Page:The Poor Rich Man, and the Rich Poor Man.djvu/135

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AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE NOT "FORGOT."
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—'where there's room in the heart there's room in the house.'"

We have omitted to mention, that Aikin had obtained the place of assistant teacher in a classical school for Mr. Barlow.

"I know, sir," replied Susan, "that you can now get much more comfort elsewhere than we can give you; but a grief and loss it will be to us to part with you. I have been looking forward to your taking the little back room, for Juliet told me to-day—and, poor child, she was crying when she said it—that her mother was about to move."

"Juliet going too?" exclaimed the children, "that is too bad."

A bustling step in the entry was heard, and immediately after an imperative voice at Mrs. Smith's door, calling out—"Open the door—I say I must speak with you." The door opened, and Juliet's voice was heard in replu, but so low that not a word could be distinguished. The response was sufficiently audible—"Don't cry, child—I'm not going to hurt you, but I must speak with your mother. The house is not mine,'" continued the stranger, now evidently addressing Mrs. Smith; "and I have no authority to grant indulgences. You are behind-hand for the last three weeks, and if you don't pay Saturday, you must clear out—good day, ma'am."

An opportunity was now offered, as the landlord's agent repassed the door, to speak for the room for Mr. Barlow; but he and all the rest were absorbed in their interest for little Juliet, whose soft footsteps were soon heard on the stairs. Anne sprang to the door, and opening it, asked Juliet to come in.