47303    And yet, if it were not for the loss of the charming companionship of the boys, I could rejoice over my own misfortune, for, with my strong tastes for botany and zoology, I find an unlimited field of work here, and my sister is as devoted to Nature as I am.

47304    All this, Dr Watson, has been brought upon your head by your expression as you surveyed the moor out of our window.'

47305    'It certainly did cross my mind that it might be a little dull - less for you, perhaps, than for your sister.'

47306    'No, no, I am never dull,' said she quickly.

47307    'We have books, we have our studies, and we have interesting neighbours.

47308    Dr Mortimer is a most learned man in his own line.

47309    Poor Sir Charles was also an admirable companion.

47310    We knew him well, and miss him more than I can tell.

47311    Do you think that I should intrude if I were to call this afternoon and make the acquaintance of Sir Henry?'

47312    'I am sure that he would be delighted.'

47313    'Then perhaps you would mention that I propose to do so.

47314    We may in our humble way do something to make things more easy for him until he becomes accustomed to his new surroundings.

47315    Will you come upstairs, Dr Watson, and inspect my collection of Lepidoptera?

47316    I think it is the most complete one in the south-west of England.

47317    By the time that you have looked through them lunch will be almost ready.