both were in perfect accord,-- they would prefer to be left in their old
home.

"When father comes back again," said Ephraim, "he must know where to
find us. But to you, Uncle Gabriel, he would never come."

The uncle then insisted that Viola at least should accompany him, for
he had daughters at home whom she could assist in their duties in the
house and on the farm. But the child clung to Ephraim, and with flaming
eyes, and in a voice of proud disdain, which filled the simple farmer
with something like terror, she cried:

"Uncle, you have enough to do to provide for your own daughters; don't
let ME be an additional burden upon you; besides, sooner would I wander
destitute through the world than be separated from my brother."

"And what do you propose to do then?" exclaimed the uncle, after he had
somewhat recovered from his astonishment at Viola's vehemence.

"You see, Uncle Gabriel," said Ephraim, a sudden flush overspreading his
grief- stricken features, "you see I have thought about it, and I have
come to the conclusion that this is the best plan. Viola shall keep
house, and I ... I'll start a business."

"YOU start a business?" cried the uncle with a loud laugh. "Perhaps you
can tell me what price I'll get for my oats next market day? A
business!... and what business, my lad?"

"Uncle," said Ephraim, "if I dispose of all that is left us, I shall
have enough money to buy a small business. Others in our position have