is duties as "head
of the family" by telegraphing to Fitzroy Square to have fires lighted
in the rooms; but even in that Mr. Murray, who seemed to think of
everything, had been beforehand with him.

CHAPTER XVII.--PROBATION.

"I am so glad you have called, Mr. Murray. I do so want a long chat with
you," Mrs. Clair said one day, about a month after her husband's death.
"You have been such a kind friend, that I feel I may ask your advice."

"And I'll be very glad to give it, if you will only follow it. What's
the matter now?"

"First of all, I'm unhappy about Bertie; he is worked very hard, and I
am afraid his uncle is not very kind to him; I am grieved to see how
thin and pale he has grown. Then Mr. Gregory declares Eddie must do
something for himself, and suggests his entering a timber-merchant's
office, as there is no money to continue his artistic education. Of
course, my husband did everything for Eddie; and if there is any income
from Riversdale after paying the mortgages, he never heard anything of
it. I ventured to ask Mr. Gregory if he would pay for Eddie's classes,
and I'm sorry to say he refused, and declares that the lad must work
like other people. It will break poor Eddie's heart to go into that
timber place."

"Oh no, Mrs. Clair; boys' hearts are tough things. Is that all your
trouble?"

"No, indeed. I am perplexed about myself; this house is far too large
for me, and far too expensive. My husband was always a poor man: that
is, he lived up to his income; and his health was such that he could not
insure his life. A few hundred pounds and the lease and furniture of
this house were all he left; but every day I find bills unpaid, many of
them long-standing accounts, and my stock of money is diminishing
rapidly. I think I should have an auction, dispose of the lease if I
could, and go into cheap lodgings with Agnes and Eddie; but I fear I
shall not be able to pay for his classes and colours. Can you suggest
anything for me to do?"

"No; I think your ideas are very sensible. But would it not be better to
try to let this house furnished? I fancy I can find you a tenant, and
then you will have a certain, even if small, income. Then if both boys
are willing to work they will bring you in something every week."

"But, Mr. Murray, Eddie is to have no salary for three years, and Bertie
must remain with his Uncle Gregory," Mrs. Clair said, sadly. "Oh, how I
wish he could come and live with me! he is a dear