The other
is as green as grass, and has never been away from his mother's
apron-string. However, I do not think you will find him a bad sort of
fellow when he has got rid of his rawness. Don't be too hard upon him,
you boys. Remember easy does it, and don't be pushing your jokes too
far. He is not a fool and will come round in time."
CHAPTER VIII.
STARTLING NEWS.
Three weeks after Ralph's departure to join his regiment Mrs. Conway
received a letter which gave her a great shook. It was from Mrs.
Withers, and was as follows:
"MY DEAR MRS. CONWAY: I have very sad news to tell you. An event
has happened which will, I know, be as afflicting to you as it has
been to us. Our dear friend Mr. Penfold, who but three weeks ago
was so bright and happy with us in London, has passed away
suddenly. Up to the day before yesterday he seemed in his usual
health; but yesterday morning he did not appear at breakfast, and
the servant on going up to his room, found him sitting in a chair
by his bedside dead. The bed had not been slept in, and it appears
as if before commencing to undress he had been seized with a
sudden faintness and had sunk into the chair and died without
being able to summon assistance.
"His death is a terrible shock to us, as it will be to you.
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