700 THE COUSINS.

CHAPTER IX.
THE BOWER

Tux dresses tor Mary and Lucy, and the apron for
Charles, were soon made. ‘ And now,” said Mr.
Lovett, the day after they were finished, “dress
yourselves for work, and come with me into the
wood.” Even Lucy made no objection to wearing
her substantial dress with such an object in view,
and the party were soon equipped. Mr. Lovett
borrowed a hatchet from Farmer Nye, and looked
very workman-like as he led the way, wearing a
white jacket, and carrying the hatchet on his
shoulder.

It was not long before he began to use it; for,
about a quarter of a mile from the house, he turned
aside from the path, lopping away the branches
and shrubbery, and working his way gradually to-