He had been very kind and his pokes and jokes were trifles to look back upon.
Mr.Andrewes kept up his interest in my garden.

Indeed, I soon got beyond the childish way of gardening; I ceased to use my watering-pot recklessly, and to take up my plants to see how they were getting on.
I was promoted from my little beds to some share in the large flower-garden.

My father was very fond of his flowers, and greatly pleased to find me useful.
Some of the happiest hours I ever spent were those in which I worked with him in "the big garden;" Rubens lying in the sun, keeping imaginary guard over my father's coat.

We had a friendly rivalry with the Rectory, in which I felt the highest interest.

Sometimes, however, I helped Mr.Andrewes himself, when he rewarded me with plants and good advice.