THE LIFE OF A SPORTSMAN 



is as bare of humour as a hurdle is of flesh ; and if Goodall 

 had a little more of the stoic about him — at all events, a little 

 more firmness — Eton would be none the worse as a school. 

 But, as you kindly ask me the question, I candidly tell you 

 I had rather that the two boys should not both go to the same 

 school, and I will give you my reason. Frank, though not 

 wanting in parts, is disposed to do as little as he can possibly 

 help with Mr. Egerton, and I am much afraid that if he were 

 at Eton with his brother, he would coax him into making his 

 exercises for him, which his naturally affectionate disposition 

 would, I am sure, induce him to do. You are aware, brother 

 of my intentions towards Frank. I not only mean to leave him 

 what I am possessed of, but it is my earnest wish that he 

 should sit in Parliament, and make a figure in the world, in 

 some other way than as a mere sportsman, which, it is evident, 

 he is resolved to be.' 



The door of the library opening at this moment, the conver- 

 sation between the brothers was momentarily interrupted by 

 the appearance of a neighbour, who was on terms of the greatest 

 intimacy with them both. This was Mr. Freemantle, a rich 

 London banker, who had purchased a fine property in the 

 county, where he was beloved and respected by all for the 

 kindness and hospitality which he displayed, as well as for 

 the first-rate talents of his cook. 



' Raby,' said the banker, ' how are you ? What, Beaumont, are 

 you here ? Delighted to see you both ; but didn't know 

 you were come down, Beaumont. What news from town, eh ? 

 How could you find it in your heart to leave town at this gay 

 time ? ' 



' Why, you may suppose that is something extraordinary. 

 The fact is, we are discussing the point whether Eton or West- 

 minster school is best suited for Frank. Now, what say you ? ' 



' Why, as to what boys may bring away in their heads 

 from either, I don't think there is the toss-up of a guinea 

 between the two ; but, as to what they may bring away in 

 their pockets, there is a wide difierence between them. A 

 terribly aristocratic place is that Eton school, and I'll give you 

 a proof or two. When my nephews were there, I gave them 

 a five-pound note on the Friday, as I passed through to visit a 

 friend at Taplow ; and on my return to town on the Monday, 

 chanced to see one of them at Salt Hill. " Well, William," said I, 



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