l
right now. I look upon you and your mother as relatives, and I intend to
treat you as such, and, in return, I know you will provide me with a
happy home during my few remaining years."

It is needless to say what hearty assurances Uncle Obed received that
his happiness would be consulted, and secured, so far as Harry and his
mother were able to effect it.

The next day Uncle Obed, accompanied by Harry, went to the city, and
returned the owner of the Carrington estate.

The Gilberts immediately began to make arrangements for moving into the
new house. No sooner did Colonel Ross and his family receive a hint of
what was going on than in amazement Mrs. Ross called at the little
cottage, where she found all in confusion.

"Is it true, Uncle Obed," asked Mrs. Ross, abruptly, "that you are a
rich man?"

"I believe so, Niece Lucinda," answered the old man, meekly.

"I am so glad," said Mrs. Ross, with suavity. "We all rejoice in your
good fortune, dear uncle! And now, Uncle Obed, you must come over to our
house at once. We will set aside the best room for you, and we will try
to make you happy. This little house is not suitable for you."

"So I thought, and for that reason I have bought the Carrington place."

"So I heard," said Mrs. Ross; "but, of course, you won't think of living
there alone?"

"No; Mrs. Gilbert and Harry will live with me there."

Mrs. Ross darted a glance of hatred and suspicion at the widow, whom she
mentally accused of scheming for Uncle Obed's wealth.

"Better let the place, and come to live with us, dear Uncle Obed," she
said, sweetly.

"No, thank you. We'll be good neighbors, Niece Lucinda, and I shall be
glad to exchange calls; but I want a home of my own."

And to this determination Mr. Wilkins adhered, in spite of all his niece
could say.

So Harry and his mother and his aunt took up their residence at the fine
Carrington house, which Uncle Obed took care to support in a befitting
manner, though not extravagantly.

He bought a horse and carriage, and engaged Tom Calder as a stable boy,
as we have already hinted. Harry began at once to prepare for college,
under the care of the minister.

Five years have passed away. He is now at Yale College, but comes home
often to see his mother and Uncle Obed. He is one of the highest
scholars in his class, and Uncle Obed is proud of his success.

He is recognized as the heir of Mr. Wilkins, much to the chagrin of Mrs.
Lucinda Ross and fa