Many years ago, there lived on the banks of the Naugatuck River, in Connecticut, a family by the name of Bishop.
The father was not wealthy, but a good man, and respected by all who knew him. He had fought in the battles of his country during the Revolutionary War, and was familiar with scenes of danger and peril.
He had learned that it is always more prudent to preserve an air of confidence in danger, than to show signs of fear, and especially so, since his conduct might have a great influence upon the minds of those about him.
On one occasion he sent his son James, a boy twelve years old, across the river to the house of a relative, on an errand. As there was no bridge or ferry, all who crossed the river were obliged to ford it.
James was familiar with every part of the fording-place, and when the water was low, which was the case at this time, there was no danger in crossing.
Mounted on one of his father's best horses, James set out. He crossed the river, and soon reached the house of his relatives.
He was ready to start on his return, when suddenly the heavens became black with clouds, the wind blew with great violence, and the rain fell in torrents.
It was late in the afternoon, and as his relatives feared
to have him attempt to reach home in such a storm, they persuaded him to remain over night and wait until daylight before starting for home.
His father suspected the cause of James' delay, and was not over anxious on his account. He knew that the boy was prudent, and did not fear that any accident would happen to him during the night.