"I was afraid you would laugh at me," said Frank.

"No," said his father, "it was a noble thought, and does you
credit. I shall feel that, whatever course I may think it wisest
to adopt."

The sound of a bell from the house reached them. This meant
breakfast. Mr. Frost had finished milking, and with a well-filled
pail in either hand, went toward the house.

"Move the milking:-stool, Frank," he said, looking behind him,
"or the cow will kick it over."

Five minutes later they were at breakfast.

"I have some news for you, Mary," said Mr. Frost, as he helped
his wife to a sausage.

"Indeed?" said she, looking up inquiringly.

"Some one has offered to take charge of the farm for me, in case
I wish to go out as a soldier."

"Who is it?" asked Mrs. Frost, with strong interest.

"A gentleman with whom you are well--I may say intimately
acquainted," was the smiling response.

"It isn't Mr. Maynard?"