do you say to that?"

"I don't know," said my father, shaking his head. "You are very
kind and it is a handsome offer you make, Doctor. But I feel
that Tommy ought to be learning some trade by which he can earn
his living later on."

Then my mother spoke up. Although she was nearly in tears at the
prospect of my leaving her house while I was still so young, she
pointed out to my father that this was a grand chance for me to
get learning.

"Now Jacob," she said, "you know that many lads in the town have
been to the Grammar School till they were fourteen or fifteen
years old. Tommy can easily spare these two years for his
education; and if he learns no more than to read and write, the
time will not be lost. Though goodness knows," she added, getting
out her handkerchief to cry, "the house will seem terribly empty
when he's gone."

"I will take care that he comes to see you, Mrs. Stubbins," said
the Doctor--"every day, if you like. After all, he will not be
very far away."

Well, at length my father gave in; and it was agreed that I was
to live with the Doctor and work for him for two years in
exchange for learning to read and write and for my board and
lodging.

"Of course," added the Doctor, "while I have money I will keep