Goodby, my son, and may Heaven lead you to better ways! If ever
you come to me and say, 'Father, I have turned over a new leaf, and
heartily repent the trouble I have caused you,' you will receive
a hearty welcome from me, and no words of reproach for the past."

The young man paid no attention to the offered hand, but laughed
scornfully.

"You have not got rid of me yet," he said. "As for you, Squire
Thorndyke, I shall not forget your meddlesome interference, and
some day, maybe, you will be sorry for it."

"I think not," John Thorndyke said gravely. "I am doing my duty to
the village, and still more I am doing my duty to an old friend,
and I am not likely ever to feel any regret that I have so acted.
Now, Parson, let's be off."

After leaving the house with the clergyman, the Squire stopped at
the house of Knapp, the village constable; and said a few words to
him, then, leading his horse, walked home with Mr. Bastow.

"Don't be cast down, old friend," he said. "It is a terrible trial
to you; but it is one sharp wrench, and then it will be over.
Anything is better than what you must have been suffering for some
time."

"I quite feel that, Squire; my life has indeed been intolerable of
late. I had a painful time before, but always looked forward with
hope to your brother coming home. Since you returned, and matters
in the parish have been put straight, this trouble has come in to