?"

"Not much at present," answered Frank modestly, "but I think I could
learn easily. Besides, there's Mr. Maynard, who is a good farmer, could
advise me whenever I was in doubt, and you could write home directions
in your letters."

"That is true," said Mr. Frost thoughtfully. "I will promise to give it
careful consideration. But have you thought that you will be obliged to
give up attending school."

"Yes, father."

"And, of course, that will put you back; your class-mates will get in
advance of you."

"I have thought of that, father, and I shall be very sorry for it. But I
think that is one reason why I desire the plan."

"I don't understand you, Frank," said his father, a little puzzled.

"You see, father, it would require a sacrifice on my part, and I should
feel glad to think I had an opportunity of making a sacrifice for the
sake of my country."

"That's the right spirit, Frank," said his father approvingly. "That's
the way my grandfather felt and acted, and it's the way I like to see my
son feel. So it would be a great sacrifice to me to leave you all."

"And to us to be parted from you, father," said Frank.

"I have no doubt of it, my dear boy," said his father kindly. "We have
always been a happy and united family, and, please God, we always shall
be. But this plan of yours requires consideration. I will talk it over
with your mother and Mr. Maynard, and will then come to a decision."

"I was afraid you would laugh at me," said Frank.

"No," said his father, "it was a noble thought, and does you credit. I
shall feel that, whatever course I may think it wisest to adopt."

The sound of a bell from the house reached them. This meant breakfast.
Mr. Frost had finished milking, and with a well-filled pail in either
hand, went toward the house.

"Move the milking:-stool, Frank," he said, looking behind him, "or the
cow will kick it over."

Five minutes later they were at breakfast.

"I have some news for you, Mary," said Mr. Frost, as he helped his wife
to a sausage.

"Indeed?" said she, looking up inquiringly.

"Some one has offered to take charge of the farm for me, in case I wish
to go out as a soldier."

"Who is it?" asked Mrs. Frost, with strong interest.

"A gentleman with whom you are well--I may say intimately acquainted,"
was the smiling response.

"It isn't Mr. Maynard?"

"No. It is some one that lives nearer than he."

"How can that be? He is our nearest neighbor."

"Then y