Madeline was laid fainting upon the ground, and when the boys who had caused the accident rode up, their blanched countenances indicated the terror which they really felt. "We did not mean to throw you, coz," said Charles; "all we meant was a little sport." "You might have killed your cousin, young gentlemen," answered Roland. "Hold your tongue, you low upstart! What right have you here?" was the rude reply. "It was well that I was near, for Miss Madeline had not much to hope for from her manly cousins." "Begone! you ragamuffin! We want none of your help." "I shall not go, sir, until I have seen Miss Madeline safe in her father's house," was the quick reply; and with a firm step, Roland advanced towards the little girl, and after she was sufficiently recovered, succeeded, by the help of the men, in placing her upon Selim's back, who was now quite pacified. Roland, though suffering from a sprained ankle, taking the horse's bridle, led him quietly along. Seeing Roland master of the field, the two boys sneaked away, and Madeline said, "I'm glad that they are gone; a pair of mean cowardly fellows! I can't bear Charley Davenport; but I'm afraid that you are hurt, Roland," continued the child, "and I'm so sorry that those rude boys spoke so insultingly. But don't mind them, Roland; I only wish you were my cousin, instead of Charles." "Don't think of me, miss; you were kind to me when I was hurt the other day; and I am so glad that I can be of any service to you. As to the boys, I pity them; they have never been taught what is true politeness." "There is Woodcliff, Roland," said Madeline, as she turned into the avenue which led to the house. Mr. Hamilton and Aunt Matilda ran hastily down to meet her; and soon they perceived her horse led slowly along. "What is the matter, my darling?" inquired the father, lifting her from the horse, and alarmed at her pallid countenance. "Not much, now, papa; but if it had not been for the bravery of this good boy, I might have been killed," and as soon as she was seated, she related the story of her rescue to her grateful father. "Thank you, my brave boy," said Mr. Hamilton, as he wrung Roland's hand. "You have done me a favor which I shall never forget." As Roland stood uncovered in Mr. Hamilton's presence, he thought that he had never seen a more noble boy, though clad in the garb of poverty. Taking out his pocketbook, he offered him a five dollar note, a great treasure for Roland Bruce. Drawing himself proudly up, while the color mounted to his very temples, he said: "Excuse me, sir; I would not lose the pleasure of helping Miss Madeline, and poor as I am, I cannot receive anything for an act so simple." "If I can serve you in any way, my boy, come to me freely; I should be most happy to aid you." Just then the two cousins rode slowly up the avenue, and felt justly humbled at the sharp reproofs administered in the presence of Roland Bruce.