t
that I should lose dear Philip. If I had a child of my own it would be
different; but, having none, my affections are centered upon him."

"And very naturally," said Mr. Granville. "We become attached to those
whom we benefit. Doubtless he feels a like affection for you. You love
this good lady, Philip, who has supplied to you the place of your own
mother, who died in your infancy, do you not?"

"Yes, sir," answered Jonas stolidly. "But I want to live with my pa!"

"To be sure you shall. My boy, we have been separated too long already.
Henceforth we will live together, and Mrs. Brent shall live with us."

"Where do you live, pa?" asked Jonas.

"I have a country-seat a few miles from Chicago," answered Mr.
Granville. "We will go there as soon as I am well enough. I ought to
apologize, Mrs. Brent, for inviting you up to my room, but my rheumatism
makes me a prisoner."

"I hope your rheumatism will soon leave you, sir."

"I think it will. I have an excellent physician, and already I am much
better. I may, however, have to remain here a few days yet."

"And where do you wish Philip and I to remain in the meantime?"

"Here, of course. Philip, will you ring the bell?"

"I don't see any bell," answered Jonas, bewildered.

"Touch that knob!"

Jonas did so.

"Will that ring the bell?" he asked curiously.

"Yes, it is an electric bell."

"By gosh!" ejaculated Jonas.

"Don't use such language, Philip!" said Mrs. Brent hastily. "Your father
will be shocked. You see, Mr. Granville, Philip has associated with
country boys, and in spite of my care, he has adopted some of their
language."

Mr. Granville himself was rather disturbed by this countrified
utterance, and it occurred to him that his new-found son needed
considerable polishing.

"Ah, I quite understand that, Mrs. Brent," he said courteously. "He is
young yet, and there will be plenty of time for him to get rid of any
objectionable habits and phrases."

Here the servant appeared.

"Tell the clerk to assign this lady and the boy rooms on this floor if
any are vacant. Mrs. Brent, Philip may have a room next to you for the
present. When I am better I will have him with me. John, is dinner on
the table?"

"Yes, sir."

"Then, after taking possession of your rooms, you and Philip had better
go to dinner. I will send for him later."

"Thank you, sir."

As Mrs. Brent was ushered into her handsome apartment her face was
radiant with joy and exultation