"Yes," said Frank, a little nervously, not knowing but Mrs.
Chester would view the matter in the same way as Mrs. Mason,
though he felt sure she would express herself less disagreeably.

"And I hear that you are going to try to make his place good at
home."

"I don't expect to make his place good, Mrs. Chester," said Frank
modestly, "but I shall do as well as I can."

"I have no doubt of it, my dear boy," said the old lady kindly.
"You can do a great deal, too. You can help your mother by
looking out for your brothers and sisters, as well as supplying
your father's place on the farm."

"I am glad you think I can make myself useful," said Frank,
feeling relieved. "Mrs. Mason has just been telling me that I am
not fit for the charge, and that discouraged me a little."

"It's a great responsibility, no doubt, to come on one so young,"
said the old lady, "but it's of God's appointment. He will
strengthen your hands, if you will only ask Him. If you humbly
seek His guidance and assistance, you need not fear to fail."

"Yes," said Frank soberly, "that's what I mean to do."

"Then you will feel that you are in the path of duty. You'll be
serving your country just as much as if you went yourself."