As it is, it was almost inevitable that something of this sort would happen.
"But you know, Ned, where to look for strength and support.

You have fought one hard battle, my boy, and have well nigh conquered; now you have another before you.

Seek for strength, my boy, where you will assuredly find it, and remember that this discipline is doubtless sent you for your good, and that it will be a preparation for you for the struggle in after life.

I don't want you to be a thoughtless, careless young officer, but a man earnest in doing his duty, and you cannot but see that these two trials must have a great effect in forming your character.

Remember, Ned, that if the effect be not for good, it will certainly be for evil." "I will try, sir," Ned said; "but I know it is easy to make good resolutions, and how it will be when he is in the house as master I can't trust myself even to think." "Well, let us hope the best, Ned," Mr.Porson said kindly; "things may turn out better than you fear." Then seeing that further talking would be useless now, he shook Ned's hand and let him go.
The next three or four months passed slowly and heavily.