"It does seem best," the minister said one evening when they had together asked God to lead them in the path of duty; "and if it is best the means will be provided."
"I can wear my cloak another winter," said the mother, cheerfully. "That will save ten dollars towards it."
Mr. Stuart rose and walked the room, his hands joined behind him as was his habit when meditating. At last he said:
"By a little extra effort, I can finish a series of articles for our religious paper. One of the Editors pressed me for them when I was in the city."
"Dick is such a good boy and has done so much for us I want to give him an education. That is all I expect to give my children."
In consequence of these plans, Richard was sent to an Academy in a neighboring state where he remained a year. He boarded in the family of a deacon, who had a large farm, but whose health did not permit him to work upon it. He was often in the habit of hiring the young men connected with the Academy to pick apples; husk corn, or do other chores not interfering with their lessons.
The Deacon was very strict in his religious opinions. At home Richard had always been in the habit of joining with the family in singing a hymn at morning and evening devotions, and on Sabbath evening each one selected his or her favorite hymn and tune, which were sung in turn. Richard had a very fine treble voice, which had been carefully trained. He greatly missed the singing at prayers, and suggested to his roommate that they should sing on Sunday night in their chamber.
They commenced with the hymn:
"Jesus lover of my soul."
And then proceeded to another: