at his usual hour, and was in time for the family
breakfast, at seven o'clock.

"Don't you feel tired, Mr. Gray?" asked Mrs. Webb.

"No, thank you. I slept well, and feel quite refreshed."

"He's used to it, Lucy," remarked her husband.

"They look upon me as a professional player," thought Philip.

"I think you and I ought to be more tired, for we were dancing all the
evening," continued the farmer.

When they rose from the table, Philip looked for his hat.

"You're not going to leave us so soon, Mr. Gray?" said Mrs. Webb
hospitably. "We shall be glad to have you stay with us a day or two, if
you can content yourself."

"That's right, Lucy. I'm glad you thought to ask him," said her husband.

Philip was tempted to accept this kind invitation. He would have free
board, and be at no expense, instead of spending the small sum he had
earned the evening previous; but he reflected that he would be no nearer
solving the problem of how he was to maintain himself, and while this
was in uncertainty, he was naturally anxious.

"I am very much obliged to you both," he said. "If I come this way
again, I shall be glad to call upon you, but now I think I must be
pushing on."

"You'll always be welcome, Mr. Gray," said Mrs. Webb.

Philip thanked her, and soon after set out on his way.

He was more cheerful and hopeful than the day before, for then he was
well nigh penniless, and now he had three dollars in his pocket.

Three dollars was not a very large sum, to be sure, but to one who had
been so near destitution as Philip it seemed very important.

Besides, he had discovered in his violin a source of income, whereas,
hitherto, he had looked upon it merely as a source of amusement. This
made him feel more independent and self-reliant.

He had walked perhaps two miles, when he heard the rattle of wheels
behind him. He did not turn his head, for there was nothing strange in
this sound upon a frequented road. He did turn his head, however, when
he heard a strong voice calling "Hello!"

Turning, he saw that a young man who was driving had slackened the speed
of his horse, and was looking toward him.

Philip halted, and regarded the driver inquiringly.

"You're the young chap that played for a dance last night, ain't you!"
said the newcomer.

"Yes, sir."

"Then you're the one I want to see--jump in, and we'll talk as we are
going along."

Philip had no objection to a ride, and he accepted the invitation with
ala