"Hush! I feel that I am sinking, even faster than Dr. Melvin thinks.
Listen then to what I have to say."

"I am listening."

"When I'm gone, Richard, you will have to take my place. Your mother
is strong, and can do much; but she is a woman, and she, as well as
your sisters, will need your help."

"They shall have all that I can possibly give them. I will work, and
do all I can."

"I know you will, Richard. You have always been a good boy. I am sorry
that I cannot leave you all better off than I'm doing."

"Never mind, father; we will get along."

"I suppose I might have done so if I'd had the courage to strike out,"
continued Mr. Dare, with a sigh. "I always calculated to do something
for myself, but that's all over now. But you take after your mother,
the same as your sister Grace, and if you make the right start I feel
you will succeed."

"I shall remember what you say."

"Do so. But remember also to be always sober, industrious, and
considerate of those around you. Be true to yourself, and to every one
with whom you have dealings. You may not get along so fast, but people
will respect you more, and your success will be ten times sweeter than
it would have been had you risen by pushing others down."