Walter Middleton, who was the first to spy Ishmael's approach, ran down the steps and out to meet him, exclaiming, as he caught and shook his hand:
"How are you, old boy, how are you? Looking in high health and handsomeness, at any rate! I should have come down to school to see you, Ishmael, only, on the very morning after our arrival, I had to mount my horse and ride down to Baymouth to attend to some business for my father, and I did not get back until late last night. Come, hurry on to the house! My mother is anxious to see her old favorite."
And so, overpowering Ishmael with the cordiality of his greeting, Walter drew his friend's arm within his own, and took him upon the porch in the midst of the family group, that immediately surrounded and warmly welcomed him.
"How handsome and manly you have grown, my dear," said Mrs. Middleton, with almost motherly pride in her favorite.
Ishmael blushed and bowed in reply to this direct compliment. And soon he was seated among them, chatting pleasantly.
This was but the first of many delightful visits to Bushy Shore enjoyed by Ishmael. Mr. Middleton liked to have him there, and often pressed him to come. And Ishmael, who very well knew the difference between invitations given from mere politeness and those prompted by a sincere desire for his company, frequently accepted them.
One day Mr. Middleton, who took a deep interest in the struggles of Ishmael, said to him:
"You should enter some law school, my young friend."
"I intend to do so, sir, as soon as I have accomplished two things."
"And what are they?"