much to his satisfaction, and we had a pleasant
evening together. He confided to me his troubles. How he was getting
tired of the "usual lot," and of London altogether, and wanted his
father to let him be a farmer. How he was always getting into trouble
up here in town, living by himself, with far more money than he wanted,
and no one "to pull him up," as he called it. How he often recalled
Stonebridge House with all its hardships, and wished himself back there
instead of in this unsatisfactory world of London.

"If I could only grind like Smith," said he, "it wouldn't be so bad; but
what's the use of my grinding? In fact, what's the use of my being up
here at all, when I only get into rows, and spend one half of my time
going to the dogs and the other in pulling up?"

"Well," said I, "that's better than me, who spend all my time in going
to the dogs."

"Oh, but you had Smith to keep you steady," said he. "You couldn't go
far wrong with him. I've got no one of that sort. I really wish my
father would put me to farming. A fellow couldn't go to the dogs, you
know, all among the cows, and pigs, and horses--that is," added he,
laughing, "not the sort of dogs I mean."

There was a great deal in Flanagan's troubles with which I could
sympathise. He was a fellow with a kind nature at bottom, but too easy-
going to withstand the temptations of London.

In return for his confidence I told him most of my troubles. He was
greatly interested in the story, and especially reproached himself with
his share in aiding and abetting my past extravagances.

When, however, I came to tell him of my financial troubles with
Hawkesbury and Shoddy he brightened up suddenly.

"Why, why ever didn't you tell me of that before, Batchelor?" he
exclaimed. "And this beggar Shoddy's going to show you up, is he? Ha,
ha! we'll disappoint him for once in a way. I know him of old."

"I was wondering if you knew him," said I, suddenly feeling my spirits
lightened, "and would mind asking him not to call up at the office."

"Of course I will," said Flanagan, jumping up and taking his hat. "Come
along, old man, he won't be shut up yet, I expect. If he is we'll wake
him up."

And off we went, my heart full of joy at this unexpected hope.

Shoddy's shop was still open, and its lord was at home. He greeted
Flanagan obsequiously, as a good customer.

"Ah, Shoddy, how are you? Just make out my friend's bill here, will
you--look sharp!