The windows were upon a small
grassy court, with a sundial in the centre; a door opened on a paved
court. At one end of the room a table was laid with ten times as
many things as he could desire to eat, though he came to it with a
good appetite. The butler himself waited upon him. He was a
good-natured old fellow, with a nose somewhat too red for the
ordinary wear of one in his responsible position.
"I hope the earl is better this morning," said Donal.
"Well, I can't say. He's but a delicate man is the earl, and has
been, so long as I have known him. He was with the army in India,
and the sun, they say, give him a stroke, and ever since he have
headaches that bad! But in between he seems pretty well, and
nothing displeases him more than ask after his health, or how he
slep the night. But he's a good master, and I hope to end my days
with him. I'm not one as likes new faces and new places! One good
place is enough for me, says I--so long as it is a good one.--Take
some of this game pie, sir."
Donal made haste with his breakfast, and to Simmons's astonishment
had ended when he thought him just well begun.
"How shall I find master Davie?" he asked.
"He is wild to see you, sir. When I've cleared away, just have the
goodness to ring this bell out of that window, and he'll be with you
as fast as he can lay his feet to the ground.
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