," she began, "you might like me to read to you, as
usual."

"Thank you, Mrs. Bradley, but I am going to relieve you of that portion
of your labors. My young friend here is to come every evening and read
to me."

"Indeed!" ejaculated the housekeeper in a tone of chilly displeasure,
and a sharp glance at Frank, which indicated no great amount of
cordiality. "Then, as I am intruding, I will take my leave."

There was something in her tone that made Frank feel uncomfortable.

CHAPTER IX

THE HOUSEKEEPER'S NEPHEW

"By no means," said Mr. Wharton, as the housekeeper was about to
withdraw; "don't imagine you are intruding. Come in and sit down."

"Thank you, sir," said Mrs. Bradley, in a measured tone. "You are very
considerate, I am sure, but if you'll excuse me, I won't come in this
evening."

"Mrs. Bradley has been with me a good many years," explained Mr.
Wharton, "and I dare say she feels a little disturbed at seeing another
occupy her place, even in a duty like this."

"I am afraid she will be offended with me, sir," said Frank.

"Oh, no; I will explain matters to her. Go on with your reading, Frank."

At half-past nine, Mr. Wharton took out his watch.

"It is getting late," he said. "I have no doubt you are tired and need
rest."

"I am not tired, sir."

"I believe in going to bed early. I shall seldom keep you later than
this. Do you think you can find your way out?"

"Yes, sir. When shall I come to-morrow evening?"

"A little before eight."

"I will be punctual."

Jasper was waiting for him, not wholly without anxiety, for it was very
unusual for Frank to be late.

"Well, Frank!" he exclaimed; "this is a pretty time for you to come
home. I began to think you had got into trouble. I was just going around
to the nearest station house in search of you."

"I was in quite a different place, Jasper."

Frank told his story, including an account of his engagement.

"So it seems I am to lose your company in the evening. I am sorry for
that, but I am glad you are so lucky."

"It was better than I expected," said Frank, with satisfaction.

"What sort of a man is this Mr. Wharton?" said Jasper.

"He is very kind and generous. I am lucky to have so good a friend.
There's only one thing that is likely to be disagreeable."

"What's that?"

"The housekeeper--her name is Mrs. Bradley--for some reason or other she
doesn't want me there."

"What makes you think so?"

"Her manner, and the way