"That may come in time. Wickedness does not always prosper. But as regards our young friend, I have a plan in view."
"What is it, father?"
"I find he has an excellent education, having been nearly ready for college when the crisis in his fortunes came. I have been thinking whether we could not find a place for him in this house. My eyes, you know, are so weak that they are often strained by attention to my correspondence and reading. I have an idea of engaging Frank Courtney as a sort of private secretary, upon whom I can at any time call. Of course, he would have his home in the house."
"There will be no difficulty about that. Our family is small, and we have plenty of vacant rooms. But, father, will he be qualified to undertake the duties you have designed for him? He is very young."
"That is true, my dear; but he is remarkably well educated. I have tested his capacity by dictating a letter for him to copy."
"Did he do the work satisfactorily?" asked Mrs. Gordon.
"Without a single mistake."
"Then, father, I would not hesitate to engage him. Freddie likes him, and will be delighted to have him in the house."
"Another idea, Helen. It is time Freddie began to study. Suppose we make him Freddie's private tutor—say for an hour daily?"
"That is really an excellent idea, father," said Mrs. Gordon, in a tone of satisfaction. "It will please and benefit Freddie, and be a relief to me. Do you think Frank will have patience enough?"