"My brave boy!" exclaimed Mr. Channing, making prisoner of his hand. "I said this untoward loss of the suit might turn out to be a blessing in disguise. And so it will; it is bringing forth the sterling love of my children. You are doing this for me, Arthur."

"Doing it a great deal for myself, papa. You do not know the gratification it will be to me, those two hours' play daily!"

"I understand, my dear—understand it all!"

"Especially as—" Arthur came to a sudden stop.

"Especially as what?" asked Mr. Channing.

"As I had thought of giving up taking lessons," Arthur hastily added, not going deeper into explanations. "I play quite well enough, now, to cease learning. Mr. Williams said one day, that, with practice, I might soon equal him."

"I wonder what those parents do, Arthur, who own ungrateful or rebellious children!" Mr. Channing exclaimed, after a pause of thought. "The world is full of trouble; and it is of many kinds, and takes various phases; but if we can only be happy in our children, all other trouble may pass lightly over us, as a summer cloud. I thank God that my children have never brought home to me an hour's care. How merciful He has been to me!"

Arthur's thoughts reverted to Hamish and his trouble. He felt thankful, then, that it was hid from Mr. Channing.

"I have already accepted the place, papa. I knew I might count upon your consent."

"Upon my warm approbation. My son, do your best at your task. And,"