After quite a lengthy conversation the preacher remarked:  “You are a farmer; New York is no place for you.  I would advise you to go out into the country; and, by the way, I believe I saw, a day or two since, an advertisement for a man to take charge of a farm.”

After some search on the part of the minister the paper containing the announcement was found.  Billy, having eagerly read the advertisement, thanked the minister, pushed the paper into his pocket, and speedily left the house.  He returned to the humble apartment that he had secured, and as the little family partook of their frugal evening meal, his wife Nancy, addressing her husband, said:  “I think we had better get out of this expensive city, somewhere into the country, where it is cheaper living, and where you may find something to do more to your liking.”

“Well, Nancy,” replied Billy, “this is the second time today that this advice has been given me, for,” he added, pulling the newspaper from his pocket, “a minister gave me a paper in which there is an advertisement for a farmer, and advised me to look into it.  Here it is,” and he read as follows: 

“Wanted—­A farmer.  Wanted, competent man, not afraid of work, to take charge of a farm of two hundred acres in ——­ County, New York.  A good house to live in, and good wages to the right man.  References required.  Apply by mail or in person to J. M. Quintin, Centerville Landing, ——­ County, New York.”

“Why,” exclaimed Nancy, “I believe that is providential.”

After pondering the subject awhile Billy wrote to Mr. Quintin, enclosing his credentials, and mailed the letter immediately.

In less than a week he received the following reply: 

“William Sparrow, Esq., New York.

“I have just received your application for the position on Monastery Farm in answer to my advertisement.  In replying I want to be candid with you.  In a word, unless you are an expert farmer your application cannot be considered.  If, therefore, you have any doubts about being able to meet the requirements, there is no need for further correspondence.  This is a first-class farm and must be worked by first-class methods.  The opening is an especially good one for the right man.  Perhaps you had better come up and see the place, and give us a chance to see you.  Come by boat to Centerville Landing.  Let me know the time of your arrival, should you decide to come, and someone will meet you.

“J.W.  Quintin, Trustee.”

Billy read this letter with somewhat mixed feelings.  There was no mistaking its meaning.  This man spoke out.  Its very brusqueness disconcerted the unsophisticated young man.  His experience was quite limited.  He had managed his father’s one-hundred-acre farm several years, and it had paid very well.  But he had always had his father’s advice; of which he would be deprived in this his greater work.  He read the letter to Nancy, and she was similarly impressed.