chord of her heart quivered with agony. After much consideration and
earnest prayer, she had concluded to let him go, and the thought of
sending him away from her, and all he loved, among entire strangers, was
what made her so sorrowful. She strove to calm herself by the
reflection, that she had done what seemed to be right, and by
remembering the blessed promises of God's Holy Word to the fatherless,
and to all those who put their trust in Him. With a cheerful voice, she
called the boys, telling James it was time for him to go home, as
Captain L., with whom he lived, was a very particular man, and would be
displeased if he staid out beyond the proper time. Mrs. Hamilton's sons
had been trained to obedience, and James never thought of lingering and
loitering for half an hour, as I have seen some boys do, after being
told to go. He just gave Rover a good pat on the back, and saying a
hasty "good-night" to his mother and Arthur, he ran home.

Arthur was alone with his mother, and she told him of the arrangement
she had made for him, and the reasons for it. Arthur was quite overcome
at the idea of a separation from the mother he loved so dearly, and
exclaimed--

"Oh, mother, don't send me away from home, I can earn something, and
will work very hard if you will only let me stay. Please mother, let me
stay with you!"

"It is quite as painful to me, Arthur," said his mother, "to part from
you, as it can be to you; but I think it is best for you; and I am sure
you will not increase my trials by complaining. Be a brave boy, Arthur,
and learn to submit cheerfully to what God sends upon you. Trust in Him,
and he will bless you wherever you are. Always remember He watches over
you, and loves you. I think Mr. and Mrs. Martin will be kind to you, and