. "Come round to our house and stay
overnight. We live only a mile from here, you know. The folks will be
glad to see you, and while you are there I will go to your house, see
the governor, and arrange for an allowance for you that will make you
comparatively independent."

"Thank you, Gilbert; but I don't feel like asking favors from those who
have ill-treated me."

"Nor would I--of strangers; but Dr. Crawford is your father. It isn't
right that Peter, your stepbrother, should be supported in ease and
luxury, while you, the real son, should be subjected to privation and
want."

"I don't know but you are right," admitted Carl, slowly.

"Of course I am right. Now, will you make me your minister
plenipotentiary, armed with full powers?"

"Yes, I believe I will."

"That's right. That shows you are a boy of sense. Now, as you are
subject to my directions, just get on that bicycle and I will carry your
gripsack, and we will seek Vance Villa, as we call it when we want to be
high-toned, by the most direct route."

"No, no, Gilbert; I will carry my own gripsack. I won't burden you with
it," said Carl, rising from his recumbent position.

"Look here, Carl, how far have you walked with it this morning?"

"About twelve miles."

"Then, of course, you're tired, and require rest. Just jump on that
bicycle, and I'll take the gripsack. If you have carried it twelve
miles, I can surely carry it one."

"You are very kind, Gilbert."

"Why shouldn't I be?"

"But it is imposing up on your good nature."

But Gilbert had turned his head in a backward direction, and nodded in a
satisfied way as he saw a light, open buggy rapidly approaching.

"There's my sister in that carriage," he said. "She comes in good
time. I will put you and your gripsack in with her, and I'll take to my
bicycle again."

"Your sister may not like such an arrangement."

"Won't she though! She's very fond of beaux, and she will receive you
very graciously."

"You make me feel bashful, Gilbert."

"You won't be long. Julia will chat away to you as if she'd known you
for fifty years."

"I was very young fifty years ago," said Carl, smiling.

"Hi, there, Jule!" called Gilbert, waving his hand.

Julia Vance stopped the horse, and looked inquiringly and rather
admiringly at Carl, who was a boy of fine appearance.

"Let me introduce you to my friend and schoolmate, Carl Crawford."

Carl took off his hat politely.

"I am very glad to make your a