"Fine girl, that sister of yours, Frank! Fine girl!" said Green,
after Flora had withdrawn--speaking of her with about as much
respect in his voice as if he were praising a fleet racer or a
favorite hound.

The boy smiled, with a pleased air.

"I must try and find her a good husband, Frank. I wonder if she
wouldn't have me?"

"You'd better ask her," said the boy, laughing.

"I would if I thought there was any chance for me."

"Nothing like trying. Faint heart never won fair lady," returned
Frank, more with the air of a man than a boy. How fast he was
growing old!

"A banter, by George!" exclaimed Green, slapping his hands
together. "You're a great boy, Frank! a great boy! I shall have to
talk to your father about you. Coming on too fast. Have to be put
back in your lessons--hey!"

And Green winked at the boy, and shook his finger at him. Frank
laughed in a pleased way, as he replied: "I guess I'll do."

"I guess you will," said Green, as, satisfied with his colloquy,
he turned off and left the bar-room.

"Have something to drink, sir?" inquired Frank, addressing me in a