we deposited in a savings bank. But after five years the money stopped
coming. It was the year 1857, the year of the great panic, and among
others who failed was Giles Warner's agent, from whom we received our
payments. Mr. Fowler went to New York to inquire about it, but only
learned that Mr. Warner, weighed down by his troubles, had committed
suicide, leaving no clew to the name of the man who left you with us."

"How long ago was that, mother?"

"Seven years ago nearly eight."

"And you continued to keep me, though the payments stopped."

"Certainly; you were as dear to us as our own child--for we now had a
child of our own--Grace. We should as soon have thought of casting off
her as you."

"But you must have been poor, mother."

"We were economical, and we got along till your father died three years
ago. Since then it has been hard work."

"You have had a hard time, mother."

"No harder on your account. You have been a great comfort to me, Frank.
I am only anxious for the future. I fear you and Grace will suffer after
I am gone."

"Don't fear, mother, I am young and strong; I am not afraid to face the
world with God's help."