"Then I'm doubly glad I came," said Jotham.

"Well, Joel Simpkins thought 'twas the funniest thing that I should be
buying something when father was not with me, and he asked just every
question that he could think of except one. He didn't ask me where I got
my money, and I do believe he would have asked me that if you hadn't come
in just when you did."

"O Randy, it's a funny sight to see you provoked," said Jotham with a
hearty laugh. "I know that he is an inquisitive fellow.

"You know I've been studying this summer with the young professor who has
been boarding at our house, and father has arranged it so that when he
returns to teach at the university I shall go back with him, not to the
college of course, but as his private pupil. I shall work very hard at my
studies and hope another year to enter college.

"Well, father was speaking to Mr. Barnes of my aspirations, and his plans
for me, when Joel stepped over to where they stood talking, and said he,

"'Ain't that goin' ter be pooty expensive, Mr. Potts, an' likely ter put
kind er high notions inter Jotham's head?'

"Father turned and looked at him, then he said,

"'I'm not likely to incur any bills which I am unable to meet, and as to
Jotham's head, I truly believe it is level.'"

They both laughed to think of Joel's discomfiture, and under the shade of
overhanging branches they sat down upon a large rock at the side of the