 which tells me how natural and right it is that it should be. What
never ran smooth yet,« said Tom, with a smile, which despite the homeliness of
his face, was pleasanter to see than many a proud beauty's brightest glance:
»what never ran smooth yet, can hardly be expected to change its character for
us; so we must take it as we find it, and fashion it into the very best shape we
can, by patience and good-humour. I have no power at all; I needn't tell you
that; but I have an excellent will; and if I could ever be of use to you, in any
way whatever, how very glad I should be!«
    »Thank you,« said Martin, shaking his hand. »You're a good fellow, upon my
word, and speak very kindly. Of course you know,« he added, after a moment's
pause, as he drew his chair towards the fire again, »I should not hesitate to
avail myself of your services if you could help me at all; but mercy on us!«
Here he rumpled his hair impatiently with his hand, and looked at Tom as if he
took it rather ill that he was not somebody else: »you might as well be a
toasting-fork or a frying-pan, Pinch, for any help you can render me.«
    »Except in the inclination,« said Tom, gently.
    »Oh! to be sure. I meant that, of course. If inclination went for anything,
I shouldn't want help. I tell you what you may do, though, if you will, and at
the present moment too.«
    »What is that?« demanded Tom.
    »Read to me.«
    »I shall be delighted,« cried Tom, catching up the candle, with enthusiasm.
»Excuse my leaving you in the dark a moment, and I'll fetch a book directly.
What will you like? Shakspeare?«
    »Ay!« replied his friend, yawning and stretching himself. »He'll do. I am
tired with the bustle of to-day, and the novelty of everything about me; and in
such a case, there's no greater luxury in the world, I think, than being read to
sleep. You won't mind my going to sleep, if I can?«
    »Not at all?« cried Tom.
    »Then begin as soon as you like. You needn't leave
