"
"I do not wonder, at all, Mr. Archer, at any, indeed, every one,
thinking and saying as much," said Mrs. Morley, the wife of the judge,
just entering the room in time to hear the concluding part of Mr.
Archer's remarks. "Only a few months ago the judge could not possibly
help sentencing a boy to the State's prison; but, before the time for
entry came, he succeeded in getting his pardon; and, more than this,
he has brought him here, into his own home-circle, with the idea of
reforming him."
"My dear wife, have you any cause, so far, to think I shall fail? Has
not the boy proved grateful and worthy?" asked the judge, in a mild,
though very sad, voice.
"Yes, yes; but how you can have any patience with such characters, I
cannot imagine," answered his wife.
"Sit still, Archer, if you have no engagement; I am going to tell my
wife a little story, which will probably explain my charity toward
those unfortunate youths that you have spoken of; and, indeed, all
such. You, as my oldest and most valued friend, shall share the
hearing, if you wish."
"Many thanks for the privilege, with my deep appreciation for your
kindness in thinking of me thus," returned Mr.
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