BUSY BESSIE. 127

tle girl. Have you been long in these United
States ?”

“Only a few weeks, but they seem to me
years—years.” And the boy turned aside his
head, ashamed of the tears that stood in his
eyes. |
Tom hardly knew what to say. “ May be
you would like to go over to our island.” It
was the only act of politeness that Tom could
think of at the moment.

* ] should right well, if your boat will carry
three.”

‘She would as easy as not. I should like to
row you over.”

“Thank you.”

They had now arrived at Mixon’s house.
Tom stopped at the gate.

“Is this your home ?” said Howard, attempt-
ing to conceal his surprise at the mean
appearance of the brown cottage.

“Tt 2s my home. Will you come in and
take supper with us ?”

No, I thank you,” replied Howard ; “ good
evening.” And the boy turned towards Rose
Lawn, and walked onward, much wondering