are two young ladies of the family of Sir James Brandon who travel down with us, and the knight will send a sufficient escort with them. So, if it please you, Mistress Holland, let the child be made ready as soon as may be." "Her packing is all done, and it remains but to say farewell," said my aunt. "My nephew hath also provided two serving men, one to ride before Loveday, and the other to drive down and bring back the Sumpter mule." "Sumpter mule! What is that about a sumpter mule?" asked Father Austin. "Does my young mistress need a sumpter mule to carry her court dresses? She will have small need of finery where she is going, Mistress Holland." "A child of eight years has small need of finery any where, to my thinking," answered Mistress Holland. "I am not one that likes to see a young maid dizzened out. But my brother has prepared a present for the ladies." "But a web or two of Hollands and black Cyprus lawn, with some packets of spices, sugar, and the like," said my uncle, carelessly. "And since your reverence is pleased to like the white wine, I have ordered a case to be put up for your own drinking. 'Tis a light and wholesome beverage." "Many thanks—many thanks!" said the monk. "Some people might say you meant to secure a good reception for your niece—but, indeed, you need not fear for her," he added, kindly. "The house at Dartford is of good repute, and our prioress is a most excellent lady, of the noble family of Percy. Most of our sisters are also gentlewomen of good family. I give you my word, Master Corbet, that Mistress Loveday shall have every care, though I dare not promise her such feasts and luxuries as Mistress Holland provides." "Luxuries are of little account to children, but kindness is every thing," said my uncle. "And that, I promise you, she shall not lack," answered the priest, seriously; then, turning to me: "Come, daughter, ask your uncle's blessing, and take leave of your cousins. Some day, perhaps, they may come and see you, but it skills not lingering when parting must come at last." Mechanically, I kneeled to my uncle, who folded me in his arms. "The blessing and prayers of an unworthy sinner go with thee, my poor child!" said he. "Remember, whatever happens, thou wilt ever have a home and a portion in thy uncle's house." "She may need it yet, if things go on as they have begun," muttered the priest. My cousins kissed me, and sobbed out their farewells as well as they could for weeping. I went out to the side door, where the priest's sleek mule, and my uncle's two men were waiting with their animals. My uncle kissed me again as he lifted me to my place behind Jacob Saunders, and whispered: "I shall come to see thee soon, dear child. Try to be happy, and remember my house and heart are always open when you need a home."