even younger than you, and less fortunate in one respect, for my employer did not give me a home in his family, and I was obliged to take my chance in a large boarding-house which was not the best place in the world for a young and inexperienced boy; but thanks to the good principles taught me by my parents, I was preserved pure and upright amid many temptations to evil.  My friend informs me that you have been well taught by your mother and the knowledge that you are left fatherless interests me in your favour; and, more than this, I am much pleased with your appearance, and I trust you will never forfeit the good opinion I have formed of you at first sight.  I wish not to multiply advices to a needless extent, and will only add, be diligent in your business, be honest and upright in all things, and, above all things, shun evil companions, and you will surely be prospered in all your undertakings.”  This advice was given in the kindest manner possible, and from my heart I thanked Mr. Baynard for the interest he manifested in me.  When I entered upon my regular duties in the store, I found them light, but I was kept very busy.  My first task in the morning was to sweep, dust and open the store; through the day I assisted the older clerks in waiting upon customers, carried parcels, in fact, made myself generally useful.  When released from the store the remaining portion of my evenings were pleasantly passed in the family of my employer; he was very unwilling I should acquire the habit of spending my evenings abroad, and was at much pains that the evenings in his own family should be pleasant.  The little boy seemed to regard me, when out of the store, as his own property.  I was fond of the child, and devised many plans for his childish amusement; his lively prattle often drove away the lonely feelings which at times stole over me, when I remembered my distant friends.  The little girls both played the piano, which was a source of much enjoyment to me; we had access to the library where there were books suited to all ages.  Mrs. Baynard allowed us occasionally to indulge in a noisy game, when our numbers were increased by some of their schoolmates.  I well remember the feeling of wounded pride and anger when I one evening chanced to hear a purse-proud gentleman say to Mr. Baynard, “I am much surprised that you should allow your children to associate with one of your clerks; I could not for a moment think of allowing mine to do such a thing.”  “I do not ask you to allow your children to associate with him,” replied Mr. Baynard, with a heightened colour, “but as long as Walter remains the honest, upright youth he has so far proved himself, I consider him a very desirable companion for my children.  I have learned his character and connections from my old and esteemed friend Dr. Gray, and his testimony is sufficient for me.”  This reply silenced, if it failed to convince the proud gentleman.

CHAPTER XXVI.