n
coverlet, the old man spread his own blankets over him, and felt a glow
of pleasure on seeing his grateful smile.

Veitel repaid these sparks of friendly feeling with a degree of
reverence, greater than ever pupil felt before. He did many small
kindnesses on his side, and made Hippus the confidant of all his own
transactions. It is true that this intimacy had its thorns. The old man
could not refrain from practicing his sharp wit on Itzig, who called
him, too, by many an irreverent name when he had stupefied himself with
brandy; but, on the whole, they got on capitally, and were essential to
each other.

During the months that the old man spent in this retreat, Veitel learned
much besides the special science already alluded to; he improved in
speaking and writing German, and gained a great amount of general
information. This change did not escape Mr. Ehrenthal, who mentioned it
in his family circle much as a farmer would the promising points of a
young bullock; and, at the end of the quarter, announced of his own
accord to Veitel that the shoe-blacking and kitchen dinner were to
cease, and that he was prepared to give him a place in his office, and a
small salary besides. Veitel received the long-desired intelligence with
great self-command, and returned his humble thanks, adding, "I have
still one very, very great favor to ask. May I have the honor of dining
once a week at Mr. Ehrenthal's table, that I may see how people conduct
themselves in good society? If you will do me this kindness, you may
deduct it from my salary."

Ehrenthal shook his head, and said that he must refer the question to
his wife; the result of which consultation was, that on the following
Sabbath Veitel was invited to eat a roast goose with the family.

CHAPTER IX.

One warm summer evening, office hours being over, Fink said to Anton,
"Will you accompany me to-day? I am going to try a boat that I have just
had built." Anton was ready at once; so they jumped into a carriage, and
drove to the river. Fink pointed out a round boat that floated on the
water like a pumpkin, and said, in a melancholy tone, "There it is--a
perfect horror, I declare! I cut out the model for the builder myself
too; I gave him all manner of directions, and this is the sea-gull's egg
he has produced."

"It is very small," replied Anton, with an uncomfortable foreboding.

"I'll tell you what it is," cried Fink to the builder, who now came
forward, respectfu