"Well, mother, I am not going to say anything against this plan for the present; I would not go back to London and see you fade away into another world, as you were doing lately, for anything London hold's. I will study thankfully with Mr. Herbert, and see what he can make of me for the next few months; and if it is bearable to be under obligation to anybody, I think it will seem less hard to bear with Mr. Hazelwood and his lovable lady than I ever supposed possible. I am getting stronger too, mother, don't you see? Why, I could out-do half those fellows at school if I were to try now. There are the girls going for their ride, I'll just run and tell Maude that we are to stay, and they'll be out of their wits with joy, both of them. I'm glad it's all settled, mother,—not that I want to be idle, and you shall not be ashamed of me at least, I'm determined, neither shall that great, strong, bluff Squire."
That a most welcome change had passed over the mind and temper of her son was apparent, and even beyond what faith and hope had dared to contemplate. So the widow's path seemed plain, and a full explanation was written to Mrs. W— of the entire state of affairs, eliciting her decided approval and congratulations. She declined Mrs. Falconer's offer to come and superintend the institution until the vacancy could be filled, as she knew but too many ready and thankful for the post.
"It has all turned out capitally," said the Squire, rubbing his hands with glee, "and perhaps Miss Evelyn may be made presentable after all."
Mr. Herbert gladly welcomed his pupil, and a happy calm succeeded the late changes and disturbances at the old Moat House.
One pleasant sunny morning, Mrs. Falconer sat with her work on the lawn; Guy, having been dismissed from study by his master, had thrown himself down at her feet, and was for some time deep in the examination of a book which he had taken from his pocket.
Evelyn and Maude were gone with Mrs. Hazelwood on some errand of love, and there was prospect of a quiet hour with his mother.
"Mother," said he, suddenly, rolling over on his back, "I cannot make this out; how can it be? It says,—
"'Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.'
"Is that always true?"
"It is the enunciation of a great principle, Guy, and is merely illustrated in forcible terms, signifying that persevering industry attains a high reward; and it is often literally true, for some of our most eminent men have risen from a lowly origin to confer with princes, and take a place in the councils of the State."