Long before Will’s visit was ended, both boys had become so skillful in playing that the one could scarcely get the better of the other unless one in some way cheated.  This caused them to try many underhanded tricks and encouraged them to bet and gamble; and in course of time they had exchanged as wagers the greater part of their simple belongings.  Taking advantage of one another became a part of the game and seemingly was the principal aim.  And the evenings that they did not spend in dancing were spent in indulging in these dangerous amusements. (Card-playing—­as does also dancing—­wields an influence that is very harmful, especially to the young.  As the interest in the game increases, the players’ desire for things that are good and wholesome is lessened.  One player sees only the pleasure that he derives from getting the better of the one he is playing against.  He fails to see that each time he stoops to unfair methods in order to gain his purpose he helps to pave the way for other things that are wrong and deceitful.)

When the first warm days of spring arrived and the grass of the prairie began to unfold its tiny blades, John’s uncle said it was time for him and his family to return home.  “It’s a long way, Will,” he said; “and we must get there in good time to plant a big crop of ‘tobaker.’  You remember we didn’t have near enough to do us last year!” Will agreed; but the boys were all sorry to be separated again, and when the day of departure came, it was very hard indeed for them to bid one another farewell.

During the winter months John had not thought much about his aunt, for Will and he had been too deeply interested in other things.  But now at the last moment that old longing again clutched at his heart.  When he saw them disappearing in the distance and finally lost them to view, like a flash the desire that had so long been smoldering within his heart was fanned, as it were, into a mighty flame, and in his mind he resolved what he would do.  “I will stay in this home no longer!” he cried in his distress.  “My father may miss me; but if I stay here, I shall die!” and going to his father, he stated his intentions.

CHAPTER VII

Leaving Home

As John’s father looked into the deep pathetic eyes of his son, he in part understood the meaning of what he read.  He could see that the soul of his child was crying out for something; but again he failed to understand the true longings of the young heart.  He failed to see that the boy was being crushed by sinful habits, and that for parental care and interest he was starving.  In ignorance the father supposed that the boy’s unrest was due to a longing to know more of the world, to a feeling akin to that which an explorer experiences.