“My brave boy!” exclaimed Mr. Channing, making prisoner of his hand. “I said this untoward loss of the suit might turn out to be a blessing in disguise. And so it will; it is bringing forth the sterling love of my children. You are doing this for me, Arthur.” “Doing it a great deal for myself, papa. You do not know the gratification it will be to me, those two hours’ play daily!” “I understand, my dear--understand it all!” “Especially as--” Arthur came to a sudden stop. “Especially as what?” asked Mr. Channing. “As I had thought of giving up taking lessons,” Arthur hastily added, not going deeper into explanations. “I play quite well enough, now, to cease learning. Mr. Williams said one day, that, with practice, I might soon equal him.” “I wonder what those parents do, Arthur, who own ungrateful or rebellious children!” Mr. Channing exclaimed, after a pause of thought. “The world is full of trouble; and it is of many kinds, and takes various phases; but if we can only be happy in our children, all other trouble may pass lightly over us, as a summer cloud. I thank God that my children have never brought home to me an hour’s care. How merciful He has been to me!” Arthur’s thoughts reverted to Hamish and _his_ trouble. He felt thankful, then, that it was hid from Mr. Channing. “I have already accepted the place, papa. I knew I might count upon your consent.” “Upon my warm approbation. My son, do your best at your task. And,” Mr. Channing added, sinking his voice to a whisper, “when the choristers peal out their hymn of praise to God, during these sacred services, let _your_ heart ascend with it in fervent praise and thanksgiving. Too many go through these services in a matter-of-course spirit, their heart far away. Do not you.” Hamish at this moment came in, carrying the books. “Are you ready, sir? There’s not much to do, this evening.” “Ready at any time, Hamish.” Hamish laid the books before him on the table, and sat down. Arthur left the room. Mr. Channing liked to be alone with Hamish when the accounts were being gone over. Mrs. Channing was in the drawing-room, some of the children with her. Arthur entered. “Mrs. Channing,” cried he, with mock ceremony, “allow me to introduce you to the assistant-organist of the cathedral.” She smiled, supposing it to be some joke. “Very well, sir. He can come in!” “He is in, ma’am. It is myself.” “Is young Mr. Jupp there?” she asked; for he sometimes came home with Arthur. “Young Mr. Jupp has disappeared from public life, and I am appointed in his place. It is quite true.” “Arthur!” she remonstrated. “Mamma, indeed it is true. Mr. Williams has made me the offer, and Mr. Galloway has consented to allow me time to attend the week-day services; and papa is glad of it, and I hope you will be glad also.”