parting with the little lad who had so completely won their affection.

Rodney was rapidly developing into a strong sturdy lad. He was the joy
of the house, and though of a most loveable disposition, he was like a
will-o'-the-wisp, full of fun and life. He spent most of the time out
of doors in summer among the birds and flowers. There was hardly a
creature in the vicinity of the rectory which he did not know. He
found birds' nests in the most unlikely places, and he often caused
Parson Dan many a tramp, as he eagerly pointed out his numerous
treasures in tree, field, or vine-covered fence. It was often hard for
the clergyman to keep up with his young guide, who sped on before, his
bare, curly hair gleaming like gold in the sun. Then, when he had
parted several small bushes and exposed the nest of a grey-bird or a
robin, his cheeks would glow with animation, and his eyes sparkle with
delight. Parson Dan found more pleasure in watching this joy-thrilled
lad than in the tiny eggs which were exhibited for his benefit.

This was an almost daily occurrence through the summer. Then at night,
when tired with his day's rambles, Rodney would rest his head upon the
soft pillow while Mrs. Royal read him to sleep. Stories he loved, and
never wearied of them. One by one the books were brought from the Room
of Sacred Memories until the boy knew them all.

"Did you read all of those books when you were little, Grandma?" Rodney
once asked.

"Not when I was little, dear," was the quiet reply. "But I read them
to a little boy, though, who was as fond of them then as you are now."

"Whose little boy was he, Grandma?"