It
became a rival even to his violin. And once before the end of
March, when the organist was ill, and another was not to be had, he
ventured to occupy his place both at morning and evening service.
Dr. Anderson kept George Moray in bed for a few days, after which he
went about for a while with his arm in a sling. But the season of
bearing material burdens was over for him now. Dr. Anderson had an
interview with the master of the grammar-school; a class was
assigned to Moray, and with a delight, resting chiefly on his social
approximation to Robert, which in one week elevated the whole
character of his person and countenance and bearing, George Moray
bent himself to the task of mental growth. Having good helpers at
home, and his late-developed energy turning itself entirely into the
new channel, he got on admirably. As there was no other room to be
had in Mrs. Fyvie's house, he continued for the rest of the session
to sleep upon the rug, for he would not hear of going to another
house. The doctor had advised Robert to drop the nickname as much
as possible; but the first time he called him Moray, Shargar
threatened to cut his throat, and so between the two the name
remained.
I presume that by this time Doctor Anderson had made up his mind to
leave his money to Robert, but thought it better to say nothing
about it, and let the boy mature his independence. He had him often
to his house. Ericson frequently accompanied him; and as there was
a good deal of original similarity between the doctor and Ericson,
the latter soon felt his obligation no longer a burden.
Pages:
393
394
395
396
397
398
399
400
401
402
403
404
405
406
407
408
409
410
411
412
413
414
415
416
417