“I don’t mean that. You have a father and mother and sister to encourage you, while I have no one.”

“You have a friend, Gilbert; but he can’t help you much.”

“I know that, old fellow. You have been my most intimate friend for the last three years, and I hope and believe that our friendship is going to last. But I can’t help feeling alone in the world.”

“Why don’t you ask your guardian about your father?”

“I mean to; but I don’t believe he will tell me.”

“Have you any idea what views he has for you?”

“Not the slightest. I suppose he will provide me with a place somewhere.”

“Then you are entirely in the dark as to your prospects?”

“Entirely so.”

“I wish you would write to me, Gilbert, after you are settled. I shall want to know all about it.”