pt up with great regularity for several years, and
during that time numerous letters were exchanged. The ones from the
mother were always very brief, and never once did she mention anything
about herself. It was all of Rodney she wrote, for her heart seemed
full of love and longing for the child.

"Your letters are all too short," she once wrote. "I read them over
and over again, and as you describe my little darling, how I long to
see him and clasp him in my arms. God grant I may ere long have that
blessed privilege. He is enshrined in my heart, and his sweet face is
ever before me. I console myself with the thought that he is safe and
well provided for. Some day, I feel sure, I shall to a certain extent
repay you for all that you have done for him and me."

When Rodney was five years old, the money from his mother began to
increase. At first it was two dollars a month, then three, and at last
five. This somewhat worried the Royals, for they believed that
Rodney's mother was in better circumstances, and would soon return for
her boy. Their faces always grew very grave and their hearts heavy as
they discussed this with each other. They dreaded the thought of
parting with the little lad who had so completely won their affection.

Rodney was rapidly developing into a strong sturdy lad. He was the joy
of the house, and though of a most loveable disposition, he was like a
will-o'-the-wisp, full of fun and life. He spent most of the time out
of doors in summer among the birds and flowers. There was hardly a
creature in the vicinity of the rectory which he did not know. He
found birds' nests in the most unlikely places, and he often caused
Parson Dan many a tramp, as he eagerly pointed out his numerous
treasures in tree, field, or vine-covered fence. It was often hard for
the clergyman to keep up with his young guide, who sped on before, his
bare, curly hair gleaming like gold in the sun. Then, when he had
parted several small bushes and exposed the nest of a grey-bird or a
robin, his cheeks would glow with animation, and his eyes sparkle with
delight. Parson Dan found more pleasure in watching this joy-thrilled
lad than in the tiny eggs which were exhibited for his benefit.

This was an almost daily occurrence through the summer. Then at night,
when tired with his day's rambles, Rodney would rest his head upon the
soft pillow while Mrs. Royal read him to sleep. Stories he loved, and
never wearied o