It makes the largest part of our income

"Mebbe so. I think so myself. Thank the Lord, I ain't beholden to him or his family for any favors. They wanted to send me home to Illinoy. I was too unfashionable for them, I expect, but I've found a home--yes, I've found a good home." "I am glad we succeeded in making it comfortable for you, Mr. Wilkins," said Mrs. Gilbert, looking up from her sewing. "You do, ma'am," said the old man. "I ain't been so well taken care of for years as I am now. I wish I could do something to show my gratitude." "The money you pay us is of great service. It makes the largest part of our income. I am only afraid you pay too much." "No, I don't," said Uncle Obed. "Money isn't of much vally, compared with a good home. If I ain't as rich as my niece, I can afford to pay fair board. When a man's turned seventy, as I have, the best money can do for him is to give him a happy home." Mrs. Gilbert and Harry were pleased to find their boarder so contented. The money he paid weekly, with unvarying punctuality, made things easy for the widow, and relieved her of the anxiety which she had constantly felt before his arrival. The conversation above recorded was scarcely over, when a knock was heard at the front door--a sharp, peremptory knock--as of one who demanded admittance, rather than requested it. All looked up, with some surprise, for it was now eight o'clock, and they did not often have evening callers. "I will go to the door, mother," said Harry. "You need not interrupt your sewing." So Harry opened the outer door, and, considerably to his surprise, saw standing on the step the dignified figure of Colonel Ross. "Colonel Ross!" he exclaimed, in surprise. "I will come in a few minutes," said the Colonel, stiffly. "Certainly, sir. Excuse my not inviting you." "It is very excusable--under the circumstances," said the Colonel, stiffly. "What does he mean?" thought Harry. "I can't tell what circumstances he refers to." "Mother," said he, opening the door of the sitting-room, "here is Colonel Ross." "Take a seat, Colonel Ross," said the widow, politely. Colonel Ross seated himself deliberately in a chair near his wife's uncle. "Glad to see you, Mr. Ross," said Uncle Obed, thinking the visit was meant for him. "You're very kind to look in on an old man." "I--well, my visit this evening has a different object."