When Walter arrived at the Rectory, he found a number of the village lads about his own age already assembled there. Several gentlemen were seated at the table, and amongst them Walter recognised Squire Forbes.
The Squire recognised Walter.
"Are you not one of Mr. King's apprentices?" he asked, as Walter came up to the table to give in his name.
"Yes, sir."
"I thought I remembered your face; you seemed to take a great interest in the sketch for my new greenhouse; do you draw at all?"
"No, sir; but I should so like to learn."
"You will be able to do so now; for drawing will form one of the subjects taught at the evening school, and a knowledge of drawing will be of great use to you in your trade. Where is your fellow-apprentice?—The lad I saw working with you yesterday; is he here to-night?"
"No, sir; he is not going to join."
"More's the pity; what is his name?"
"Hardy, sir; Frank Hardy."