e from the house, bearing
her in safety to her father. Mr. Leighton fell on his knees and
fervently thanked God for sparing the life of his child. 'Now,' said he,
'I am content that my dwelling should burn.' He grasped the hand of her
rescuer, and said, with much emotion,--'Words are too poor to express my
gratitude; but, if my life is spared, you shall be rewarded.' 'I want no
reward,' said the noble man, 'for having done my duty.' He was a
laboring man, and had a large family dependent upon his daily earnings.
Quite a large sum of money was soon raised among the assembled crowd,
which he would not accept, till compelled to do so by the thankful
multitude."

In conclusion, my uncle said,--

"Consciousness returned to Birdie soon after she was conveyed into the
open air, and she was speedily conveyed to her anxious mother. The
rescue of Birdie from so dreadful a death was to me a matter of deep and
heartfelt thankfulness."

Previous to the burning of Mr. Leighton's dwelling his pecuniary
affairs, according to common report, had become very much embarrassed;
and this event seemed the finishing stroke to his ill-fortune. They were
unable to save anything from their dwelling, being thankful to escape
with their lives. He still continued his business; but, it was said, his
liabilities were heavier than he was able to meet. He rented a
moderate-sized house, and removed thither with his family. Those who
visited them said it was but plainly furnished. Their servants, with one
or two exceptions, had all been dismissed.

CHAPTER XXI.

RECONCILED.

Lewis was recalled from school in the early autumn; and soon after, the
news of Mr. Leighton's failure was eagerly discussed in the business
world.

Lewis called to see me soon after his return. He was now a manly youth
of fifteen. I was much pleased to see him; and, when he rose to go,
after a lengthy call, I invited him to call often upon us. My uncle took
a great fancy to the boy, and many evenings found Lewis our guest. I
learned from Lewis, and others, that the health of Mrs. Leighton had so
much failed that she was now entirely confined to the house.

Mr. Leighton had lately written to Willie, giving him an account of
their misfortunes, and of the failing health of his mother; and
concluded by earnestly requesting his return home, as he feared that it,
was Willie's absence which was preying so heavily upon the mind of Mrs.
Leighton as to cause, in a great meas