ote corner, amongst cobwebs and bunches of balm and
sage. As I gazed on the companion of my first railroad trip, there
flashed through my mind, with lightning-like rapidity, the three weeks
of joys and sorrows we had shared together while in New York. The many
ups and downs I had experienced since that time, forced themselves upon
my memory, while _it_ had been silently resting and apparently awaiting
my return to accompany me on another search for fortune.

Among other things I saw hanging there was a half-worn-out, dried-up
bunch of blue-beech switches.

How many times had they tickled my young hide for a breach of home
discipline!

I took them in my hand, and as I gazed upon those silent reminders of
the past, I said triumphantly:

"You clung to me like a brother. Your reign is over. Your day is past,
while mine is just dawning. Farewell; I cherish you not. No fond
memories cling around my recollections of you. The lessons you
endeavored to convey were no doubt good, but, alas! they fell on barren
soil. Farewell, farewell."

And heaving a heavy sigh, I hung them on the nail, picked up my
carpet-bag, and descended from the garret.

After packing the old carpet-bag with bottles, I announced my readiness
for the grand start. My mother commenced crying, and asked if I didn't
think I'd better take a lunch along, in case of necessity. I said I
guessed not, as she might be robbing herself to give me so much all at
one time.

I bade her good bye, and I when I had gotten to the front gate she
called me back, and said if I would hitch one of the horses to the
carriage she would take me to Green Creek bridge, five miles out, where
I could begin operations among strangers.

This me pleased me immensely, and I lost no time in carrying out her
suggestion.

She drove west on the pike to the bridge, when I announced my readiness
and anxiety to commence business, as it was then four o'clock and I must
make a raise of a few shillings for expenses for the night.

I shall never forget the expression of solicitude and determination
shown in her face as she bade me good bye, and turned to leave me; and I
have since congratulated her for the firm, decisive stand she took. I
have often related this incident as one of the best things that ever
happened to me.

As soon as she started homeward I took the other direction.

I was mad; and the more I thought of her treatment of me the madder I
got, and the more I 'hus'led.'

At