Tom looked up. It was not in nature to look into that
gay, young, handsome face, without a feeling of pleasure;
and Tom felt the tears start in his eyes as he said, heartily,
"God bless you, Mas'r!"

"Well, I hope he will. What's your name? Tom?
Quite as likely to do it for your asking as mine, from all
accounts. Can you drive horses, Tom?"

"I've been allays used to horses," said Tom. " Mas'r
Shelby raised heaps on 'em."

"Well, I think I shall put you in coachy, on condition
that you won't be drunk more than once a week, unless in
cases of emergency, Tom."

Tom looked surprised, and rather hurt, and said, "I never
drink, Mas'r."

"I've heard that story before, Tom; but then we'll see.
It will be a special accommodation to all concerned, if you
don't. Never mind, my boy," he added, good-humoredly,
seeing Tom still looked grave; "I don't doubt you mean to
do well."

"I sartin do, Mas'r," said Tom.

"And you shall have good times," said Eva. "Papa is
very good to everybody, only he always will laugh at them."

"Papa is much obliged to you for his recommendation,"
said St. Clare, laughing, as he turned on his heel and walked
away.

-168-