enter on a flourishing concern, sir; and you will virtually conduct it, in written communication with me; for I have had five-and-forty years of it; and then my liver, you know! Watson advises me strongly to leave my desk, and try country air, and rest from business and its cares." 

 He paused a moment; and the young man drew a long breath, like one who was in the act of being relieved of some terrible weight. 

 As for the old gentleman, he was not observing his son just then, but thinking of his own career; a certain expression of pain and regret came over his features; but he shook it off with manly dignity. "Come, come," said he, "this is the law of Nature, and must be submitted to with a good grace. Wardlaw junior, fill your glass." At the same time he stood up and said, stoutly, "The setting sun drinks to the rising sun;" but could not maintain that artificial style, and ended with, "God bless you, my boy, and may you stick to business; avoid speculation, as I have done; and so hand the concern down healthy to your son, as my father there (pointing to a picture) handed it down to me, and I to you." 

 His voice wavered slightly in uttering this benediction; but only for a moment. He then sat quietly down, and sipped his wine composedly. 

 Not so the other. His color came and went violently all the time his father was speaking, and, when he ceased, he sank into his chair with another sigh deeper than the last, and two half-hysterical tears came to his pale eyes. 

 But presently, feeling he was expected to say something, he struggled against all this mysterious emotion, and faltered out that he should not fear the responsibility, if he might have constant recourse to his father for advice. 

 "Why, of course," was the reply. "My country house is but a mile from the station. You can telegraph for me in any case of importance." 

 "When would you wish me to commence my new duties?" 

 "Let me see, it will take six weeks to prepare a balance-sheet, such as I could be content to submit to an incoming partner. Say two months." 

 Young Wardlaw's countenance fell. 

 "Meantime you shall travel on the Continent and enjoy yourself." 

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