"It is a comfort, dear Roland, to feel that God cannot do wrong--if we could only trust him always." At that moment, Nanny called Effie. "Here is a letter from Miss Madeline." "I am so glad that it came while you were with us, Roland," said Effie, as she broke the seal. She read it hurriedly, and said-- "Here is something about you, Roland;" and she read the quotation. "I suppose that you hear often from Roland; I should like to know what he is doing--tell him that little Maddy is growing to be quite a studious, serious girl. My chief companion here is Lucy Edmonds; she is a dear, sweet friend; I wish that I were like her. I am learning a great deal of new music, but I have not forgotten any of my old Scotch songs. Take care of my rose-bush, Effie: I mean the one that Roland planted; I hope that it will not die. Be kind to old Hector for my sake, dear old fellow! Now that I am away, I think more of Roland's good lessons than I did when at home; I am sure that I shall never forget them." Effie handed the letter to Roland, which he read quite through. "She will be surrounded by snares, Effie, when her education is finished; with all her wealth and beauty, I tremble for Madeline; but still I do not believe that the world will wholly spoil our little friend." "When will you leave us, Roland?" asked his sister. "In two days, I think; I have brought up my clothes for you to look over, Effie; so soon as that is done, I shall take up my line of march." "Will you walk all the way, Roland? it is so far." "I am used to that, Effie; indeed I prefer it; for I can stop where I please, enjoy all that is beautiful, and rest when I am tired. Don't be afraid of me, little sister; I am very brave and strong." His preparations were soon made. "Effie, you don't know what a comfort you are to me--while I have you, I cannot feel alone. Some of these days we shall have a dear little home, where you shall be the household fairy, and your brother the guide and strong arm of his precious sister." "Take care of yourself, dear Roland; don't be so daring; I don't believe that you ever think of danger." "I shall climb the highest mountain, Effie, it is such a pleasure to conquer difficulties; and I will bring back to you the beautiful ferns and mosses of the mountains--then you can make one of your pretty baskets for Madeline." Folding her once more to his heart, Roland took his final leave. "I shall be back in a few weeks, Effie; good-bye for a little while;" and looking back, he kissed his hand, and smiled upon his dear sister. Effie looked after her brother with an admiring gaze, and thought "How handsome he is! What a noble walk! God bless my dear, dear brother." CHAPTER XIV. "EXCELSIOR." Happy season of bright joyous youth! It nerved Roland's springing step, flushed the glowing cheek, brightened the dark eye, and gushed forth in cheering song upon the early morning air.