are indeed. There never was another such a Waddles. Well!" at last he sighed, "It's no use sitting here; if it is to be done, the sooner the better but don't think it's my fault, old fellow." And he rubbed his cheek against its soft neck. "I would not let you go for anything but mamma; but you know she is so good to us, Waddles; is she not? and it would be so cowardly to think more of myself than her, and she ill too." Tom jumped up; and washing his face, tried to look happy. I do not think he quite succeeded in doing that; but, at any rate, he' looked what he really was, a brave true-hearted noble boy-one of whom any mother might be proud. Fetching a basket, he placed his pet tenderly in it; and shutting down the lid, lifted it on his arm; making a start to go. But, in spite of all his brave resolves, his tears burst forth afresh : and he fairly sobbed aloud. Setting down the basket, he once more looked in at his prisoner. "Poor old fellow!" he sobbed, "poor old Waddles! how can I give you up?" "God will help you to do so, dear Tom, if you ask Him," whispered Mary, who had come up unperceived. "I know it's hard work, but it would be harder still to see mamma die." "Thank you, Mary," said Tom; "I will not again complain." And true to his word, he set off running; determining in his own mind not to take another look at Waddles. CHAPTER VII. IT was now the summer of 1856; and nearly three years since I had bidden farewell to my little friends; when busime to H ness of importance called me Sauntering lazily up one of the narrow streets, I heard a child's voice, whose tones struck me as being strangely familiar. Looking through the window-it was a poultry shop-I saw a little fellow standing in earnest conversation with the woman of the shop. "You will be sure not to hurt it more than you can help, if you please, ma'am," he was saying. Certainly! I will be careful, and kill it very quickly," replied the good-natured woman-for good-natured she was, I could tell by the tones of her pleasant voice. "Thank you! may I look at her once again?” and stooping down, the boy pressed something |