I attended the examination of the school to which he was attached," said Mrs.Bird, "and I was very much surprised at the acquirements of the pupils; this lad was distinguished above all the rest--he answered questions that would have puzzled older heads, with the greatest facility.

I am exceedingly anxious to get him admitted to the academy, as I am confident he will do honour to the interest I take in him." "And a very warm interest it must be, my dear Mrs.Bird, to induce you to attempt placing him in such an expensive and exclusive school.

I am very much afraid you will have to give it up: many of the scholars' parents, I am sure, will object strenuously to the admission of a coloured boy as a scholar." "Only tell me that you will propose him, and I will risk the refusal," replied Mrs.Bird--"it can be tried at all events; and if you will make the effort I shall be under deep obligations to you." "Well, Mrs.Bird, let us grant him admitted--what benefit can accrue to the lad from an education beyond his station?
He cannot enter into any of the learned professions: both whilst he is there, and after his education is finished, he will be like a fish out of water.

You must pardon me if I say I think, in this case, your benevolence misdirected.

The boy's parents are poor, I presume ?" "They certainly are not rich," rejoined Mrs.Bird; "and it is for that reason I wish to do all that I can for him.