may trust me for that, father," said John, very decidedly; "I
want to see Frank Frost's proud spirit humbled. Perhaps he'll feel like
putting on airs after that."

From the conversation which has just been chronicled it will be
perceived that John was a worthy son of his father; and, though wanting
in affection and cordial good feeling, that both were prepared to join
hands in devising mischief to poor Frank and his family. Let us hope
that the intentions of the wicked may be frustrated.

CHAPTER VIII. DISCOURAGED AND ENCOURAGED

In a small village like Rossville news flies fast. Even the distinctions
of social life do not hinder an interest being felt in the affairs of
each individual. Hence it was that Mr. Frost's determination to enlist
became speedily known, and various were the comments made upon his plan
of leaving Frank in charge of the farm. That they were not all favorable
may be readily believed. Country people are apt to criticize the
proceedings of their neighbors with a greater degree of freedom than is
common elsewhere.

As Frank was on his way to school on Saturday morning, his name was
called by Mrs. Roxana Mason, who stood in the doorway of a small yellow
house fronting on the main street.

"Good morning, Mrs. Mason," said Frank politely, advancing to the gate
in answer to her call.

"Is it true what I've heard about your father's going to the war, Frank
Frost?" she commenced.

"Yes, Mrs. Mason; he feels it his duty to go."

"And what's to become of the farm? Anybody hired it?"

"I am going to take charge of it," said Frank modestly.

"You!" exclaimed Mrs. Roxana, lifting both hands in amazement; "why,
you're nothing but a baby!"

"I'm a baby of fifteen," said Frank good-humoredly, though his courage
was a little dampened by her tone.

"What do you know about farming?" inquired the lady, in a contemptuous
manner. "Your father must be crazy!"

"I shall do my best, Mrs. Mason," said Frank quietly, but with
heightened color. "My father is willing to trust me; and as I shall have
Mr. Maynard to look to for advice, I think I can get along."

"The idea of putting a boy like you over a farm!" returned Mrs. Roxana,
in an uncompromising tone. "I did think your father had more sense.
It's the most shiftless thing I ever knew him to do. How does your poor
mother feel about it?"

"She doesn't seem as much disturbed about it as you do, Mrs. Mason,"
said Frank, rather impatiently; for he felt t