But if it will not it will not.

Wouldst thee mind, my son, being left a little poor when I am gone ?" "Father!" "Well, then, in a few days I will begin selling my wheat, as that lad has advised and begged me to do these weeks past.

He is a sharp lad, and I am getting old.

Perhaps he is right." "Who, father ?" I asked, rather hypocritically.
"Thee knowest well enough--John Halifax." I thought it best to say no more; but I never let go one thread of hope which could draw me nearer to my heart's desire.
On the Monday morning my father went to the tan-yard as usual.

I spent the day in my bed-room, which looked over the garden, where I saw nothing but the waving of the trees and the birds hopping over the smooth grass; heard nothing but the soft chime, hour after hour, of the Abbey bells.