into my grounds, I send it home to its owner, for it certainly is no wilful fault in the creature to seek the best pasture it can find; but if I have reason to suppose his owner turned him in, I then think myself bound to do what the law directs in that respect: but though it is a secret I am obliged to keep from my neighbours, I may safely confess to you, madam, that I have not the heart to let a poor beast starve in a pound. As there are no courts of justice in which beasts can seek redress, I set up one for them in my own breast, where humanity pleads their cause."
"I wish they had such an advocate in every breast, Mr. Wilson," said the lady; "but my watch reminds me we must now take our leave, which I do with many thanks to you and Mrs. Wilson for your kind entertainment and good cheer, and shall be happy to return your civilities at my own house, and pray bring your whole family with you."
Mrs. Benson then desired her son and daughter to prepare for their departure. Fredrick was grown so intimate with little Neddy that he could scarcely be prevailed on to leave him, till he recollected Robin and the linnet.
As they returned in the carriage, Mrs. Benson remarked that Farmer Wilson's story was enough to
