“Yes, Herbert, it would have made us feel quite independent, but it isn't best speculating on what might have been. It is better to do the best we can with what we really have.”
“I suppose you are right, mother; but it is pleasant to dream of good fortune, even if we know it is out of reach.”
“The trouble is, our dreaming often interferes with our working.”
“It shan't interfere with mine. I've got something to work for.”
“Do you refer to anything in particular, Herbert?”
“Yes. I want to pay off this mortgage,” answered Herbert, manfully.
“Some day, when you are a man, you may be able; but the time is too far off to spend much time upon it at present.”
Herbert had moved to the window as the conversation went on. Suddenly he called to his mother: “Look, mother, there is Squire Leech riding up. He is pointing out our house to the man that is riding with him. Do you know who it is?”
“Yes, it is Mr. Banks, his new superintendent. He has just come into the village.”
“I wonder why he pointed at our house?”