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.