The Washington herald., 1914-07-19

billys own was younger, warmer and
ran faster, which doubtless meant
great deal in the melting out of human
kindnesses.
So, on the whole, Billy decided that
in his changed circumstances it would
be a great pleasure to himself to meet
his uncle; a satisfaction almost as graf
flying as the letters sent on by the Puri-
tan asking the writer of the Gryce ads
to write advertisements.
Andrew Duplane's refined, delicate
face appeared more animated than Billy
had noticed before as he extended to
his nephew cordial greeting.
After dinner, during which Billy had
talked much-though less of business
than of PrisCilla-the two men returned
to the library, when the elder Duplane
led their conversation in the direction
of capital. Billy affirmed that the Gryce
company would fight its own way to
fortune
"IIA LdlSSA NSPlldllLaLIOH JOa
might expand the sooner" suggested
the other, placing his finger tips together
in his customary manner
Our expansion must take a natural
course" rejoined Billy, "and, large or
small, it must take place as our re-
sources permit"
Il was about to propose, nephew"
said AnIrew Duplane, that you take
my place in all business affairs. with
view to the eventual inheritance of my
position
The gentle movements of the frail I'm
gers continued. and in the stiffness of
the room their soft conclusion in meet
ing was distinctly heard by Billy.
In amazement the young man stood
up.
DO YOU mean. Uncle Andrew, that
you do not intend to build and endow
an institution for wornout shoemakers?
Have you changed your mind," inquired
Billy.
Il have changed my mind. nephew"
returned Andrew Duplane, his voice
very clear and decided.
Billy leaned an elbow on the mantle
piece, and for short space of time ap-
peared to think deeply
at would be interesting to know what
has caused the change" Billy said at
length.
You, Nephew William Andrew, have
been the influence that has made me
change the conditions OF my will" an
nounced the old man, in calm, even
voice.
Il" exclaimed Billy. Strengthening up
in his astonishment It's a strange
thing you tell me, Uncle Andrew. When
needed capital badly, you refused it.
and now. when l can do very well with
out it, you would shower capital upon
me-"
"On your first visit nephew" said
the elder man quietly. YOU appeared to
me merely a carefless spender OF other
peoples money. while now, William An
drew. you have proved yourself a man
BillEs gaze fell to the rug at his feet,
as he leaned against the chimneypiece,
his thoughts evidently busy with intro
spection as we'll as retrospection.
You were correct. uncle. in your
first judgment OF me. and am tremen-
dously gratihed by your latest opinion,
which l trust l shall not forfeit"
Then you agree to my propositions"
inquired Andrew Duplane.
No" returned Billy firmly. Il shah
not accept your offer. Uncle Andrew.
The satisfaction of standing on my own
feet and discovering solid ground on
which TO rest them is too alluring to give
up"
The old face revealed no shadow Of
as Andrew Duplane
fixed his gaze on Billy. and the gentle
of his hands continued, while
silence fell once more on the room
Billy was in evening dress, which
showed his tall figure to advantage; his
well-poised head and broad shoulders
made him appear fitting heir to the best
the world could give. Had the young
man been watchful, he would have
caught the prideful regard in his uncle's
look.
Don't decide hastily. nephew" the
old man said at last. "Momentous af-
fairs shouldn't be settled without due
Il have considered" said Billy. The
plays the thing for me. l mean to
work for my living" And Billy began
to move about the room. But l
mustn't keep you any longer. I've had
a pleasant evening. Uncle Andrew. Good
night| And Billy offered his hand.
Think it over. nephew; think it
over." said the old man rising. Good