"Ah, I have no doubt they are," replied Frank sympathizingly; and as he spoke his eyes were wandering about, looking at the ornaments on the chimney-piece to see if any eggs were there; but nothing of the kind was to be seen.

"This is a fine open country, ma'am."

"It is that, sir," she said.

"And plenty of rabbits and plovers about."

"There are that, sir."

"Have you ever seen any bustards about?"

"No, I have heard tell of them, but it was before my time."

"And I suppose you have never seen any nests or eggs?"

"No, sir, never; but my little boy has some throstle's eggs, if so be as you would like to have them."

"No, thank you," said Frank; and thanking her for the milk, and bestowing a small coin on one of the children, the boys made their exit.