'Oh, Mr. Kirke! I'm so glad you've come; mother will be so glad to see you. We'll have such a nice time,' and he seized me by the hand, and shook it energetically.
'Why, Joe, I thought you were at home!'
'Oh, no! I'm here at school, but father says I'm to have a vacation while you're here. Why didn't you fetch Frank? You promised you would.'
'I know I did, Joe, but his mother wouldn't let him come; she thinks he's too young to travel.'
'Pshaw! He's old enough—most as old as I am; but never mind, Mr. Kirke; we'll have a fine time, hunting and fishing, and going to the races. They're going to have a big one over to Trenton next week, and I'm dying to go; it's so lucky you've come.'
'Lord bless you, Joe, I never went to a race, and never shot a gun in my life; besides, I can remain only a day or so.'
'Oh, yes, you can; father says you Yorkers are always in a hurry; but you must take it easy now. I'll show you round, and learn you the ropes.'
While I was laughing at the enthusiasm of the young lad, the wagon drove up, and Preston soon appearing, we entered it and drove off. As Joe bounded upon his spirited horse and led the way down the elm-shaded street, I said to his father:
'How that boy rides; he's a perfect Centaur.'
'Yes, he is a good horseman. He's been trained to it. You know we think manly exercises an essential part of a gentleman's education.'