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find in yon village some person who will befriend a poor fellow, and look to God for a reward.
“Sir,” said the boy, “my father was a soldier, many years ago, and he dearly loves to look upon a red coat; if you come with me, you may be sure of a welcome.”
“And you can tell us stories about foreign parts,” said the younger lad, a fine chubby-cheeked fellow, who, with his watch-cloak thrown carelessly over his shoulder, and his crook in his right hand, had been minutely examining every portion of the soldier's dress.
The boys gave instructions to their intelligent dog, who, they said, would take good care of the sheep during their absence; and in a few minutes tho soldier and his young companions reached the gate of a flourishing farm house, which had all the external tokens of prosperity and happiness. The younger boy' trotted on a few paces before, to give his parents notice that they had invited a stranger to rest beneath their hospitable roof; and the soldier had just crossed the threshold of the door, when he was received by a joyful cry of recognition from his old friends, Henry Jenkins and his wife; and he was welcomed as a brother to the dwelling of those, who, in all human probability, were indebted to him for their present enviable station.
It is unnecessary to pursue this story further than to add, that John Carty spent his forlough at Eldenby farm; and that at the expiration of it, his discharge was purchased by his grateful friends. He is now living in their happy dwelling; and his care and exertions have contributed greatly to increase their prosperity. Nothing has gone wrong with them since John Carty was their steward.
“Cast thy bread upon the waters,” said the wise man, “and it shall be roturned to thee after many days."
