“It might as well be five thousand,” said the minister, shaking his head. “No, my good friend, I must toil on as well as I can, and leave European trips to more favored men.” It was noised about through the parish that the minister was sick, and the doctor recommended a European trip. “It's ridikilus,” was Deacon Gridley's comment. “I work harder than the minister, and I never had to go to Europe. It's just because it's fashionable.” “Mr. Thornton is looking pale and haggard,” said Mrs. Gridley. “What if he is? He ought to work outdoors like me. Then he'd know what work was. Ac-cordin' to my notion, ministers have a pooty easy time.” Mr. Tudor was of the same opinion. “It's all nonsense, deacon,” he said. “Father wanted me to be a minister, and I'd have had a good deal easier time if I had followed his advice.” “You wouldn't have had so much money, Mr. Tudor,” said Miss Lucretia Spring, who heard this remark. “Mebbe not; but what I've got I've worked for.” “For my part, although I am not near as rich as you are, I'd give twenty dollars toward sending the minister abroad,” said kindly Miss Spring. “I wouldn't give a cent,” said Mr. Tudor, with emphasis. “Nor I,” said Deacon Gridley. “I don't believe in humorin' the clergy.” Saturday came, and the minister was worse. It seemed doubtful if he would be able to officiate the next day. No wonder he became dispirited. Just before supper the stage drove up to the door, and Grant jumped out. “I am afraid he has been discharged,” said Mr. Thornton, nervously. “He does not look like it,” said Mrs. Thornton, noticing Grant's beaming countenance. “What is the matter with father?” asked Grant, stopping short as he entered. “He is not feeling very well, Grant. He has got run down.” “What does the doctor say?” “He says your father ought to take a three-months trip to Europe.” “Which, of course, is impossible,” said Mr. Thornton, smiling faintly. “Not if your brother would open his heart, and lend you the money.” “He would not do it.” “And we won't ask him,” said Grant, quickly, “but you shall go, all the same, father.” “My son, it would cost five hundred dollars.” “And for twice as much, mother, could go with you; you would need her to take care of you. Besides she needs a change, too.” “It is a pleasant plan, Grant; but we must not think of it.” “That's where I don't agree with you. You and mother shall go as soon as you like, and I will pay the expenses.” “Is the boy crazy?” said the minister. “I'll answer that for myself, father. I have five thousand dollars in the Bowery Savings Bank, in New York, and I don't think I can spend a part of it better than in giving you and mother a European trip.” Then the explanation came, and with some difficulty the minister was made to understand that the dream of his life was to be realized, and that he and his wife were really going to Europe.