the second day of his stay, Peter spoke of his intention to start for
New York the following week.

"Don't you think you could do as well here?" said Mrs. Stirling.

"Up to a certain point, better. But New York has a big beyond," said
Peter. "I'll try it there first, and if I don't make my way, I'll come
back here"

Few mothers hope for a son's failure, yet Mrs. Stilling allowed herself
a moment's happiness over this possibility. Then remembering that her
Peter could not possibly fail, she became despondent. "They say New
York's full of temptations," she said.

"I suppose it is, mother," replied Peter, "to those who want to be
tempted."

"I know I can trust you, Peter," said his mother, proudly, "but I want
you to promise me one thing."

"What?"

"That if you do yield, if you do what you oughtn't to, you'll write and
tell me about it?" Mrs. Stirling put her arms about Peter's neck, and
looked wistfully into his face.

Peter was not blind to what this world is. Perhaps, had his mother known
it as he did, she might have seen how unfair her petition was. He did
not like to say yes, and could not say no.