With a little management he paid the interest--leaving himself with barely enough to work the farm.

The uncle, on his part, did not act unkindly; it was he who 'backed' the heir up at the bank in the matter of the continuation of the loan of the five hundred pounds.

This five hundred pounds the heir had never seen and never would see: so far as he was concerned it did not exist; it was a mere figure, but a figure for which he must pay.

In all these circumstances there was nothing at all exceptional.
At this hour throughout the width and breadth of the country there are doubtless many farmers' heirs stepping into their fathers' shoes, and at this very moment looking into their affairs.

It may be safely said that few indeed are those fortunate individuals who find themselves clear of similar embarrassments.