Tales and Novels (Volume 5-6) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1836. Excerpt: ... THE CONTRAST. CHAPTER I. "What a blessing it is to be the father of such a family of children " said Farmer Frankland, as he looked round at the honest affectionate faces of his sons and daughters, who were dining with him on his birthday. "What a blessing it is to have a large family of children " "A blessing you may call it, if you will, neighbour," said Farmer Bettesworth; "but if I was to speak my mind, I should be apt to call it a curse." "Why, as to that, we may both be right and both be wrong," replied Frankland; "for children are either a blessing or a curse, according as they turn out; and they turn out according as they are brought up. Bring up a child in the way it should go;' that has ever been my maxim: show me a better, show me a happier, family than my own; and show me a happier father than myself," continued the good old man, with pleasure sparkling in his eyes. Observing, however, that his neighbour Bettesworth looked blank and sighed deeply, he checked himself, and said, in a more humble tone, "To be sure, it is not so mannerly for a man to be praising his own; except it just come from the heart unawares, among friends, who will excuse it; especially upon such a day as this. This day I am seventy years of age, and never was heartier or happier So, Fanny, love, fill neighbour Bettesworth a glass of your sister's cider. 'Tis my Patty's making, sir; and better never was drunk. Nay, nay, sit ye still, neighbour; as you happened to call in just as we were all dining, and making merry together, why you cannot do better than to stay and make one of us, seeing that you are heartily welcome." Mr. Bettesworth excused himself, by saying that he was in haste home. No happy home had he, no affectionate children to welcome his return. Yet he had as ...