Page:The Poor Rich Man, and the Rich Poor Man.djvu/103

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(Barlow was the stranger's name) soon revived under the influence of the Aikins' hospitalities. As he himself expressed it, kindness was the medicine he wanted; and every day he felt its healing power.

"I am not two shillings out of pocket in a week for the poor man," said Aikin; "and I think, Susan, we take as much pleasure in seeing him refreshed at our table, as the rich do in their dinner-parties. To tell the truth, Susan, though I suppose no one but you would believe it, I never did wish to change conditions with them."

"Nor I, I am sure; they must have a great deal of trouble. I often pity them. Not but that I am willing to take trouble, but then it must be for something to be got out of it."

This remark of Susan's led her husband to suggest a project which, after various emendations from her, was soon after carried into effect. They, like all good parents, rich or poor, were steadfastly intent on the advancement of their children. It has been already seen how much our friends were benefited by their early education—the common and paramount blessing of New-England. They felt their children to be the gift of God, and, being religious and reasoning beings, they fully realized