"Then you are already fairly well educated. I will put you to a test. Sit up to the table, and take paper and pen. I will dictate to you a paragraph from the evening paper, which I should like to have you write down."
Frank obeyed, though, in doing so, he was obliged to set Freddie down, rather to the little fellow's dissatisfaction.
Mr. Percival selected a short letter, written by some public man, which chanced to have found a place in the evening journal.
Frank wrote rapidly, and when his copy was finished submitted it to Mr. Percival.
The old gentleman took it, and, running his eye over it, noticed that it was plainly written, correctly spelled and properly punctuated. This discovery evidently gave him satisfaction.
"Very creditably written," he said. "I have known boys nearly ready for college who could not copy such a letter without blundering. I am glad that your English education has not been neglected while you have been studying the classics."
Frank was gratified by Mr. Percival's commendation, though he could not see in what manner his education was likely to bring him employment. It was desirable, however, to produce a favorable impression on Mr. Percival, and he could not help hoping something would result to his advantage.
At this moment Freddie's mother entered the room, and greeted Frank with a cordial smile.
"Freddie," she said, "it is time for you to go to bed."
"I don't want to leave Frank," said Freddie.