"No, I do not need to practice my profession, so far as the earning
of money is concerned; but I want something to occupy my mind. The
doctors say I ought to take considerable out-door exercise; but I
suppose my physical condition makes me indolent, for my chief
exercise has been, thus far, to wander to the banks of the river and
read under the trees."

"That isn't very severe exercise," said Herbert, smiling.

"No; still it keeps me out in the open air, and that is something.
Now tell me, what are your plans?"

"My hope is to find something to do that will enable me to help
mother; but there doesn't seem much chance of finding anything in
Wayneboro. Do you think I could get a place in the city?"

"You might; but even if you did, you would find it difficult to earn
your own living, and there would be no chance of your helping your
mother."

Herbert, though naturally sanguine and hopeful, looked sober. Just
then he had a bite, and drew out a good-sized pickerel. This gave a
new direction to his thoughts, and he exclaimed, triumphantly:

"Look at this pickerel! He must weigh over two pounds."

"All of that," said the young man, rising and examining the fish
with interest. "Let me use your pole, and see what luck I have."

"Certainly."