"But now I want to talk with you about your music. You can remember how very anxious you were to learn, and how many promises you made to practise regularly. Your father is very fond of music, and cheerfully paid the twenty-five dollars, which Mr. Lenox asks for teaching you."
"But, ma," urged the boy, "I didn't know how it would make my fingers ache. If I could play nice marches like Etty Bowles, I'd like it first-rate."
"Etty began when you did, Frankie; and I dare say her fingers ached till they became accustomed to the motion. If you persevere, you will soon be able to play marches. Every lesson you learn thoroughly is a good step in advance. You know how easy your first lessons have become."
"Oh, yes, ma! I can diddle 'em off tip-top." He laughed merrily, as he began to practise with his finger on Tony's back. Presently, he said,—
"Ma, if you'll let me get up, I'll play steady at it. I'll try to obey you just as nice as Tony does me. Wont I, doggy?"
"I'd like to see you doing that," replied ma.
Frankie lost no time in tumbling out of bed, followed by Tony, who seemed, by her joyful bark, to think that his young master had got into the right track again.
I wish you could have seen the boy as he splashed the water over his face and head. There was a look of resolution on his countenance which his mother was very much pleased to see.
"Come, ma! Come, Tony! Now you'll hear some playing!" And down he ran, happier than he had been for many a day.
When he was in the right humor, it only took one minute to find his place, arrange the stool, and seat the dog in a chair near him.