Page:Dave Porter at Oak Hall.djvu/57

Rh shall both hold an interest in Dave. You shall have your own room, and come and go as you please. If you wish to do anything, you can help me to get my library into shape, and help me, occasionally, with my correspondence."

"This library!" Caspar Potts gazed fondly at the many volumes. "That would not be work; it would be a rare pleasure." "And I believe you have a great fondness for flowers and shrubs."

"Yes."

"Then you might also assist William, my gardener, to take care of the plants in the conservatory and the greenhouse."

"That would be another pleasure."

"Then you will come?"

"Come? Yes, yes! You are too good, Mr. Wadsworth."

"Then it's settled, and Dave can go to school as planned, eh, Dave?" This with a bright smile.

"I guess I must be dreaming!" came from the boy. "Won't you please pinch me! This almost knocks me flat!"

"Never mind; you'll get over it in time."

"But to go to a first-class school and to college! Mr. Wadsworth, I'll do my best, and if I ever get the chance to pay you back, I'll do it,—and with interest too!" And Dave's face showed that he meant every word he uttered.