The Kind Brother. 19

ply with the dying wishes of his parent. Not
only had he aided Francis with his advice, but
he had stinted himself in many ways to be able
to help him. Alas! he now saw that all these
self-sacrifices were in vain, and that there are
persons who care nothing for the closest and
the most sacred ties of family affection. These
-thoughts made him very sad. Contrary to his
usual way, he did not feel impatient for Mrs,
Ridler to light her lamp, so that he could pur-
sue his studies; but, made restless by anxiety,
he paced up and down the short walks in the
little garden.

Suddenly a well-known voice spoke to him
in cautious tones. Fred turned sharply round,
and beheld Francis, whose ragged clothes, hag-
gard countenance, and fatigued appearance
showed very plainly how he had passed his
time during his absence.

His brother looked at him for some moments
with a mingled expression of sorrow and pity ;
but, pained at the sight, and fearful of giving
offence, he did not ask a single question.

Francis, whose careless, unfeeling character
made him indifferent about the feelings of his
brother, was the first to break the silence.