Page:The Poor Rich Man, and the Rich Poor Man.djvu/185

Rh Will: I had a good education, I do not mean as to learning, that is only one part of it; I was taught to use my faculties. But, first, and best of all, I early learned to seek the favour of God, and the approval of conscience. I have always had a cheerful home, a clean room to come to, clean children, and a nice wife. Your mother has performed her duties, great and small; as to the small, she never has failed a day since we were married to put on her t'other gown at evening, and a clean cap with a riband bow, most always of blue, the colour she knows I like best. Her trade has helped us through many a hard-rubbing day; and it has given me peace of mind, for I know, if I were taken from you, she could and would support you without running to any widows' societies or assistance societies. As to other helps, here has been your good grandfather setting us examples of kindness, and tending each of you as you came along; and your dear Aunt Lottie always a blessed help."

"Ah, yes! such a comfort!" interposed Susan.

"And then. Heaven-directed, came Mr. Barlow to give you better instruction; and, finally, Mr. Beck with to help us to a house, and take nothing from our independence; for he says the rent, which does not exceed more than that we now pay, will yield him eight per cent, for the money he has invested. He says he can afford the house lower to me than to some others, for he is sure of being punctually paid; and sure you will not mutilate and deface, as most children do, shaving the doors with penknives, breaking windows, and destroying every way. So, you see, that virtue, and good habits, and manners (which are the