I was quite offended," said Reginald.
"You are a dear brave pair of boys!" said the mother, warmly; "and I am prouder of you in your humble work than if you were kings!" "Hullo," said Horace, "there's some one coming up our stairs!" Sure enough there was, and more than one person, as it happened.

There was a knock at the door, followed straightway by the entrance of an elderly lady, accompanied by a young lady and a young gentleman, who sailed into the room, much to the amazement and consternation of its occupants.
"Mrs Cruden, I believe ?" said the elderly lady, in her politest tones.
"Yes," replied the owner of that name.
"Let me hintroduce myself--Mrs Captain Shuckleford, my son and daughter--neighbours of yours, Mrs Cruden, and wishing to be friendly.
We're sorry to hear of your trouble; very trying it is.

My 'usband, Mrs Cruden, has gone too." "Pray take a seat," said Mrs Cruden.

"Reg, will you put chairs ?" Reg obeyed, with a groan.
"These are your boys, are they ?" said the visitor, eyeing the youths.
"Will you come and shake 'ands with me, Reggie?
What a dear, good- looking boy he is, Mrs Cruden! And 'ow do you do, too, my man ?" said she, addressing Horace.

"Pretty well?
And what do they call you ?" "My name is Horace," said "my man," blushing very decidedly, and retreating precipitately to a far corner of the room.
"Ah, dear me! And my 'usband's name, Mrs Cruden, was 'Oward.