"If mother thinks it won't hurt you; and I'll bring you a little mite of a top, that you can spin in your fingers right in your chair."
[CHAPTER VI.]
HARRISON'S NEW HOME.
"But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel."
DURING the sickness and convalescence of their child, Mr. and Mrs. Haven became so much interested in the nurse, that they determined if she would accept the situation of housekeeper in their family, to take a house for the winter, as they had long wished to do. They knew that she was exceedingly unwilling to be separated from Harrison; and, as they intended to offer him a home, they were sure this would be a great inducement for her to consent.
This arrangement was happily accomplished, and Mrs. Danforth was delighted to acknowledge that she owed so comfortable a home to the industry and good conduct of her son.
Harrison went regularly to school; but when at home he was always ready to do anything in the family, and rendered himself so important a part of the household, that Mr. Haven often declared he did not know how they could do without him.
Alfred, as I have already mentioned, was at boarding-school about twenty miles from the city.
His teachers had more than once notified his father, that unless he would comply with the rules of the house and of the school, he must be dismissed. Mr. Haven had plead with them to allow him to remain, as he knew the discipline would be of great service to the boy. He also used all the influence he possessed with the wayward lad, threatening unless he would yield to authority to deprive him of his allowance and other indulgences.
Alfred promised to amend; but before the first half of the term had expired, he was expelled, one of the ushers being sent with him, in disgrace to his father.