The farmer was deeply disturbed, and Mr. Bolton's feelings were much
interested.

"Don't be so troubled, my good friend," said the old gentleman. "You
rendered me a service in the time of need, and it is now in my power
to return it. The farm is still yours. I hold the mortgage, and you
need not fear another foreclosure."

Some moments passed after this announcement before Mr. Gray's mind
became clear, and his entire self-possession returned; then grasping
the hand of Mr. Bolton, he thanked him with all the eloquence a
grateful heart inspires. It was the happiest moment the old merchant
had seen for years. The mere possession of a thousand or two of
dollars seemed as nothing to the pleasure he felt at having
performed a good action; or, rather, at having refrained from doing
an evil one.

As he rode back to the city, reflecting upon what he had done, and
recalling the delight shown by Mr. Gray and his kind partner, who
had attended him so carefully while he lay a sufferer beneath their
roof, his heart swelled in his bosom with a new and happy emotion.

Having once permitted himself to regard another with an unselfish
interest, that interest continued; it seemed as if he could not do
enough for the farmer in the way of aiding him to develop the
resources of his little property. In this he did not merely stop at
suggestions, but tendered something more substantial and available.
Nor did the feelings awakened in his mind run all in this direction;
occasions enough offered for him to be generous to others, and to