The second letter was contained in a yellow envelope, of cheap
texture, and was much more plebeian in appearance than the first.

Again we will look over Mr. Roscoe's shoulder, and read what it
contains. It was postmarked Smithville, and the envelope was
disfigured by a blot. It commenced:

"DEAR SIR:-It gives me pleasure to answer your inquiries respecting
my school. I have about fifty pupils, part of whom, say one-third,
are boarders. Though I say it myself, it will be hard to find any
school where more thorough instruction is given. I look upon my
pupils as my children, and treat them as such. My system of
government is, therefore, kind and parental, and my pupils are often
homesick in vacation, longing for the time to come when they can
return to their studies at Smith Institute. It is the dearest wish
of Mrs. Smith and myself to make our young charges happy, and to
advance them, by pleasant roads over flowery meads, to the inner
courts of knowledge.

"Humbug!" muttered Mr. Roscoe. "I understand what all that means."
He continued:

"I hope you will not consider three hundred dollars per annum too
much for such parental care. Considering the present high price of
provisions, it is really as low a price as we can afford to receive.

"I shall be glad if you consider my letter favorable and decide to
place your nephew under my charge. Yours respectfully,