He was very fond of rural sports, and, for a city boy, was a very expert hunter; he even considered himself able to compete with Frank.

He was also passionately fond of pets, and, if he could have had his own way, he would have possessed every cat and dog in the city.

His father was a wealthy ship-builder, and Archie was an only child.

But he was not, as is generally the case, spoiled by indulgence; on the contrary, his parents always required his prompt and cheerful obedience, and, when out of their sight, Archie was very careful to do nothing of which he thought his parents would not approve.

Every vacation he paid a visit to his cousin, and sometimes staid until late in the winter, to engage in his favorite sport.