He was neighbourly, and very attentive to both the young ladies, evidently studying to make no difference in his attentions. To be sure, he talked most with myself, and I noticed whenever an opportunity occurred, Lizzy would direct the conversation to some subject in which I was especially interested. Every Wednesday evening we went to a lecture, and he was usually present to accompany the family. The whole family seemed interested in him, and good old Mr. Warner too, especially as he now spoke of his intention to join the church. When that event did take place, I found some excuse for staying at home. The more I tried to overcome it, the stronger my aversion became. I thought it must be groundless--the rest of the family had more experience and wisdom than myself,--why then should I feel such an unaccountable prejudice towards an innocent young gentleman who had done me no harm? I determined to overcome it, and most severely did I blame myself for suspecting that any other than holy motives led to this public act of consecration. The next evening, when he proposed to me that we should take a short walk, I cheerfully consented. As we passed a large flouring mill, he said, "This, I believe, is Mr. Warner's?" "Yes," I replied. "It seems, to be a very valuable one." "One of the most so in the region. The old gentleman came to this country many years ago. Like Abraham, he went forth, not knowing whither he went, and like him has he been prospered. He has flocks and herds, houses and lands, and, what shall I call _those_?" I asked, as a drove of swine marked by him came grunting along with their snub noses in the gutter. "Oh, that is but one species of property," he remarked, "and has its value. The good old man seems to be very worthy." "Worthy!" I repeated to myself--what harm in that, and yet I didn't like the question, or rather the tone of the remark. "He is one of the excellent of the earth--belonging to that species of salt which never loses its savour." "They seem to be a very affectionate family, no wonder they feel almost idolatry for their interesting daughter. Did you know her husband?" "Not at all," I replied, and by my silence indicated that I had no wish to continue this conversation. The very next morning I had occasion to go into the private room or study of the old gentleman, to deposit in his hands a sum of money, the proceeds of my labour, and for which he gave me good interest and security. I found the old lady there, and as I opened the door she remarked, "Oh yes, husband, lend him freely if he needs; he is young, and a hundred dollars may aid him greatly now; I have perfect confidence in the Doctor."