Part of the weekly work of the bailiffs was to walk round the entire circumference of the stockade to see that it was in order, and to have any bushes removed that began to grow up.

As with other matters, however, in the lapse of time the bailiffs became remiss, and under the easy, and perhaps too merciful rule of Sir Constans, were not recalled to their duties with sufficient sharpness.
Brambles and thorns and other underwood had begun to cover the space that should have been open, and young sapling oaks had risen from dropped acorns.

Felix pointed this out to Oliver, who seldom accompanied him; he was indeed rather glad of the opportunity to do so, as Oliver had more interest with Sir Constans than himself.

Oliver admitted it showed great negligence, but added that after all it really did not matter.

"What I wish," said he, "is that Sir Constans would go to Court, and take his proper position." Upon this they were well agreed; it was, in fact, almost the only point upon which all three brothers did agree.