2 JVays of Wood Folk. 



yours — nay, looking through them to read the intent 

 which gives the eyes their expression. That is always 

 the way with a fox ; he seems to be looking at your 

 thoughts. 



Surprise, eagerness, a lively curiosity are all in 

 your face on the instant ; but the beautiful creature 

 before you only draws himself together with quiet 

 self-possession. He lifts his head slightly; a superior 

 look creeps into his eyes ; he seems to be speaking. 

 Listen — 



" You are surprised .? " — this with an almost imper- 

 ceptible lift of his eyebrows, which reminds you 

 somehow that it is really none of your affair. " O, 

 I frequently use this road in attending to some 

 matters over in the West Parish. To be sure, we 

 are socially incompatible ; we may even regard each 

 other as enemies, unfortunately. I did take your 

 chickens last week ; but yesterday your unmannerly 

 dogs hunted me. At least we may meet and pass as 

 gentlemen. You are the older; allow me to give 

 you the path." 



Dropping his head again, he turns to the left, 

 English fashion, and trots slowly past you. There is 

 no hurry ; not the shadow of suspicion or uneasiness. 

 His eyes are cast down ; his brow wrinkled, as if in 

 deep thought ; already he seems to have forgotten 

 your existence. You watch him curiously as he re- 



