Will's career was the chief topic, the vicar appearing to take a personal interest in it, which delighted the old man's heart.
"I am very glad, indeed," said the former, with his pinch of snuff held in readiness, "to hear such a good account of you from my friend, the dean," and he disposed of his snuff.

"He wrote to me, knowing I was particularly interested, and also that we are neighbours.

He says, 'There is every reason to think your young friend will be an honour to his father, and to his college, if he goes on as he has begun.

I have seldom had the privilege of imparting knowledge to one whose early teaching presents such well prepared ground for cultivation.

Who was his tutor ?' I have told him," added the vicar, "how much you owe to your brother-in-law." "It has been a pleasure to instruct Will," said the preacher.