nothing to say at present. Now to some, who have suddenly risen from
poverty to a degree of affluence, it proves a source of deep
mortification to remember that they sprang from a low origin. But is this
the case with your cousin Apgomer? Have I forgotten the source whence I
sprang? Does it create a blush on this cheek to remember that my
grandfather was poor, and that my father had to win his bread through the
sweat of his brow? Whoever has forgotten the poverty of his father and
grandfather, be it known that Apgomer is not that youth.

"So much in regard to the first charge. Now for the second. I am accused
of forgetting those 'kind friends, who lifted me up from my low estate.'
Those friendly hands who helped me to the situation I now hold are, by no
means, forgotten; they are deeply graven upon a grateful memory. While
this pulse shall beat, and while this heart shall throb, the names of
Barzello and Joram will, by me, be fondly cherished. Then there was much
opposition from certain quarters. There were those who could not discern
the propriety of my being elevated to an equality with those of greater
wealth; and I am not sure, since the king has not seen fit to retrace his
steps, but that he has lost the confidence of those concerned. Cousins! I
am ever grateful to those kind friends who so nobly took me by the hand.
I know well who they are, and I know well who they are not."

"Surely our young instructor is becoming eloquent," said Scribbo, rather
crestfallen.

"Yea, verily," replied his brother; "and who can withstand such a mighty
torrent of oratory? Let us away to the groves!" And Apgomer was left, for
the time being, the sole occupant of the apartment.