eat a tax upon one in his delicate state of health. He
takes lessons at home, however, of a visiting tutor, as in this way
his studies can be arranged to suit his varying strength. Now, I have
been long of opinion that he requires a boy companion, older than
himself, who is naturally lively and cheerful, to share with him in
his amusements, to accompany him in his walks, and share with him in
his studies. From what I have seen of you, I think you are just the
companion my brother wants. Have you any bad habits?"

Sam had shrewdness enough to perceive that it would be better for him
to be truthful. Besides, to do him justice, Brown's kindness had made
an impression upon him, and he would have felt ashamed to deceive
him.

"I am afraid I have," he answered; "but I could get rid of them."

"What are your bad habits?"

"Sometimes I swear," said Sam, candidly.

"Will you give that up?"

"Yes, I will."

"What else?"

"Sometimes I smoke cigars."

"You must give that up. My father abominates cigars."

"I will."

"What else?"

"I don't always tell the truth," said Sam, courageously.

"Lying is very ungentlemanly, to say the least. Do you think you can
get over that?"

"Yes."

"Then, I will ask my father to take you on trial. I am going over to
Brookline to supper this afternoon, and I will take you over, and talk
with him about it. Will you go?"

"I'll go," said Sam, eagerly. "I'd like to be with your brother ever
so much."

CHAPTER XXIX.

ARTHUR BROWN.

At half-past five Sam and his companion reached the home of the latter
in Brookline. It was a handsome mansion, with ample grounds, standing
some rods back from the street.

"That's where I live, Sam," said the young student.

"It's an elegant place," said Sam, admiringly "I hope your father'll
take me. I'd like to live here ever so much."

"There's my brother the one I spoke to you about."

Brown pointed out a boy considerably smaller than Sam, who was
hurrying to the gate as fast as his lameness would admit. His thin,
pale face was lighted up with joy, as he espied his brother.

"I am glad you have come, Charlie," he said. "It's so lonely here
during the week."

"And how are you feeling, Arthur?" asked his brother, laying his hand
caressingly on the shoulder of the younger boy.

"Oh, I'm all right; only lonely."

"I've brought you some company--don't you see?"

For the first time Arthur's attention was drawn to Sam.

"I am glad t