f the very
best teachers in New York, and then when you are older you will be able
to make good use of the advantages you have received."

"But if it costs a good deal of money I'm afraid mother couldn't
possibly afford it," said Jack mournfully. "I shouldn't like to speak to
her about it either, because it might worry her. When mother's worried
about things she doesn't sleep, and then her eyes look so tired."

Lord Carresford was silent. There was something rather pathetic in the
sight of the little patient face, that but a moment before had been so
bright and hopeful. This small boy was interesting him very much. He
thought of his own great wealth, and of how easy it would be to him to
give the child the help he needed. And yet, as he told himself, it would
not do to be too hasty. He really knew nothing whatever about this
family. So when he spoke again, it was on a different subject.

The little girls soon returned, and Lulu requested Lord Carresford to
tell them a story. "His lordship's" powers in that direction had already
been discovered by the little girl. He complied very willingly with the
request, and soon had the whole party listening in breathless interest
to an account of some of his experiences when hunting big game in India.
So Dr. Bell, coming down to the beach on his return from town, found a
very happy little group gathered about his friend, and it was not
without considerable regret that the children bade good-bye to their
fascinating entertainer, and watched him and the doctor walking away
together.

"That little boy interests me very much," Lord Carresford remarked,
pausing to light a cigar, when they had reached the board walk, "and do
you know that he has a great deal of talent?"

"Talent for what?" the doctor inquired in surprise.

"Have you never happened to see any of his sketches?"

"No, never; are they worth anything?"

"My dear fellow, the child is a genius. He tells me he has never had a
drawing lesson in his life, and yet, I assure you, his drawings are
better than many I have seen made by students who have been at work for
years. He ought to have the best teaching that can be procured."

Dr. Bell looked interested.

"I am afraid there may be difficulties in the way," he said. "The mother
is a music teacher, and I am sorry to say is far from strong. I fancy
she has a rather uphill road to travel."

"Well, she ought to be told of her boy's talent at any rate," said Lord
Carresf