"I can take care of myself." "May the Lord take care of you," said the farmer, as he followed the youth, dashing through the town on his spirited horse.

"If it were not for this wagon-load, and there are so many to be clothed and fed at home, I would follow you, but I can't do it." William rode rapidly homeward.

The noonday being long passed, the skies were clouding over, and harsh spring winds were playing through the woods.
William enjoyed such rides.

Healthy, and fearing nothing, he was a stranger to a feeling of loneliness.

Alternately singing an old air, and then whistling with notes as clear and musical as a flute, he at last came in sight of the creek which had been so tranquil when he crossed it in the morning.