I sometimes used to sketch the boys' faces." "And you have never received any instructions ?" "Never--not even a hint," was the answer.
"And this is the first time you have attempted a sketch upon paper ?" "Yes; the very first." "Then you are a little prodigy," said the artist, slapping him upon the shoulder.

"I must take you in hand.

You have nothing else to do; come here regularly every day, and I'll teach you.

Will you come ?" "Certainly, if you wish it.

But now, tell me, do you really think that drawing good ?" "Well, Charlie, if I had done it, it would be pronounced very bad for me; but, coming from your hands, it's something astonishing." "Really, now--you're not joking me ?" "No, Charlie, I'm in earnest--I assure you I am; it is drawn with great spirit, and the boy that you have put in by the pump is exceedingly well done." This praise served as a great incentive to our little friend, who, day after day thenceforth, was found at the studio busily engaged with his crayons, and making rapid progress in his new art.
He had been thus occupied some weeks, and one morning was hurrying to the breakfast-table, to get through his meal, that he might be early at the studio, when he found Mrs.Bird in her accustomed seat looking very sad.
"Why, what is the matter ?" he asked, on observing the unusually grave face of his friend.
"Oh, Charlie, my dear! I've received very distressing intelligence from Philadelphia.