But I think this will be much better for her than if she knew he was a prisoner, and would have to stand a trial.
"Between ourselves, squire, as far as the lad himself is concerned, I am not sure that he will be altogether sorry that events have turned out as they have.

In our talks together, he has often confided to me that his own inclinations were altogether for a life of activity and adventure; but that, as his mother's heart was so set upon his following his father's profession, he had resolved upon never saying a word, to her, which would lead her to suppose that his own wishes lay in any other direction.

This business will give him the opportunity he has longed for, to see the world, without his appearing in any way to thwart his mother's plans." "At any rate," the squire said, "I am heartily glad he has got off being tried.

Even if I had got a free pardon for him, it would have been a serious slur upon him that he had been imprisoned, and would have been awkward for us all in the future.

I think, Wilks, I will leave it to you to break it to his mother." "Very well," the other agreed.