The Great Engine.

Larry Kendall leaped out of bed and dressed with more than his customary
haste. His father's voice had called him upon this morning, which was a
most uncommon circumstance, for Mr. Kendall was usually off to his work
before his son had finished his morning dreams.

"Must be that something is the matter," reasoned Larry, as he hurried
down stairs.

He found his father seated at the breakfast table, but it was evident
that he had eaten nothing.

His mother, sitting opposite in her accustomed place, looked paler than
usual, and there were dark circles under her eyes that indicated a
sleepless night.

She did not look at Larry as the latter came in; but Mr. Kendall did so,
in a resolute way that showed his mind to have been thoroughly made up
to an important course.

"I wish you to run the engine for me at the iron works for a few days,"
were Mr. Kendall's first words, and they were enough to make Larry's
heart beat quick in anticipation.

"I shall like that," he replied.

Then, seeing none of his own enthusiasm reflected in the sad face of his
mother, he added: