existed, and that their opinions should rule the world, or at least should
govern you."

"More than all the rest, I fear, my dear Godfrey," interposed Mrs. Percy,
"that, when you do not find the world so good as you imagine it to be, you
will, by quarrelling with it directly, make it worse to you than it really
is. But if you discover that merit is not always immediately rewarded or
promoted, do not let your indignation, and--shall I say it--impatience
of spirit, excite you to offend your superiors in station, and, by these
means, retard your own advancement."

"Surely, if I should be treated with injustice, you would not have me bear
it patiently?" cried Godfrey, turning quickly.

"In the first place, stay till it happens before you take fire," said his
father; "and, in the next place, remember that patience, and deference to
his superiors, form an indispensable part of a young soldier's merit."

"Ah! my dear," said Mrs. Percy, looking up at her son anxiously, "if, even
at this instant, even with us, even at the bare imagination of injustice,
you take offence, I fear--I very much fear--" said she, laying her hand
upon his arm.

"My dearest mother," said Godfrey, in a softened tone, taking his mother's
hand in the most respectful and tender manner, "fear nothing for me. I will
be as patient as a lamb, rather than be a source of anxiety to you."

"And now, my good friends, fare ye well!" said Godfrey, turning to take
leave of his sisters.