Mr. Gray," said "Cobbler" Horn, "that I want all my
property in this village to be put into such thorough repair that, as far
as the comfort and convenience of my tenants are concerned, nothing shall
remain to be desired. So set to work with all your might; and we shall
not quarrel about the bill----if you only make it large enough."

Mr. Gray's big heart bounded within him, as he received this generous
commission.

"And don't forget your own house," added his employer. "I think you had
better build yourself a new one while you are about it; and let it be a
house fit to live in."

Mr. Gray warmly expressed his thanks, and they proceeded to the
consideration of the numberless matters which it was necessary to discuss.

In the morning, under the guidance of the agent, "Cobbler" Horn paid his
promised visit to the old Hall. It was a venerable Elizabethan mansion,
and, like everything else in the village that belonged to him, was sadly
out of repair. As he entered the ancient pile, and passed from room to
room, a purpose with regard to the old Hall which already vaguely occupied
his mind, took definite shape; and he seemed to hear, in the empty rooms,
the glad ring of children's laughter and the patter of children's feet. In
memory of his long-lost Marian, and for the glory of the Divine Friend of
children, the old Hall should be transformed into a Home for little ones
who were homeless and without a friend.

As they drove to the station, a little later, he announced his attention,
with regard to the Hall, to Mr. Gray.

"I shall leave the business in your hands, Mr. Gray. You must consult
those who understand such things, and visit similar institutions, and turn
the old place into the best 'Children's Home' that can be produced."

"Very well, sir; but the children?"

"That matter I will arrange myself."

The agent was getting used to surprises; but the next that came almost
took his breath away.

"I believe," said "Cobbler" Horn, at the end of a brief silence, "that
your salary, Mr. Gray, is L150 a year?"

"Yes, sir."

"Well, I wish to increase the amount. Pray consider that you will receive,
from this time, at the rate of L500 a year."

"Mr. Horn!" cried the startled agent, "such generosity!"

"Not at all; I mean you to earn it, you know. But let your horse move on,
or I shall miss my train. And, by the way, will you oblige me, Mr. Gray,
by procuring for yourself a horse and trap better calculated to serve