"I see you do," said the doctor. "What's your opinion of philosophy? that it adds to the happiness of the world in general?" "You ask broad questions, Dr. Harrison--considering the many kinds of philosophy, and the unphilosophical state of the world in general." The doctor laughed a little. "I don't know," said he,--"I sometimes think the terms have changed sides, and that 'the world in general' has really the best of it. But do you know what particular path in Pattaquasset we are treading at this minute?" "A path where philosophy and happiness are supposed to part company, I imagine," said Mr. Linden. "Pre-cisely--" said the doctor. "By the way, if anything in my father's house or library can be of the least convenience to you while you are travelling the somewhat unfurnished ways of Pattaquasset, I hope you will use both as your own.--Yes, I am taking you to the supper table--or indeed they are plural to-night--Sophy, I have brought Mr. Linden to you, and I leave you to do what you will with him!" CHAPTER XIV. With a slight congee the doctor left thorn and went back again; and then came the full rush of all the guests, small and great. Miss Harrison claimed Mr. Linden's assistance to marshal and arrange the boys at their table--one being given specially to them; and then established him as well as circumstances permitted at another--between Miss Cecilia Deacon and Miss Essie de Staff. Miss Harrison herself did not sit down. The guests were many, the servants far too few; and Miss Harrison and her brother with one or two helpers, of whom Faith was one, went round from table to table; attending to everybody's wants. The supply of all eatables and drinkables was ample and perfect enough; but without the quick and skilful eyes and hands of these educated waiters, the company could not have been entirely put in possession of them. So Faith's red oak leaves did after all adorn the entertainment, and publicly, though most unconsciously on her part. "Reuben," she whispered at his shoulder, "there are no roast clams here--shall I give you some jelly? I see you have got substantials." "No thank you, Miss Faith," said Reuben--adding with some hesitation, "I believe it's ungrateful in me, but I don't want to eat." "Are you eating your book all the while? I am so glad, Reuben! Where is your father?" "I think he's home, Miss Faith--he must be by this time." "Home! I'm sorry. I've been looking for him. Sam--what can I get you? coffee?" "Miss Faith!" said Sam standing up in his place, "I'd rather have one of those leaves you've been wearing all day than all the coffee that ever was burnt!" "Leaves! you foolish boy," said Faith, her own colour in an instant emulating them, and as before her hand went up to shield them. "I can't give you one of these, Sam--I'll bring you some coffee." Away she ran, coming back presently with a cup and a piece of jelly cake, bestowing a fellow piece upon Reuben,