"I can't understand it," said Hector, slowly.

"I need only add," said Mr. Roscoe, apparently relieved by the
revelation, "that my brother did not repose confidence in me in
vain. I accept, as a sacred charge, the duty he imposed upon me. I
shall provide for you and look after your education. I wish to put
you in a way to prepare yourself for a useful and honorable career.
As a first step, I intend, on Monday next, to place you in an
excellent boarding school, where you will have exceptional
privileges."

Hector listened, but his mind was occupied by sad thoughts, and he
made no comment.

"I have even selected the school with great care," said Mr. Roscoe.
"It is situated at Smithville, and is under the charge of Socrates
Smith, A. M., a learned and distinguished educator. You may go now.
I will speak with you on this subject later."

Hector bowed. After what he had heard, his interest in other matters
was but faint.

"I shall be glad to get him out of the house," thought Allan Roscoe.
"I never liked him."