sent home this evening. She leaves town to-morrow."

"It shall be ready in two hours," answered Jack, seizing a piece of wood
and a plane; "it isn't more than four o'clock. I'll engage to get the
job done by six. I didn't expect you home before that hour, Sir."

"Ah, Jack," said Wood, shaking his head, "where there's a will there's a
way. You can do anything you please. I wish I could get you to imitate
Thames Darrell."

"I'm sure I understand the business of a carpenter much better than he
does," replied Jack, adroitly adjusting the board, and using the plane
with the greatest rapidity.

"Perhaps," replied Wood, doubtfully.

"Thames was always your favourite," observed Jack, as he fastened
another piece of wood on the teeth of the iron stopper.

"I've made no distinction between you, hitherto," answered Wood; "nor
shall I do so, unless I'm compelled."

"I've had the hard work to do, at all events," rejoined Jack, "But I
won't complain. I'd do anything for Thames Darrell."

"And Thames Darrell would do anything for you, Jack," replied a blithe
voice. "What's the matter, father!" continued the new-comer, addressing
Wood. "Has Jack displeased you? If so, overlook his fault this once. I'm
sure he'll do his best to content you. Won't you, Jack?"