“It was a daring deed, young man, to place yourself before an affrighted horse in that manner,” said Mr. Bayard.

“I didn’t mind it, sir.”

“And then he flourished a big club, almost as big as he is himself, in the air, which made Kate pause in her mad career, when my deliverer here grasped her by the bit and held her.”

“It was well and bravely done.”

“That it was, father; not many men would have been bold enough to do what he did,” added Ellen, with enthusiasm.

“Very true; and I feel, that I am indebted to him for your safety.  What is your name, young man?”

“Robert Bright, sir.”

Mr. Bayard took from his pocket several pieces of gold, which he offered to Bobby.

“No, I thank you, sir,” replied Bobby, blushing.

“What! as proud as you are bold?”

“I don’t like to be paid for doing my duty.”

“Bravo!  You are a noble little fellow!  But you must take this money, not as a reward for what you have done, but as a testimonial of my gratitude.”

“I would rather not, sir.”

“Do take it, Robert,” added Ellen.

“I don’t like to take it.  It looks mean to take money for doing one’s duty.”

“Take it, Robert, to please me;” and the young lady smiled so sweetly that Bobby’s resolution began to give way.  “Only to please me, Robert.”

“I will, to please you; but I don’t feel right about it.”

“You must not be too proud, Robert,” said Mr. Bayard, as he put the gold pieces into his hand.

“I am not proud, sir; only I don’t like to be paid for doing my duty.”

“Not paid, my young friend.  Consider that you have placed me under an obligation to you for life.  This money is only an expression of my own and my daughter’s feelings.  It is but a small sum, but I hope you will permit me to do something more for you, when you need it.  You will regard me as your friend as long as you live.”

“Thank you, sir.”

“When you want any assistance of any kind, come to me.  I live in Boston; here is my business card.”

Mr. Bayard handed him a card, on which Bobby read, “F.  Bayard & Co., Booksellers and Publishers, No. ——­ Washington Street, Boston.”

“You are very kind, sir.”

“I want you should come to Boston and see us too,” interposed Ellen.  “I should be delighted to show you the city, to take you to the Athenaeum and the Museum.”

“Thank you.”

Mr. Bayard inquired of Bobby about his parents, where he lived, and about the circumstances of his family.  He then took out his memorandum book, in which he wrote the boy’s name and residence.

“I am sorry to leave you now, Robert, but I have over twenty miles to ride to-day.  I should be glad to visit your mother, and next time I come to Riverdale, I shall certainly do so.”

“Thank you, sir; my mother is a very poor woman, but she will be glad to see you.”