LAST INSTRUCTIONS.
Mark had intended to find a new and more comfortable place for his mother, being dissatisfied with their humble rooms in St. Mark's Place, but the journey he was called upon so unexpectedly to make, led to a postponement of this plan.
"You can move, mother, if you like," said Mark, after placing the hundred dollars in her hands. "You'll have money enough."
"That's true, Mark, but you wouldn't know how to address me, and I might lose some of your letters. I shall be satisfied to stay here till you return. But do you think you had better go? You are very young to cross the continent alone."
"I am nearly sixteen, mother, and I have been in the habit of looking out for myself. Besides Mr. Gilbert thinks I am old enough, and if he has confidence in me I ought to have confidence in myself."
"I suppose it is all right, but I shall miss you terribly."
"It is for my good, and will be for yours, mother. I have long wanted to leave the messenger service and get into some steady position where I can push myself ahead, and this seems to me my chance."
"You will write often, Mark?"
"I will be sure to do that. You don't think I will forget my mother?"
On Saturday evening Mark went to Mr. Gilbert's to receive instructions.