In that time you may hope to get your commission; and as the marriage can hardly take place for some little time to come, you will have but a year or so to bear it." "I don't know, sir," Ned said gloomily; "everything seems upset now.

I don't seem to know what I had best do." "I am sure at present, Ned," Mr.Porson said kindly--for he saw that the boy was just now in no mood for argument--"the best is to try and think as little of it as possible.

Make every allowance for your mother; as you know, my boy, I would not speak disrespectfully to you of her on any account; but she is not strong minded.

She has always been accustomed to lean upon some one, and the need of some one to lean on is imperative with her.

Had you been a few years older, and had you been staying at home, it is probable that you might have taken your place as her support and strength.