This, however, you did not do, you know nothing of it, but tell me that you are acquainted with Armenian; but what I dislike most is your want of candour--you are my son, but I know little of your real history, you may know fifty things for what I am aware; you may know how to shoe a horse, for what I am aware." "Not only to shoe a horse, father, but to make horse-shoes." "Perhaps so," said my father; "and it only serves to prove what I am just saying, that I know little about you." "But you easily may, my dear father; I will tell you anything that you may wish to know--shall I inform you how I learnt to make horse-shoes ?" "No," said my father; "as you kept it a secret so long, it may as well continue so still.

Had you been a frank, open-hearted boy, like one I could name, you would have told me all about it of your own accord.

But I now wish to ask you a serious question--what do you propose to do ?" "To do, father ?" "Yes! the time for which you were articled to your profession will soon be expired, and I shall be no more." "Do not talk so, my dear father; I have no doubt that you will soon be better." "Do not flatter yourself; I feel that my days are numbered, I am soon going to my rest, and I have need of rest, for I am weary.

There, there, don't weep! Tears will help me as little as they will you, you have not yet answered my question.

Tell me what you intend to do ?" "I really do not know what I shall do." "The military pension which I enjoy will cease with my life.