, which was a part of the old commoners' rights, came to an end, and
the trees were let to grow. But I have not seen the place now for many years,
except once, when we Leaguers went a-pleasuring to High Beech. I was very much
shocked then to see how it was built-over and altered; and the other day we
heard that the philistines were going to landscape-garden it. But what you were
saying about the building being stopped and the trees growing is only too good
news; - only you know -«
    At that point I suddenly remembered Dick's date, and stopped short rather
confused. The eager weaver didn't notice my confusion, but said hastily, as if
he were almost aware of his breach of good manners, »But, I say, how old are
you?«
    Dick and the pretty girl both burst out laughing, as if Robert's conduct
were excusable on the grounds of eccentricity; and Dick said amidst his
laughter:
    »Hold hard, Bob; this questioning of guests won't do. Why, much learning is
spoiling you. You remind me of the radical cobblers in the silly old novels,
who, according to the authors, were prepared to trample down all good manners in
the pursuit of utilitarian knowledge. The fact is, I begin to think that you
have so muddled your head with mathematics, and with grubbing into those idiotic
old books about political economy (he he!), that you scarcely know how to
behave. Really, it is about time for you to take to some open-air work, so that
you may clear away the cobwebs from your brain.«
    The weaver only laughed good-humouredly; and the girl went up to him and
patted his cheek and said laughingly, »Poor fellow! he was born so.«
    As for me, I was a little puzzled, but I laughed also, partly for company's
sake, and partly with pleasure at their unanxious happiness and good temper; and
before Robert could make the excuse to me which he was getting ready, I said:
    »But neighbours« (I had caught up that word), »I don't in the least mind
answering questions, when I can do so: ask me as many as you please; it's fun
for me. I will tell you all about Epping Forest when I was a boy, if you please;
and as to my age, I'm not a fine lady, you know, so why shouldn't