EAKEST UNIT.

To Gilbert Gerrish the day of the festival was one long to be
remembered: a day so laden with enjoyment for him, that all
consciousness of his affliction was blotted out. His musical genius was
free and unfettered. In such a mood, the music he drew from his violin
was more wonderful and entertaining than ever before. Fern Fenwick was
astonished and delighted. She soon became so much interested, that at
intervals between the dancing, she came upon the platform to engage him
in conversation. Grateful for such marked attention from the
distinguished patroness of the farm, the natural shyness and reticence
of the young musician, was quickly dispelled. To Fern, it was remarkable
how eloquently and interestingly he could talk upon almost every topic
she chose to introduce. On the subject of ethical, social, inventive and
educational work, as exemplified by the different phases of club life at
the farm; Gilbert was at his best. He spoke with such enthusiasm and
perfect knowledge of details that Fern Fenwick was profoundly impressed.
She then and there determined, at the first convenient opportunity, to
have Fillmore Flagg relate to her more in detail, the many incidents
connected with his farm life, and how this interesting boy had managed
in so short a time, to make himself such a universal favorite with the
farm people, both old and young.

That night before retiring, Gilbert told his mother in confidence, that
Miss Fenwick was the brightest, most beautiful and most lovable woman he
had ever met. "Tell me truly, Mamma! Do you think she is really in love
with Mr. Flagg? I hope it may be true! For I know he deserves to win the
love of the best and most charming woman that ever was born!"

While this confidential interview between mother and son was in
progress, Fern and Fillmore were speaking of Gilbert in such a way, that
if overheard by Gertrude Gerrish it would have stirred the pride in her
mother heart.

"I declare, Fillmore!" said Fern, "to my mind that clever lad, Gilbert
Gerrish, is one of the most astonishing products of Solaris Farm! You
have promised to tell me the story of his life here on the farm. I am
now ready to hear it. At the festival dance I had an opportunity to
engage him in conversation, and the good fortune to so win his
confidence, that he could talk to me without embarassment. It was then
that I discovered what a brilliant intellectual prodigy, eloquent
talker, skilled musician, and