“Ah, and that’s, as I told you, a month hence. There, Dominic, you must mind I don’t spoil you before I get you home. Now talk to me and tell me about yourself.”
Chapter Four.
Preparations.
It was like a new beginning of life to Nic Braydon, and he lived for the next three weeks in a round of excitement. The principal way in which he spent his time was shopping with Lady O’Hara, who saw that he had a regular outfit of suitable articles of clothing, all of the most durable and useful make.
“You’re not going to a land of filled shirts and dancing pumps, Dominic,” said the lady; “you’re going out to work as your father has done, and is doing now.”
“I shall not mind work,” said Nic sturdily.
“I know that, boy. But business. Now I think I’ve got through all the clothing—Sir John’s, yours, and some that the doctor asked me to order. Now, what next?” she continued, turning to her tablets. “Oh, I see: a light gun that will carry shot or ball, a rifle for your father, and another for my husband. Then there are knives, axes, and fishing tackle. Really any one would think I was a man to execute such commissions. But I’m an old traveller, Nic, and have helped my husband over his wants for many, many years.”
So that day was devoted to selecting guns, Lady O’Hara handling and testing the various pieces in a way that made the gunmaker open his eyes and Nic stare.