the scale, and that will probably decide the matter."

"Then it's very mean of Squire Walsingham," said Herbert,
indignantly. "He knows that you depend on the office for a living."

"Most men are selfish, my dear Herbert."

"But he was an old schoolfellow of father's, and it was as his
substitute that father went to the war where he was wounded."

"True, Herbert, but I am afraid that consideration won't weigh much
with John Walsingham."

"I have a great mind to go and see him, mother. Have you any
objections?"

"I have no objections, but I am afraid it will do no good."

"Mr. Graham ought to be ashamed, with the profits of his store, to
want the post office also. His store alone pays him handsomely."

"Mr. Graham is fond of money. He means to be a rich man."

"That is true enough. He is about the meanest man in town."

A few words are needed in explanation, though the conversation
explains itself pretty well.

Herbert's father, returning from the war with the loss of an arm,
was fortunate enough to receive the appointment of postmaster, and