quite so well, though often they would go into the parlor and look at the picture of a woman with a sweet, but rather sad face. It was a picture before which they had often seen their father stand with bowed head and hands clasped behind his back. And often, when he came softly out of the room where the portrait hung, there was a suspicious moisture in Mr. Arden’s eyes. 

13

 But Frank and Ned were healthy, hearty lads; and at fourteen and thirteen grief does not last very long. Kind Nature did not intend it so. And in a little while Ned and Frank at least partly forgot their sorrow in the activities of life. 

 Their uncle carried on their father’s business, though on a smaller scale, and their money, inherited from their father, was in Philip Arden’s hands, as the guardian of the two boys. Frank and Ned never asked how their fortune was invested. They took it for granted that it was safe. They always had, within reason, all the spending money they needed, and they were well supplied with the things that go to make life enjoyable. 

 Their tastes were simple, however, and the most that they asked for was something connected with boats. They seemed to live on the water, especially in the summer. 

 Both boys attended Columbia University, in 14 New York City, and were doing well in their studies. They had no special profession in mind, but their uncle rather took it for granted that they would, after their graduation, take up the importing trade with him. 

14

 “I suppose we might as well do it as anything else,” Frank said. 

 “Yes, for perhaps we can get a chance to make a trip to South America,” Ned agreed. “I’ve always wanted to see foreign countries.” 

 They spoke of this again as they hurried on through the storm to the shelter of the big white house. 

 “I tell you what would be better than going to South America on importing business,” said Ned. 

 “What?” Frank inquired. 

 “Going down there, or for that matter, to any foreign country, on a battleship!” 

 “Cracky! I should say so!” exclaimed the older lad. “I wonder if we’ll ever actually be on one?” 

 Prev. P 12/123 next