“I didn’t know that, or I should not have asked,” said Charlie, with some embarrassment of manner caused by the pain he saw he had inflicted.  “I am very sorry,” he continued.

Mrs. Bird motioned him to finish his breakfast, and left the table without drinking the tea she had poured out for herself.

There were but one or two families of coloured people living in the small town of Warmouth, and they of a very humble description; their faces were familiar to all the inhabitants, and their appearance was in accordance with their humble condition.  Therefore, when Charlie made his debut, in company with Mrs. Bird, his dress and manners differed so greatly from what they were accustomed to associate with persons of his complexion, that he created quite a sensation in the streets of the usually quiet and obscure little town.

He was attired with great neatness; and not having an opportunity of playing marbles in his new suit, it still maintained its spotless appearance.  The fine grey broadcloth coat and pants fitted him to a nicety, the jaunty cap was set slightly on one side of his head giving him, a somewhat saucy look, and the fresh colour now returning to his cheeks imparted to his face a much healthier appearance than it had worn for months.

He and his kind friend walked on together for some time, chatting about the various things that attracted their attention on the way, until they reached a cottage in the garden of which a gentleman was busily engaged in training a rosebush upon a new trellis.

So completely was he occupied with his pursuit that he did not observe the entrance of visitors, and quite started when he was gently tapped upon the shoulder by Mrs. Bird.

“How busy we are,” said she, gaily, at the same time extending her hand—­“so deeply engaged, that we can scarcely notice old friends that we have not seen for months.”

“Indeed, this is a pleasant surprise,” he remarked, when he saw by whom he had been interrupted.  “When did you arrive?”

“Only this morning; and, as usual, I have already found something with which to bore you—­you know, Mr. Whately, I always have something to trouble you about.”

“Don’t say trouble, my dear Mrs. Bird; if you will say ’give me something to occupy my time usefully and agreeably,’ you will come much nearer the mark.  But who is this you have with you?”

“Oh, a little protege of mine, poor little fellow—­he met with a sad accident recently—­he broke his arm; and I have brought him down here to recruit.  Charlie, walk around and look at the garden—­I have a little matter of business to discuss with Mr. Whately, and when we shall have finished I will call you.”

Mr. Whately led the way into his library, and placing a seat for Mrs. Bird, awaited her communication.

“You have great influence with the teacher of the academy, I believe,” said she.

“A little,” replied Mr. Whately, smiling.