self under a fine cedar, where pretty rustic chairs
were placed; Eric and Bella stood before him. And now Clodwig explained
his whole plan, painting so attractively the pleasantly busy life which
they would lead together, that Eric's cheeks glowed. In a voice full of
emotion he expressed his gratitude, and said that he felt bound by duty
to the decision which his heart had made.

Bella rested one hand on Clodwig's chair, and Eric went on to say that
he rejoiced that anything so attractive had been offered him, because
he derived thence an assurance that he had chosen the right course,
that which accorded with his duty. A great and difficult task was laid
upon him in Roland's education, and the very fact, that so different
and charming a life was now opened to him, made him happy by renewing
and confirming his confidence in his decision; and the offered
alternative helped him to recognize his choice as a real duty.

For a while Clodwig looked down, and Bella, taking her hand from his
chair, stood suddenly erect. Then, as Eric represented his delight in
Roland, and the mysterious, happy attraction which he felt towards him,
even towards his faults, Clodwig smiled, as he looked up into the
branches, for just as Eric felt drawn to Roland with enthusiastic love,
he was drawn to Eric; the sentiments were exactly analogous. Yet he was
unwilling to give Eric up, and pointed out to him again that he could
not cut off all other influences in educating Roland, but that he would
have to contend with elements which perhaps he could never conquer.

"Ah, there comes the doctor," he interrupted himself; "are you willing
to call in a third person to the decision?"

"No one but myself can make the decision," answered Eric, "however
difficult it may be; but I have not the least objection to entrust the
office of umpire to our friend."

This was done; but, to the surprise of all, the physician decided
against both parties; he expressed his wish that some one would enable
Eric to see Italy and Greece.

Before Clodwig could answer, Eric interposed, saying that he was bent
on finding some employment, so that he could support himself and his
mother from his own means.

Rising with difficulty, Clodwig said,--

"Young friend, give me your arm." He stood erect, and turned toward
Eric, on whose arm his hand lay heavy and trembling.

"I don't know," said he, "I should not think I was the man who had been
through such hard experience as I