One was from James Laidlaw and it
read: "I shall be willing to practically
adopt you, but I want to state the situa
tion clearly at the start so there are no
afterclaps. I have acquired a fortune
and my high position life by fol
lowing a system. If you come to me,
I shall expect you to accept and live up
to its conditions. You are old enough
to have done with the follies of youth,
and my disposition is such that at the
evidence of any delinquency or short
comings on your part I would dismiss
you promptly."
"Rich, but selfish, as father has often
told urn," mused Robert over this coid
formal epistle, and then his face bright
ened as he perused the second letter.
"I am a lonely old bachelor," wrote
Uncle Henry, "but not so old or per
verted that I do not realize that if you
are a live, up-to-date young man we
shall have a famous time together. It
will do me good to have a general
shake-up through such companionship
as I am sure yours will be. I under
stand that Brother James is also bid
ding for you Well, he has the rocks,
and if you come with me you will have
to work, but I'll be your good friend
if you stick to me."
In one moment Robert Laidlaw made
his decision. He wrote a note to Un
cle James thanking him for his kind
ness, but declining to make his home
with him. He indited a second to Un
cle Henry, also thanking him and an
Tnouncing his intention of accepting
his kind offer.
