"It sounds very well, indeed," said Mrs. Royden; "but even if we forget ourselves, we must think of the future of our children."
"My experience is wide," answered the old man, smiling, "and it teaches me that those young people get along the best, and live the happiest, who commence life with little or nothing. Discipline, of the right kind, makes a good disposition; and a good disposition is better than silver and gold."
Something in the tone in which the words were uttered, or in the old man's simple and impressive manner, struck Mrs. Royden, as well as her husband, very forcibly. And when Mr. Royden added that "they had always got along better than they expected, so far, and he did not see the wisdom of hoarding up money for an uncertain future," she gave a partial consent to the arrangement he proposed.
"That is enough!" he cried, triumphantly; "I am sick of seeing house affairs rush forward in haste and confusion, whenever we have workmen. I mean to take life easier than I have done; and I see no reason why you should not. What cannot be done easily, let it go undone. Things will come around somehow, at the end of the year. I have to thank you, Father Brighthopes," said he, "for a clearer insight into this philosophy than I ever had before."
The old man's face shone with gratification.
"If I'm to have any girl," spoke up Mrs. Royden, "I prefer the Bowen girl, if I can get her."
"I'll ride right over for her, after breakfast," replied her husband; "and Father Brighthopes shall go with me, if he will."
The old man desired nothing better, and the arrangement was resolved upon.
As soon as breakfast was over, Mr. Royden went to harness Old Bill. He brought him to the door, and inquired for the clergyman.
"He went to his room," said Sarah; "shall I call him?"