CHAPTER IX.
NEWS FROM HOME.
Abel found a letter waiting for him when he returned to the school.

He tore it open and read it: "MY DEAR ABEL,--You have now nearly reached the age at which, by your grandfather's direction, you were to leave school and enter upon active life.

Your grandfather, who had known and respected Mr.Gray in former years, left you, as you know, a sum sufficient for your education, upon condition of your being placed at Mr.Gray's until your nineteenth birthday.

That time is approaching.

Upon your nineteenth birthday you will leave school.