I have nothing now except an annuity; and at my age one clings to old habits.

Do you know the path on which you ought to start this young fellow ?" he went on, after calling to Oscar and taking him by the arm.

"Let him study law; I'll pay the costs.

Put him in a lawyer's office and let him learn the business of pettifogging; if he does well, if he distinguishes himself, if he likes his profession and I am still alive, each of my children shall, when the proper time comes, lend him a quarter of the cost of a practice; and I will be security for him.

You will only have to feed and clothe him.