114 THE BEAUTIFUL LADDER. 
a Strong attraction for the Deans. Their visits 
were always made with the expectation of being 
enriched by the opportunity, leaving them debt¬ 
ors rather than benefactors. Hence, Doctor 
Dean thought that an introduction to such a 
scene could not fail to awaken better impulses 
in the hearts of his young friends; the sequel 
will show how well founded his impressions 
were. 
The special occasion which prompted this vis¬ 
it was the intelligence that Mrs. Farley had been 
afflicted by the loss of her cow; and, as this 
animal had been her main dependence, it was 
thought necessary to afford such relief as would 
keep the family from actual suffering until proper 
measures could be taken to repair the loss. 
With this introduction to the Farleys the 
reader will be prepared to accompany the young 
folks on their visit. Promptly at the appointed 
hour the party was gathered on the shore, ready 
to cross the lake, which was about half a mile in 
width at the point of crossing. Milton had a 
basket well filled with provisions and groceries, 
while each of the girls carried small bundles 
that were to meet some need in the scant ward¬ 
robe of the Farleys. 
