And more and more the thought of Jesus, as the
Friend and Leader of those who follow Him, filled the darkest hours
with joy.
The annual examination was drawing near, and Dick was very anxious to
be able to use his hands by then, and "pass the standard" successfully.
Meanwhile, he worked doubly hard, and went far ahead of the other boys
in lessons that had to be learned by heart.
And the teacher lent him books to read that helped him wonderfully,
though he could only read them by snatches.
He saw how boys as poor and friendless as himself had had to bear
hardship and unkindness, and how they had fought their way onward,
through all difficulties, to success and freedom, and his own resolve
grew stronger every day.
Now and then Mrs. Fowley would order him to be off out of her way, and
when this happened in the evening he gladly went to Paddy's lodgings.
It was so quiet there, after the scolding and quarrelling at home, and
Paddy always had a welcome for him, while bright-eyed Pat quickly
learned to know his owner.
He grew very fast, and was so full of fun and frolic, that there were
no dull times when he was awake.
And Paddy, who seemed to know all about dogs and their doings,
suggested that he should be taught tricks "because of his knowingness.
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