“How long ago was that, mother?”
“Seven years ago nearly eight.”
“And you continued to keep me, though the payments stopped.”
“Certainly; you were as dear to us as our own child—for we now had a child of our own—Grace. We should as soon have thought of casting off her as you.”
“But you must have been poor, mother.”
“We were economical, and we got along till your father died three years ago. Since then it has been hard work.”
“You have had a hard time, mother.”
“No harder on your account. You have been a great comfort to me, Frank. I am only anxious for the future. I fear you and Grace will suffer after I am gone.”
“Don’t fear, mother, I am young and strong; I am not afraid to face the world with God’s help.”
“What are you thinking of, Frank?” asked Mrs. Fowler, noticing the boy’s fixed look.