surprised to hear that Herbert, knowing only too well the
disadvantages of poverty, should have speculated a little about his
uncle's property after he went to bed. Indeed, it did not leave him
even with his waking consciousness. He dreamed that his uncle left him
a big lump of gold, so big and heavy that he could not lift it. He was
considering anxiously how in the world he was going to get it home,
when all at once he awoke, and heard the church clock strike five.

"Time I was on my way!" he thought, and, jumping out of bed, he
dressed himself as quickly as possible, and went downstairs. But,
early as it was, his mother, was down before him. There was a fire in
the kitchen stove, and the cloth was laid for breakfast.

"What made you get up so early, mother?" asked Herbert.

"I wouldn't have you go away without breakfast, Herbert, especially
for such a long walk."

"I meant to take something from the closet. That would have done well
enough."

"You will be all the better for a good, warm cup of tea. Sit right
down. It is all ready."

Early as it was, the breakfast tasted good. Herbert ate hastily, for
he was anxious to be on his way. Knowing that he could not afford to
buy lunch, he put the remnants of the breakfast, including some slices
of bread and butter and meat, into his satchel, and started on his
long walk.