Arthur Hamilton, and His Dog - 5

"It is quite as painful to me, Arthur,"  said his mother, "to part from
you, as it can be to you; but I think it is best for you; and I am sure
you will not increase my trials by complaining. Be a brave boy, Arthur,
and learn to submit cheerfully to what God sends upon you. Trust in Him,
and he will bless you wherever you are. Always remember He watches over
you, and loves you. I think Mr. and Mrs. Martin will be kind to you, and
I hope you will make yourself very useful to them. They are quite aged,
and a pair of young hands and feet can be of great service to them.
Always do cheerfully whatever they wish of you, even if not quite so
agreeable at the moment. Always be respectful in your manners to them,
and to all others with whom you come in contact, and try to make them
happier. A little boy may do a good deal to make others happy, or
unhappy. I hope you will try to do what is right at all times, and I
doubt not you will be contented and happy there, after you become
accustomed to it."

Arthur had dried his tears, but his heart was heavy as he laid down in
his bed that night, and when he was alone, his sobs burst forth afresh.
It seemed to him very cruel to send him among strange people, and he
thought he should rather go without much to eat or wear, than to leave
home.

About ten days after, John carried Arthur to Mr. Martin's. Mrs. Hamilton
had made his clothes look as neat and tidy as possible, by thoroughly
washing and mending them, (for she could not afford to get any new
ones), and John had made him a nice box, in which they were all
carefully placed.

Arthur tried to be a brave boy, as his mother wished; but he could not
eat his breakfast that morning. Every mouthful seemed to choke him; and
when he bade his mother and the children good-bye, the tears would come
fast and thick into his eyes, in spite of all he could do to prevent it.
Tears were in his mother's eyes too, but she spoke cheerfully.