VALLEY

POOR ADAM! 205"You should try to put them in order," Mr. Perrywent on, playing with his 'handsome watch chain andsmiling patronizingly on Faith. "You are quite oldenough to attend to such duties. My little daughter athome isonly ten and she is already an excellent littleand comfort to herhousekeeper and the greatest helpmother. She is a very sweet child. I wish you hadthe privilege of her acquaintance. She could help youin many ways. Of course, you have not had the inestimableprivilege of a good mother's care and training.A sad lack a very sad lack. I have spoken more thanonce to your father in this connection and pointed outhis duty to him faithfully,but so far with no effect.I trust he may awaken to a realization of his responsibilitybefore it is too late. In the meantime, it is yourduty and privilege to endeavour to take your saintedmother's place. You might exercise a great influenceover your brothers and your little sister you mightbe a true mother to them. I fear that you do not thinkof these things as you should. My dear child, allowme to open your eyes in regard to them."Mr. Perry's oily, complacent voice trickled on. Hewas in his element. Nothing suited him better than tolay down the law, patronize and exhort. He had noidea of stopping, and he did not stop.He stood beforethe fire,his feet planted firmly on the rug, and pouredout a flood of pompous platitudes. Faith heard nota word. She was really not listening to him at all.But she was watching his long black coat-tails with