When Frank had made up his bundle, urged by some impulse, he opened a
drawer in his mother's bureau. His mind was full of the story she had
told him, and he thought it just possible that he might find something
to throw additional light upon his past history. While exploring the
contents of the drawer he came to a letter directed to him in his
mother's well-known handwriting. He opened it hastily, and with a
feeling of solemnity, read as follows:


"My Dear Frank: In the lower drawer, wrapped in a piece of brown paper,
you will find two gold eagles, worth twenty dollars. You will need them
when I am gone. Use them for Grace and yourself. I saved these for my
children. Take them, Frank, for I have nothing else to give you. The
furniture will pay the debt I owe Deacon Pinkerton. There ought to be
something over, but I think he will take all. I wish I had more to leave
you, dear Frank, but the God of the Fatherless will watch over you--to
Him I commit you and Grace.

"Your affectionate mother,

"RUTH FOWLER."


Frank, following the instructions of the letter, found the gold pieces
and put them carefully into his pocketbook. He did not mention the
letter to Grace at present, for he knew not but Deacon Pinkerton might
lay claim to the money to satisfy his debt if he knew it.

"I am ready, Frank," said Grace, entering the room. "Shall we go?"