The sensitive crimson dyed Arthur's fair open brow. Of all the failings
that he found it most difficult to subdue in his own heart, pride bore
the greatest share. From the moment the ill news had come to his
father, the boy felt that he should have to do fierce battle with his
pride; that there was ever-recurring mortification laid up in store for
it. "But I _can_ battle with it," he bravely whispered to himself: "and
I will do it, God helping me."

"I may whistle for my new cricket-bat and stumps now," grumbled Tom.

"And I wonder when I shall have my new clothes?" added Charley.

"How selfish we all are!" broke forth Arthur.

"Selfish?" chafed Tom.

"Yes, selfish. Here we are, croaking over our petty disappointments,
and forgetting the worst share that falls upon papa. Failing this
money, how will he go to the German baths?"

A pause of consternation. In their own grievances the boys had lost
sight of the hope which had recently been shared by them all. An
eminent physician, passing through Helstonleigh, had seen Mr. Channing,
and given his opinion that if he would visit certain medicinal spas in
Germany, health might be restored to him. When the cause should be
terminated in their favour, Mr. Channing had intended to set out. But
now it was given against him; and hope of setting out had gone with it.

"I wish I could carry him on my back to Germany, and work to keep him