is said by some learned physicians, who no doubt understand
the matter, that we should always rise from the table with an appetite.
Probably Paul had never heard of this rule. Nevertheless, he seemed in
a fair way of putting it into practice, for the best of reasons, because
he could not help it.

His breakfast, though not the most inviting, being simply unbuttered
bread and rather dry at that, seemed more delicious than ever before,
but unfortunately there was not enough of it. However, as there seemed
likely to be no more forthcoming, he concluded in default of breakfast
to lie down under the tree for a few minutes before resuming his walk.
Though he could not help wondering vaguely where his dinner was to come
from, as that time was several hours distant, he wisely decided not to
anticipate trouble till it came.

Lying down under the tree, Paul began to consider what Mr. Mudge would
say when he discovered that he had run away.

"He'll have to milk the cows himself," thought Paul. "He won't fancy
that much. Won't Mrs. Mudge scold, thought? I'm glad I shan't be within
hearing."

"Holloa!"

It was a boy's voice that Paul heard.

Looking up he saw a sedate company of cows entering the pasture single
file through an aperture made by letting down the bars. Behind them
walked a boy of about his own size, flourishing a stout hickory stick.
The cows went directly to the spring from which Paul had already drunk.
The young driver looked at our hero with some curiosity, wondering,
doubtless, what brought him there so early in the morning. After a
little hesitation he said, remarking Paul's bundle, "Where are you
traveling?"

"I don't know exactly," said Paul, who was not quite sure whether it
would be politic to avow his destination.

"Don't know?" returned the other, evidently surprised.

"Not exactly; I may go to New York."

"New York! That's a great ways off. Do you know the way there?"

"No, but I can find it."

"Are you going all alone?" asked his new acquaintance, who evidently
thought Paul had undertaken a very formidable journey.

"Yes."

"Are you going to walk all the way?"

"Yes, unless somebody offers me a ride now and then."

"But why don't you ride in the stage, or in the cars? You would get
there a good deal quicker."

"One reason," said Paul, hesitating a little, "is because I have no
money to pay for riding."

"Then how do you expect to live? Have you had any breakfast, this
morning?"