"Then we will approve the bond, Mr. Sharpman, and make the appointment. You have named Simon Craft as guardian. We are wholly unacquainted with him. Have you consulted with the boy in this matter? What does he say?"
"I have brought the boy into court, so that, notwithstanding his legal inability to make choice for himself, your Honor might be satisfied as to his wish in the matter. This is the boy," as Ralph, obedient to the lawyer's summons, came into the bar and stood beside him. The judge scrutinized the lad closely, and the lawyers leaned forward in their chairs, or came nearer for the purpose of better observation. Ralph felt somewhat embarrassed, standing there to be stared at so, but the voice of the judge soon reassured him.
"Ralph," he said, "is this application for a guardian made according to your desire?"
"Yes, sir," replied the boy; "Mr. Sharpman says I ought to have one."
"And whom do you choose for your guardian?"
"Gran'pa Simon, sir."
Sharpman looked annoyed, and whispered something to Ralph.
"I mean Simon Craft," said the boy, correcting himself.
"Is Simon Craft your grandfather?" asked the judge, sternly.
"Oh, no! I guess not. He made me call 'im that. I never had no grandfather; but Mr. Sharpman says that Robert Burnham was my father—and—and he's dead."