r what I did for her
in her early days. But I see how it is; she's ashamed of them, and I
won't say anything to make her feel bad. I see I must look elsewhere for
a home. Lucindy don't want me here, and I shouldn't feel at home myself.
I wish Philip was more like that Harry Gilbert, who showed me the way
here."

Supper was over, and Philip took up his hat to go out.

"Philip," said his father, "you forget that your uncle is here. You
should stay to keep him company."

"I've got an engagement," said Philip, alarmed at the suggestion.

"Can't you put it off?"

"Let the boy keep his engagement," said Uncle Obed. "I like to see young
people particular about keeping their appointments."

"Your uncle may like to walk out with you, and see something of the
village."

Philip looked dismayed at the prospect of being seen in the company of
the rather shabby old man, who claimed to be his great-uncle.

"No, no," said Uncle Obed. "I can find the way round by myself. A man
that's used to the Western prairies doesn't get lost easily."

Philip breathed a sigh of relief. For the first time he began to think
that Uncle Obed had some sensible ideas.

Uncle Obed took his hat and cane, and walked out slowly, making his way
along the principal street.

"I wish I could see that boy Harry Gilbert," he thought to himself--for
a new plan had occurred to him. "Why, bless me, there he is now," he
said, as our hero turned the next corner.

"Good-evening, sir," said Harry, cheerfully.

"Good-evening, Harry. You're just the one I was wanting to see. I've got
something to say to you."

What Uncle Obed had to say was of importance, but must be deferred to
the next chapter.

CHAPTER VIII

UNCLE OBED MAKES A PROPOSAL

Harry waited to hear what the old man had to say.

"How do you and my grandnephew hitch horses?" asked Uncle Obed.

"You mean how do we get along together?" asked Harry.

"Yes."

"Well, we are not bosom friends. Philip thinks I am a poor, working boy,
and looks down on me accordingly."

"It don't do you a mite of harm to work. I had to work when I was a boy,
and I've done my share of work since I got to be a man."

"I like to work," said Harry. "I only wish I had the chance."

"So there is no love lost between you and Philip?"

"No; he doesn't suit me any better than I suit him. He's got too high
notions for me."

"He's like his mother," said Uncle Obed. "I reckon