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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Telegraph Boy, by Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Telegraph Boy
+
+Author: Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+Release Date: December 24, 2007 [EBook #24013]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TELEGRAPH BOY ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from scans of public domain material
+produced by Microsoft for their Live Search Books site.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                           THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+                         BY HORATIO ALGER, JR.,
+
+AUTHOR OF "RAGGED DICK SERIES," "LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES," "BRAVE AND BOLD
+SERIES," ETC., ETC.
+
+                         HORATIO ALGER'S BOOKS
+                          FOR BOYS AND GIRLS.
+
+
+
+
+    THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.
+    PHILADELPHIA
+    CHICAGO      TORONTO
+
+
+    To
+    THREE YOUNG FRIENDS,
+    LORIN AND BEATRICE BERNHEIMER,
+    AND
+    FLORINE ARNOLD,
+    This Story
+    IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+The "Telegraph Boy" completes the series of sketches of street-life in
+New York inaugurated eleven years since by the publication of "Ragged
+Dick." The author has reason to feel gratified by the warm reception
+accorded by the public to these pictures of humble life in the great
+metropolis. He is even more gratified by the assurance that his labors
+have awakened a philanthropic interest in the children whose struggles
+and privations he has endeavored faithfully to describe. He feels it his
+duty to state that there is no way in which these waifs can more
+effectually be assisted than by contributing to the funds of "The
+Children's Aid Society," whose wise and comprehensive plans for the
+benefit of their young wards have already been crowned with abundant
+success.
+
+The class of boys described in the present volume was called into
+existence only a few years since, but they are already so numerous that
+one can scarcely ride down town by any conveyance without having one for
+a fellow-passenger. Most of them reside with their parents and have
+comfortable homes, but a few, like the hero of this story, are wholly
+dependent on their own exertions for a livelihood. The variety of
+errands on which they are employed, and their curious experiences, are
+by no means exaggerated in the present story. In its preparation the
+author has been assisted by an excellent sketch published perhaps a year
+since in the "New York Tribune."
+
+    HORATIO ALGER, JR.
+    NEW YORK, Sept. 1, 1879.
+
+
+
+
+THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+A YOUNG CARPET-BAGGER.
+
+
+"Twenty-five cents to begin the world with!" reflected Frank Kavanagh,
+drawing from his vest-pocket two ten-cent pieces of currency and a
+nickel. "That isn't much, but it will have to do."
+
+The speaker, a boy of fifteen, was sitting on a bench in City-Hall Park.
+He was apparently about fifteen years old, with a face not handsome, but
+frank and good-humored, and an expression indicating an energetic and
+hopeful temperament. A small bundle, rolled up in a handkerchief,
+contained his surplus wardrobe. He had that day arrived in New York by a
+boat from Hartford, and meant to stay in the city if he could make a
+living.
+
+Next to him sat a man of thirty-five, shabbily dressed, who clearly was
+not a member of any temperance society, if an inflamed countenance and
+red nose may be trusted. Frank Kavanagh's display of money attracted his
+attention, for, small as was the boy's capital, it was greater than his
+own.
+
+"Been long in the city, Johnny?" he inquired.
+
+"I only arrived to-day," answered Frank. "My name isn't Johnny, though."
+
+"It's immaterial. Johnny is a generic term," said the stranger. "I
+suppose you have come here to make your fortune."
+
+"I shall be satisfied with a living to begin with," said Frank.
+
+"Where did you come from?"
+
+"A few miles from Hartford."
+
+"Got any relations there?"
+
+"Yes,--an uncle and aunt."
+
+"I suppose you were sorry to leave them."
+
+"Not much. Uncle is a pretty good man, but he's fond of money, and aunt
+is about as mean as they make 'em. They got tired of supporting me, and
+gave me money enough to get to New York."
+
+"I suppose you have some left," said the stranger, persuasively.
+
+"Twenty-five cents," answered Frank, laughing. "That isn't a very big
+capital to start on, is it?"
+
+"Is that all you've got?" asked the shabbily dressed stranger, in a tone
+of disappointment.
+
+"Every cent."
+
+"I wish I had ten dollars to give you," said the stranger, thoughtfully.
+
+"Thank you, sir; I wish you had," said Frank, his eyes resting on the
+dilapidated attire of his benevolent companion. Judging from that, he
+was not surprised that ten dollars exceeded the charitable fund of the
+philanthropist.
+
+"My operations in Wall street have not been fortunate of late," resumed
+the stranger; "and I am in consequence hard up."
+
+"Do you do business in Wall street?" asked Frank, rather surprised.
+
+"Sometimes," was the reply. "I have lost heavily of late in Erie and
+Pacific Mail, but it is only temporary. I shall soon be on my feet
+again."
+
+"I hope so, sir," said Frank, politely.
+
+"My career has been a chequered one," continued the stranger. "I, too,
+as a mere boy, came up from the country to make my fortune. I embarked
+in trade, and was for a time successful. I resigned to get time to write
+a play,--a comedy in five acts."
+
+Frank regarded his companion with heightened respect. He was a boy of
+good education, and the author of a play in his eyes was a man of
+genius.
+
+"Was it played?" he inquired.
+
+"No; Wallack said it had too many difficult characters for his company,
+and the rest of the managers kept putting me off, while they were
+producing inferior plays. The American public will never know what they
+have lost. But, enough of this. Sometime I will read you the
+'Mother-in-law,' if you like. Have you had dinner?"
+
+"No," answered Frank. "Do you know where I can dine cheap?" he
+inquired.
+
+"Yes," answered the stranger. "Once I boarded at the Astor House, but
+now I am forced, by dire necessity, to frequent cheap restaurants.
+Follow me."
+
+"What is your name, sir?" asked Frank, as he rose from the bench.
+
+"Montagu Percy," was the reply. "Sorry I haven't my card-case with me,
+or I would hand you my address. I think you said your name was not
+Johnny."
+
+"My name is Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"A very good name. 'What's in a name?' as Shakespeare says."
+
+As the oddly assorted pair crossed the street, and walked down Nassau
+street, they attracted the attention of some of the Arabs who were
+lounging about Printing-House square.
+
+"I say, country, is that your long-lost uncle?" asked a boot-black.
+
+"No, it isn't," answered Frank, shortly.
+
+Though he was willing to avail himself of Mr. Percy's guidance, he was
+not ambitious of being regarded as his nephew.
+
+"Heed not their ribald scoffs," said Montagu Percy, loftily. "Their
+words pass by me 'like the idle wind,' which I regard not."
+
+"Who painted your nose, mister?" asked another boy, of course addressing
+Frank's companion.
+
+"I will hand you over to the next policeman," exclaimed Percy, angrily.
+
+"Look out he don't haul you in, instead," retorted the boy.
+
+Montagu Percy made a motion to pursue his tormentors, but desisted.
+
+"They are beneath contempt," he said. "It is ever the lot of genius to
+be railed at by the ignorant and ignoble. They referred to my nose being
+red, but mistook the cause. It is a cutaneous eruption,--the result of
+erysipelas."
+
+"Is it?" asked Frank, rather mystified.
+
+"I am not a drinking man--that is, I indulge myself but rarely. But here
+we are."
+
+So saying he plunged down some steps into a basement, Frank following
+him. Our hero found himself in a dirty apartment, provided with a bar,
+over which was a placard, inscribed:--
+
+"FREE LUNCH."
+
+"How much money have you got, Frank?" inquired Montagu Percy.
+
+"Twenty-five cents."
+
+"Lunch at this establishment is free," said Montagu; "but you are
+expected to order some drink. What will you have?"
+
+"I don't care for any drink except a glass of water."
+
+"All right; I will order for you, as the rules of the establishment
+require it; but I will drink your glass myself. Eat whatever you like."
+
+Frank took a sandwich from a plate on the counter and ate it with
+relish, for he was hungry. Meanwhile his companion emptied the two
+glasses, and ordered another.
+
+"Can you pay for these drinks?" asked the bar-tender, suspiciously.
+
+"Sir, I never order what I cannot pay for."
+
+"I don't know about that. You've been in here and taken lunch more than
+once without drinking anything."
+
+"It may be so. I will make up for it now. Another glass, please."
+
+"First pay for what you have already drunk."
+
+"Frank, hand me your money," said Montagu.
+
+Frank incautiously handed him his small stock of money, which he saw
+instantly transferred to the bar-tender.
+
+"That is right, I believe," said Montagu Percy.
+
+The bar-keeper nodded, and Percy, transferring his attention to the free
+lunch, stowed away a large amount.
+
+Frank observed with some uneasiness the transfer of his entire cash
+capital to the bar-tender; but concluded that Mr. Percy would refund a
+part after they went out. As they reached the street he broached the
+subject.
+
+"I didn't agree to pay for both dinners," he said, uneasily.
+
+"Of course not. It will be my treat next time. That will be fair, won't
+it?"
+
+"But I would rather you would give me back a part of my money. I may not
+see you again."
+
+"I will be in the Park to-morrow at one o'clock."
+
+"Give me back ten cents, then," said Frank, uneasily. "That was all the
+money I had."
+
+"I am really sorry, but I haven't a penny about me. I'll make it right
+to-morrow. Good-day, my young friend. Be virtuous and you will be
+happy."
+
+Frank looked after the shabby figure ruefully. He felt that he had been
+taken in and done for. His small capital had vanished, and he was adrift
+in the streets of a strange city without a penny.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+DICK RAFFERTY.
+
+
+"I've been a fool," said Frank to himself, in genuine mortification, as
+he realized how easily he had permitted himself to be duped. "I ought to
+have stayed in the country."
+
+Even a small sum of money imparts to its possessor a feeling of
+independence, but one who is quite penniless feels helpless and
+apprehensive. Frank was unable even to purchase an apple from the snuffy
+old apple-woman who presided over the stand near by.
+
+"What am I going to do?" he asked himself, soberly.
+
+"What has become of your uncle?" asked a boot-black.
+
+Looking up, Frank recognized one of those who had saluted Percy and
+himself on their way to the restaurant.
+
+"He isn't my uncle," he replied, rather resentfully.
+
+"You never saw him before, did you?" continued the boy.
+
+"No, I didn't."
+
+"That's what I thought."
+
+There was something significant in the young Arab's tone, which led
+Frank to inquire, "Do you know him?"
+
+"Yes, he's a dead-beat."
+
+"A what?"
+
+"A dead-beat. Don't you understand English?"
+
+"He told me that he did business on Wall street."
+
+The boot-black shrieked with laughter.
+
+"He do business on Wall street!" he repeated. "You're jolly green, you
+are!"
+
+Frank was inclined to be angry, but he had the good sense to see that
+his new friend was right. So he said good-humoredly, "I suppose I am.
+You see I am not used to the city."
+
+"It's just such fellows as you he gets hold of," continued the
+boot-black. "Didn't he make you treat?"
+
+"I may as well confess it," thought Frank. "This boy may help me with
+advice."
+
+"Yes," he said aloud. "I hadn't but twenty-five cents, and he made me
+spend it all. I haven't a cent left."
+
+"Whew!" ejaculated the other boy. "You're beginnin' business on a small
+capital."
+
+"That's so," said Frank. "Do you know any way I can earn money?"
+
+Dick Rafferty was a good-natured boy, although rough, and now that Frank
+had appealed to him for advice he felt willing to help him, if he could.
+
+"What can you do?" he asked, in a business-like tone. "Have you ever
+worked?"
+
+"Yes," answered Frank.
+
+"What can you do?"
+
+"I can milk cows, hoe corn and potatoes, ride horse to plough, and--"
+
+"Hold up!" said Dick. "All them things aint goin' to do you no good in
+New York. People don't keep cows as a reg'lar thing here."
+
+"Of course I know that."
+
+"And there aint much room for plantin' corn and potatoes. Maybe you
+could get a job over in Jersey."
+
+"I'd rather stay in New York. I can do something here."
+
+"Can you black boots, or sell papers?"
+
+"I can learn."
+
+"You need money to set up in either of them lines," said Dick Rafferty.
+
+"Would twenty-five cents have been enough?" asked Frank.
+
+"You could have bought some evening papers with that."
+
+"I wish somebody would lend me some money," said Frank; "I'd pay it back
+as soon as I'd sold my papers. I was a fool to let that fellow swindle
+me."
+
+"That's so," assented Dick; "but it's no good thinkin' of that now. I'd
+lend you the money myself, if I had it; but I've run out my account at
+the Park Bank, and can't spare the money just at present."
+
+"How long have you been in business?" asked Frank.
+
+"Ever since I was eight years old; and I'm goin' on fifteen now."
+
+"You went to work early."
+
+"Yes, I had to. Father and mother both died, and I was left to take care
+of myself."
+
+"You took care of yourself when you were only eight years old?" asked
+Frank, in surprise.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then I ought to make a living, for I am fifteen,--a year older than you
+are now."
+
+"Oh, you'll get along when you get started," said Dick, encouragingly.
+"There's lots of things to do."
+
+"Is there anything to do that doesn't require any capital?" inquired
+Frank, anxiously.
+
+"Yes, you can smash baggage."
+
+"Will people pay for that?" asked Frank, with a smile.
+
+"Of course they will. You jest hang round the ferries and steamboat
+landin's, and when a chap comes by with a valise or carpet-bag, you jest
+offer to carry it, that's all."
+
+"Is that what you call smashing baggage?"
+
+"Of course. What did you think it was?"
+
+Frank evaded answering, not caring to display his country ignorance.
+
+"Do you think I can get a chance to do that?" he asked.
+
+"You can try it and see."
+
+"I came in by the Hartford boat myself, to-day," said Frank. "If I'd
+thought of it, I would have begun at once."
+
+"Only you wouldn't have knowed the way anywhere, and if a gentleman
+asked you to carry his valise to any hotel you'd have had to ask where
+it was."
+
+"So I should," Frank admitted.
+
+"I'll show you round a little, if you want me to," said Dick. "I shan't
+have anything to do for an hour or two."
+
+"I wish you would."
+
+So the two boys walked about in the lower part of the city, Dick
+pointing out hotels, public buildings, and prominent streets. Frank had
+a retentive memory, and stored away the information carefully. Penniless
+as he was, he was excited and exhilarated by the scene of activity in
+which he was moving, and was glad he was going to live in it, or to
+attempt doing so.
+
+"When I am used to it I shall like it much better than the country," he
+said to Dick. "Don't you?"
+
+"I don't know about that," was the reply. "Sometimes I think I'll go
+West;--a lot of boys that I know have gone there."
+
+"Won't it take a good deal of money to go?" asked Frank.
+
+"Oh, there's a society that pays boys' expenses, and finds 'em nice
+homes with the farmers. Tom Harrison, one of my friends, went out six
+weeks ago, and he writes me that it's bully. He's gone to some town in
+Kansas."
+
+"That's a good way off."
+
+"I wouldn't mind that. I'd like ridin' in the cars."
+
+"It would be something new to you; but I've lived in the country all my
+life, I'd rather stay here awhile."
+
+"It's just the way a feller feels," said Dick philosophically. "I've
+bummed around so much I'd like a good, stiddy home, with three square
+meals a day and a good bed to sleep on."
+
+"Can't you get that here?" asked Frank.
+
+"Not stiddy. Sometimes I don't get but one square meal a day."
+
+Frank became thoughtful. Life in the city seemed more precarious and
+less desirable than he anticipated.
+
+"Well, I must go to work again," said Dick, after a while.
+
+"Where are you going to sleep to-night?" asked Frank.
+
+"I don't know whether I'd better sleep at the Astor House or Fifth
+avenue," said Dick.
+
+Frank looked perplexed.
+
+"You don't mean that, do you?" he asked.
+
+"Of course I don't. You're too fresh. Don't get mad," he continued
+good-naturedly, seeing the flush on Frank's cheek. "You'll know as much
+about the city as I do before long. I shall go to the Newsboys' Lodgin'
+House, where I can sleep for six cents."
+
+"I wish I had six cents," said Frank. "If I could only get work I'd soon
+earn it. You can't think of anything for me to do, can you?"
+
+Dick's face lighted up.
+
+"Yes," he said, "I can get you a job, though it aint a very good one. I
+wonder I didn't think of it before."
+
+"What is it?" asked Frank, anxiously.
+
+"It's to go round with a blind man, solicitin' contributions."
+
+"You mean begging?"
+
+"Yes; you lead him into stores and countin' rooms, and he asks for
+money."
+
+"I don't like it much," said Frank, slowly, "but I must do something.
+After all, it'll be he that's begging, not I."
+
+"I'll take you right round where he lives," said Dick. "Maybe he'll go
+out this evenin'. His other boy give him the slip, and he hasn' got a
+new one yet."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+FRANK FINDS AN EMPLOYER.
+
+
+A stone's throw from Centre street stands a tall tenement-house,
+sheltering anywhere from forty to fifty families in squalid
+wretchedness. The rent which each family pays would procure a neat house
+in a country town, with perhaps a little land beside; but the city has a
+mysterious fascination for the poorer classes, and year after year many
+who might make the change herd together in contracted and noisome
+quarters, when they might have their share of light and space in country
+neighborhoods.
+
+It was in front of this tenement-house that Dick halted, and plunged
+into a dark entrance, admonishing Frank to follow. Up creaking and
+dilapidated staircases to the fourth floor the boys went.
+
+"Here we are," said Dick, panting a little from the rapidity of his
+ascent, and began a vigorous tattoo on a door to the left.
+
+"Is this where the blind gentleman lives?" asked Frank, looking around
+him dubiously.
+
+"He isn't much of a gentleman to look at," said Dick, laughing. "Do you
+hear him?"
+
+Frank heard a hoarse growl from the inside, which might have been "Come
+in." At any rate, Dick chose so to interpret it, and opened the door.
+
+The boys found themselves in a scantily furnished room, with a close,
+disagreeable smell pervading the atmosphere. In the corner was a low
+bedstead, on which lay a tall man, with a long, gray beard, and a
+disagreeable, almost repulsive, countenance. He turned his eyes, which,
+contrary to Frank's expectations, were wide open, full upon his
+visitors.
+
+"What do you want?" he asked querulously. "I was asleep, and you have
+waked me up."
+
+"Sorry to disturb you, Mr. Mills," said Dick; "but I come on business."
+
+"What business can you have with me?" demanded the blind man. "Who are
+you?"
+
+"I am Dick Rafferty. I black boots in the Park," replied Dick.
+
+"Well, I haven't got any money to pay for blacking boots."
+
+"I didn't expect you had. I hear your boy has left you."
+
+"Yes, the young rascal! He's given me the slip. I expect he's robbed me
+too; but I can't tell, for I'm blind."
+
+"Do you want a new boy?"
+
+"Yes; but I can't pay much. I'm very poor. I don't think the place will
+suit you."
+
+"Nor I either," said Dick, frankly. "I'd rather make a living outside.
+But I've got a boy with me who has just come to the city, and is out of
+business. I guess he'll engage with you."
+
+"What's his name? Let him speak for himself."
+
+"My name is Frank Kavanagh," said our hero, in a clear, distinct voice.
+
+"How old are you?"
+
+"Fifteen."
+
+"Do you know what your duties will be?"
+
+"Yes; Dick has told me."
+
+"I told him you'd want him to go round on a collecting tour with you
+every day," said Dick.
+
+"That isn't all. You'll have to buy my groceries and all I need."
+
+"I can do that," said Frank, cheerfully, reflecting that this would be
+much more agreeable than accompanying the old man round the streets.
+
+"Are you honest?" queried the blind man, sharply.
+
+Frank answered, with an indignant flush, "I never stole a cent in my
+life."
+
+"I supposed you'd say that," retorted the blind man, with a sneer. "They
+all do; but a good many will steal for all that."
+
+"If you're afraid I will, you needn't hire me," said Frank,
+independently.
+
+"Of course I needn't," said Mills, sharply; "but I am not afraid. If you
+take any of my money I shall be sure to find it out, if I am blind."
+
+"Don't mind him, Frank," said Dick, in a low voice.
+
+"What's that?" asked the blind man, suspiciously. "What are you two
+whispering about?"
+
+"I told Frank not to mind the way you spoke," said Dick.
+
+"Your friend will lend you some, then."
+
+"Not much," answered Dick, laughing. "I'm dead-broke. Haven't you got
+any money, Mr. Mills?"
+
+"I have a little," grumbled the blind man; "but this boy may take it,
+and never come back."
+
+"If you think so," said Frank, proudly, "you'd better engage some other
+boy."
+
+"No use; you're all alike. Wait a minute, and I'll give you some money."
+
+He drew from his pocket a roll of scrip, and handed one to Frank.
+
+"I don't think that will be enough," said Frank. "It's only five cents."
+
+"Are you sure it isn't a quarter?" grumbled Mills.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"What do you say,--you, Dick?"
+
+"It's only five cents, sir."
+
+"Is that twenty-five?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then take it, and mind you don't loiter."
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"And be sure to bring back the change."
+
+"Of course I will," said Frank indignantly, resenting his employer's
+suspicion.
+
+"What do you think of him, Frank?" asked Dick, as they descended the
+stairs.
+
+"I don't like him at all, Dick," said Frank, decidedly. "I wish I could
+get something else to do."
+
+"You can, after a while. As you have no capital you must take what you
+can get now."
+
+"So I suppose; but I didn't come to the city for this."
+
+"If you don't like it you can leave in a few days."
+
+This Frank fully resolved to do at the first favorable opportunity.
+
+Dick showed him where he could buy the articles he was commissioned to
+purchase; and Frank, after obtaining them, went back to the
+tenement-house.
+
+Mills scrupulously demanded the change, and put it back into his pocket.
+Then he made Frank pour out the ale into a glass. This he drank with
+apparent zest, but offered none to Frank.
+
+"Ale isn't good for boys," he said. "You can cut the bread, and eat two
+slices. Don't cut them too thick."
+
+The blind man ate some of the bread himself, and then requested Frank to
+help him on with his coat and vest.
+
+"I haven't taken any money to-day," he said "I must try to collect some,
+or I shall starve. It's a sad thing to be blind," he continued, his
+voice changing to a whine.
+
+"You don't look blind," said Frank, thoughtfully. "Your eyes are open."
+
+"What if they are?" said Mills, testily. "I cannot see. When I go out I
+close them, because the light hurts them."
+
+Led by Frank, the blind man descended the stairs, and emerged into the
+street.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+"PITY THE BLIND."
+
+
+"Where shall I lead you?" asked Frank.
+
+"To Broadway first. Do you know Broadway?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Be careful when we cross the street, or you will have me run over."
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+"If any one asks you about me, say I am your uncle."
+
+"But you are not."
+
+"What difference does that make, you little fool?" said the blind man,
+roughly. "Are you ashamed to own me as your uncle?"
+
+Frank felt obliged, out of politeness, to say "No;" but in his own mind
+he was not quite sure whether he would be willing to acknowledge any
+relationship to the disagreeable old man whom he was leading.
+
+They reached Broadway, and entered a store devoted to gentlemen's
+furnishing goods.
+
+"Charity for a poor blind man!" whined Mills, in the tone of a
+professional beggar.
+
+"Look here, old fellow, you come in here too often," said a young
+salesman. "I gave you five cents yesterday."
+
+"I didn't know it," said Mills. "I am a poor blind man. All places are
+alike to me."
+
+"Then your boy should know better. Nothing for you to-day."
+
+Frank and his companion left the store.
+
+In the next they were more fortunate. A nickel was bestowed upon the
+blind mendicant.
+
+"How much is it?" asked Mills, when they were on the sidewalk.
+
+"Five cents, sir."
+
+"That's better than nothing, but we ought to do better. It takes a good
+many five-cent pieces to make a dollar. When you see a well-dressed lady
+coming along, tell me."
+
+Frank felt almost as much ashamed as if he were himself begging, but he
+must do what was expected of him. Accordingly he very soon notified the
+blind man that a lady was close at hand.
+
+"Lead me up to her, and say, Can you spare something for my poor, blind
+uncle?"
+
+Frank complied in part, but instead of "poor, blind uncle" he said
+"poor, blind man." Mills scowled, as he found himself disobeyed.
+
+"How long has he been blind?" asked the lady, sympathetically.
+
+"For many years," whined Mills.
+
+"Is this your boy?"
+
+"Yes, ma'am; he is my young nephew, from the country."
+
+"You are fortunate in having him to go about with you."
+
+"Yes, ma'am; I don't know what I should do without him."
+
+"Here is something for you, my good man," said the lady, and passed on.
+
+"Thank you, ma'am. May Heaven bless you!"
+
+"How much is it?" he asked quickly, when the lady was out of hearing.
+
+"Two cents," answered Frank, suppressing with difficulty an inclination
+to laugh.
+
+"The mean jade! I should like to wring her neck!" muttered Mills. "I
+thought it was a quarter, at least."
+
+In the next store they did not meet a cordial reception.
+
+"Clear out, you old humbug!" shouted the proprietor, who was in
+ill-humor. "You ought to be put in the penitentiary for begging about
+the streets."
+
+"I pray to God that you may become blind yourself," said Mills,
+passionately.
+
+"Out of my store, or I'll have you arrested, both of you!" said the
+angry tradesman. "Here, you boy, don't you bring that old fraud in this
+store again, if you know what's best for yourself."
+
+There was nothing to do but to comply with this peremptory order.
+
+"He's a beast!" snarled Mills; "I'd like to put his eyes out myself."
+
+"You haven't got a very amiable temper," thought Frank. "I wouldn't
+like to be blind; but even if I were, I would try to be pleasanter."
+
+Two young girls, passing by, noticed the blind man. They were
+soft-hearted, and stopped to inquire how long he had been blind.
+
+"Before you were born, my pretty maid," said Mills, sighing.
+
+"I have an aunt who is blind," said one of the girls; "but she is not
+poor, like you."
+
+"I am very poor," whined Mills; "I have not money enough to pay my rent,
+and I may be turned out into the street."
+
+"How sad!" said the young girl, in a tone of deep sympathy. "I have not
+much money, but I will give you all I have."
+
+"May God bless you, and spare your eyes!" said Mills, as he closed his
+hand upon the money.
+
+"How much is it?" he asked as before, when they had passed on.
+
+"Twenty-five cents," said Frank.
+
+"That is better," said Mills, in a tone of satisfaction.
+
+For some time afterwards all applications were refused; in some cases,
+roughly.
+
+"Why don't you work?" asked one man, bluntly.
+
+"What can I do?" asked Mills.
+
+"That's your lookout. Some blind men work. I suppose you would rather
+get your living by begging."
+
+"I would work my fingers to the bone if I could only see," whined Mills.
+
+"So you say; but I don't believe it. At any rate, that boy of yours can
+see. Why don't you set him to work?"
+
+"He has to take care of me."
+
+"I would work if I could get anything to do," said Frank.
+
+As he spoke, he felt his hand pressed forcibly by his companion, who did
+not relish his answer.
+
+"I cannot spare him," he whined. "He has to do everything for me."
+
+When they were again in the street, Mills demanded, roughly, "What did
+you mean by saying that?"
+
+"What, sir?"
+
+"That you wanted to go to work."
+
+"Because it is true."
+
+"You are at work; you are working for me," said Mills.
+
+"I would rather work in a store, or an office, or sell papers."
+
+"That wouldn't do me any good. Don't speak in that way again."
+
+The two were out about a couple of hours, and very tiresome Frank found
+it. Then Mills indicated a desire to go home, and they went back to the
+room in the old tenement-house. Mills threw himself down on the bed in
+the corner, and heaved a sigh of relief.
+
+"Now, boy, count the money we have collected," he said.
+
+"There's ninety-three cents," Frank announced.
+
+"If I had known it was so near a dollar we would have stayed a little
+longer. Now, get me my pipe."
+
+"Where is it, sir?"
+
+"In the cupboard. Fill it with tobacco, and light it."
+
+"Are you not afraid of setting the bedding on fire, sir?"
+
+"Mind your own business. If I choose to set it on fire, I will," snarled
+Mills.
+
+"Very well, sir; I thought I'd mention it."
+
+"You have mentioned it, and you needn't do it again."
+
+"What a sweet temper you've got!" thought Frank.
+
+He sat down on a broken chair, and, having nothing else to do, watched
+his employer. "He looks very much as if he could see," thought Frank;
+for Mills now had his eyes wide open.
+
+"What are you staring at me for, boy?" demanded his employer, rather
+unexpectedly.
+
+"What makes you think I am staring at you, sir?" was Frank's natural
+question. "I thought you couldn't see."
+
+"No more I can, but I can tell when one is staring at me. It makes me
+creep all over."
+
+"Then I'll look somewhere else."
+
+"Would you like to do some work, as you said?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then take twenty-five cents, and buy some evening papers and sell them;
+but mind you bring the money to me."
+
+"Yes, sir," said Frank, with alacrity.
+
+Anything he thought would be better than sitting in that dull room with
+so disagreeable a companion.
+
+"Mind you don't run off with the money," said the blind man, sharply.
+"If you do I'll have you put in the Tombs."
+
+"I don't mean to run away with the money," retorted Frank, indignantly.
+
+"And when you've sold the papers, come home."
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+With a feeling of relief, Frank descended the stairs and directed his
+steps to the Park, meaning to ask Dick Rafferty's advice about the
+proper way to start in business as a newsboy.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+FRANK THROWS UP HIS SITUATION.
+
+
+Frank found his friend on Park Row, and made known his errand.
+
+"So old Mills wants you to sell papers for his benefit, does he?"
+
+"Yes, but I'd rather do it than to stay with him."
+
+"How much has he agreed to pay you?"
+
+"That isn't settled yet."
+
+"You'd better bring him to the point, or he won't pay you anything
+except board and lodging, and mighty mean both of them will be."
+
+"I won't say anything about it the first day," said Frank. "What papers
+shall I buy?"
+
+"It's rather late. You'd better try for Telegrams."
+
+Frank did so, and succeeded in selling half a dozen, yielding a profit
+of six cents. It was not a brilliant beginning, but he was late in the
+field, and most had purchased their evening papers. His papers sold,
+Frank went home and announced the result.
+
+"Umph!" muttered the blind man. "Give me the money."
+
+"Here it is, sir."
+
+"Have you given me all?" sharply demanded Mills.
+
+"Of course I have," said Frank, indignantly.
+
+"Don't you be impudent, or I will give you a flogging," said the blind
+man, roughly.
+
+"I am not used to be talked to in that way," said Frank, independently.
+
+"You've always had your own way, I suppose," snarled Mills.
+
+"No, I haven't; but I have been treated kindly."
+
+"You are only a boy, and I won't allow you to talk back to me. Do you
+hear?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then take care to remember."
+
+"You've got a sweet disposition," thought Frank. "I won't stay with you
+any longer than I am obliged to."
+
+Several days passed without bringing any incidents worth recording.
+Frank took a daily walk with the blind man, sometimes in the morning,
+sometimes in the afternoon. These walks were very distasteful to him.
+The companion of a beggar, he felt as if he himself were begging. He
+liked better the time he spent in selling papers, though he reaped no
+benefit himself. In fact, his wages were poor enough. Thus far his fare
+had consisted of dry bread with an occasional bun. He was a healthy,
+vigorous boy, and he felt the need of meat, or some other hearty food,
+and ventured to intimate as much to his employer.
+
+"So you want meat, do you?" snarled Mills.
+
+"Yes, sir; I haven't tasted any for a week."
+
+"Perhaps you'd like to take your meals at Delmonico's?" sneered the
+blind man.
+
+Frank was so new to the city that this well-known name did not convey
+any special idea to him, and he answered "Yes."
+
+"That's what I thought!" exclaimed Mills, angrily. "You want to eat me
+out of house and home."
+
+"No, I don't; I only want enough food to keep up my strength."
+
+"Well, you are getting it. I give you all I can afford."
+
+Frank was inclined to doubt this. He estimated that what he ate did not
+cost his employer over six or eight cents a day, and he generally earned
+for him twenty to thirty cents on the sale of papers, besides helping
+him to collect about a dollar daily from those who pitied his blindness.
+
+He mentioned his grievance to his friend, Dick Rafferty.
+
+"I'll tell you what to do," said Dick.
+
+"I wish you would."
+
+"Keep some of the money you make by selling papers, and buy a square
+meal at an eatin' house."
+
+"I don't like to do that; it wouldn't be honest."
+
+"Why wouldn't it?"
+
+"I am carrying on the business for Mr. Mills. He supplies the capital."
+
+"Then you'd better carry it on for yourself."
+
+"I wish I could."
+
+"Why don't you?"
+
+"I haven't any money."
+
+"Has he paid you any wages?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Then make him."
+
+Frank thought this a good suggestion. He had been with Mills a week, and
+it seemed fair enough that he should receive some pay besides a wretched
+bed and a little dry bread. Accordingly, returning to the room, he
+broached the subject.
+
+"What do you want wages for?" demanded Mills, displeased.
+
+"I think I earn them," said Frank, boldly.
+
+"You get board and lodging. You are better off than a good many boys."
+
+"I shall want some clothes, some time," said Frank.
+
+"Perhaps you'd like to have me pay you a dollar a day," said Mills.
+
+"I know you can't afford to pay me that. I will be satisfied if you will
+pay me ten cents a day," replied Frank.
+
+Frank reflected that, though this was a very small sum, in ten days it
+would give him a dollar, and then he would feel justified in setting up
+a business on his own account, as a newsboy. He anxiously awaited an
+answer.
+
+"I will think of it," said the blind man evasively, and Frank did not
+venture to say more.
+
+The next day, when Mills, led by Frank, was on his round, the two
+entered a cigar-store. Frank was much surprised when the cigar-vender
+handed him a fifty-cent currency note. He thought there was some
+mistake.
+
+"Thank you, sir," he said; "but did you mean to give me fifty cents?"
+
+"Yes," said the cigar-vender, laughing; "but I wouldn't have done it, if
+it had been good."
+
+"Isn't it good?"
+
+"No, it's a counterfeit, and a pretty bad one. I might pass it, but it
+would cost me too much time and trouble."
+
+Frank was confounded. He mechanically handed the money to Mills, but did
+not again thank the giver. When they returned to the tenement-house,
+Mills requested Frank to go to the baker's for a loaf of bread.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Here is the money."
+
+"But that is the counterfeit note," said Frank, scrutinizing the bill
+given him.
+
+"What if it is?" demanded Mills, sharply.
+
+"It won't pass."
+
+"Yes, it will, if you are sharp."
+
+"Do you want me to pass counterfeit money, Mr. Mills?"
+
+"Yes, I do; I took it, and I mean to get rid of it."
+
+"But you didn't give anything for it."
+
+"That's neither here nor there. Take it, and offer it to the baker. If
+he won't take it, go to another baker with it."
+
+"I would rather not do it," said Frank, firmly.
+
+"Rather not!" exclaimed Mills, angrily. "Do you pretend to dictate to
+me?"
+
+"No, I don't, but I don't mean to pass any counterfeit money for you or
+any other man," said Frank, with spirit.
+
+Mills half rose, with a threatening gesture, but thought better of it.
+
+"You're a fool," said he. "I suppose you are afraid of being arrested;
+but you have only to say that I gave it to you, and that I am blind, and
+couldn't tell it from good money."
+
+"But you know that it is bad money, Mr. Mills."
+
+"What if I do? No one can prove it. Take the money, and come back as
+quick as you can."
+
+"You must excuse me," said Frank, quietly, but firmly.
+
+"Do you refuse to do as I bid you?" demanded Mills, furiously.
+
+"I refuse to pass counterfeit money."
+
+"Then, by Heaven, I'll flog you!"
+
+Mills rose and advanced directly towards Frank, with his eyes wide open.
+Fortunately our hero was near the door, and, quickly opening it, darted
+from the room, pursued by Mills, his face flaming with wrath. It
+flashed upon Frank that no blind man could have done this. He decided
+that the man was a humbug, and could see a little, at all events. His
+blindness was no doubt assumed to enable him to appeal more effectively
+to the sympathizing public. This revelation disgusted Frank. He could
+not respect a man who lived by fraud. Counterfeit or no counterfeit, he
+decided to withdraw at once and forever from the service of Mr. Mills.
+
+His employer gave up the pursuit before he reached the street. Frank
+found himself on the sidewalk, free and emancipated, no richer than when
+he entered the service of the blind man, except in experience.
+
+"I haven't got a cent," he said to himself, "but I'll get along
+somehow."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+FRANK GETS A JOB.
+
+
+Though Frank was penniless he was not cast down. He was tolerably
+familiar with the lower part of the city, and had greater reliance on
+himself than he had a week ago. If he had only had capital to the extent
+of fifty cents he would have felt quite at ease, for this would have set
+him up as a newsboy.
+
+"I wonder if I could borrow fifty cents of Dick Rafferty," considered
+Frank. "I'll try, at any rate."
+
+He ran across Dick in City-Hall Park. That young gentleman was engaged
+in pitching pennies with a brother professional.
+
+"I say, Dick, I want to speak to you a minute," said Frank.
+
+"All right! Go ahead!"
+
+"I've lost my place."
+
+Dick whistled.
+
+"Got sacked, have you?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; but I might have stayed."
+
+"Why didn't you?"
+
+"Mills wanted me to pass a counterfeit note, and I wouldn't."
+
+"Was it a bad-looking one?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then you're right. You might have got nabbed."
+
+"That wasn't the reason I refused. If I had been sure there'd have been
+no trouble I wouldn't have done it."
+
+"Why not?" asked Dick, who did not understand our hero's scruples.
+
+"Because it's wrong."
+
+Dick shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I guess you belong to the church," he said.
+
+"No, I don't; what makes you think so?"
+
+"Oh, 'cause you're so mighty particular. I wouldn't mind passing it if I
+was sure I wouldn't be cotched."
+
+"I think it's almost as bad as stealing to buy bread, or anything else,
+and give what isn't worth anything for it. You might as well give a
+piece of newspaper."
+
+Though Frank was unquestionably right he did not succeed in making a
+convert of Dick Rafferty. Dick was a pretty good boy, considering the
+sort of training he had had; but passing bad money did not seem to him
+objectionable, unless "a fellow was cotched," as he expressed it.
+
+"Well, what are you going to do now?" asked Dick, after a pause.
+
+"I guess I can get a living by selling papers."
+
+"You can get as good a livin' as old Mills gave you. You'll get a better
+bed at the lodgin'-house than that heap of rags you laid on up there."
+
+"But there's one trouble," continued Frank, "I haven't any money to
+start on. Can you lend me fifty cents?"
+
+"Fifty cents!" repeated Dick. "What do you take me for? If I was
+connected with Vanderbuilt or Astor I might set you up in business, but
+now I can't."
+
+"Twenty-five cents will do," said Frank.
+
+"Look here, Frank," said Dick, plunging his hands into his pocket, and
+drawing therefrom three pennies and a nickel, "do you see them?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Well, it's all the money I've got."
+
+"I am afraid you have been extravagant, Dick," said Frank, in
+disappointment.
+
+"Last night I went to Tony Pastor's, and when I got through I went into
+a saloon and got an ice-cream and a cigar. You couldn't expect a feller
+to be very rich after that. I say, I'll lend you five cents if you want
+it."
+
+"No, thank you, Dick. I'll wait till you are richer."
+
+"I tell you what, Frank, I'll save up my money, and by day after
+to-morrow I guess I can set you up."
+
+"Thank you, Dick. If I don't have the money by that time myself I'll
+accept your offer."
+
+There was no other boy with whom Frank felt sufficiently well acquainted
+to request a loan, and he walked away, feeling rather disappointed. It
+was certainly provoking to think that nothing but the lack of a small
+sum stood between him and remunerative employment. Once started he
+determined not to spend quite all his earnings, but to improve upon his
+friend Dick's practice, and, if possible, get a little ahead.
+
+When guiding the blind man he often walked up Broadway, and mechanically
+he took the same direction, walking slowly along, occasionally stopping
+to look in at a shop-window.
+
+As he was sauntering along he found himself behind two gentlemen,--one
+an old man, who wore gold spectacles; the other, a stout,
+pleasant-looking man, of middle age. Frank would not have noticed them
+particularly but for a sudden start and exclamation from the elder of
+the two gentlemen.
+
+"I declare, Thompson," he said, "I've left my umbrella down-town."
+
+"Where do you think you left it?"
+
+"In Peckham's office; that is, I think I left it there."
+
+"Oh, well, he'll save it for you."
+
+"I don't know about that. Some visitor may carry it away."
+
+"Never mind, Mr. Bowen. You are rich enough to afford a new one."
+
+"It isn't the value of the article, Thompson," said his friend, in some
+emotion. "That umbrella was brought me from Paris by my son John, who
+died. It is as a souvenir of him that I regard and value it. I would not
+lose it for a hundred dollars, nay, five hundred."
+
+"If you value it so much, sir, suppose we turn round and go back for
+it."
+
+Frank had listened to this conversation, and an idea struck him.
+Pressing forward, he said respectfully, "Let me go for it, sir. I will
+get it, and bring it to your house."
+
+The two gentlemen fixed their eyes upon the bright, eager face of the
+petitioner.
+
+"Who are you, my boy?" asked Mr. Thompson.
+
+"I am a poor boy, in want of work," answered our hero promptly.
+
+"What is your name?"
+
+"Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"Where do you live?"
+
+"I am trying to live in the city, sir."
+
+"What have you been doing?"
+
+"Leading a blind man, sir."
+
+"Not a very pleasant employment, I should judge," said Thompson,
+shrugging his shoulders. "Well, have you lost that job?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"So the blind man turned you off, did he?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Your services were unsatisfactory, I suppose?"
+
+"He wanted me to pass counterfeit money for him, and I refused."
+
+"If that is true, it is to your credit."
+
+"It is true, sir," said Frank, quietly.
+
+"Come, Mr. Bowen, what do you say,--shall we accept this boy's services?
+It will save you time and trouble."
+
+"If I were sure he could be trusted," said Bowen, hesitating. "He might
+pawn the umbrella. It is a valuable one."
+
+"I hope, sir, you won't think so badly of me as that," said Frank, with
+feeling. "If I were willing to steal anything, it would not be a gift
+from your dead son."
+
+"I'll trust you, my boy," said the old gentleman quickly. "Your tone
+convinces me that you may be relied upon."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+The old gentleman drew a card from his pocket, containing his name and
+address, and on the reverse side wrote the name of the friend at whose
+office he felt sure the umbrella had been left, with a brief note
+directing that it be handed to the bearer.
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+"Stop a moment, my boy. Have you got money to ride?"
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"Here, take this, and go down at once in the next stage. The sooner you
+get there the better."
+
+Frank followed directions. He stopped the next stage, and got on board.
+As he passed the City-Hall Park, Dick Rafferty espied him. Frank nodded
+to him.
+
+"How did he get money enough to ride in a 'bus?" Dick asked himself in
+much wonderment. "A few minutes ago he wanted to borrow some money of
+me, and now he's spending ten cents for a ride. Maybe he's found a
+pocket-book."
+
+Frank kept on his way, and got out at Wall street. He found Mr.
+Peckham's office, and on presenting the card, much to his delight, the
+umbrella was handed him.
+
+"Mr. Bowen was afraid to trust me with it over night," said Mr. Peckham,
+with a smile.
+
+"He thought some visitor might carry it off," said Frank.
+
+"Not unlikely. Umbrellas are considered common property."
+
+Frank hailed another stage, and started on his way up-town. There was no
+elevated railway then, and this was the readiest conveyance, as Mr.
+Bowen lived on Madison avenue.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+AN INVITATION TO DINNER.
+
+
+"Mr. Bowen must be a rich man," thought Frank, as he paused on the steps
+of a fine brown-stone mansion, corresponding to the number on his card.
+
+He rang the bell, and asked, "Is Mr. Bowen at home?"
+
+"Yes, but he is in his chamber. I don't think he will see you."
+
+"I think he will," said Frank, who thought the servant was taking too
+much upon herself, "as I come by his appointment."
+
+"I suppose you can come into the hall," said the servant, reluctantly.
+"Is your business important?"
+
+"You may tell him that the boy he sent for his umbrella has brought it.
+He was afraid he had lost it."
+
+"He sets great store by that umbrella," said the girl, in a different
+tone. "I'll go and tell him."
+
+Mr. Bowen came downstairs almost immediately. There was a look of
+extreme gratification upon his face.
+
+"Bless my soul, how quick you were!" he exclaimed. "Why, I've only been
+home a few minutes. Did you find the umbrella at Mr. Peckham's office?"
+
+"Yes, sir; it had been found, and taken care of."
+
+"Did Peckham say anything?"
+
+"He said you were probably afraid to trust it with him over night, but
+he smiled when he said it."
+
+"Peckham will have his joke, but he is an excellent man. My boy, I am
+much indebted to you."
+
+"I was very glad to do the errand, sir," said Frank.
+
+"I think you said you were poor," said the old man, thoughtfully.
+
+"Yes, sir. When I met you I hadn't a cent in the world."
+
+"Haven't you any way to make a living?"
+
+"Yes, sir. I could sell papers if I had enough money to set me up in
+business."
+
+"Does it require a large capital?"
+
+"Oh, no, sir," said Frank, smiling, "unless you consider fifty cents a
+large sum."
+
+"Fifty cents!" repeated the old gentleman, in surprise. "You don't mean
+to say that this small sum would set you up in business?"
+
+"Yes, sir; I could buy a small stock of papers, and buy more with what I
+received for them."
+
+"To be sure. I didn't think of that."
+
+Mr. Bowen was not a man of business. He had an ample income, and his
+tastes were literary and artistic. He knew more of books than of men,
+and more of his study than of the world.
+
+"Well, my boy," he said after a pause, "how much do I owe you for doing
+this errand?"
+
+"I leave that to you, sir. Whatever you think right will satisfy me."
+
+"Let me see, you want fifty cents to buy papers, and you will require
+something to pay for your bed."
+
+"Fifty cents in all will be enough, sir."
+
+"I think I had better give you a dollar," said the old gentleman,
+opening his pocket-book.
+
+Frank's eyes sparkled. A dollar would do him a great deal of good; with
+a dollar he would feel quite independent.
+
+"Thank you, sir," he said. "It is more than I earned, but it will be
+very acceptable."
+
+He put on his hat, and was about to leave the house, when Mr. Bowen
+suddenly said, "Oh, I think you'd better stay to dinner. It will be on
+the table directly. My niece is away, and if you don't stay I shall be
+alone."
+
+Frank did not know what to say. He was rather abashed by the invitation,
+but, as the old gentleman was to be alone, it did not seem so
+formidable.
+
+"I am afraid I don't look fit," he said.
+
+"You can go upstairs and wash your face and hands. You'll find a
+clothes-brush there also. I'll ring for Susan to show you the way."
+
+He rang the bell, and the girl who had admitted Frank made her
+appearance.
+
+"Susan," said her master, "you may show this young gentlemen into the
+back chamber on the third floor, and see that he is supplied with towels
+and all he needs. And you may lay an extra plate; he will dine with me."
+
+Susan stared first at Mr. Bowen, and then at Frank, but did not venture
+to make any remark.
+
+"This way, young man," she said, and ascended the front stairs, Frank
+following her closely.
+
+She led the way into a handsomely furnished chamber, ejaculating, "Well,
+I never!"
+
+"I hope you'll find things to your satisfaction, sir," she said, dryly.
+"If we'd known you were coming, we'd have made particular preparations
+for you."
+
+"Oh, I think this will do," said Frank, smiling for he thought it a good
+joke.
+
+"I am glad you think it'll do," continued Susan. "Things mayn't be as
+nice as you're accustomed to at home."
+
+"Not quite," said Frank, good-humoredly; "but I shan't complain."
+
+"That's very kind and considerate of you, I'm sure," said Susan, tossing
+her head. "Well, I never did!"
+
+"Nor I either, Susan," said Frank, laughing. "I am a poor boy, and I am
+not used to this way of living; so if you'll be kind enough to give me
+any hints, so I may behave properly at the table, I'll be very much
+obliged to you."
+
+This frank acknowledgment quite appeased Susan, and she readily complied
+with our hero's request.
+
+"But I must be going downstairs, or dinner will be late," she said,
+hurriedly. "You can come down when you hear the bell ring."
+
+Frank had been well brought up, though not in the city, and he was aware
+that perfect neatness was one of the first characteristics of a
+gentleman. He therefore scrubbed his face and hands till they fairly
+shone, and brushed his clothes with great care. Even then they certainly
+did look rather shabby, and there was a small hole in the elbow of his
+coat; but, on the whole, he looked quite passable when he entered the
+dining-room.
+
+"Take that seat, my boy," said his host.
+
+Frank sat down and tried to look as if he was used to it.
+
+"Take this soup to Mr. Kavanagh," said Mr. Bowen, in a dignified tone.
+
+Frank started and smiled slightly, feeling more and more that it was an
+excellent joke.
+
+"I wonder what Dick Rafferty would say if he could see me now," passed
+through his mind.
+
+He acquitted himself very creditably, however, and certainly displayed
+an excellent appetite, much to the satisfaction of his hospitable host.
+
+After dinner was over, Mr. Bowen detained him and began to talk of his
+dead son, telling anecdotes of his boyhood, to which Frank listened with
+respectful attention, for the father's devotion was touching.
+
+"I think my boy looked a little like you," said the old gentleman. "What
+do you think, Susan?"
+
+"Not a mite, sir," answered Susan, promptly.
+
+"When he was a boy, I mean."
+
+"I didn't know him when he was a boy, Mr. Bowen."
+
+"No, to be sure not."
+
+"But Mr. John was dark-complected, and this boy is light, and Mr. John's
+hair was black, and his is brown."
+
+"I suppose I am mistaken," sighed the old man; "but there was something
+in the boy's face that reminded me of John."
+
+"A little more, and he'll want to adopt him," thought Susan. "That
+wouldn't do nohow, though he does really seem like a decent sort of a
+boy."
+
+At eight o'clock Frank rose, and wished Mr. Bowen good-night.
+
+"Come and see me again, my boy," said the old gentleman, kindly. "You
+have been a good deal of company for me to-night."
+
+"I am glad of it, sir."
+
+"I think you might find something better to do than selling papers."
+
+"I wish I could, sir."
+
+"Come and dine with me again this day week, and I may have something to
+tell you."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+Feeling in his pocket to see that his dollar was safe, Frank set out to
+walk down-town, repairing to the lodging-house, where he met Dick, and
+astonished that young man by the recital of his adventures.
+
+"It takes you to get round, Frank," he said. "I wonder I don't get
+invited to dine on Madison avenue."
+
+"I give it up," said Frank.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+A NEWSBOY'S EXPERIENCES.
+
+
+Frank slept that night at the lodging-house, and found a much better bed
+than he had been provided with by his late employer. He was up bright
+and early the next morning, and purchased a stock of morning papers.
+These he succeeded in selling during the forenoon, netting a profit of
+thirty cents. It was not much, but he was satisfied. At any rate he was
+a good deal better off than when in the employ of Mr. Mills. Of course
+he had to economize strictly, but the excellent arrangements of the
+lodging-house helped him to do this. Twelve cents provided him with
+lodging and breakfast. At noon, in company with his friend Dick, he went
+to a cheap restaurant, then to be found in Ann street, near Park row,
+and for fifteen cents enjoyed a dinner of two courses. The first
+consisted of a plate of beef, with a potato and a wedge of bread,
+costing ten cents, and the second, a piece of apple-pie.
+
+"That's a good square meal," said Dick, in a tone of satisfaction. "I
+oughter get one every day, but sometimes I don't have the money."
+
+"I should think you could raise fifteen cents a day for that purpose,
+Dick."
+
+"Well, so I could; but then you see I save my money sometimes to go to
+the Old Bowery, or Tony Pastor's, in the evenin'."
+
+"I would like to go, too, but I wouldn't give up my dinner. A boy that's
+growing needs enough to eat."
+
+"I guess you're right," said Dick. "We'll go to dinner together every
+day, if you say so."
+
+"All right, Dick; I should like your company."
+
+About two o'clock in the afternoon, as Frank was resting on a bench in
+the City-Hall Park, a girl of ten approached him. Frank recognized her
+as an inmate of the tenement-house where Mills, his late employer,
+lived.
+
+"Do you want to see me?" asked Frank, observing that she was looking
+towards him.
+
+"You're the boy that went round with the blind man, aint you?" she
+asked.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"He wants you to come back."
+
+Frank was rather surprised, but concluded that Mills had difficulty in
+obtaining a boy to succeed him. This was not very remarkable,
+considering the niggardly pay attached to the office.
+
+"Did he send you to find me?" asked our hero.
+
+"Yes; he says you needn't pass that money if you'll come back."
+
+"Tell him that I don't want to come back," said Frank, promptly. "I can
+do better working for myself."
+
+"He wants to know what you are doing," continued the girl.
+
+"Does he? You can tell him that I am a newsboy."
+
+"He says if you don't come back he'll have you arrested for stealing
+money from him. You mustn't be mad with me. That's what he told me to
+say."
+
+"I don't blame you," said Frank, hotly; "but you can tell him that he is
+a liar."
+
+"Oh, I wouldn't dare to tell him that; he would beat me."
+
+"How can he do that, when he can't see where you are?"
+
+"I don't know how it is, but he can go right up to where you are just as
+well as if he could see."
+
+"So he can. He's a humbug and a fraud. His eyes may not be very good,
+but he can see for all that. He pretends to be blind so as to make
+money."
+
+"That's what mother and I think," said the girl. "So you won't come
+back?"
+
+"Not much. He can hire some other boy, and starve him. He won't get me."
+
+"Aint you afraid he'll have you arrested for stealing?" asked the girl.
+
+"If he tries that I'll expose him for wanting me to pass a counterfeit
+note. I never took a cent from him."
+
+"He'll be awful mad," said the little girl.
+
+"Let him. If he had treated me decently I would have stayed with him.
+Now I'm glad I left him."
+
+Mills was indeed furious when, by degrees, he had drawn from his young
+messenger what Frank had said. He was sorry to lose him, for he was the
+most truthful and satisfactory guide he had ever employed, and he now
+regretted that he had driven him away by his unreasonable exactions. He
+considered whether it would be worth while to have Frank arrested on a
+false charge of theft, but was restrained by the fear that he would
+himself be implicated in passing counterfeit money, that is, in
+intention. He succeeded in engaging another boy, who really stole from
+him, and finally secured a girl, for whose services, however, he was
+obliged to pay her mother twenty cents every time she went out with him.
+Mean and miserly as he was, he agreed to this with reluctance, and only
+as a measure of necessity.
+
+As he became more accustomed to his new occupation Frank succeeded
+better. He was a boy of considerable energy, and was on the alert for
+customers. It was not long before his earnings exceeded those of Dick
+Rafferty, who was inclined to take things easily.
+
+One evening Dick was lamenting that he could not go to the Old Bowery.
+
+"There's a bully play, Frank," he said. "There's a lot of fightin' in
+it."
+
+"What is it called, Dick?"
+
+"'The Scalpers of the Plains.' There's five men murdered in the first
+act. Oh, it's elegant!"
+
+"Why don't you go, then, Dick?"
+
+"Cause I'm dead-broke--busted. That's why. I aint had much luck this
+week, and it took all my money to pay for my lodgin's and grub."
+
+"Do you want very much to go to the theatre, Dick?"
+
+"Of course I do; but it aint no use. My credit aint good, and I haint no
+money in the bank."
+
+"How much does it cost?"
+
+"Fifteen cents, in the top gallery."
+
+"Can you see there?"
+
+"Yes, it's rather high up; but a feller with good eyes can see all he
+wants to there."
+
+"I'll tell you what I'll do, Dick. You have been a good friend to me,
+and I'll take you at my expense."
+
+"You will? To-night?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"You're a reg'lar trump. We'll have a stavin' time. Sometime, when I'm
+flush, I'll return the compliment."
+
+So the two boys went. They were at the doors early, and secured a front
+seat in the gallery. The performance was well adapted to please the
+taste of a boy, and they enjoyed it exceedingly. Dick was uproarious in
+his applause whenever a man was killed.
+
+"Seems to me you like to see men killed, Dick," said his friend.
+
+"Yes, it's kinder excitin'."
+
+"I don't like that part so well as some others," said Frank.
+
+"It's' a stavin' play, aint it?" asked Dick, greatly delighted.
+
+Frank assented.
+
+"I'll tell you what, Frank," said Dick; "I'd like to be a hunter and
+roam round the plains, killin' bears and Injuns."
+
+"Suppose they should kill you? That wouldn't suit you so well, would
+it?"
+
+"No, I guess not. But I'd like to be a hunter, wouldn't you?"
+
+"No, I would rather live in New York. I would like to make a journey to
+the West if I had money enough; but I would leave the hunting to other
+men."
+
+Dick, however, did not agree with his more sensible companion. Many boys
+like him are charmed with the idea of a wild life in the forest, and
+some have been foolish enough to leave good homes, and, providing
+themselves with what they considered necessary, have set out on a
+journey in quest of the romantic adventures which in stories had fired
+their imaginations. If their wishes could be realized it would not be
+long before the romance would fade out, and they would long for the good
+homes, which they had never before fully appreciated.
+
+When the week was over, Frank found that he had lived within his means,
+as he had resolved to do; but he had not done much more. He began with
+a dollar which he had received from Mr. Bowen, and now he had a dollar
+and a quarter. There was a gain of twenty-five cents. There would have
+been a little more if he had not gone to the theatre with Dick; but this
+he did not regret. He felt that he needed some amusement, and he wished
+to show his gratitude to his friend for various kind services. The time
+had come to accept Mr. Bowen's second dinner invitation. As Frank looked
+at his shabby clothes he wished there were a good pretext for declining,
+but he reflected that this would not be polite, and that the old
+gentleman would make allowances for his wardrobe. He brushed up his
+clothes as well as he could, and obtained a "_boss shine_" from Dick.
+Then he started for the house on Madison avenue.
+
+"I'll lend you my clo'es if you want 'em," said Dick.
+
+"There are too many spots of blacking on them, Dick. As I'm a newsboy,
+it wouldn't look appropriate. I shall have to make mine answer."
+
+"I'll shine up the blackin' spots if you want me to."
+
+"Never mind, Dick. I'll wait till next time for your suit."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+VICTOR DUPONT.
+
+
+As Frank was walking on Madison avenue, a little before reaching the
+house of Mr. Bowen he met a boy of his own age, whom he recognized.
+Victor Dupont had spent the previous summer at the hotel in the country
+village where Frank had lived until he came to the city. Victor was
+proud of his social position, but time hung so heavily upon his hands in
+the country that he was glad to keep company with the village boys.
+Frank and he had frequently gone fishing together, and had been
+associated in other amusements, so that they were for the time quite
+intimate. The memories of home and past pleasures thronged upon our hero
+as he met Victor, and his face flushed with pleasure.
+
+"Why, Victor," he said, eagerly, extending his hand, "how glad I am to
+see you!"
+
+Frank forgot that intimacy in the country does not necessarily lead to
+intimacy in the city, and he was considerably surprised when Victor, not
+appearing to notice his offered hand, said coldly, "I don't think I
+remember you."
+
+"Don't remember me!" exclaimed Frank, amazed. "Why, I am Frank Kavanagh!
+Don't you remember how much we were together last summer, and what good
+times we had fishing and swimming together?"
+
+"Yes, I believe I do remember you now," drawled Victor, still not
+offering his hand, or expressing any pleasure at the meeting. "When did
+you come to the city?"
+
+"I have been here two or three weeks," replied Frank.
+
+"Oh, indeed! Are you going to remain?"
+
+"Yes, if I can earn a living."
+
+Victor scanned Frank's clothes with a critical, and evidently rather
+contemptuous, glance.
+
+"What are you doing?" he asked. "Are you in a store?"
+
+"No; I am selling papers."
+
+"A newsboy!" said Victor, with a curve of the lip.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, his pleasure quite chilled by Victor's manner.
+
+"Are you doing well?" asked Victor, more from curiosity than interest.
+
+"I am making my expenses."
+
+"How do you happen to be in this neighborhood? I suppose you sell papers
+down-town."
+
+"Yes, but I am invited to dinner."
+
+"Not here--on the avenue!" ejaculated Victor.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, enjoying the other's surprise.
+
+"Where?"
+
+Frank mentioned the number.
+
+"Why, that is next to my house. Mr. Bowen lives there."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Perhaps you know some of the servants," suggested Victor.
+
+"I know one," said Frank, smiling, for he read Victor's thoughts; "but
+my invitation comes from Mr. Bowen."
+
+"Did you ever dine there before?" asked Victor, puzzled.
+
+"Yes, last week."
+
+"You must excuse my mentioning it, but I should hardly think you would
+like to sit down at a gentleman's table in that shabby suit."
+
+"I don't," answered Frank; "but I have no better."
+
+"Then you ought to decline the invitation."
+
+"I would, but for appearing impolite."
+
+"It seems very strange that Mr. Bowen should invite a newsboy to
+dinner."
+
+"Perhaps if you'd mention what you think of it," said Frank, somewhat
+nettled, "he would recall the invitation."
+
+"Oh, it's nothing to me," said Victor; "but I thought I'd mention it, as
+I know more of etiquette than you do."
+
+"You are very considerate," said Frank, with a slight tinge of sarcasm
+in his tone.
+
+By this time he had reached the house of Mr. Bowen, and the two boys
+parted.
+
+Frank could not help thinking a little about what Victor had said. His
+suit, as he looked down at it, seemed shabbier than ever. Again it
+occurred to him that perhaps Mr. Bowen had forgotten the invitation, and
+this would make it very awkward for him. As he waited for the door to
+open he decided that, if it should appear that he was not expected, he
+would give some excuse, and go away.
+
+Susan opened the door.
+
+"Mr. Bowen invited me to come here to dinner to-night," began Frank,
+rather nervously.
+
+"Yes, you are expected," said Susan, very much to his relief. "Wipe your
+feet, and come right in."
+
+Frank obeyed.
+
+"You are to go upstairs and get ready for dinner," said Susan, and she
+led the way to the same chamber into which our hero had been ushered the
+week before.
+
+"There won't be much getting ready," thought Frank. "However, I can stay
+there till I hear the bell ring."
+
+As he entered the room he saw a suit of clothes and some underclothing
+lying on the bed.
+
+"They are for you," said Susan, laconically.
+
+"For me!" exclaimed Frank, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, put them on, and when you come down to dinner Mr. Bowen will see
+how they fit."
+
+"Is it a present from him?" asked Frank, overwhelmed with surprise and
+gratitude, for he could see that the clothes were very handsome.
+
+"Well, they aint from me," said Susan, "so it's likely they come from
+him. Don't be too long, for Mr. Bowen doesn't like to have any one late
+to dinner."
+
+Susan had been in the service of her present mistress fifteen years, and
+was a privileged character. She liked to have her own way; but had
+sterling qualities, being neat, faithful, and industrious.
+
+"I wonder whether I am awake or dreaming," thought Frank, when he was
+left alone. "I shouldn't like to wake up and find it was all a dream."
+
+He began at once to change his shabby clothes for the new ones. He
+found that the articles provided were a complete outfit, including
+shirt, collar, cuffs, stockings; in fact, everything that was needful.
+The coat, pants, and vest were a neat gray, and proved to be an
+excellent fit. In the bosom of the shirt were neat studs, and the cuffs
+were supplied with sleeve-buttons to correspond. When Frank stood before
+the glass, completely attired, he hardly knew himself. He was as well
+dressed as his aristocratic acquaintance, Victor Dupont, and looked more
+like a city boy than a boy bred in the country.
+
+"I never looked so well in my life," thought our young hero,
+complacently. "How kind Mr. Bowen is!"
+
+Frank did not know it; but he was indebted for this gift to Susan's
+suggestion. When her master told her in the morning that Frank was
+coming to dinner, she said, "It's a pity the boy hadn't some better
+clothes."
+
+"I didn't notice his clothes," said Mr. Bowen. "Are they shabby?"
+
+"Yes; and they are almost worn out. They don't look fit for one who is
+going to sit at your table."
+
+"Bless my soul! I never thought of that. You think he needs some new
+clothes."
+
+"He needs them badly."
+
+"I will call at Baldwin's, and order some ready-made; but I don't know
+his size."
+
+"He's about two inches shorter than you, Mr. Bowen. Tell 'em that, and
+they will know. He ought to have shirts and stockings, too."
+
+"So he shall," said the old man, quite interested. "He shall have a full
+rig-out from top to toe. Where shall I go for the shirts and things?"
+
+Susan had a nephew about Frank's age, and she was prepared to give the
+necessary information. The old gentleman, who had no business to attend
+to, was delighted to have something to fill up his time. He went out
+directly after breakfast, or as soon as he had read the morning paper,
+and made choice of the articles already described, giving strict
+injunctions that they should be sent home immediately.
+
+This was the way Frank got his new outfit.
+
+When our hero came downstairs Mr. Bowen was waiting eagerly to see the
+transformation. The result delighted him.
+
+"Why, I shouldn't have known you!" he exclaimed, lifting both hands. "I
+had no idea new clothes would change you so much."
+
+"I don't know how to thank you, sir," said Frank, gratefully.
+
+"I never should have thought of it if it hadn't been for Susan."
+
+"Then I thank you, Susan," said Frank, offering his hand to the girl, as
+she entered the room.
+
+Susan was pleased. She liked to be appreciated; and she noted with
+satisfaction the great improvement in Frank's appearance.
+
+"You are quite welcome," she said; "but it was master's money that paid
+for the clothes."
+
+"It was your kindness that made him think of it," said Frank.
+
+From that moment Susan became Frank's fast friend. We generally like
+those whom we have benefited, if our services are suitably
+acknowledged.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+A NEW PROSPECT.
+
+
+"Well, Frank, and how is your business?" asked the old gentleman, when
+they were sitting at the dinner-table.
+
+"Pretty good, sir."
+
+"Are you making your expenses?"
+
+"Yes, sir; just about."
+
+"That is well. Mind you never run into debt. That is a bad plan."
+
+"I shan't have to now, sir. If I had had to buy clothes for myself, I
+might have had to."
+
+"Do you find the shirts and stockings fit you?"
+
+"Yes, sir; they are just right."
+
+"I bought half a dozen of each. Susan will give you the bundle when you
+are ready to go. If they had not been right, they could have been
+exchanged."
+
+"Thank you, sir. I shall feel rich with so many clothes."
+
+"Where do you sleep, Frank?"
+
+"At the Newsboy's Lodging-House."
+
+"Is there any place there where you can keep your clothes?"
+
+"Yes, sir. Each boy has a locker to himself."
+
+"That is a good plan. It would be better if you had a room to yourself."
+
+"I can't afford it yet, sir. The lodging-house costs me only forty-two
+cents a week for a bed, and I could not get a room for that."
+
+"Bless my soul! That is very cheap. Really, I think I could save money
+by giving up my house, and going there to sleep."
+
+"I don't think you would like it, sir," said Frank, smiling.
+
+"Probably not. Now, Frank, I am going to mention a plan I have for you.
+You don't want to be a newsboy all your life."
+
+"No, sir; I think I should get tired of it by the time I was fifty."
+
+"My friend Thompson, the gentleman who was walking with me when we
+first saw you, is an officer of the American District Telegraph Company.
+They employ a large number of boys at their various offices to run
+errands; and, in fact, to do anything that is required of them. Probably
+you have seen some of the boys going about the city."
+
+"Yes, sir; they have a blue uniform."
+
+"Precisely. How would you like to get a situation of that kind?"
+
+"Very much, sir," said Frank, promptly.
+
+"Would you like it better than being a newsboy?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"My friend Thompson, to whom I spoke on the subject, says he will take
+you on in a few weeks, provided you will qualify yourself for the post."
+
+"I will do that, sir, if you will tell me how."
+
+"You must be well acquainted with the city in all its parts, know the
+locations of different hotels, prominent buildings, have a fair
+education, and be willing to make yourself generally useful. You will
+have to satisfy the superintendent that you are fitted for the
+position."
+
+"I think my education will be sufficient," said Frank, "for I always
+went to school till just before I came to the city. I know something
+about the lower part of the city, but I will go about every day during
+the hours when I am not selling papers till I am familiar with all parts
+of it."
+
+"Do so, and when there is a vacancy I will let you know."
+
+"How much pay shall I get, sir, if they accept me?"
+
+"About three dollars a week at first, and more when you get familiar
+with your duties. No doubt money will also be given you by some who
+employ you, though you will not be allowed to ask for any fees. Very
+likely you will get nearly as much in this way as from your salary."
+
+Frank's face expressed satisfaction.
+
+"That will be bully," he said.
+
+"I beg pardon," said the old gentleman, politely. "What did you
+remark?"
+
+"That will be excellent," said Frank, blushing.
+
+"I thought you spoke of a bully."
+
+"It was a word I learned from Dick Rafferty," said Frank, feeling rather
+embarrassed.
+
+"And who is Dick Rafferty?"
+
+"One of my friends at the Lodging-House."
+
+"Unless his education is better than yours I would not advise you to
+learn any of his words."
+
+"I beg your pardon, sir."
+
+"You must excuse my offering you advice. It is the privilege of the old
+to advise the young."
+
+"I shall always be glad to follow your advice, Mr. Bowen," said Frank.
+
+"Good boy, good boy," said the old gentleman, approvingly. "I wish all
+boys were like you. Some think they know more than their grandfathers.
+There's one of that kind who lives next door."
+
+"His name is Victor Dupont, isn't it, sir?"
+
+Mr. Bowen looked surprised. "How is it that you know his name?" he
+asked.
+
+"We were together a good deal last summer. His family boarded at the
+hotel in the country village where I used to live. He and I went
+bathing and fishing together."
+
+"Indeed! Have you seen him since you came to the city?"
+
+"I met him as I was on my way here this afternoon."
+
+"Did he speak to you?"
+
+"Yes, sir; though at first he pretended he didn't remember me."
+
+"Just like him. He is a very proud and conceited boy. Did you tell him
+you were coming to dine with me?"
+
+"Yes, sir. He seemed very much surprised, as I had just told him I was a
+newsboy. He said he was surprised that you should invite a newsboy to
+dine with you."
+
+"I would much rather have you dine with me than him. What more did he
+say?"
+
+"He said he shouldn't think I would like to go out to dinner with such a
+shabby suit."
+
+"We have removed that objection," said Mr. Bowen, smiling.
+
+"Yes, sir," said Frank; "I think Victor will treat me more respectfully
+now when he meets me."
+
+"The respect of such a boy is of very little importance. He judges only
+by the outside."
+
+At an early hour Frank took his leave, promising to call again before
+long.
+
+"Where can I send to you if you are wanted for a telegraph boy?" asked
+Mr. Bowen.
+
+"A letter to me addressed to the care of Mr. O'Connor at the
+lodging-house will reach me," said Frank.
+
+"Write it down for me," said the old gentleman. "You will find writing
+materials on yonder desk."
+
+When Frank made his appearance at the lodging-house in his new suit,
+with two bundles, one containing his old clothes, and the other his
+extra supply of underclothing, his arrival made quite a sensation.
+
+"Have you come into a fortun'?" asked one boy.
+
+"Did you draw a prize in the Havana lottery?" asked another.
+
+"Have you been playing policy?" asked a third.
+
+"You're all wrong," said Dick Rafferty. "Frank's been adopted by a rich
+man upon Madison avenue. Aint that so, Frank?"
+
+"Something like it," said Frank. "There's a gentleman up there who has
+been very kind to me."
+
+"If he wants to adopt another chap, spake a good word for me," said
+Patsy Reagan.
+
+"Whisht, Patsy, he don't want no Irish bog-trotter," said Phil Donovan.
+
+"You're Irish yourself, Phil, now, and you can't deny it."
+
+"What if I am? I aint no bog-trotter--I'm the son of an Irish count. You
+can see by my looks that I belong to the gintry."
+
+"Then the gintry must have red hair and freckles, Phil. There aint no
+chance for you."
+
+"Tell us all about it, Frank," said Dick. "Shure I'm your best friend,
+and you might mention my name to the ould gintleman if he's got any more
+good clothes to give away."
+
+"I will with pleasure, Dick, if I think it will do any good."
+
+"You won't put on no airs because you're better dressed than the likes
+of us?"
+
+"I shall wear my old clothes to-morrow, Dick. I can't afford to wear my
+best clothes every day."
+
+"I can," said Dick, dryly, which was quite true, as his best clothes
+were the only ones he had.
+
+Bright and early the next morning Frank was about his work, without
+betraying in any way the proud consciousness of being the owner of two
+suits. He followed Mr. Bowen's advice, and spent his leisure hours in
+exploring the city in its various parts, so that in the course of a
+month he knew more about it than boys who had lived in it all their
+lives. He told Dick his object in taking these long walks, and urged him
+to join him in the hope of winning a similar position; but Dick decided
+that it was too hard work. He preferred to spend his leisure time in
+playing marbles or pitching pennies.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+
+Six weeks later Frank Kavanagh, through the influence of his patron,
+found himself in the uniform of a District Telegraph Messenger. The blue
+suit, and badge upon the cap, are familiar to every city resident. The
+uniform is provided by the company, but must be paid for by weekly
+instalments, which are deducted from the wages of the wearers. This
+would have seriously embarrassed Frank but for an opportune gift of ten
+dollars from Mr. Bowen, which nearly paid the expense of his suit.
+
+[Illustration: FRANK, THE TELEGRAPH BOY.]
+
+Frank was employed in one of the up-town offices of the company. For the
+information of such of my young readers as live in the country it may be
+explained that large numbers of houses and offices in the city are
+connected with the offices of the District Telegraph by machines,
+through which, at any time in the day or night, a messenger may be
+summoned for any purpose. It is only necessary to raise a knob in the
+box provided, and a bell is rung in the office of the company. Of course
+there is more or less transient business besides that of the regular
+subscribers.
+
+Boys, on arriving at the office, seat themselves, and are called upon in
+order. A boy just returned from an errand hangs up his hat, and takes
+his place at the foot of the line. He will not be called upon again till
+all who are ahead of him have been despatched in one direction or
+another.
+
+Frank was curious to know what would be his first duty, and waited
+eagerly for his turn to come.
+
+At length it came.
+
+"Go to No. -- Madison avenue," said the superintendent.
+
+A few minutes later Frank was ascending the steps of a handsome
+brown-stone residence.
+
+"Oh, you're the telegraph boy," said a colored servant. "You're to go
+upstairs into missus's sitting-room."
+
+Upon entering, Frank found himself in the presence of a rather stout
+lady, who was reclining on a sofa.
+
+He bowed politely, and waited for his instructions.
+
+"I hope you are a trustworthy boy," said the stout lady.
+
+"I hope so, ma'am."
+
+"Come here, Fido," said the lady.
+
+A little mass of hair, with two red eyes peeping out, rose from the
+carpet and waddled towards the lady, for Fido was about as stout as his
+mistress.
+
+"Do you like dogs?" asked Mrs. Leroy, for this was the lady's name.
+
+"Yes, ma'am," answered Frank, wondering what that had to do with his
+errand.
+
+"I sent for you to take my sweet darling out for an airing. His health
+requires that he should go out every day. I generally take him myself,
+but this morning I have a severe headache, and do not feel equal to the
+task. My dear little pet, will you go out with this nice boy?"
+
+Fido looked gravely at Frank and sneezed.
+
+"I hope the darling hasn't got cold," said Mrs. Leroy, with solicitude.
+"My lad, what is your name?"
+
+"Frank Kavanagh, ma'am."
+
+"Will you take great care of my little pet, Frank?"
+
+"I will try to, madam. Where do you want him to go?"
+
+"To Madison Park. He always likes the park, because it is so gay. When
+you get there you may sit down on one of the benches and give him time
+to rest."
+
+"Yes, ma'am. How long would you like me to stay out with him?"
+
+"About an hour and a half. Have you a watch?"
+
+"No; but I can tell the time by the clock in front of the Fifth-avenue
+Hotel."
+
+"To be sure. I was going to lend you my watch."
+
+"Shall I start now?"
+
+"Yes. Here is the string. Don't make Fido go too fast. He is stout, and
+cannot walk fast. You will be sure to take great care of him?"
+
+"Yes, madam."
+
+"And you keep watch that no bad man carries off my Fido. I used to send
+him out by one of the girls, till I found that she ill-treated the poor
+thing. Of course I couldn't stand that, so I sent her packing, I can
+tell you."
+
+"I will try to follow your directions," said Frank, who wanted to laugh
+at the lady's ridiculous devotion to her ugly little favorite.
+
+"That is right. You look like a good boy. I will give you something for
+yourself when you come back."
+
+"Thank you, ma'am," said Frank, who was better pleased with this remark
+than any the lady had previously made.
+
+Mrs. Leroy kissed Fido tenderly, and consigned him to the care of our
+hero.
+
+"I suppose," said Frank to himself, "that I am the dog's nurse. It is
+rather a queer office; but as long as I am well paid for it I don't
+mind."
+
+When Fido found himself on the sidewalk he seemed disinclined to move;
+but after a while, by dint of coaxing, he condescended to waddle along
+at Frank's heels.
+
+After a while they reached Madison Park, and Frank, according to his
+instructions, took a seat, allowing Fido to curl up at his side.
+
+"This isn't very hard work," thought Frank. "I wish I had a book or
+paper to read, to while away the time."
+
+While he was sitting there Victor Dupont came sauntering along.
+
+"Halloa!" he exclaimed, in surprise, as he recognized Frank, "is that
+you?"
+
+"I believe it is," answered Frank, with a smile.
+
+"Are you a telegraph boy?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I thought you were a newsboy?"
+
+"So I was; but I have changed my business."
+
+"What are you doing here?"
+
+"Taking care of a dog," said Frank, laughing.
+
+"Is that the dog?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"It's a beastly little brute. What's its name?"
+
+"Fido."
+
+"Who does it belong to?"
+
+Frank answered.
+
+"I know," said Victor; "it's a fat lady living on the avenue. I have
+seen her out often with little pug. How do you feel, Fido?" and Victor
+began to pull the hair of the lady's favorite.
+
+"Don't do that, Victor," remonstrated Frank.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Mrs. Leroy wouldn't like it."
+
+"Mrs. Leroy isn't here."
+
+"I am," said Frank, emphatically, "and that is the same thing."
+
+Victor, by way of reply, pinched Fido's ear, and the little animal
+squeaked his disapproval.
+
+"Look here, Victor," said Frank, decidedly, "you must stop that."
+
+"Must I?" sneered Victor, contemptuously. "'Suppose I don't?"
+
+"Then I shall punch you," said Frank, quietly.
+
+"You are impertinent," said Victor, haughtily. "You needn't put on such
+airs because you are nurse to a puppy."
+
+"That is better than being a puppy myself," retorted Frank.
+
+"Do you mean to insult me?" demanded Victor, quickly.
+
+"No, unless you choose to think the remark fits you."
+
+"I have a great mind to give you a thrashing," said Victor, furiously.
+
+"Of course I should sit still and let you do it," said Frank, calmly.
+"Fido is under my care, and I can't have him teased. That is right,
+isn't it?"
+
+"I did wrong to notice you," said Victor. "You are only a dog's nurse."
+
+Frank laughed.
+
+"You are right," he said. "It is new business for me, and though it is
+easy enough I can't say I like it. However, I am in the service of the
+Telegraph Company, and must do whatever is required."
+
+Victor walked away, rather annoyed because he could not tease Frank.
+
+"The boy has no pride," he said to himself, "or he wouldn't live out to
+take care of dogs. But, then, it is suitable enough for him."
+
+"Is that dawg yours?" asked a rough-looking man, taking his seat on the
+bench near Frank.
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"How old is it?"
+
+"I don't know."
+
+"Looks like a dawg I used to own. Let me take him."
+
+"I would rather not," said Frank, coldly. "It belongs to a lady who is
+very particular."
+
+"Oh, you won't, won't you?" said the man, roughly. "Danged if I don't
+think it is my dawg, after all;" and the man seized Fido, and was about
+to carry him away.
+
+But Frank seized him by the arm, and called for help.
+
+"What's the matter?" asked a park policeman who, unobserved by either,
+had come up behind.
+
+"This man is trying to steal my dog," said Frank.
+
+"The dog is mine," said the thief, boldly.
+
+"Drop him!" said the officer, authoritatively. "I have seen that dog
+before. He belongs to neither of you."
+
+"That is true," said Frank. "It belongs to Mrs. Leroy, of Madison
+avenue, and I am employed to take it out for an airing."
+
+"It's a lie!" said the man, sullenly.
+
+"If you are seen again in this neighborhood," said the policeman, "I
+shall arrest you. Now clear out!"
+
+The would-be thief slunk away, and Frank thanked the officer.
+
+"That man is a dog-stealer," said the policeman. "His business is to
+steal dogs, and wait till a reward is offered. Look out for him!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+A WAYWARD SON.
+
+
+When Frank carried Fido back to his mistress, he thought it his duty to
+tell Mrs. Leroy of the attempt to abduct the favorite.
+
+Mrs. Leroy turned pale.
+
+"Did the man actually take my little pet?" she asked.
+
+"Yes, ma'am. He said it was his dog."
+
+"The horrid brute! How could I have lived without my darling?" and the
+lady caressed her favorite tenderly. "How did you prevent him?"
+
+"I seized him by the arm, and held him till a policeman came up."
+
+"You are a brave boy," said Mrs. Leroy, admiringly. "But for you, Fido
+would have been stolen."
+
+"The policeman said the man was a professional dog-stealer. He steals
+dogs for the reward which is offered."
+
+"I was sure I could trust you with my pet," said Mrs. Leroy. "You
+deserve a reward yourself."
+
+"I was only doing my duty, ma'am," said Frank, modestly.
+
+"It isn't everybody that does that."
+
+Mrs. Leroy rose, and, going to her bureau, drew an ivory portemonnaie
+from a small upper drawer; from this she extracted a two-dollar bill,
+and gave it to Frank.
+
+"This is too much," said Frank, surprised at the size of the gift.
+
+"Too much for rescuing my little pet? No, no, I am the best judge of
+that. I wouldn't have lost him for fifty times two dollars."
+
+"You are very liberal, and I am very much obliged to you," said Frank.
+
+"If I send again for a boy to take out Fido, I want you to come."
+
+"I will if I can, ma'am."
+
+For several days, though Frank was employed on errands daily, there was
+nothing of an unusual character. About eleven o'clock one evening (for
+Frank had to take his turn at night work) he was sent to a house on
+West Thirty-eighth street. On arriving, he was ushered into the presence
+of a lady of middle age, whose anxious face betrayed the anxiety that
+she felt.
+
+"I have a son rather larger and older than you," she said, "who, to my
+great sorrow, has been led away by evil companions, who have induced him
+to drink and play cards for money. I will not admit them into my house,
+but I cannot keep him from seeking them out. He is no doubt with them
+to-night."
+
+Frank listened with respectful sympathy, and waited to hear what he was
+desired to do in the matter.
+
+"The boy's father is dead," continued Mrs. Vivian, with emotion, "and I
+cannot fill his place. Fred is unwilling to obey his mother. His
+companions have persuaded him that it is unmanly."
+
+"I would gladly obey my mother if I could have her back," said Frank.
+
+"Is your mother dead, then?" inquired Mrs. Vivian, with quick sympathy.
+
+"I have neither father nor mother," Frank answered gravely.
+
+"Poor boy! And yet you do not fall into temptation."
+
+"I have no time for that, ma'am; I have to earn my living."
+
+"If I could get Fred to take a position it might be a benefit to him,"
+said Mrs. Vivian, thoughtfully. "But the question now is, how I may be
+able to find him."
+
+"When did you see him last?" asked Frank.
+
+"About three o'clock this afternoon I gave him seventy-five dollars, and
+sent him to pay a bill. I was perhaps imprudent to trust him with such a
+sum of money; but for a few days past he has been more steady than
+usual, and I thought it would show my confidence in him if I employed
+him in such a matter."
+
+"I should think it would, ma'am."
+
+"But I am afraid Fred fell in with some of his evil companions, and let
+them know that he was well provided with money. That would be enough to
+excite their cupidity."
+
+"Who are the companions you speak of?" asked Frank.
+
+"Boys, or rather young men, for they are all older than Fred, of lower
+social rank than himself. I don't attach any special importance to that,
+nor do I object to them on that ground; but they are, I have reason to
+think, ill-bred and disreputable. They know Fred to be richer than
+themselves, and induce him to drink and play, in the hope of getting
+some of his money. I have sent for you to go in search of my son. If you
+find him you must do your best to bring him home."
+
+"I will," said Frank. "Can you give me any idea where he may be found?"
+
+Mrs. Vivian wrote on a card two places,--one a billiard saloon, which
+she had reason to suspect that her son frequented.
+
+"Now," said Frank, "will you be kind enough to describe your son to me,
+so that I may know him when I see him?"
+
+"I will show you his photograph," said Mrs. Vivian.
+
+She opened an album, and showed the picture of a boy of seventeen, with
+a pleasant face, fair complexion, and hair somewhat curly. His forehead
+was high, and he looked gentlemanly and refined.
+
+"Is he not good-looking?" said the mother.
+
+"He looks like a gentleman," said Frank.
+
+"He would be one if he could throw off his evil associates. Do you think
+you will know him from the picture?"
+
+"Yes, I think so. Is he tall?"
+
+"Two or three inches taller than you are. You had better take the
+picture with you. I have an extra one, which you can put in your pocket
+to help you identify him. By the way, it will be as well that you should
+be supplied with money in case it is necessary to bring him home in a
+cab."
+
+Frank understood what the mother found it difficult to explain. She
+feared that her boy might be the worse for drink.
+
+She handed our hero a five-dollar bill.
+
+"I will use it prudently, madam," said he, "and account to you for all I
+do not use."
+
+"I trust you wholly," said the lady. "Now go as quickly as possible."
+
+Frank looked at the two addresses he had on the card. The
+billiard-saloon was on the east side of the city, in an unfashionable
+locality.
+
+"I'll go there first," he decided.
+
+Crossing to Third avenue he hailed a car, and rode down-town. His
+knowledge of the city, gained from the walks he took when a newsboy,
+made it easy for him to find the place of which he was in search. Though
+it was nearly midnight, the saloon was lighted up, and two tables were
+in use. On the left-hand side, as he entered, was a bar, behind which
+stood a man in his shirt-sleeves, who answered the frequent calls for
+drinks. He looked rather suspiciously at Frank's uniform when he
+entered.
+
+"What do you want?" he asked. "Have you any message for me?"
+
+"No," said Frank, carelessly. "Let me have a glass of lemonade."
+
+The bar-keeper's face cleared instantly, and he set about preparing the
+beverage required.
+
+"Won't you have something in it?" he asked.
+
+"No, sir," said Frank.
+
+"You boys are kept out pretty late," said the bar-keeper, socially.
+
+"Not every night," said Frank. "We take turns."
+
+Frank paid ten cents for his lemonade, and, passing into the
+billiard-saloon, sat down and watched a game. He looked around him, but
+could not see anything of Fred. In fact, all the players were men.
+
+Sitting next to him was a young fellow, who was watching the game.
+
+"Suppose we try a game," he said to Frank.
+
+"Not to-night. I came in here to look for a friend, but I guess he isn't
+here."
+
+"I've been here two hours. What does your friend look like?"
+
+"That's his picture," said Frank, displaying the photograph.
+
+"Oh, yes," said his new acquaintance, "he is here now. His name is Fred,
+isn't it?"
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, eagerly; "I don't see him. Where is he?"
+
+"He's playing cards upstairs, but I don't believe he can tell one card
+from the other."
+
+"Been drinking, I suppose," said Frank, betraying no surprise.
+
+"I should say so. Do you know the fellows he's with?"
+
+"I am not sure about that. How long has Fred been upstairs?"
+
+"About an hour. He was playing billiards till he couldn't stand
+straight, and then they went upstairs."
+
+"Would you mind telling him that there is a friend downstairs who wishes
+to see him, that is, if you know the way?"
+
+"Oh, yes, I live here. Won't you come up with me?"
+
+"Perhaps I had better," said Frank, and followed his companion through a
+door in the rear, and up a dark and narrow staircase to the street
+floor.
+
+"It'll be a hard job to get him away," thought Frank; "but, for his
+mother's sake, I will do my best."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+A TIMELY RESCUE.
+
+
+As Frank entered the room he hastily took in the scene before him. Round
+a table sat three young men, of not far from twenty, the fourth side
+being occupied by Fred Vivian. They were playing cards, and sipping
+drinks as they played. Fred Vivian's handsome face was flushed, and he
+was nervously excited. His hands trembled as he lifted the glass, and
+his wandering, uncertain glances showed that he was not himself.
+
+"It's your play, Fred," said his partner.
+
+Fred picked up a card without looking at it, and threw it down on the
+table.
+
+"That settles it," said another. "Fred, old boy, you've lost the game.
+You're another five dollars out."
+
+Fred fumbled in his pocket for a bill, and it was quickly taken from his
+hand before he could well see of what value it was. Frank, however,
+quickly as it was put away, saw that it was a ten. It was clear that
+Fred was being cheated in the most barefaced manner.
+
+Frank's entrance was evidently unwelcome to most of the company.
+
+"What are you bringing in that boy for, John?" demanded a low-browed
+fellow, with a face like a bull-dog.
+
+"He is a friend of Fred," answered John.
+
+"He's a telegraph boy. He comes here a spy. Fred don't know him. Clear
+out, boy!"
+
+Frank took no notice of this hostile remark, but walked up to Fred
+Vivian.
+
+"Fred," said he, thinking it best to speak as if he knew him, "it is
+getting late, and your mother is anxious about you. Won't you come home
+with me?"
+
+"Who are you?" asked Fred, with drunken gravity. "You aint my mother."
+
+"I come from your mother. Don't you know me? I am Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"How do, Frank? Glad to see you, ol' feller. Take a drink. Here, you
+boy, bring a drink for my frien', Frank Kavanagh."
+
+The three others looked on disconcerted. They were not ready to part
+with Fred yet, having secured only a part of his money.
+
+"You don't know him, Fred," said the one who had appropriated the
+ten-dollar bill. "He's only a telegraph boy."
+
+"I tell you he's my frien', Frank Kav'nagh," persisted Fred, with an
+obstinacy not unusual in one in his condition.
+
+"Well, if he is, let him sit down, and have a glass of something hot."
+
+"No, I thank you," said Frank, coldly. "Fred and I are going home."
+
+"No, you're not," exclaimed the other, bringing his fist heavily down
+upon the table. "We won't allow our friend Fred to be kidnapped by a boy
+of your size,--not much we won't, will we, boys?"
+
+"No! no!" chimed in the other two.
+
+Fred Vivian looked at them undecided.
+
+"I guess I'd better go," he stammered "There's something the matter with
+my head."
+
+"You need another drink to brace you up. Here, John, bring up another
+punch for Fred."
+
+Frank saw that unless he got Fred away before drinking any more, he
+would not be in a condition to go at all. It was a critical position,
+but he saw that he must be bold and resolute.
+
+"You needn't bring Fred anything more," he said. "He has had enough
+already."
+
+"I have had enough already," muttered Fred, mechanically.
+
+"Boys, are we going to stand this?" said the low-browed young man. "Are
+we going to let this telegraph boy interfere with a social party of
+young gentlemen? I move that we throw him downstairs."
+
+He half rose as he spoke, but Frank stood his ground.
+
+"You'd better not try it," he said quietly, "unless you want to pass the
+night in the station-house."
+
+"What do you mean, you young jackanapes?" said the other angrily. "What
+charge can you trump up against us?"
+
+"You have been cheating Fred out of his money," said Frank, firmly.
+
+"It's a lie! We've been having a friendly game, and he lost. If we'd
+lost, we would have paid."
+
+"How much did he lose?"
+
+"Five dollars."
+
+"And you took ten from him."
+
+"It's a lie!" repeated the other; but he looked disconcerted.
+
+"It is true, for I noticed the bill as you took it from him. But it's
+not much worse than playing for money with him when he is in no
+condition to understand the game. You'd better give him back that
+ten-dollar bill."
+
+"I've a great mind to fling you downstairs, you young scamp!"
+
+"You are strong enough to do it," said Frank, exhibiting no trace of
+fear, "but I think you would be sorry for it afterwards. Come, Fred."
+
+Though Frank was so much younger and smaller, there was something in his
+calm, self-possessed manner that gave him an ascendency over the weak,
+vacillating Fred. The latter rose, and, taking our hero's arm, turned to
+leave the room.
+
+"Let him go," said the leader, who had been made uneasy by Frank's
+threat, and saw that it was politic to postpone his further designs upon
+his intended victim. "If he chooses to obey a small telegraph boy, he
+can."
+
+"Don't mind him, Fred," said Frank. "You know I'm your friend."
+
+"My friend, Frank Kavanagh!" repeated Fred, drowsily. "I'm awful sleepy,
+Frank. I want to go to bed."
+
+"You shall go to bed as soon as you get home, Fred."
+
+"I say, boy," said the leader, uneasily, "that was all a lie about the
+ten-dollar bill. You didn't see straight. Did he, Bates?"
+
+"Of course he didn't."
+
+"One lies and the other swears to it," thought Frank.
+
+"Nothing will be done about it," he said, "if you will let Fred alone
+hereafter. The money you have won from him belongs to his mother, and,
+unless you keep away from him, she will order your arrest."
+
+"You're altogether too smart for a boy of your size," sneered the other.
+"Take your friend away. We don't care to associate with a milksop, who
+allows himself to be ordered around by women and children."
+
+Fortunately Fred was too drowsy to pay heed to what was being said; in
+fact he was very sleepy, and was anxious to go to bed. Frank got him
+into a cab, and in twenty minutes they safely reached his mother's house
+in Thirty-eighth street.
+
+Mrs. Vivian was anxiously awaiting the return of the prodigal.
+
+"O Fred," she said, "how could you stay away so, when you know how
+worried I get? You have been drinking, too."
+
+"This is my friend, Frank Kavanagh," hiccoughed Fred.
+
+"Shall I go up and help put him to bed?" asked Frank.
+
+"Does he require help?" asked Mrs. Vivian, sorrowfully.
+
+"He has been drinking a good deal."
+
+"Yes, you may go up. I will lead the way to his chamber. Afterwards I
+want to speak to you."
+
+"All right."
+
+"Where did you find him?" asked Mrs. Vivian, when Frank with some
+difficulty had prepared his charge for bed.
+
+"In the billiard-saloon to which you directed me. He was upstairs
+playing cards for money. They were cheating him in the most outrageous
+manner."
+
+"I suppose they got all his money."
+
+"Not all; but they would soon have done so. Here is his pocket-book,
+which I just took from his pocket."
+
+"There are twenty dollars left," said 'Mrs. Vivian, after an
+examination. "They must have secured the rest. O my poor boy! Would that
+I could shield you from these dangerous companions!"
+
+"I don't think they will trouble him again, Mrs. Vivian."
+
+"Why not? You do not know them."
+
+"I told them that, if they came near him, hereafter, you would have them
+arrested for swindling your son out of money belonging to you."
+
+"Will that have any effect upon them?"
+
+"Yes, because they know that I am ready to appear as a witness against
+them."
+
+"Did Fred show any unwillingness to come with you?"
+
+"No; I made him think I was an old acquaintance of his. Besides, he was
+feeling sleepy."
+
+"You have acted with great judgment for so young a lad," said Mrs.
+Vivian. "I wish Fred had a companion like you to influence him for good.
+Where do you live?"
+
+"At the Newsboys Lodging-House. I cannot afford to hire a room."
+
+Mrs. Vivian looked thoughtful.
+
+"Give me your name and address," she said.
+
+These she noted down.
+
+"I won't keep you any longer to-night," she said, "for you must be
+tired. You will hear from me again."
+
+"Oh," said Frank, "I nearly forgot. Here is the balance of the money you
+handed me for expenses."
+
+"Keep it for yourself," said Mrs. Vivian, "and accept my thanks
+besides."
+
+Though Frank had paid for the cab, there was a balance of nearly two
+dollars in his hands which he was very glad to keep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+FRANK MAKES AN EVENING CALL.
+
+
+The next day Frank chanced to meet Mrs. Vivian in the street. She
+recognized him at once.
+
+"I see you are kept busy," she said, pleasantly.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank. "Our business is pretty good just now. How is
+your son?"
+
+"He slept well, and woke much refreshed this morning. He is a good boy
+naturally, but unable to withstand temptation. I have decided to send
+him to the country for a few weeks, to visit a cousin of about his own
+age. There he will be secure from temptation, and will have a chance to
+ride. I would have sent him away before, but that it would leave me
+alone in the house. You told me last evening that you had no
+boarding-place."
+
+"My only home is at the lodging-house," said Frank.
+
+"How would you like to occupy a room at my house while my son is away?"
+
+"Very much," said Frank, promptly.
+
+"I shall find it convenient to have you in the house, and shall feel
+safer."
+
+"I am afraid I shouldn't be a match for an able-bodied burglar," said
+Frank, smiling.
+
+"Perhaps not; but you could summon a policeman. When can you come and
+see me about this arrangement?"
+
+"I am off duty to-night."
+
+"Very well; I will expect you. Fred will not go away till to-morrow, and
+you will have a chance to see him under more favorable circumstances
+than last evening."
+
+"Thank you very much for your kind invitation," said Frank, politely.
+
+Mrs. Vivian bade him good-morning, very favorably impressed with his
+manners and deportment.
+
+Frank looked upon the proposal made him by Mrs. Vivian as a piece of
+great good-fortune. In his new position, excellent as were the beds at
+the lodging-house, he found it inconvenient to go there to sleep. Once
+or twice, on account of the late hour at which he was released from
+duty, he was unable to secure admittance, and had to pay fifty cents for
+a bed at a hotel on the European system. He had for some time been
+thinking seriously of hiring a room; but the probable expense deterred
+him. At Mrs. Vivian's he would have nothing to pay.
+
+In the evening he changed his uniform for the neat suit given him by Mr.
+Bowen, and about eight o'clock rang the bell of the house in
+Thirty-eighth street.
+
+He was at once ushered into the presence of Mrs. Vivian and her son.
+
+"I am glad to see you, my young friend," said Mrs. Vivian, glancing with
+approval at the neat appearance of her young visitor. "Fred, this is the
+young man who brought you home last night."
+
+"I am much obliged to you," said Fred Vivian, offering his hand to
+Frank. "I am ashamed of having been found in such a place."
+
+"I don't think the young men with you were very much your friends," said
+Frank; "I detected one in cheating you."
+
+"You mean at cards?"
+
+"I don't mean that, though I presume they did; but you handed a
+ten-dollar bill to one of them, and he took it as a five."
+
+"Are you sure of that?" asked Fred, his face flushing with indignation.
+
+"Yes, I saw the number of the bill, though he put it away very quickly."
+
+"And I had been treating that fellow all the afternoon! I gave him a
+good dinner, too."
+
+"Are you surprised at such treatment from such a person?" asked his
+mother. "I should have expected it."
+
+"I will never notice the fellow again as long as I live," said Fred, who
+seemed a good deal impressed by his companion's treachery. "Why, it's
+nothing better than robbery."
+
+"You have given it the right name, Fred," said his mother, quietly.
+
+"He ought to give the money back," said Fred.
+
+"Let it go, my son. I am willing to lose it, if it severs all
+acquaintance between you and your unworthy companions."
+
+"Have I ever met you before?" asked Fred, turning to Frank.
+
+"Not before last evening."
+
+"I thought you spoke of yourself as an old acquaintance."
+
+"That was to induce you to come with me," explained Frank. "I hope you
+will excuse the deception."
+
+"Certainly I will. I had been drinking so much that it was quite
+necessary to treat me as a child; but I don't mean to be caught in such
+a scrape again."
+
+"May you keep that resolution, Fred!" said his mother, earnestly.
+
+"I will try to, mother."
+
+"My mother tells me that you are going to take my place while I am in
+the country," said Fred, turning to Frank.
+
+"I shall be very glad to do so," said our hero. "I never had such a good
+home before."
+
+"You are a telegraph boy, are you not?" asked Fred.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank.
+
+"Tell me about it. Is it hard work?"
+
+"Not hard, but sometimes when I have been kept pretty busy, I get tired
+towards night."
+
+"I should think it would be rather good fun," said Fred.
+
+"Do you think you would like it?" asked his mother, with a smile.
+
+"I might like it for about half a day, but all day would be too much for
+me. However, I am too old for such a position."
+
+Fred had no false pride, and though he knew that Frank was in a social
+position considerably below his own, he treated him as an equal. Those
+who are secure of their own position are much more likely to avoid
+"putting on airs" than those who have recently been elevated in the
+social scale. Frank was destined that same evening to see the contrast
+between true and false gentility.
+
+It so happened that Victor Dupont, already mentioned, was an
+acquaintance and former school-fellow of Fred Vivian. It also chanced
+that he selected this evening for a call, as the Vivians stood very high
+socially, being an old family. Victor was rather proud of his
+acquaintance with them, and took occasion to call frequently.
+
+As he was ushered into the room he did not at first recognize Frank in
+his new clothes.
+
+"Victor, this is a friend of mine, Frank Kavanagh," said Fred,
+introducing his two visitors. "Frank, let me introduce my old
+school-fellow Victor Dupont."
+
+"We are already acquainted," said Frank. "Good-evening, Victor."
+
+Victor stared in amusing astonishment at Frank.
+
+"How do you happen to be here?" asked Victor, brusquely.
+
+"By Mrs. Vivian's kind invitation," said Frank, quite at ease.
+
+"How do you two happen to know each other?" asked Fred.
+
+"We met in the country last summer," said Frank, finding Victor did not
+answer.
+
+"I suppose you had a very good time together," said Mrs. Vivian.
+
+"Our acquaintance was very slight," said Victor superciliously.
+
+"We must have gone fishing together at least a dozen times," said Frank,
+quietly.
+
+"How in the world did the fellow thrust himself in here?" said Victor to
+himself. "They can't know his low position."
+
+In the amiable desire of enlightening the Vivians Victor took an early
+opportunity to draw Fred aside.
+
+"Have you known Frank Kavanagh long?" he asked.
+
+"Not very long."
+
+"Do you know that he is a telegraph boy?"
+
+"Oh, yes," answered Fred, smiling.
+
+"He used to be a newsboy, and sell papers in the lower part of the
+city."
+
+"I didn't know that," said Fred indifferently.
+
+"I must say that I am rather surprised to see him here."
+
+"Why?" asked Fred, with provoking calmness.
+
+"Oh, you know, he is much below us in a social point of view."
+
+"I know that he is a poor boy; but some of our most prominent men were
+once poor boys."
+
+"I don't believe in mixing up different ranks."
+
+"You didn't think so in the country last summer."
+
+"Oh, well, a fellow must have some company, and there was no better to
+be had."
+
+"You will probably be surprised to hear that your old acquaintance is to
+live here while I am in the country. I am going away to-morrow to spend
+a few weeks with my cousin."
+
+"Is it possible!" exclaimed Victor, in surprise and annoyance. "Perhaps
+he is to be here as an errand boy?" he suggested, evidently relieved by
+the idea.
+
+"Oh, no; he will be treated in all respects as one of the family."
+
+"Hadn't you better tell your mother that he was once a newsboy? She
+might recall the invitation."
+
+"It would make no difference with her. It seems to me, Victor, you are
+prejudiced against Frank."
+
+"No, I am not; but I like to see newsboys and telegraph messengers keep
+their place."
+
+"So do I. I hope Frank will keep his place till he can find a better
+one."
+
+"That isn't what I meant. How can you associate with such a boy on an
+equality?"
+
+"Because he seems well-bred and gentlemanly."
+
+"I don't believe he gets more than three or four dollars a week," said
+Victor, contemptuously.
+
+"Then I really hope his wages will soon be increased."
+
+Victor saw that he could do Frank no harm, and was forced, out of
+policy, to treat our hero with more politeness than he wished.
+
+When Frank rose to go, Mrs. Vivian desired him to send round his trunk,
+and take possession of his room the next day.
+
+"She doesn't suspect that I never owned a trunk," thought Frank. "I will
+buy one to-morrow, though I haven't got much to put in it."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+AT WALLACK'S THEATRE.
+
+
+The next day Frank devoted what small leisure he had to the purchase of
+a trunk, in which he stored his small supply of clothing, leaving out,
+however, the clothes in which he made his first appearance in the city.
+These he gave to his friend, Dick Rafferty, to whom they were a welcome
+gift, being considerably better than those he usually wore. Dick might,
+out of his earnings, have dressed better, but when he had any extra
+money it went for some kind of amusement. He was one of the steadiest
+patrons of the Old Bowery, and was often to be seen in the gallery of
+other places of amusement. He was surprised to hear of Frank's intended
+removal from the lodging-house.
+
+"I say, Frank," he said, "you're gettin' on fast. Here you are, goin' to
+live in a tip-top house up-town. You'll be a reg'lar swell."
+
+"I hope not, Dick. I don't like swells very much."
+
+"You won't notice your old friends bimeby."
+
+"That shows you don't know me, Dick. I shall be glad to notice you
+whenever we meet."
+
+"I don't see why I can't be in luck too," said Dick. "I wish I could
+find some rich lady to give me a room in her house."
+
+"You'll have to get some new clothes first, Dick."
+
+"I know I aint got a genteel look," said Dick, surveying his well-worn
+clothes, soiled and ragged; "but it wouldn't be no use if I was to dress
+in velvet."
+
+"Unless you kept your face clean," suggested Frank.
+
+"A feller can't be washin' his face all the time," said Dick.
+
+"It's the fashion to have a clean face in good society," said Frank,
+smiling.
+
+"It must be a good deal of trouble," said Dick. "Is my face very dirty?"
+
+"Not very. There's a black spot on each cheek, and one on the side of
+your nose, and your chin looks a little shady."
+
+"A feller can't keep very clean in my business."
+
+"I suppose it is rather hard," Frank admitted; "but you won't be a
+boot-black always, I hope."
+
+"I'd just as lieves give it up for bankin', or cashier of a
+savings-bank," said Dick. "Them's light, genteel kinds of business, and
+don't dirty the hands."
+
+"Well, Dick, if I hear of an opening in either line I'll let you know.
+Now I must go and buy a trunk."
+
+"I never expect to get as far as a trunk," said Dick. "I shall feel like
+a gentleman when I can set up one. It wouldn't be no use to me now. I'd
+have to stuff it with rocks to make a show."
+
+"Poor Dick!" thought Frank as he left his friend. "He takes the world
+too easy. He hasn't any ambition, or he wouldn't be content to keep on
+blacking boots when there are so many better ways of making a living. If
+I ever get a chance to give him a lift I will. He aint much to look at,
+but he's a good-hearted boy, and would put himself to a good deal of
+trouble to do me a favor."
+
+It was not much trouble to pack his trunk. Indeed, he had scarcely
+enough clothing to fill it one-third full.
+
+"I may have to adopt Dick's plan, and fill it with rocks," said Frank to
+himself. "Some day I shall be better supplied. I can't expect to get on
+too fast."
+
+The room assigned to Frank was a small one; but it was neatly furnished,
+and provided with a closet. The bed, with its clean white spread, looked
+very tempting, and Frank enjoyed the prospect of the privacy he would
+have in a room devoted to his sole use. At the lodging-house, though his
+bed was comfortable, there were sixty to eighty boys who slept in the
+same room, and of course he had no more rights than any other.
+
+"I hope you like your room, Frank," said Mrs. Vivian.
+
+"It is the best I ever had," he replied.
+
+"How early are you obliged to be on duty?" she asked.
+
+"At eight o'clock."
+
+"I do not breakfast till that hour; but I will direct the cook to have a
+cup of coffee and some breakfast ready for you at seven."
+
+"Am I to take my meals here?" asked Frank, in surprise.
+
+"Certainly. Did you think I was going to send you out to a restaurant?"
+inquired Mrs. Vivian, smiling.
+
+"I am very much obliged to you; but I am afraid it will inconvenience
+the cook to get me an early breakfast."
+
+"I am glad to see you so considerate of others. I can answer for Mary,
+however, who is very obliging. You can get lunch outside, as I suppose
+it will be inconvenient for you to leave your duties to come so far as
+Thirty-eighth street."
+
+"You are very kind to me, Mrs. Vivian," said Frank, gratefully.
+
+"I shall claim an occasional service of you in return," said Mrs.
+Vivian.
+
+"I hope you will," said Frank, promptly.
+
+Two days after he had taken up his residence in his new quarters Frank
+was called upon to render a very agreeable service.
+
+"I have two tickets for Wallack's theatre for this evening," said Mrs.
+Vivian. "Will it be agreeable for you to accompany me?"
+
+"I should like it very much."
+
+"Then you shall be my escort. When Fred is at home he goes with me; but
+now I must depend on you. Have you a pair of kid gloves?"
+
+Frank was obliged to confess that he had not. In fact he had never owned
+a pair in his life.
+
+"I will give you a pair of mine. Probably there is little difference in
+the size of our hands."
+
+This proved to be true.
+
+Somehow Frank in his new life seemed always running across Victor
+Dupont. That young gentleman and his sister sat in the row behind Mrs.
+Vivian and her youthful escort, but did not immediately become aware of
+it.
+
+"Why, Victor," said his sister, who had been looking about her, "there
+is Mrs. Vivian in the next row. Who is that nice-looking boy with her?
+It can't be Fred, for he is larger."
+
+Victor turned his glance in the direction of Mrs. Vivian. His surprise
+and disgust were about equal when he saw the country-boy he had looked
+down upon, faultlessly attired, with neat-fitting gloves, and a rose in
+his button-hole and looking like a gentleman.
+
+"I never saw such cheek!" he exclaimed, in disgust.
+
+"What do you mean, Victor?" asked his sister, looking puzzled.
+
+"Do you want to know who that boy is with Mrs. Vivian?"
+
+"Yes; he is very nice-looking."
+
+"Then you can marry him if you like. That boy is a telegraph messenger.
+I used to know him in the country. A few weeks ago he was selling papers
+in front of the Astor House."
+
+"You don't say so!" ejaculated Flora Dupont, "Aren't you mistaken?"
+
+"I guess not. I know him as well as I know you."
+
+"He is a good-looking boy, at any rate," said Flora, who was less
+snobbish than her brother.
+
+"I can't see it," said Victor, annoyed. "He looks to me very common and
+vulgar. I don't see how Mrs. Vivian can be willing to appear with him at
+a fashionable theatre like this."
+
+"It's a pity he is a telegraph boy, he is so nice-looking."
+
+Just then Frank, turning, recognized Victor and bowed. Victor could not
+afford not to recognize Mrs. Vivian's escort, and bowed in return.
+
+But Victor was not the only one of Frank's acquaintances who recognized
+him that evening. In the upper gallery sat Dick Rafferty and Micky Shea,
+late fellow-boarders at the lodging-house. It was not often that these
+young gentlemen patronized Wallack's, for even a gallery ticket there
+was high-priced; but both wanted to see the popular play of "Ours," and
+had managed to scrape together fifty cents each.
+
+"Dick," said Micky, suddenly, "there's Frank Kavanagh down near the
+stage, in an orchestra seat."
+
+"So he is," said Dick. "Aint he dressed splendid though, wid kid gloves
+on and a flower in his button-hole, and an elegant lady beside him? See,
+she's whisperin' to him now. Who'd think he used to kape company wid the
+likes of us?"
+
+"Frank's up in the world. He's a reg'lar swell now."
+
+"And it's I that am glad of it. He's a good fellow, Frank is, and he
+won't turn his back on us."
+
+This was proved later in the evening, for, as Frank left the theatre
+with Mrs. Vivian, he espied his two old friends standing outside, and
+bowed with a pleasant smile, much to the gratification of the two street
+boys, who were disposed to look upon their old friend as one of the
+aristocracy.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+FRANK AS A DETECTIVE.
+
+
+Of course Frank's daily duties were far the most part of a commonplace
+character. They were more varied, to be sure, than those of an
+errand-boy, or shop-boy, but even a telegraph messenger does not have an
+adventure every day. Twice in the next three weeks our hero was summoned
+by Mrs. Leroy to give her pet dog an airing. It was not hard work, but
+Frank did not fancy it, though he never failed to receive a handsome fee
+from the mistress of Fido.
+
+One day Frank was summoned to a fashionable boarding-house in a side
+street above the Fifth-avenue hotel. On presenting himself, the servant
+said, "It's one of the boarders wants you. Stay here, and I'll let him
+know you've come."
+
+"All right!" said Frank.
+
+"Come right up," said the girl, directly after, speaking from the upper
+landing.
+
+Frank ascended the stairs, and entered a room on the second floor. A
+gentleman, partially bald, with a rim of red hair around the bare
+central spot, sat in a chair by the window, reading a morning paper.
+
+"So you're the telegraph boy, are you?" he said.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"You are honest, eh?"
+
+"I hope so, sir."
+
+"Because I am going to trust you with a considerable sum of money."
+
+"It will be safe, sir."
+
+"I want you to do some shopping for me. Are you ever employed in that
+way?"
+
+"I was once, sir."
+
+"Let me see,--I want some linen handkerchiefs and some collars. Are you
+a judge of those articles?"
+
+"Not particularly."
+
+"However, I suppose you know a collar from a pair of cuffs, and a
+handkerchief from a towel," said the stranger, petulantly.
+
+"I rather think I can tell them apart," said Frank.
+
+"Now let me see how many I want," said the stranger, reflectively. "I
+think half-a-dozen handkerchiefs will do."
+
+"How high shall I go?" asked Frank.
+
+"You ought to get them for fifty cents apiece, I should think."
+
+"Yes, sir, I can get them for that."
+
+"And the collars--well, half-a-dozen will do. Get them of good quality,
+size 15, and pay whatever is asked."
+
+"Yes, sir; do you want anything more?"
+
+"I think not, this morning. I have a headache, or I would go out
+myself," explained the stranger. "I live up the Hudson, and I must go
+home this afternoon by the boat."
+
+"Do you want me to buy the articles at any particular store?" inquired
+Frank.
+
+"No; I leave that to your judgment. A large store is likely to have a
+better assortment, I suppose."
+
+"Very well, sir."
+
+"Come back as soon as you can, that's all."
+
+"You haven't given me the money yet, sir," said Frank.
+
+"Oh, I beg pardon! That is an important omission."
+
+The stranger drew out a pocket-book, which appeared to be well filled,
+and extracted two bills of twenty dollars each, which he passed to
+Frank.
+
+"This is too much, sir," said the telegraph boy. "One of these bills
+will be much more than sufficient."
+
+"Never mind. I should like to have them both changed. You can buy the
+articles at different places, as this will give you a chance to get
+change for both."
+
+"I can get them changed at a bank, sir."
+
+"No," said the stranger, hastily, "I would rather you would pay them for
+goods. Shopkeepers are bound to change bills for a customer."
+
+"I don't see what difference it makes to you as long as they are
+changed," thought Frank. However it was not his business to question his
+employer's decision.
+
+Sixth avenue was not far distant, and as Frank was left to his own
+choice he betook himself hither on his shopping tour. Entering a large
+retail store, he inquired for gentleman's linen handkerchiefs.
+
+"Large or small?" asked the girl in attendance.
+
+"Large, I should think."
+
+He was shown some of good quality, at fifty cents.
+
+"I think they will do," said Frank, after examination. "I will take
+half-a-dozen."
+
+So saying he drew out one of the twenty-dollar bills.
+
+"Cash!" called the saleswoman, tapping on the counter with her pencil.
+
+Several small boys were flitting about the store in the service of
+customers. One of them made his appearance.
+
+"Have you nothing smaller?" asked the girl, noticing the denomination of
+the bill.
+
+"No," answered Frank.
+
+She put the bill between the leaves of a small blank book, and handed
+both that and the goods to the boy.
+
+Frank sat down on a stool by the counter to wait.
+
+Presently the cash-boy came back, and the proprietor of the store with
+him. He was a portly man, with a loud voice and an air of authority. To
+him the cash-boy pointed out Frank.
+
+"Are you the purchaser of these handkerchiefs?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Frank, rather surprised at the question.
+
+"And did you offer this twenty-dollar bill in payment?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Where did you get it? Think well," said the trader, sternly.
+
+"What is the matter? Isn't the bill a good one?" asked Frank.
+
+"You have not answered my question. However, I will answer yours. The
+bill is a counterfeit."
+
+Frank looked surprised, and he understood at a flash why he had been
+trusted with two of these bills when one would answer.
+
+"I have nothing to do with that," said the telegraph boy. "I was sent
+out to buy some articles, and this money was given me to pay for them."
+
+"Have you got any other money of this description?" asked the trader,
+suspiciously.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, readily. "I have another twenty."
+
+"Let me see it."
+
+"Certainly. I should like to know whether that is bad too."
+
+The other twenty proved to be a fac-simile of the first.
+
+"I must know where you got this money," said the merchant. "You may be
+in the service of counterfeiters."
+
+"You might know, from my uniform, that I am not," said Frank,
+indignantly. "I once lost a place because I would not pass counterfeit
+money."
+
+"I have a detective here. You must lead him to the man who supplied you
+with the money."
+
+"I am quite willing to do it," said our hero. "He wanted to make a tool
+of me. If I can put him into the hands of the law, I will."
+
+"That boy is all right," said a gentleman standing by. "The rogue was
+quite ingenious in trying to work off his bad money through a telegraph
+messenger."
+
+"What is the appearance of this man?" asked the detective as they walked
+along.
+
+"Rather a reddish face, and partly bald."
+
+"What is the color of the hair he has?"
+
+"Red."
+
+"Very good. It ought to be easy to know him by that description."
+
+"I should know him at once," said Frank, promptly.
+
+"If he has not changed his appearance. It is easy to do that, and these
+fellows understand it well."
+
+Reaching the house, Frank rang the bell, the detective sauntering along
+on the opposite side of the street.
+
+"Is Mr. Stanley at home?" asked Frank.
+
+"I will see."
+
+The girl came down directly, with the information that Mr. Stanley had
+gone out.
+
+"That is queer," said Frank. "He told me to come right back. He said he
+had a headache, too, and did not want to go out."
+
+As he spoke, his glance rested on a man who was lounging at the corner.
+This man had black hair, and a full black beard. By chance, Frank's eye
+fell upon his right hand, and with a start he recognized a large ring
+with a sparkling diamond, real or imitation. This ring he had last seen
+on Mr. Stanley's hand. He crossed the street in a quiet, indifferent
+manner, and imparted his suspicions to the detective.
+
+"Good!" said the latter; "you are a smart boy."
+
+He approached the man alluded to, who, confident in his disguise, did
+not budge, and, placing his hand on his shoulder, said, "Mr. Stanley, I
+believe."
+
+"You are mistaken," said the man, shrugging his shoulders in a
+nonchalant way, with a foreign accent, "I am M. Lavalette. I do not know
+your M. Stanley."
+
+"I am afraid you are forgetful, monsieur. I beg pardon, but do you wear
+a wig?" and with a quick movement he removed the stranger's hat, and,
+dislodging his black wig, displayed the rim of red hair.
+
+"This is an outrage!" said the rogue, angrily; "I will have you
+arrested, monsieur."
+
+"I will give you a chance, for here is an officer," said the detective.
+
+"I give this man in charge for passing counterfeit money," said the
+detective. "The next time, Mr. Stanley, don't select so smart a
+telegraph boy. He recognized you, in spite of your disguise, by the ring
+upon your finger."
+
+The rogue angrily drew the ring from his finger, and threw it on the
+sidewalk.
+
+"Curse the ring!" he said. "It has betrayed me."
+
+It only remains to add that Stanley was convicted through Frank's
+testimony. He proved to be an old offender, and the chief of a gang of
+counterfeiters.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+FRANK MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE.
+
+
+Frank was more fortunate than the generality of the telegraph boys in
+obtaining fees from those who employed him. He was not allowed to
+solicit gifts, but was at liberty to accept them when offered. In one
+way or another he found his weekly receipts came to about seven dollars.
+Out of this sum he would have been able to save money, even if he had
+been obliged to pay all his expenses, that is by the exercise of strict
+economy. But, as we know, he was at no expense for room or board, with
+the exception of a light lunch in the middle of the day. Making a little
+calculation, he found that he could save about four dollars a week. As
+it had only been proposed to him to stay at Mrs. Vivian's while Fred was
+in the country, it seemed prudent to Frank to "make hay while the sun
+shone," and save up a little fund from which he could hereafter draw, in
+case it were necessary.
+
+So when he had saved ten dollars he presented himself at the counter of
+the Dime Savings-Bank, then located in Canal street, and deposited it,
+receiving a bank-book, which he regarded with great pride.
+
+"I begin to feel like a capitalist," he said to himself. "I am rather
+better off now than I was when I led round old Mills, the blind man. I
+wonder how he is getting along."
+
+As Frank entered Broadway from Canal street, by a strange coincidence he
+caught sight of the man of whom he had been thinking. Mills, with the
+same querulous, irritable expression he knew well, was making his way up
+Broadway, led by a boy younger than Frank.
+
+"Pity a poor blind man!" he muttered from time to time in a whining
+voice.
+
+"Look out, you young rascal, or you will have me off the sidewalk,"
+Frank heard the blind man say; "I'll have a reckoning with you when I
+get home."
+
+The boy, who was pale and slight, looked frightened.
+
+"I couldn't help it, Mr. Mills," he said. "It was the crowd."
+
+"You are getting careless, that's what's the matter," said Mills,
+harshly. "You are looking in at the shop windows, and neglect me."
+
+"No, I am not," said the boy, in meek remonstrance.
+
+"Don't you contradict me!" exclaimed the blind man, grasping his stick
+significantly. "Pity a poor blind man!"
+
+"What an old brute he is!" thought Frank; "I will speak to him."
+
+"How do you do, Mr. Mills?" he said, halting before the blind man.
+
+"Who are you?" demanded Mills, quickly.
+
+"You ought to know me; I am Frank Kavanagh, who used to go round with
+you."
+
+"I have had so many boys--most of them good for nothing--that I don't
+remember you."
+
+"I am the boy who wouldn't pass counterfeit money for you."
+
+"Hush!" said the blind man apprehensively, lest some one should hear
+Frank. "There was some mistake about that. I remember you now. Do you
+want to come back? This boy doesn't attend to his business."
+
+Frank laughed. Situated as he was now, the proposal seemed to him an
+excellent joke, and he was disposed to treat it as such.
+
+"Why, the fact is, Mr. Mills, you fed me on such rich food that I
+shouldn't dare to go back for fear of dyspepsia."
+
+"Or starvation," he added to himself.
+
+"I live better now," said Mills. "I haven't had any boy since, that
+suited me as well as you."
+
+"Thank you; but I am afraid it would be a long time before I got rich on
+the wages you would give me."
+
+"I'll give you fifty cents a week," said Mills, "and more if I do well.
+You can come to-day, if you like."
+
+"You are very kind, but I am doing better than that," said Frank.
+
+"What are you doing,--selling papers?"
+
+"No; I have given that up. I am a telegraph boy."
+
+"How much do you make?"
+
+"Seven dollars last week."
+
+"Why, you will be rich," said the blind man, enviously. "I don't think I
+get as much as that myself, and I have to pay a boy out of it."
+
+His poor guide did not have the appearance of being very liberally paid.
+
+"Then you won't come back?" said Mills, querulously.
+
+"No, I guess not."
+
+"Come along, boy!" said Mills, roughly, to his little guide. "Are you
+going to keep me here all day?"
+
+"I thought you wanted to speak to this boy."
+
+"Well, I have got through. He has deserted me. It is the way of the
+world. There's nobody to pity the poor, blind man."
+
+"Here's five cents for old acquaintance' sake. Mr. Mills," said Frank,
+dropping a nickel into the hand of the boy who was guiding him.
+
+"Thank you! May you never know what it is to be blind!" said Mills, in
+his professional tone.
+
+"If I am, I hope I can see as well as you," thought Frank. "What a
+precious old humbug he is, and how I pity that poor boy! If I had a
+chance I would give him something to save him from starvation."
+
+Frank walked on, quite elated at the change in his circumstances which
+allowed him to give money in charity to the person who had once been his
+employer. He would have given it more cheerfully if in his estimation
+the man had been more worthy.
+
+Frank's errand took him up Broadway. He had two or three stops to make,
+which made it inconvenient for him to ride. A little way in front of him
+he saw a boy of fourteen, whom he recognized as an errand-boy, and a
+former fellow-lodger at the Newsboy's Lodging-House. He was about to
+hurry forward and join John Riley,--for this was the boy's name,--when
+his attention was attracted, and his suspicions aroused, by a man who
+accosted John. He was a man of about thirty, rather showily dressed,
+with a gold chain dangling from his vest.
+
+"Johnny," he said, addressing the errand-boy "do you want to earn ten
+cents?"
+
+"I should like to," answered the boy, "but I am going on an errand, and
+can't spare the time."
+
+"It won't take five minutes," said the young man. "It is only to take
+this note up to Mr. Conant's room, on the fourth floor of this
+building."
+
+They were standing in front of a high building occupied as offices.
+
+The boy hesitated.
+
+"Is there an answer?" he asked.
+
+"No; you can come right down as soon as the letter is delivered."
+
+"I suppose I could spare the time for that," said John Riley.
+
+"Of course you can. It won't take you two minutes. Here is the ten
+cents. I'll hold your bundle for you while you run up."
+
+"All right!" said the errand-boy, and, suspecting nothing, he
+surrendered his parcel, and taking the note and the dime, ran upstairs.
+
+No sooner was he out of sight than the young man began to walk off
+rapidly with the bundle. It was an old trick, that has been many times
+played upon unsuspecting boys, and will continue to be played as long as
+there are knavish adventurers who prefer dishonest methods of getting a
+living to honest industry.
+
+In this case, however, the rogue was destined to disappointment. It may
+be stated that he had been present in the dry-goods store from which the
+parcel came, and, knowing that the contents were valuable, had followed
+the boy.
+
+No sooner did Frank understand the fellow's purpose than he pursued him,
+and seized him by the arm.
+
+"What do you want of me?" demanded the rogue, roughly. "I am in a hurry
+and can't be detained."
+
+"I want you to give me that bundle which you are trying to steal from my
+friend, John Riley."
+
+The rogue's countenance changed.
+
+"What do you mean?" he demanded, to gain time.
+
+"I mean that I heard your conversation with him, and I know your game.
+Come back, or I will call a policeman."
+
+The young man was sharp enough to see that he must give up his purpose.
+
+"There, take the bundle," he said, tossing it into Frank's arms. "I was
+only going for a cigar; I should have brought it back."
+
+When John Riley came downstairs, with the letter in his hand,--for he
+had been unable to find any man named Conant in the building,--he found
+Frank waiting with the parcel.
+
+"Holloa, Frank! Where's that man that sent me upstairs? I can't find Mr.
+Conant."
+
+"Of course you can't. There's no such man in the building. That man was
+a thief; but for me he would have carried off your bundle."
+
+"What a fool I was!" said the errand-boy. "I won't let myself be fooled
+again."
+
+"Don't give up a bundle to a stranger again," said Frank. "I'm only a
+country boy, but I don't allow myself to be swindled as easily as you."
+
+"I wish that chap would come here again," said Johnny, indignantly. "But
+I've come out best, after all," he added, brightening up. "I've made ten
+cents out of him."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+A RICH WOMAN'S SORROW.
+
+
+One day Frank was summoned to a handsome residence on Madison avenue.
+
+"Sit down in the parlor," said the servant "and I will call Mrs.
+Graham."
+
+As Frank looked around him, and noted the evidences of wealth in the
+elegant furniture and rich ornaments profusely scattered about, he
+thought, "How rich Mrs. Graham must be! I suppose she is very happy. I
+should be if I could buy everything I wanted."
+
+It was a boy's thought, and betrayed our hero's inexperience. Even
+unlimited means are not sure to produce happiness, nor do handsome
+surroundings prove wealth.
+
+Five minutes later an elderly lady entered the room. She was richly
+dressed, but her face wore a look of care and sorrow.
+
+As she entered, Frank rose with instinctive politeness, and bowed.
+
+"You are the telegraph boy," said the lady, inquiringly.
+
+"Yes, ma'am."
+
+Mrs. Graham looked at him earnestly, as if to read his character.
+
+"I have sent for you," she said, at length, "to help me in a matter of
+some delicacy, and shall expect you not to speak of it, even to your
+employers."
+
+"They never question me," said Frank, promptly. "You may rely upon my
+secrecy."
+
+Frank's statement was correct. The business entrusted to telegraph
+messengers is understood to be of a confidential nature, and they are
+instructed to guard the secrets of those who make use of their services.
+
+"I find it necessary to raise some money," continued the lady,
+apparently satisfied, "and am not at liberty, for special reasons, to
+call upon my husband for it. I have a diamond ring of considerable
+value, which I should like to have you carry, either to a jeweller or a
+pawnbroker, and secure what advance you can upon it."
+
+"And I believed she had plenty of money," thought Frank, wondering.
+
+"I will do the best I can for you, madam," said our hero.
+
+Mrs. Graham drew from her pocket a small box, containing a diamond ring,
+which sparkled brilliantly in the sunshine.
+
+"It is beautiful," said Frank, admiringly.
+
+"Yes, it cost originally eight hundred dollars," said the lady.
+
+"Eight hundred dollars!" echoed Frank, in wonder. He had heard of
+diamond rings, and knew they were valuable, but had no idea they were so
+valuable as that.
+
+"How much do you expect to get on it?" he asked.
+
+"Nothing near its value, of course, nor is that necessary. Two hundred
+dollars will be as much as I care to use, and at that rate I shall be
+able the sooner to redeem it. I believe I will tell you why I want the
+money."
+
+"Not unless you think it best," said Frank.
+
+"It is best, for I shall again require your services in disposing of the
+money."
+
+The lady sat down on the sofa beside Frank, and told him the story which
+follows:--
+
+"I have two children," she said, "a daughter and a son. The son has
+recently graduated from college, and is now travelling in Europe. My
+daughter is now twenty-six years of age. She was beautiful, and our
+social position was such that my husband, who is a proud man,
+confidently anticipated that she would make a brilliant match. But at
+the age of nineteen Ellen fell in love with a clerk in my husband's
+employ. He was a young man of good appearance and character, and nothing
+could be said against him except that he was poor. This, however, was
+more than enough in Mr. Graham's eyes. When Lawrence Brent asked for the
+hand of our daughter, my husband drove him from the house with insult,
+and immediately discharged him from his employ. Ellen was high-spirited,
+and resented this treatment of the man she loved. He soon obtained a
+place quite as good as the one he had lost, and one day Ellen left the
+house and married him. She wrote to us, excusing her action, and I would
+gladly have forgiven her; but her father was obdurate. He forbade my
+mentioning her name to him, and from that day to this he has never
+referred to her.
+
+"I am now coming to the business in which you are to help me. For years
+my son-in-law was able to support his wife comfortably, and also the two
+children which in time came to them. But, a year since, he became sick,
+and his sickness lasted till he had spent all his savings. Now he and
+his poor family are living in wretched lodgings, and are in need of the
+common necessaries of life. It is for them I intend the money which I
+can secure upon this ring."
+
+Frank could not listen without having his sympathies aroused.
+
+"I shall be still more glad to help you," he said, "now that I know how
+the money is to be used."
+
+"Thank you," said the lady. "You are a good boy, and I see that I can
+trust you implicitly."
+
+She handed Frank the box, enjoining upon him to be careful not to lose
+it.
+
+"It is so small that it might easily slip from your pocket," she said.
+
+"I shall take the best care of it," said Frank. "Where would you advise
+me to go first?"
+
+"I hardly know. If I wished to sell it I would carry it to Tiffany; but
+it was purchased there, and it might in that case come to my husband's
+ears. There is a pawnbroker, named Simpson, who, I hear, is one of the
+best of his class. You may go there first."
+
+"How much shall I say you want on it?" asked Frank.
+
+"Don't mention my name at all," said the lady, hastily.
+
+"I suppose I shall have to give some name," said Frank, "in order that
+the ticket may be made out."
+
+"What is your own name?"
+
+"Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"Have you a mother living?"
+
+"No," said Frank, gravely.
+
+"Then let the ticket be made out in your name."
+
+"If you wish it."
+
+"Shall I bring the money to you, Mrs. Graham?"
+
+"No; my husband might be at home, and it would arouse his suspicions. At
+twelve o'clock I will meet you at Madison Park, at the corner opposite
+the Union League Club House. You can then report to me your success."
+
+"Very well," said Frank.
+
+He went at once to the pawnbroker mentioned by Mrs. Graham. But for his
+uniform he would have been questioned closely as to how he came by the
+ring; but telegraph boys are so often employed on similar errands that
+the pawnbroker showed no surprise. After a careful examination he agreed
+to advance two hundred dollars, and gave Frank the money and the ticket.
+When Frank gave his own name, he said, "That is your name, is it not?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"But the ring does not belong to you?"
+
+"No; it belongs to a lady who does not wish her name known."
+
+"It is all the same to us."
+
+"That was easily done," thought Frank. "Now I must go and meet Mrs.
+Graham."
+
+"Have you got the money?" asked Mrs. Graham, anxiously, as Frank made
+his appearance.
+
+"Yes," replied Frank.
+
+"How much?"
+
+"The amount you asked for."
+
+"That is well. Now I shall be able to relieve my poor daughter. I cannot
+bear to think of her and her poor children suffering for the lack of
+bread, while I am living in luxury. I wish Mr. Graham was not so
+unforgiving."
+
+"Will you take the money now?" asked Frank.
+
+"I wish you to take fifty dollars to my daughter."
+
+"I will do so with pleasure. What is her address?"
+
+Mrs. Graham drew out a card, on which she had pencilled her daughter's
+address. It proved to be a tenement-house on the east side of the city,
+not far from Fourteenth street.
+
+"I wish I could go myself," said Mrs. Graham, sadly; "but I do not dare
+to do so at present. Give Ellen this money, with my best love; and say
+to her that a month hence I will again send her the same sum. Tell her
+to keep up good courage. Brighter days may be in store."
+
+"I will be sure to remember," said Frank, in a tone of sympathy.
+
+The errand was to his taste; for he was about to carry help and comfort
+to those who needed both.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+A MESSENGER OF GOOD TIDINGS.
+
+
+There stands a large tenement-house on East Fourteenth street, five
+stories in height, and with several entrances. Scores of barefooted and
+scantily attired children play in the halls or on the sidewalk in front,
+and the great building is a human hive, holding scores of families. Some
+of them, unaccustomed to live better, are tolerably content with their
+squalid and contracted accommodations; but a few, reduced by gradual
+steps from respectability and comfort, find their positions very hard to
+bear.
+
+On the third floor three small rooms were occupied by Mr. and Mrs.
+Robert Morgan, and their two children. She was the daughter of Mrs.
+Graham, and had been reared in affluence. How she had incurred her
+father's displeasure has already been told. He had been taken sick some
+months before, his little stock of money had melted away, and now he was
+unable even to pay the small expenses of life in a tenement-house.
+
+Just before Frank made his appearance there was sadness in the little
+household.
+
+"How much money is there left, Ellen?" asked Robert Morgan.
+
+"Seventy-five cents," she answered, in a tone which she tried to make
+cheerful.
+
+"And our week's rent will become due to-morrow."
+
+"I may hear from mother," suggested Mrs. Morgan.
+
+"If you don't, I don't know what will become of us all. We shall be
+thrust into the street. Even this squalid home will be taken from us."
+
+"Don't get discouraged, Robert."
+
+"Isn't there enough to make me despondent, Ellen? I can see now that I
+did very wrong to marry you."
+
+"Do you regret our marriage, then, Robert?" asked his wife.
+
+"Only because it has brought you poverty and discomfort."
+
+"I have not yet regretted it."
+
+"How different a position you would have occupied if I had not dragged
+you down! You would still be living in luxury."
+
+"I should not have you and these dear children."
+
+"And will they compensate you for what has come upon you?"
+
+"Yes," she answered, emphatically.
+
+"You have more philosophy than I have, Ellen."
+
+"More trust, perhaps. Do you know, Robert, I think we are on the eve of
+good fortune?"
+
+"I hope so, but I see no prospects of it."
+
+Just then there was a knock at the door.
+
+Thinking that it might be some humble neighbor, on a borrowing
+expedition, Mrs. Morgan opened the door. Before her stood our hero in
+his uniform.
+
+"Is this Mrs. Robert Morgan?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes," she answered.
+
+"I come from your mother."
+
+"From my mother? Robert, do you hear that?" said the poor woman, in a
+voice of gladness. "Here is a messenger from my mother. Didn't I tell
+you there was good luck in store for us?"
+
+Mr. Morgan did not answer. He waited anxiously to hear what Frank had to
+communicate.
+
+"Your mother sends you her love, and fifty dollars," continued Frank.
+"She hopes to call soon herself."
+
+"Fifty dollars!" exclaimed Ellen Morgan, in delight. "It is a fortune."
+
+"Thank Heaven!" ejaculated her husband, in great relief.
+
+"A month hence you may expect a similar sum," said Frank. "I suppose I
+shall bring it. Shall I find you here?"
+
+Ellen Morgan looked at her husband.
+
+"No," said he. "Let us get out of this neighborhood as soon as possible.
+Can't you find a respectable place to-day?"
+
+"Yes," said his wife. "I shall be glad to move. I saw some neat rooms on
+West Twentieth street on Monday. They will cost us but little more, and
+will suit us better."
+
+"I will send my mother my new address," she said to Frank.
+
+"Then you may send it under cover to me, and I will see that she gets it
+privately," said Frank, who had received instructions to that effect
+from Mrs. Graham.
+
+When Frank had left the room the little household seemed quite
+transformed. Hope had entered, and all looked more cheerful.
+
+"We are provided for, for two months, Robert," said his wife. "Is not
+that a piece of good luck?"
+
+"Yes, indeed it is," he answered heartily. "Before that time I can get
+to work again, and with health and employment I shall not need to ask
+favors of any one."
+
+"I wish father were as forgiving as mother," said Ellen Morgan.
+
+"Your father is a hard man. He will never forgive you for marrying a
+poor man. He would punish you by starvation."
+
+"He is very proud," said Mrs. Morgan. "I was an only daughter, you know,
+and he had set his heart upon my making a brilliant marriage."
+
+"As you might have done."
+
+"As I did not care to do. I preferred to make a happy marriage with the
+man of my choice."
+
+"You are a good wife, Ellen."
+
+"I hope you will always find me so, Robert."
+
+"I should have sunk utterly if you had been like some women."
+
+In the afternoon Mrs. Morgan went out, taking one of her children with
+her. She went to the rooms on West Twentieth street, and, finding them
+still vacant, secured them, paying a month's rent in advance, as her
+mother's timely gift enabled her to do. Before the next evening they
+were installed in their new home, and Mrs. Morgan sent a note to her
+mother, under cover to Frank, apprising her of the removal.
+
+Two days later Frank received a summons to the house on Madison avenue.
+He obeyed, thinking he should probably be sent with some message to Mrs.
+Morgan.
+
+He found Mrs. Graham in a state of nervous excitement.
+
+"My husband has been stricken with paralysis," she said. "It is terribly
+sudden. He went out yesterday, apparently in vigorous health. He was
+brought home pale and helpless."
+
+"Can I do anything for him or you?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes; you can go at once to my daughter, and summon her to her father's
+bedside."
+
+Frank was surprised, remembering how obdurate Mrs. Graham had described
+her husband to be.
+
+"You look surprised," she said; "but sickness often produces a great
+change in us. My husband's pride has given way. His affection has
+returned; and it is at his request that I send for Ellen."
+
+Frank had come to feel a personal interest in the family, and he gladly
+set out for the modest home in West Twentieth street. He felt that it
+was pleasant to be a messenger of reconciliation.
+
+Mrs. Morgan recognized him at once, and received him cordially.
+
+"Do you come from my mother?" she asked.
+
+"Yes. She wishes you to come home at once."
+
+"But--my father."
+
+"Your father is very sick; and he joins in the request."
+
+"It has come at last,--the time I have looked forward to for so long,"
+said Ellen Morgan, clasping her hands. "Robert, do you feel equal to
+looking after the children while I am gone?"
+
+"Yes, Ellen. Go at once. God grant that your father's heart may be
+softened, for your sake. For myself I am content to live in poverty; but
+I don't like to see you suffer."
+
+"What is the matter with father? Did my mother tell you?"
+
+Frank explained, and thus gave her fresh cause for anxiety.
+
+On reaching her father's chamber she was shocked by his changed
+appearance; but her heart was gladdened by the wan smile that lighted
+up his face, assuring her that she was welcome. From the doctor she
+received the assurance that her father was in no immediate danger.
+Indeed, he expressed a confident hope that Mr. Graham would rally from
+his present attack, and be able to go about his business again, though
+caution would be required against undue excitement or fatigue.
+
+The doctor's prediction was verified. Mr. Graham recovered; but his old
+pride and obduracy did not come back. He became reconciled to his
+son-in-law, and provided him a well-paid position in his own mercantile
+establishment, and provided rooms in the Madison-avenue mansion for the
+little family whom Frank had first visited in the squalid tenement-house
+in Fourteenth street, and the glad voices of children made the house no
+longer lonely.
+
+"You must call and see us often," said Ellen Morgan to our hero. "I
+shall always remember you as the messenger who brought us good tidings
+at the darkest hour in our fortunes. We shall always welcome you as a
+friend."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A NEW JOB, AND A LETTER FROM HOME.
+
+
+One morning an elderly gentleman entered the office in which Frank was
+employed, and sought an interview with the superintendent.
+
+"I want a smart boy for detective work," he said. "Have you one you can
+recommend?"
+
+The superintendent cast his eyes over the line of boys, and called
+Frank. Our hero's recognition of the disguised counterfeiter by his ring
+had given him a reputation for shrewdness.
+
+"I think this boy will suit you," he said. "Do you wish him to go with
+you now?"
+
+"Yes; I may want him a week."
+
+"Very well."
+
+Frank accompanied the gentleman into the street.
+
+"Have you no other clothes except this uniform?" asked Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then go and put them on. Then report to me at No. -- Broadway."
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+"It is fortunate I have a good suit," thought Frank.
+
+He was not long in exchanging his uniform for the neat suit given him by
+Mr. Bowen. Thus attired, he presented himself in Mr. Hartley's
+counting-room. The merchant surveyed him with approval.
+
+[Illustration: THE MERCHANT SURVEYED WITH APPROVAL.]
+
+"You will enter my service as errand-boy," he said. "You will be sent to
+the post-office, the bank, and on similar errands, in order not to
+excite suspicion of the real object of your presence. Keep your eyes
+open, and I will take an opportunity of explaining to you later what I
+wish you to do."
+
+Frank bowed.
+
+"Mr. Haynes," said the merchant, calling a thin, sallow young man, "I
+have engaged this boy as an errand-boy. Has any one been to the
+post-office this morning?"
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"Then he will go."
+
+Haynes regarded Frank with disfavor.
+
+"I have a nephew who would have liked the position," he said.
+
+"Too late now," said the merchant, curtly.
+
+"What is your name, boy?" asked Haynes, coldly..
+
+"Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"How did Mr. Hartley happen to engage you?" asked the subordinate.
+
+"A gentleman recommended me," Frank answered.
+
+"I had already mentioned my nephew to him. I am surprised he said
+nothing to me about engaging a boy."
+
+Frank said nothing, feeling no particular interest in the matter. As he
+was only filling temporarily the position of errand boy, it made little
+difference to him whether he was acceptable to Mr. Haynes or not.
+
+In the course of the day Mr. Hartley handed Frank a card, containing the
+street and number of his residence, with a pencilled invitation to call
+that evening.
+
+Of course Frank did so.
+
+Seated alone with the merchant in his back parlor, the latter said, "I
+have invited you here because I could not speak with you freely at the
+store. How do you like Mr. Haynes?"
+
+Frank was surprised at the abruptness of the question.
+
+"I don't like him," he answered, candidly.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"There is no good reason that I know of," said Frank; "but I think his
+manner is disagreeable."
+
+"Our instincts are often to be trusted," said the merchant,
+thoughtfully. "I confess that I myself don't like Haynes, nor do I feel
+implicit confidence in him, though he has been eight years in the
+service of our house. He is outwardly very circumspect, and apparently
+very faithful, but there is something in his eye which I don't like."
+
+Frank had noticed this, but Mr. Hartley's remark called fresh attention
+to its furtive, crafty expression.
+
+Frank's curiosity was aroused, naturally enough. He wondered what Mr.
+Haynes had to do with his mission. He did not have long to wait for
+information.
+
+"I will come to the point," said Mr. Hartley, after a pause. "I am an
+importing merchant, and deal, among other articles, in silks. During the
+last year I have discovered that some one is systematically robbing me,
+and that parts of my stock have been spirited away. The loss I have
+sustained is already considerable, and unless the leakage is put a stop
+to, I may as well give up business. You can now guess why I have engaged
+you. No one will suspect an errand boy of being a detective, while a man
+would very probably excite distrust, and put the rogue on his guard."
+
+Frank listened attentively to his employer.
+
+"Do you suspect any one in particular, Mr. Hartley?" he asked.
+
+"It must be some one in my employ," he said. "The man who, more than any
+other, has facilities for robbing me is the man of whom I have spoken to
+you."
+
+"Mr. Haynes?"
+
+"Yes, Mr. Haynes. He holds an important position, and enjoys special
+privileges. On the other hand, so far as I can learn, he lives in a
+sober, inexpensive way, quite within his salary, which is liberal. He is
+prominently connected with an up-town church, and it seems very
+improbable that he would be guilty of robbery, or breach of trust; yet
+there have been such cases before. At any rate, I cannot wholly divest
+myself of suspicion."
+
+"What do you wish me to do?" asked Frank.
+
+"To watch Mr. Haynes carefully, both in and out of the store, to
+ascertain whether he has any unexplained expenses, or any questionable
+companions. I want to know how he spends his time out of the office. It
+may be that the result of my investigation will be to his credit. It may
+be that he is all that he seems,--a reputable member of the church and
+of society, with nothing against him but an unpleasant manner. Should
+this be the case, I shall be glad to correct my suspicions, and give him
+back my confidence. In that case, we must look elsewhere for the rogue
+who is robbing me."
+
+"Have you any particular instructions to give me?" asked Frank.
+
+"No, only to follow Haynes, and find out all you can about him. Use
+great care in doing it, not to arouse his or any one else's suspicion. I
+will find an opportunity for you to make your reports."
+
+"Very well, sir."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+When Frank got home, he found a letter awaiting him from his country
+home. It was in answer to one which he had written to his uncle, Deacon
+Pelatiah Kavanagh, in reference to a trunk which had belonged to his
+father.
+
+This is the letter:--
+
+     MY DEAR NEPHEW,--I am glad to learn that you are making a living in
+     the city. It is much better that you should earn your own living
+     than to be a burden upon me, though of course I would not see you
+     suffer. But a man's duty is to his own household, and my income
+     from the farm is very small, and Hannah and I agreed that we had
+     little to spare for others.
+
+     There is an old trunk, belonging to your deceased father, in the
+     attic. It contains some old clothes, which may be made over for
+     you, and so save you expense. I would use them myself, and allow
+     you for them, but your father was a much smaller man than I, and
+     his clothes would not fit me. I will send the trunk by express to
+     the address which you gave me. Of course I shall expect you to pay
+     the express, as I have no interest in it, or its contents.
+
+     Your cousin Jonathan has left school, and is working on the farm. I
+     feel _so_ glad that he has no extravagant tastes, but inherits the
+     careful and economical habits of his mother and myself. I am sure
+     he will never waste or squander the little property which I hope to
+     leave him.
+
+"I don't believe he will," thought Frank, "for he is about as mean as
+his mother, and that is saying a good deal."
+
+     Your aunt and I hope that you will steer clear of the temptations
+     of the city. Do not seek after vain amusements, but live a sober
+     life, never spending a cent unnecessarily, and you will in time
+     become a prosperous man. I would invite you to come and stop with
+     us over Sunday, but for the railroad fare, which is high. It will
+     be better to save your money, and put off the visit till you can
+     afford it.
+
+     Your uncle,
+     PELATIAH KAVANAGH.
+
+Reading this letter, it would hardly be supposed that the writer owned
+ten thousand dollars in stocks, bonds, and mortgages, over and above an
+excellent farm. Such, however, was the worldly position of the man who
+sent Frank to the city in quest of a living, because he could not afford
+to provide for him. With some men prudence is a virtue; with Deacon
+Pelatiah Kavanagh it was carried so far as to be a positive defect.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+FRANK'S FIRST DISCOVERY.
+
+
+So far as Frank could observe, Mr. Haynes was an active, energetic
+salesman. He appeared to understand his duties thoroughly, and to go
+about them in a straightforward manner. So far as his personal habits
+were concerned, they seemed irreproachable. He was neatly but plainly
+dressed, wore no jewelry, and carried a plain silver watch, which, when
+new, probably did not cost over twenty dollars.
+
+Frank had no difficulty in ascertaining where he lived. It was in a
+brick house, on Waverley place, very unpretentious and certainly not
+fashionable. In order to find out how much he paid for his
+accommodations Frank visited the house on pretence of being in search of
+board.
+
+"We have a hall bed-room on the third floor, at five dollars a week,
+including board," said the landlady. "How would that suit you?"
+
+"I may have a friend board with me," said Frank. "In that case we should
+need a large room. Have you any vacant?"
+
+"There is the front room on the third floor. We would let it to two
+gentlemen at eleven dollars for the two."
+
+"Isn't the back room cheaper?" inquired our hero.
+
+"Yes; but it is occupied by a business gentleman."
+
+"Can you tell me his name? I may be acquainted with him."
+
+"His name is Haynes."
+
+"How much does he pay?"
+
+"He pays eight dollars a week, and has the room alone."
+
+"I suppose his room is not likely to become vacant soon?"
+
+"Oh, dear, no. He has been with us for several years. We should be sorry
+to lose him. Last Christmas he gave my daughter a present of a nice
+silk-dress pattern."
+
+Frank was struck by this information.
+
+"I don't believe he paid anything for the silk," thought he. "I wish I
+could find out."
+
+He had learned all he cared for, and left, saying he might call again.
+
+"His expenses seem very moderate for a man in his position," thought
+Frank. "I wonder if he makes any investments."
+
+Fortune favored our hero in the prosecution of his inquiry. Keeping
+Haynes in sight, as was his custom, he observed that the latter, in
+pulling out a handkerchief from the breast-pocket of his coat, had
+brought with it a letter also. Frank, quickly and unobserved, picked it
+up, and when he was alone looked at the address. It was directed to
+James Haynes, at his residence in Waverley place. On the envelope was
+the printed address of a real-estate broker in Brooklyn.
+
+Frank knew that there was at that time considerable speculation in
+Brooklyn real estate, and he examined the letter. It ran thus:--
+
+     We have found a corner lot, with several lots adjoining, near
+     Prospect Park, which may be obtained for five thousand dollars,
+     half cash. We have no hesitation in recommending the purchase,
+     being convinced, from the tendencies of the market, that the buyer
+     will double his money in a comparatively short time. If you are
+     engaged at other times, come over on Sunday afternoon, and we will
+     show you the property. The house you purchased of us last year is
+     worth fully a thousand dollars more than the price you gave.
+
+"I wonder how much he gave," said Frank to himself.
+
+The letter was signed "Henderson & Co., No. -- Fulton street."
+
+Our hero was elated by the discovery he had made, and he sought an
+interview with Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Have you discovered anything?" asked the merchant, noticing the eager
+look of his young detective.
+
+Without attaching especial importance to the fact, Frank answered, "I
+have found out that Mr. Haynes owns a house in Brooklyn."
+
+"Indeed!" said Hartley, quickly. "But," he continued more slowly, "he
+might buy one with the money saved from his salary."
+
+"He is also thinking of buying some lots near Prospect Park."
+
+"How did you learn this?" asked the merchant, surprised.
+
+"I would rather not tell you," said Frank, who was not quite sure
+whether Mr. Hartley would sanction his examination of a private letter.
+"You may be sure that it is true."
+
+"Very well; I will rest contented with that assurance. I will leave you
+to work in your own way. Your information is important, for it seems to
+show that Mr. Haynes has made investments beyond his ability, if he were
+dependent upon his savings alone."
+
+"That is what I thought," said Frank. "I must try to find out where he
+gets this extra money."
+
+"If you do that, and prove my suspicions correct, I will make you a
+handsome present, besides paying the company regular rates for your
+services."
+
+"Thank you, sir. I will try to earn your gifts."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+FOLLOWING UP A CLUE.
+
+
+This is not a detective story, and I shall not, therefore, detail the
+steps by which our young hero succeeded in tracing out the agency of
+Haynes in defrauding the firm by which he was employed. It required not
+one week, but three, to follow out his clues, and qualify himself to
+make a clear and intelligible report to Mr. Hartley. He had expressly
+requested the merchant not to require any partial report, as it might
+interfere with his working unobserved. Towards the end of the third week
+he asked an interview with Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Well, Frank," said the merchant, familiarly, "who is the rogue?"
+
+"Mr. Haynes," answered our hero.
+
+"You speak confidently," said his employer; "but surmise will not do. I
+want proof, or I cannot act."
+
+"I will tell you what I have discovered," said Frank; "and I leave you
+to judge for yourself."
+
+"Have you a customer in Hartford named Davis?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; and a very good customer. He is frequent in his orders, and makes
+prompt payments. I wish I had more like him."
+
+"If you had more like him you would soon be bankrupt," said Frank,
+quietly.
+
+"What do you mean?" asked Mr. Hartley, in genuine surprise. "How can a
+customer who buys largely, and pays promptly, be undesirable?"
+
+"Did you know that Mr. Davis is a brother-in-law of Mr. Haynes?"
+
+"No; but even if he is I have to thank Mr. Haynes for securing me so
+excellent a customer."
+
+Hartley spoke confidently, evidently believing that Frank was on the
+wrong tack.
+
+"I have noticed," said Frank, "that when goods are packed to go to Mr.
+Davis, Mr. Haynes personally superintends the packing, and employs one
+particular man to pack."
+
+"What then?"
+
+"I think he has something to conceal."
+
+"I don't understand what he can have to conceal. If Davis is his
+brother-in-law, it is natural that he should feel a special interest in
+filling his orders."
+
+"I shouldn't wonder if Mr. Haynes were a partner as well as a
+brother-in-law of Mr. Davis."
+
+Mr. Hartley looked surprised.
+
+"That may be true; though I don't know why you should conjecture it.
+Admitting that you are right, I don't know that I have any right to
+object. I should like it better, however, if I were frankly told by Mr.
+Haynes of this circumstance."
+
+"I will tell you what I think I have discovered," continued Frank. "The
+cases that are shipped to Mr. Davis not only contain the goods he has
+ordered, but valuable silks that he has not ordered, and does not
+propose to pay for."
+
+"I see, I see," exclaimed Mr. Hartley, a light dawning upon him for the
+first time. "I was stupid not to comprehend your meaning earlier. What
+warrant have you for suspecting this?"
+
+"First, your steady losses of goods; next, the ease with which Mr.
+Haynes, in his position of trust, could carry out this plan. Why should
+he superintend the packing of Mr. Davis's goods, alone of all your
+customers?"
+
+"There is weight in what you say, Frank. You are certainly an
+extraordinary boy. You have shown so much shrewdness that I now ask your
+advice. What steps shall I take to ascertain whether Mr. Haynes is
+really guilty of what we suspect him?"
+
+"There is an order now being filled for Mr. Davis," answered Frank.
+"When the order is filled, can't you open the case, and find out whether
+the contents correspond exactly to the bill?"
+
+"The very thing. To facilitate matters I will send Mr. Haynes to
+Brooklyn on a confidential errand. Fortunately there is a matter that
+will give me a good excuse for doing so. Go back to your post, and when
+Mr. Haynes appears to be at liberty send him to me."
+
+Half an hour later Mr. Haynes entered the counting room of his
+employer.
+
+"You sent for me, sir?" he said, a little uneasily; for, when conscience
+accuses, the mind is always apprehensive.
+
+"Yes, Mr. Haynes," said the merchant, in his usual tone. "Have you any
+objection to go to Brooklyn for me, on a confidential errand?"
+
+"None in the world, sir," said Haynes, relieved. "I shall be glad to
+take the trip this fine morning. It is almost too pleasant to remain
+in-doors."
+
+"Thank you; I will give you your instructions, and shall be glad to have
+you go at once."
+
+It is not necessary to our story that we should know the nature of the
+errand on which Haynes was sent. It served the purpose of getting him
+out of the way.
+
+When the suspected clerk was fairly on his way Mr. Hartley went to the
+packing-room, and looked about him till he discovered the case addressed
+to
+
+    H. L. DAVIS & CO.,
+    HARTFORD, CONN.
+
+"Open this case," said he to one of the workmen. "There was a mistake
+recently in sending some goods to Davis, and I wish to compare these
+with the bill."
+
+"I think they are all right, sir," said the man addressed. "Mr. Haynes
+saw them packed."
+
+"Mr. Haynes will not be responsible for any mistake," said Mr. Hartley.
+"I would rather see for myself."
+
+The case was opened, and the merchant discovered about two hundred
+dollars' worth of silk, which was not included in the bill.
+
+"Go and call Mr. Hunting," said Mr. Hartley, quietly.
+
+Mr. Hunting filled one of the most important positions in the
+establishment. To him his employer explained the nature of his
+discovery.
+
+"Mr. Hunting," he said, "I wish you to see and attest the fraud that has
+been attempted upon me. This case was packed under the special charge of
+Mr. Haynes."
+
+"Is it possible that Mr. Haynes knew of this?" exclaimed his
+fellow-clerk.
+
+"Davis is his brother-in-law," said Mr. Hartley, significantly.
+
+"Has this been going on long, do you think, sir?"
+
+"For several years, I suspect. Mr. Haynes has, no doubt, found it very
+profitable."
+
+"Shall I close up the case again, sir?" asked the workman.
+
+"Yes, but it is not to go. You may await my further orders."
+
+The silk was taken out, and replaced in the silk department.
+
+"So much has been saved, at least," said the merchant.
+
+"When Mr. Haynes comes back," he said to the usher, "send him to me."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+BROUGHT TO BAY.
+
+
+Mr. Haynes had a private reason for accepting readily the commission to
+visit Brooklyn. It occurred to him at once that it would give him an
+excellent chance to call on his real-estate agent, and confer with him
+upon future investments. For James Haynes had the comfortable
+consciousness that he was a prosperous man. Month by month, and year by
+year, he was adding largely to his gains, and while he was still a young
+man he would be rich, _if all went well_.
+
+Of course this meant if his peculations remained undiscovered. Why
+should they not be? He plumed himself on the skill with which he managed
+to rob his employer. He was no vulgar bungler to break into the store,
+or enter into an alliance with burglars. Not he! The property he took
+was carried off openly before Mr. Hartley's very eyes, and he knew
+nothing of it. He did not even suspect that he was being robbed. This is
+what Mr. Haynes thought; but, as we know, he was mistaken. Even now he
+was in a net; but did not know it.
+
+After attending to Mr. Hartley's commission Haynes went to see his
+broker. The conversation he had with the broker was of a very
+encouraging character. He was congratulated upon his investments, and
+assured that they would pay him handsomely.
+
+James Haynes returned from Brooklyn in a very pleasant mood.
+
+"A year or two more of life as a clerk, and I will throw off the yoke,"
+he said to himself. "I must be worth at least fifteen thousand dollars
+now, apart from any rise in the value of my investments. When I reach
+twenty-five thousand I will resign my position, and go to Europe. I
+shall than possess an income adequate to my simple wants."
+
+"Is Mr. Hartley in the counting-room?" he asked, as he reëntered the
+store.
+
+"Yes, sir, and he wishes to see you."
+
+"Of course he wants to see me,--to hear my report."
+
+The merchant looked up as Haynes entered the counting-room.
+
+"So you are back?" he said, gravely.
+
+"Yes, sir; I was detained a little, but I fulfilled my commission."
+
+"That is well."
+
+Here Haynes made his report. Mr. Hartley listened with an abstracted
+air, for his thoughts were upon the defalcation of the man before him.
+
+Finishing his statement, James Haynes turned to leave the office, but
+his employer called him back.
+
+"Wait a minute, Mr. Haynes," he said, gravely. "I wish to ask you one or
+two questions."
+
+"Certainly, sir."
+
+"I believe we have transactions with a party in Hartford, with the
+firm-name of H. L. Davis & Co.?"
+
+"Yes, sir," said Haynes, starting and flushing a little.
+
+"Is Mr. Davis a relative of yours?"
+
+"Yes, sir. I wonder where he heard that?" Haynes asked himself. "Is
+there any trouble? Is he behind in his payments?" inquired the clerk.
+
+"No; he has always settled his bills with commendable promptness."
+
+"I insisted on that," said Haynes, in a satisfied tone. "I didn't want
+you to lose by any connection of mine."
+
+"And you are quite sure that I have lost nothing by Mr. Davis?" demanded
+the merchant, regarding Haynes intently.
+
+The latter changed color.
+
+"How is that possible," he inquired, "since he has met his payments
+promptly?"
+
+"You have personally seen to the packing of Mr. Davis's goods, I
+believe, Mr. Haynes?"
+
+"Well--generally," stammered the rather disconcerted clerk.
+
+"At all events, you did so this morning?"
+
+"Ye-es."
+
+"After you started for Brooklyn, I had the case opened, and found some
+patterns of silk not included in the bill."
+
+"I suppose there was a mistake," said Haynes, turning pale.
+
+"You think this has not happened before?"
+
+"I am sure of it."
+
+"Mr. Haynes," said his employer, sternly, "you may as well drop the mask
+of innocence. I have been robbed systematically for the last three
+years, and I now understand how it was done. You and Davis, between you,
+have plundered me in an exceedingly ingenious manner. It will go hard
+with you before a jury."
+
+"You won't have me arrested!" exclaimed Haynes, his pallor indicating
+his dismay.
+
+"Why should I not?"
+
+"You could prove nothing."
+
+"I will take my chance of that. Have you nothing more to say?"
+
+"I--though I do not admit that your charge is correct--I am willing to
+make over to you the greater part of my property, to avoid the scandal
+of a trial."
+
+"That will not do, Mr. Haynes. Were I to accept this upon such a ground,
+you could rightfully bring against me a charge of blackmail."
+
+"What, then, are your terms?" asked Haynes, sullenly.
+
+"You must write out a confession of your guilt, which I shall put among
+my private papers, and not make public unless necessary, and in addition
+you must make over to me property to the amount of ten thousand dollars.
+It will not make up my losses, but I will accept it as restitution in
+full."
+
+Against this James Haynes most strongly protested, alleging that the sum
+demanded was far beyond the amount of his purloinings; but finally he
+yielded, being privately resolved to make his brother-in-law pay
+one-half of the forfeiture.
+
+"You will leave my service at the end of the week, Mr. Haynes," said his
+employer, "and during next week you must attend to the transfer."
+
+"How did he find out?" said Haynes to himself, as with grave face he
+went about the duties of the place he was so soon to leave. "If I could
+find out, I would have my revenge."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+AN OPEN ENEMY.
+
+
+Frank remained with Mr. Hartley till the guilty clerk left the
+establishment. This was at the special request of the merchant, who did
+not care to let Mr. Haynes suspect who had been instrumental in bringing
+his guilt to light.
+
+"I suppose you have no further use for me, now, Mr. Hartley?" said the
+telegraph boy.
+
+"Not at present, Frank," said his employer, kindly.
+
+"Then I will report for duty at the telegraph office."
+
+"Wait a moment. You have done me a great service."
+
+"I am glad of that sir," answered Frank, modestly.
+
+"You have shown uncommon shrewdness and intelligence."
+
+Frank looked gratified, and expressed his thanks for the compliment.
+
+"I want to make you a present, in addition to the wages which you
+receive from the office," said Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+Mr. Hartley drew from his desk a five-twenty government bond, of one
+hundred dollars, and handed it to our hero.
+
+"Do you mean all this for me?" asked Frank, quite overwhelmed by the
+magnitude of the gift.
+
+"It is not more than you deserve. I might have given you the money value
+of the bond; but I give it to you in this shape, because I hope you will
+keep it as an investment. It will yield you six dollars interest
+annually in gold. I hope the time will come when you will have more
+interest in the same way."
+
+"I hope I shall, sir. I shall feel quite rich now."
+
+"You are richer in the qualities which have won you this acknowledgment.
+How do you like the telegraph service?"
+
+"Very well, sir, for the present. It is much better than being a
+newsboy."
+
+"Exactly; but there are positions you would prefer?"
+
+"Yes, sir; I would like to be in some mercantile business, where I might
+work my way up. In a few years I shall be too old for a telegraph boy,
+and then I shall be out of place."
+
+"I will relieve your fears on that score. In six months I shall make
+some changes in the list of employees. When that time comes I will find
+a place for you."
+
+"There is nothing I should like better, sir," said Frank, his face
+flushing with pleasure.
+
+"I am satisfied that you will make a useful and intelligent clerk. Until
+I want you, remain where you are. The discipline of your present office
+will do you no harm, but will help qualify you for usefulness and
+success in the mercantile career."
+
+"Thank you, sir. Now I have something to look forward to I shall work
+much more cheerfully."
+
+Frank went back to the office, and resumed his ordinary duties. One day
+he was riding down Broadway in a stage, when he became sensible that he
+had attracted the attention of a gentleman sitting opposite. This led
+him to scan the face of the man who was observing him. He at once
+recognized Mr. Haynes.
+
+The stage was not full, and the latter came over, and took a seat next
+to the telegraph boy.
+
+"Isn't your name Frank Kavanagh?" he asked, abruptly.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Were you not for a short time in the employ of Mr. Hartley?"
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, feeling embarrassed, for he knew that he was
+suspected.
+
+"I infer from your uniform that you have left Mr. Hartley."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Why did you leave him?" asked Haynes, sharply.
+
+"Because he had no further occasion for my services. Why did _you_
+leave him?" asked Frank, in turn.
+
+James Haynes colored, and looked angry. However, he answered the
+question.
+
+"I have other business views," he said, briefly.
+
+"So have I."
+
+The next question was also of an embarrassing character.
+
+"Were you a telegraph boy before you entered Mr. Hartley's employ?"
+
+"I was," answered Frank.
+
+"Were you detailed for duty there?"
+
+Our hero thought that he had answered questions enough by this time, and
+signified as much to his questioner.
+
+"If I had been," he said, "I shouldn't be permitted to inform a
+stranger."
+
+"I have particular reasons for asking the question," said Haynes.
+
+"Then you can ask Mr. Hartley, or the superintendent of my office.
+Good-morning, sir, I get out here."
+
+Frank pulled the strap, and got out. But he was not rid of his
+questioner. Haynes got out too, and walked beside our hero.
+
+"I believe," he said, sternly, "that you were sent for to act as a spy
+on me."
+
+"What makes you think so?" asked the telegraph boy, looking him in the
+eye.
+
+"There was a difficulty between Mr. Hartley and myself, occasioned by a
+base and groundless charge, concocted by some enemy. I believe that you
+had something to do with this."
+
+"I have brought no groundless charge against any one," said Frank.
+
+"Did you make any report to Mr. Hartley in regard to me?"
+
+"I must refer you to Mr. Hartley for information," said Frank. "I have
+an errand in here;" and he entered a store in the lower part of
+Broadway.
+
+"There is no doubt about it," thought Haynes.
+
+"That boy was a spy upon me. I have learned all I cared to. I owe you a
+debt of gratitude for this, Frank Kavanagh, and mean to pay the debt."
+
+When Frank came out he thought it possible that Haynes might be waiting
+for him; but the disgraced clerk was gone.
+
+"I suppose he would injure me if he had a chance," thought the telegraph
+boy. "I won't give him the chance if I can help it."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+WHAT THE OLD TRUNK CONTAINED.
+
+
+Mention has been made of an old trunk belonging to Frank's father,
+which, had been forwarded to him from the country by his Uncle Pelatiah.
+It may be mentioned here that our hero's father had been agent of a
+woollen mill in a large manufacturing town. For a considerable number of
+years he had been in receipt of a handsome salary, and had lived in good
+style, but still within his income. He was naturally supposed to possess
+a comfortable property.
+
+His death was sudden. He was thrown from a carriage, and, striking his
+head upon the curbstone, was picked up senseless, and died unconscious.
+Upon examining into his affairs his administrator was unable to find any
+property beyond what was needed to pay the few debts he left behind him.
+So it came about that Frank was left a penniless orphan. His Uncle
+Pelatiah was his nearest relative, and to him he was sent. Pelatiah
+Kavanagh was not a bad man, nor was he intentionally unkind; but he was
+very close. All his life he had denied himself, to save money; and in
+this he had been ably assisted by his wife, who was even closer and
+meaner than her husband. It may readily be supposed that it was very
+disagreeable to both husband and wife to have a penniless nephew thrown
+upon their care and protection.
+
+"How could your brother be so thoughtless and inconsiderate as to use up
+all his money, and leave his son destitute? Didn't he have a handsome
+income?"
+
+"Yes," said Pelatiah. "He got two thousand dollars a year, and maybe
+more."
+
+"You don't say so!" ejaculated his wife. "He'd ought to have saved
+two-thirds of it. I declare it's scandalous for a man to waste his
+substance in that way."
+
+"My brother was allus free with his money. He wasn't so keerful as you
+and I be."
+
+"I should think not, indeed. We don't begin to spend half as much as he
+did, and now he comes upon us to support his child."
+
+"It don't seem right," said Pelatiah.
+
+"Right? It's outrageous!" exclaimed Mrs. Kavanagh, energetically. "I
+declare I have no patience with such a man. It would only be right to
+send this boy Frank to the poor-house."
+
+"The neighbors would talk," protested Pelatiah, who was half inclined to
+accept his wife's view, but was more sensitive to the criticism of the
+community in which he lived.
+
+"Let 'em talk!" said his more independent helpmate. "It isn't right that
+this boy should use up the property that we have scraped together for
+his cousin Jonathan."
+
+"We must keep him for a while, Hannah; but I'll get rid of him as soon I
+can consistently."
+
+With this Mrs. Kavanagh had to be satisfied; but, during her nephew's
+stay of two months in the farm-house, she contrived to make him
+uncomfortable by harsh criticisms of his dead father, whom he had
+tenderly loved.
+
+"You must have lived very extravagant," she said, "or your father would
+have left a handsome property."
+
+"I don't think we did, Aunt Hannah."
+
+"You father kept a carriage,--didn't he?"
+
+"Yes; he had considerable riding to do."
+
+"How much help did he keep?"
+
+"Only one servant in the kitchen, and a stable-boy."
+
+"There was no need of a boy. You could have done the work in the
+stable."
+
+"I was kept at school."
+
+"Oh, of course!" sneered his aunt. "You must be brought up as a young
+gentleman. Our Jonathan never had any such chances, and now you're
+livin' on him, or about the same. I suppose you kept an extravagant
+table too. What did you generally have for breakfast?"
+
+So Aunt Hannah continued her catechising, much to Frank's discomfort.
+She commented severely upon the wastefulness of always having pastry for
+dinner.
+
+"We can't afford it," she said, emphatically; "but then again we don't
+mean to have our Jonathan beholden to anybody in case your uncle and I
+are cast off sudden. What did you have for dinner on Sunday?"
+
+"Meat and pudding and ice-cream,--that is, in warm weather."
+
+"Ice-cream!" ejaculated Aunt Hannah, holding up both hands. "No wonder
+your father didn't leave nothin'. Why, we don't have ice-cream more'n
+once a year, and now we can't afford to have it at all, since we've got
+another mouth to feed."
+
+"I am sorry that you have to stint yourself on my account," replied
+Frank, feeling rather uncomfortable.
+
+"I suppose it's our cross," said Mrs. Kavanagh, gloomily; "but it does
+seem hard that we can't profit by our prudence because of your father's
+wasteful extravagance."
+
+Such remarks were very disagreeable to our young hero, and it was hard
+for him to hear his father so criticised. He supposed they must have
+lived extravagantly, since it was so constantly charged by those about
+him, and he felt puzzled to account for his father's leaving nothing.
+When, after two months, his uncle and aunt, who had deliberated upon
+what was best to be done, proposed to him to go to New York and try to
+earn his own living, he caught at the idea. He knew that he might suffer
+hardships in the new life that awaited him, but if he could support
+himself in any way he would escape from the cruel taunts to which he was
+now forced to listen every day. How he reached the city, and how he
+succeeded, my readers know. We now come to the trunk, which, some time
+after its reception, Frank set about examining.
+
+He found it was filled with clothing belonging to his father. Though a
+part were in good condition it seemed doubtful whether they would be of
+much service to him. It occurred to him to examine the pockets of the
+coats. In one he found a common yellow envelope, bearing his father's
+name. Opening it, he found, to his great astonishment, that it was a
+certificate of railroad stock, setting forth his father's ownership of
+one hundred shares of the capital stock of the said railway.
+
+Our hero was greatly excited by his discovery. This, then, was the form
+in which his father had invested his savings. What the shares were worth
+he had no idea; but he rejoiced chiefly because now he could defend his
+father from the charge of recklessly spending his entire income, and
+saving nothing. He resolved, as soon as he could find time, to visit a
+Wall-street broker, by whom he had occasionally been employed, and
+inquire the value of the stock. Two days afterwards the opportunity
+came, and he availed himself of it at once.
+
+"Can you tell me the value of these shares, Mr. Glynn?" he asked.
+
+"They are quoted to-day at one hundred and ten," answered the broker,
+referring to a list of the day's stock quotations.
+
+"Do you mean that each share is worth a hundred and ten dollars?" asked
+Frank, in excitement.
+
+"Certainly."
+
+"Then the whole are worth five thousand five hundred dollars?"
+
+"Rather more; for the last semi-annual dividend has not been collected.
+To whom do they belong?"
+
+"They did belong to my father. Now I suppose they are mine."
+
+"Has your father's estate been administered upon?"
+
+"Yes; but these shares had not then been found."
+
+"Then some legal steps will be necessary before you can take possession,
+and dispose of them. I will give you the address of a good lawyer, and
+advise you to consult him at once."
+
+Frank did so, and the lawyer wrote to Uncle Pelatiah to acquaint him
+with the discovery. The news created great excitement at the farm.
+
+"Why, Frank's a rich boy!" ejaculated Aunt Hannah.
+
+"And my brother wasn't so foolishly extravagant as we supposed."
+
+"That may be; but with his salary we could have saved more."
+
+"Perhaps we might; but these shares are worth almost six thousand
+dollars. That's a good deal of money, Hannah."
+
+"So it is, Pelatiah. I'll tell you what we'd better do."
+
+"What?"
+
+"Invite Frank to come back and board with us. He can afford to pay
+handsome board, and it seems better that the money should go to us than
+a stranger."
+
+"Just so, Hannah. He could board with us, and go to school."
+
+"You'd better write and invite him to come. I allus liked the boy, and
+if we could have afforded it, I'd have been in favor of keepin' him for
+nothing."
+
+"So would I," said his uncle; and he probably believed it, though after
+what had happened it will be rather difficult for the reader to credit
+it.
+
+The letter was written, but Frank had no desire to return to the old
+farm, and the society of his uncle's family.
+
+"I have got used to the city," he wrote, "and have made a good many
+friends here. I don't know yet whether I shall take a business position,
+or go to school; but, if the latter, the schools here are better than in
+the country. I hope to come and see you before long; but, I would prefer
+to live in New York."
+
+"He's gettin' uppish," said Aunt Hannah, who was considerably
+disappointed, for she had made up her mind just how much they could
+venture to charge for board, and how this would increase their annual
+savings.
+
+"I suppose it's natural for a boy to prefer the city," said his uncle.
+
+"If the boy has a chance to handle his money there won't be much of it
+left by the time he's twenty-one," said Aunt Hannah. "You ought to be
+his guardian."
+
+"He has the right to choose his own guardian," said Uncle Pelatiah.
+"He'll take some city man likely."
+
+Frank did, in fact, select the lawyer, having learned that he was a man
+of high reputation for integrity. He offered it to Mr. Bowen; but that
+gentleman, while congratulating his young friend upon his greatly
+improved prospects, said that he was a man of books rather than of
+business, and would prefer that some other person be selected.
+
+The next thing was to resign his place as telegraph boy.
+
+"We are sorry to lose you," said the superintendent. "Your are one of
+our best boys. Do you wish to go at once?"
+
+"No, sir; I will stay till the end of the month."
+
+"Very well. We shall be glad to have you."
+
+Three weeks yet remained till the close of the month. It was not long,
+but before the time had passed Frank found himself in a very unpleasant
+predicament, from no fault of his own, but in consequence of the enmity
+of the clerk whom he had been instrumental in displacing.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+A TRAP, AND WHO FELL INTO IT.
+
+
+No one rejoiced more sincerely at Frank's good luck than Mrs. Vivian.
+Her interest in our hero had increased, and while at first she regarded
+herself as his patroness she had come now to look upon him as a member
+of the family. Fred had already returned, and Frank, bearing in mind
+that he had only been invited to remain during his absence, proposed to
+find another home, but Mrs. Vivian would not hear of it.
+
+"No," she said, "Fred needs a young companion, and I prefer you to any
+one I know of."
+
+As Fred was of his mother's opinion, Frank readily agreed to stay. He
+occupied a room adjoining the one assigned to Fred, and during his hours
+of leisure the two were constantly together.
+
+"I shall be glad when you leave the telegraph office," said Fred. "Then
+we can be together more."
+
+"You may get tired of me."
+
+"If I do I will let you know."
+
+Two days afterwards Frank was riding down town in a Sixth-avenue car.
+Until he had taken his seat he was not aware that James Haynes was a
+passenger. When a lady who sat between them got out, Haynes moved up, so
+as to sit next to our hero.
+
+"I see you are still in the telegraph service," he said.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Frank, briefly.
+
+"I wonder Mr. Hartley didn't offer you a permanent position in his
+employ," said Haynes, with a sneer. "Spies are useful sometimes."
+
+"He may give me a position sometime," said Frank, not regarding the
+sneer.
+
+"You earned it," said Haynes, unpleasantly.
+
+"Thank you," said Frank, knowing that Haynes would be provoked by his
+appearing to accept the compliment in good faith.
+
+Haynes scowled, but said no more. He drew a morning paper from his
+pocket, and appeared to be absorbed in reading it.
+
+At Canal street Frank rose to leave the car. He had not yet reached the
+door, when Haynes sprang to his feet, followed him quickly, and,
+grasping him by the arm, said, "Not so fast young man! Give me back my
+pocket-book."
+
+Frank was struck with amazement.
+
+"What do you mean?" he asked, indignantly.
+
+"I mean that you have relieved me of my pocket-book. Gentlemen," turning
+to his fellow-passengers, "I demand that this boy be searched."
+
+"You can search me if you like," said Frank. "You know very well that
+your accusation is false."
+
+"I shall be satisfied if you produce what is in your pockets."
+
+"That's fair," said a passenger.
+
+Our hero thrust his hand into his pocket. To his dismay he drew out a
+Russia-leather pocket-book, of which he knew nothing.
+
+"That is my pocket-book, gentlemen," said Haynes, triumphantly. "I can
+tell you exactly what is in it. You will find two five-dollar bills, a
+two and a one. Be kind enough to examine it, sir."
+
+The pocket-book was examined, and, of course, Haynes was correct.
+
+Suspicious glances were directed at poor Frank. Innocent as he was, he
+was so overwhelmed by the suddenness of the charge, and the apparent
+proof of it, that he looked confused and embarrassed.
+
+"You are beginning early, my boy," said a tall gentleman, in a white
+cravat,--a clergyman. "It is well that you are checked in the beginning
+of a guilty career."
+
+"Sir," said Frank, "I am as innocent as you are. This man is my enemy,
+and he must have put the pocket-book in my pocket. He threatened some
+time since to get me into a scrape."
+
+"That story is rather too thin," said Haynes, looking around him with a
+sneer. "You won't find any one here quite verdant enough to believe
+it."
+
+"There you are mistaken," said a gentleman who was seated directly
+opposite to Haynes and Frank. "_I_ believe it."
+
+Haynes scowled at him malignantly.
+
+"I really don't think it very important what you believe, sir. The boy
+is evidently a professional thief, and you may belong to the same gang
+for aught I know. I propose to give him in charge to the next policeman
+we meet."
+
+"Do so," said the stranger, coolly. "I shall be present at his trial,
+and offer some important testimony."
+
+"Indeed!" said Haynes, uneasily. "May I ask what it is?"
+
+"Certainly. _I saw you thrust the wallet into the boy's pocket!_ Of that
+I am willing to make oath."
+
+James Haynes turned pale. There was a sudden change in public opinion.
+It was he who now had become an object of suspicion.
+
+"Young man," said the clergyman, solemnly, "what could have induced you
+to enter into such a wicked conspiracy against the poor boy?"
+
+"Mind your own business!" said Haynes, rudely. "It is a lie."
+
+"It is the truth," said the volunteer witness, calmly.
+
+Here a policeman became visible from the car-window, leisurely walking
+his beat on the western sidewalk.
+
+"There's a policeman," said Frank's new friend. "Call him, and have the
+boy arrested."
+
+"He would be cleared by false testimony," said Haynes, sullenly. "I have
+my money back, and will let him go."
+
+"Then," said the stranger, rising, and displaying the badge of a
+detective, "I shall arrest you on a charge of conspiracy."
+
+Haynes was fairly caught in his own trap.
+
+"This is a put-up job, gentlemen," he said. "Am I to be robbed first,
+and arrested afterwards for exposing the thief?"
+
+He looked about him appealingly; but in vain. Public sentiment was
+wholly against him now.
+
+"O you ould villain!" said a stout Irish woman, "to try to ruin the
+poor b'ye. Hangin's too good for you."
+
+This was rather an extreme sentiment; but Haynes saw that he was in
+peril. He gave an unexpected spring, and, reaching the platform, sprang
+out, running up a side street.
+
+"Do you know him?" asked the detective of Frank.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"How do you account for his hostility to you?"
+
+Frank briefly recounted the story already known to the reader.
+
+"He can easily be found then."
+
+"I hope you will not arrest him, sir," said Frank. "He has been pretty
+well punished already, and I don't think he will trouble me again."
+
+"If he does, send for me," and the detective handed Frank his card and
+address.
+
+"It is fortunate for me," said the telegraph boy, "that you saw him put
+the money in my pocket."
+
+"You would have experienced some inconvenience; but the story you have
+told me would have cleared you with the jury."
+
+"My young friend," said the clergyman, "I owe you an apology. I too
+hastily assumed that you were guilty."
+
+"It looked like it, sir. You were quite justified in what you said. Mr.
+Haynes did not appear to relish your remarks to him," added Frank,
+laughing.
+
+"His crime was greater and meaner than the one charged upon you. To
+steal is certainly a grave offence,--yet sometimes it is prompted by
+necessity; but a deliberate attempt to fasten a false charge upon a
+fellow-creature is vastly more atrocious."
+
+"So it is, sir," said the old Irish woman, nodding assent vigorously. "I
+quite agree wid your honor. It is owtracious."
+
+The passengers smiled at the old woman's mistake; but it was clear that
+they agreed with her in sentiment.
+
+Meanwhile the car had been speeding along, and was near its terminus.
+Frank bethought himself that he had been carried considerably beyond
+his destination.
+
+He pulled the bell, and, as he got out, he said, "Thank you all for
+taking my part."
+
+"We don't quite deserve that," said one of the passengers, after Frank
+had left the car. "I was at first of opinion that the boy was guilty."
+
+"We have been saved from doing a great injustice," said the clergyman.
+"It should be a lesson to all of us not to be too hasty in our
+judgments."
+
+James Haynes in his hurried exit from the car fully believed that he
+would be pursued and arrested. He was relieved to find his fears
+groundless. But he was disappointed at the failure of his scheme. He had
+carefully prepared it, and for several days he had been in readiness to
+carry it into execution whenever he should meet Frank. This morning had
+brought the opportunity; but it had miscarried.
+
+"But for that cursed detective I would have carried the thing through,"
+he muttered. "He spoiled all. I _hate_ that boy!"
+
+But, though revengeful, Haynes was prudent. He gave up the thought of
+injuring Frank because he saw that it would be dangerous to himself. He
+did not remain long in New York, but soon joined his confederate in
+Hartford.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+FRANK BECOMES A GOOD SAMARITAN.
+
+
+The close of the month came, and Frank laid aside his uniform. He was a
+telegraph boy no more.
+
+The superintendent shook hands with him cordially, and bade him good-by.
+
+"Come and see us sometimes," he said. "I wish you all success. Your
+services have been very satisfactory, and you have gained an excellent
+reputation."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Frank. "I have tried to do my duty. Good-by,
+boys!"
+
+He shook hands with all his young comrades, with whom he was very
+popular. They knew of his good fortune, and were disposed to regard him
+as very rich. Six thousand dollars in a boy's eyes is a fortune.
+
+"Now you're rich, Frank, I suppose you won't notice the likes of us,"
+said Johnny O'Connor.
+
+"I hope you don't think as badly of me as that, Johnny," said Frank,
+earnestly. "I am not rich; but, even if I were, I should always be glad
+to meet any of you. If I am ever able to do a favor to any of you I
+will."
+
+"I believe you, Frank," said Johnny. "You was always a good feller."
+
+"Where's Tom Brady?" asked Frank, looking about him. "Is he out on an
+errand?"
+
+"Tom's sick," said the superintendent. "He's got a fever."
+
+"It's bad for him," said Johnny, "for his mother and sister depended on
+Tom's wages. Poor Tom felt bad because he had to give up work."
+
+"Where does he live?" asked Frank, with quick sympathy.
+
+"No. -- East Fourteenth street," answered Johnny. "I know, because I
+live in the same block."
+
+"I'll go and see him."
+
+Frank's heart was not hardened by his own prosperity. He knew what it
+was to be poor, and could enter into the feelings of the unfortunate
+telegraph boy.
+
+Half an hour found him in front of a large tenement-house, in front of
+which were playing children of all ages, most of them showing in their
+faces that unhealthy pallor which so generally marks a tenement-house
+population.
+
+"Do you know where Mrs. Brady lives?" asked Frank of a girl of twelve.
+
+"Which Brady is it?" asked the girl. "There's three lives here."
+
+"It's Tom Brady's mother," answered our hero.
+
+"Is it Tom, the telegraph boy?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I'll show you then. Tom's been sick for some time."
+
+"I know it. I have come to see him."
+
+"Do you know Tom?" asked the girl, in some surprise; for Frank, having
+laid aside his uniform, was handsomely dressed, and looked like the son
+of a rich man.
+
+"Yes, Tom is a friend of mine. I am sorry he's sick."
+
+Up two flights of rickety stairs Frank followed the girl, who halted
+before a door.
+
+"That's the place," said his young guide, and disappeared down the
+stairs, sliding down the banisters. Young ladies in the best society do
+not often indulge in this amusement, but Mary Murphy knew little of
+etiquette or conventionality.
+
+In answer to Frank's knock, the door was opened by Mrs. Brady, a poorly
+clad and care-worn woman.
+
+"What is your wish, young gentleman?" she said.
+
+"I've come to see Tom. How is he?"
+
+"Do you know my Tom?" asked Mrs. Brady, in surprise.
+
+"Yes; is he very sick?"
+
+"The poor boy has got a fever."
+
+"Can I see him?"
+
+"If you'll come into such a poor place, sir. We're very poor, and now
+that Tom's wages is stopped I don't know how we'll get along at all."
+
+"Better than you think, perhaps, Mrs. Brady," said Frank, cheerfully.
+"Why, Tom, what made you get sick?"
+
+He had entered the room, and reached the bed on which the sick boy was
+lying.
+
+Tom looked up in surprise and pleasure.
+
+"Is it you, Frank?" he said. "I'm glad you've come to see me. But how
+did you find me out?"
+
+"Johnny O'Connor told me where you lived. How long have you been sick?"
+
+"Three days. It's rough on a poor boy like me. I ought to be earning
+money for my mother."
+
+"We'll miss Tom's wages badly," said Mrs. Brady; "I can't earn much
+myself, and there's three of us to feed, let alone the rint."
+
+"How did you get off, Frank?" asked Tom.
+
+"I've left the office."
+
+"Was this young gentleman a telegraph boy?" asked Mrs. Brady, in
+surprise.
+
+"Yes," said Tom; "but he's come into a fortune, and now he won't have to
+work."
+
+"I'm sure I'm glad of his good luck, and it's a great condescension for
+a rich young gentleman to come and see my Tom."
+
+"I have come into some money, but not a fortune, Mrs. Brady," said
+Frank; "but it does not make me any better than when I was a poor
+telegraph boy."
+
+Evidently Mrs. Brady was not of this opinion, for she carefully dusted
+with her apron the best chair in the room, and insisted on Frank's
+seating himself in it.
+
+"Have you had a doctor, Mrs. Brady?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"What does he say?"
+
+"He says that Tom will be sick for three or four weeks, and I don't know
+what we'll do without his wages all that time."
+
+"That's what troubles me," said Tom. "I wouldn't mind it so much if I'd
+get my pay reg'lar while I'm sick."
+
+"Then you needn't be troubled, Tom," said Frank, promptly, "for you
+shall get it regularly."
+
+"They won't give it to me," said Tom, incredulously.
+
+"They won't, but I will."
+
+"Do you mean it, Frank?"
+
+"Certainly I do. I will give you a week's pay this morning, and I will
+call every week, and pay you the same."
+
+"Do you hear that, mother?" said Tom, joyfully.
+
+"God bless you, young gentleman, for your kindness to us!" said Mrs.
+Brady, gratefully.
+
+"Oh, it isn't much," said Frank; "I can spare it well enough. I have had
+such good luck myself that I ought to do something for those who need
+it."
+
+"You're a good feller, Frank," said Tom, warmly. "I'll get well quick
+now. If you ever want anybody to fight for you, just call on Tom Brady."
+
+"I generally do my own fighting, Tom," said Frank, laughing, "but I'll
+remember your offer. When you are well, you must come and spend an
+evening with me."
+
+"I'm sure he'll be proud to do the same," said Mrs. Brady.
+
+"I must bid you good-by, now, Tom. Keep a 'stiff upper lip,' and don't
+be down-hearted. We must all be sick sometimes, you know, and you'll
+soon be well."
+
+"I won't be down-hearted now," said Tom, "with my wages comin' in
+reg'lar. Remember me to the boys, Frank."
+
+"I will, Tom."
+
+When Frank reached home he found a large, overgrown boy, with big red
+hands, and clothes of rural cut, who apparently did not know what to do
+with his legs and arms, waiting to see him.
+
+It was his cousin Jonathan.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+A COUNTRY COUSIN.
+
+
+Jonathan was a loose-jointed, heavily built, and awkward boy of
+seventeen, bearing not the slightest resemblance to his cousin Frank.
+Still he was a relation, and our hero was glad to see him.
+
+"How are you, Jonathan?" said Frank, cordially. "I wasn't expecting to
+see you. Are all well at home?"
+
+"They're pooty smart," answered Jonathan. "I thought I'd come down and
+look round a little."
+
+"I shall be glad to show you round. Where would you like to go?--to
+Central Park?"
+
+"I don't care much about it," said the country cousin. "It's only a big
+pasture, dad says. I'd rather go round the streets. Is there any place
+where I can buy a few doughnuts? I feel kinder empty."
+
+"Do you prefer doughnuts to anything else?" asked Frank, with a smile.
+
+"I hear they're cheap,--only a cent apiece," answered Jonathan, "and I
+calc'late five or six will be enough to fill me up."
+
+"You needn't mind the expense, cousin; I shall pay for your dinner."
+
+Jonathan's heavy face lighted up with satisfaction.
+
+"I don't care if you do," he said. "I hear you've got a lot of money
+now, Frank."
+
+"I shall have enough, to make me comfortable, and start me in business."
+
+"I wish I had as much money as you," said Jonathan, longingly.
+
+"You are all right. Some time you will have more than I."
+
+"I don't know about that. Dad keeps me awful close."
+
+"You have all you want, don't you?"
+
+"I've got some money in the bank," said Jonathan, "but I'd like to put
+in more. I never thought you'd have more money than I."
+
+"You used to tell me I ought to go to the poor-house," said Frank,
+smiling.
+
+"That's because you was livin' on dad, you know," explained Jonathan.
+"It wasn't fair to me, because he wouldn't have so much to leave me."
+
+In the country Frank had not found much satisfaction in the company of
+his cousin, who inherited the combined meanness of both parents, and
+appeared to grudge poor Frank every mouthful he ate; but in the sunshine
+of his present prosperity he was disposed to forgive and forget.
+
+Frank led the way to a restaurant not far away, where he allowed his
+cousin to order an ample dinner, which he did without scruple, since he
+was not to pay for it.
+
+"It costs a sight to live in the city," he said, as he looked over the
+bill of fare.
+
+"It costs something in the country, too, Jonathan."
+
+"I wish you'd come and board with dad. He'd take you for five dollars a
+week, and it will cost you more in New York."
+
+"Yes, it will cost me more here."
+
+"Then you'll come, won't you? You'll be company for me."
+
+Frank doubted whether Jonathan would be much company for him.
+
+"You didn't use to think so, Jonathan."
+
+"You couldn't pay your board then."
+
+"Now that I can I prefer to remain in the city. I mean to go to school,
+and get a good education."
+
+"How much do you have to pay for board here?"
+
+"I can't tell what I shall have to pay. At present I am staying with
+friends, and pay nothing."
+
+"Do you think they'd take me for a week the same way?" asked Jonathan,
+eagerly. "I'd like to stay a week first-rate if it didn't cost nothing."
+
+"I shouldn't like to ask them; but some time I will invite you to come
+and pay me a visit of a week; it shall not cost you anything."
+
+"You're a real good feller, Frank," said Jonathan, highly pleased by the
+invitation. "I'll come any time you send for me. It's pretty high
+payin' on the railroad, but I guess I can come."
+
+Frank understood the hint, but did not feel called upon to pay his
+cousin's railway fare in addition to his week's board.
+
+"What do you think of that?" asked Jonathan, presently, displaying a
+huge ring on one of his red fingers.
+
+"Is that something you have bought in the city?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes," answered his cousin, complacently. "I got it at a bargain."
+
+"Did you buy it in a jewelry store?"
+
+"No; I'll tell you how it was. I was goin' along the street, when I saw
+a well-dressed feller, who looked kinder anxious. He come up to me, and
+he said, 'Do you know any one who wants to buy a splendid gold ring
+cheap?' Then he told me he needed some money right off to buy vittles
+for his family, bein' out of work for a month. He said the ring cost him
+fifteen dollars, and he'd sell it for three. I wasn't goin' to pay no
+such price, and I finally beat him down to a dollar," said Jonathan,
+chuckling. "I guess that's doing pretty well for one day. He said any
+jeweller would pay me six or seven dollars for it."
+
+"Then why didn't he sell it to a jeweller him self, instead of giving it
+to you for a dollar?"
+
+"I never thought of that," said Jonathan, looking puzzled.
+
+"I am afraid it is not so good a bargain as you supposed," said Frank.
+
+Great drops of perspiration came out on Jonathan's brow.
+
+"You don't think it's brass, do you?" he gasped.
+
+"Here is a jewelry store. We can go in and inquire."
+
+They entered the store, and Frank, calling attention to the ring,
+inquired its probable value.
+
+"It might be worth about three cents," said the jeweller, laughing. "I
+hope you didn't give much more for it."
+
+"I gave a dollar," said Jonathan, in a voice which betrayed his
+anguish.
+
+"Of whom did you buy it?"
+
+"Of a man in the street."
+
+"Served you right, then. You should have gone to a regular jewelry
+store."
+
+"The man said it cost him fifteen dollars," said Jonathan, sadly.
+
+"I dare say. He was a professional swindler, no doubt."
+
+"I'd like to give him a lickin'," said Jonathan, wrathfully, as they
+left the store.
+
+"What would you do if you was me?" he asked of his cousin.
+
+"Throw it away."
+
+"I wouldn't do that. Maybe I can sell it up in the country," he said,
+his face brightening up.
+
+"For how much?"
+
+"For what I gave."
+
+"But that would be swindling."
+
+"No, it wouldn't. I have a right to ask as much as I gave. It's real
+handsome if it is brass."
+
+"I don't think that would be quite honest, Jonathan."
+
+"You wouldn't have me lose the dollar, would you? That would be smart."
+
+"I would rather be honest than be smart."
+
+Jonathan dropped the subject, but eventually he sold the ring at home
+for a dollar and a quarter.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+CONCLUSION.
+
+
+After he had accompanied his cousin to the depot, where he took the cars
+for home, Frank met Victor Dupont, on Madison avenue.
+
+"Where's your uniform?" he asked.
+
+"I have taken it off."
+
+"Aint you a telegraph boy any longer?"
+
+"No, I have left the office."
+
+"They turned you off, I suppose," said Victor, with a sneer.
+
+"They would like to have had me stay longer," said Frank, with a smile.
+
+Victor shrugged his shoulders incredulously.
+
+"Are you going back to your old business of selling papers?" he asked.
+
+"I think not."
+
+"What are you going to do for a living?"
+
+"I am much obliged to you for your interest in my affairs, Victor; I
+don't mean to go to work at all at present,--I am going to school."
+
+"How are you going to pay your expenses, then?" asked Victor, in
+surprise.
+
+"I have had some money left me."
+
+"Is that so? How much?"
+
+"Some thousands of dollars,--enough to support me while I am getting an
+education."
+
+"Who left it to you?"
+
+"My father left it, but I have only just received it."
+
+"You are awfully lucky," said Victor, evidently annoyed. "Are you going
+to live with the Vivians?"
+
+"I don't know."
+
+"I shouldn't think you would. It would be imposing upon them."
+
+"Thank you for your kind advice. Won't you take me to board at your
+house?"
+
+"We don't take boarders," said Victor, haughtily.
+
+It so happened that Frank entered himself as a scholar at the school
+where Victor was a student, and was put in the same class. Frank at
+once took a higher place, and in time graduated with the highest honors,
+while Victor came out nearly at the foot.
+
+Frank did remain with the Vivians; they would not hear of his leaving
+them, nor would they permit him to pay any board.
+
+"You are a companion for Fred," said Mrs. Vivian, "and you exert a good
+influence over him. Having your company, he does not wish to seek
+society outside. You must let me look upon you as one of my boys, and
+accept a home with us."
+
+Against this, Frank could urge no objection. He was offered a home far
+more attractive than a boarding-house, which his presence made more
+social and attractive. Having no board to provide for, the income of his
+little property was abundant to supply his other wants, and, when he
+left school, it was unimpaired.
+
+It was a serious question with our hero whether he would continue his
+studies through a collegiate course. He finally decided in the negative,
+and accepted a good position in the mercantile establishment of Mr.
+Hartley. Here he displayed such intelligence and aptitude for business
+that he rose rapidly, and in time acquired an interest in the firm, and
+will in time obtain a junior partnership. It must not be supposed that
+all this came without hard work. It had always been Frank's custom to
+discharge to the utmost of his ability the duties of any position in
+which he was placed. To this special trait of our hero, most of his
+success was owing.
+
+Our hero had the satisfaction of giving a place to his companion in the
+telegraph office, Tom Brady, who was in time able to earn such a salary
+as raised his mother and sister above want. Frank did not forget his old
+street comrade, Dick Rafferty, but gave him a position as porter, Dick's
+education not being sufficient to qualify him for a clerkship. He even
+sought out old Mills, the blind man, to whom he had small reason to feel
+grateful; but found that the old man had suddenly died, leaving behind
+him, to the surprise of every one who knew him, several hundred dollars
+in gold and silver, which were claimed by a sister of the deceased, to
+whom they were most acceptable.
+
+Here end the experiences of the Telegraph Boy. He has been favored above
+most of his class; but the qualities which helped him achieve success
+are within the reach of all. Among the busy little messengers who flit
+about the city, in all directions, there are some, no doubt, who will in
+years to come command a success and prosperity as great as our hero has
+attained. In a republic like our own, the boy who begins at the bottom
+of the ladder may in time reach the highest round.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+HORATIO ALGER, JR.
+
+
+The enormous sales of the books of Horatio Alger, Jr., show the
+greatness of his popularity among the boys, and prove that he is one of
+their most favored writers. I am told that more than half a million
+copies altogether have been sold, and that all the large circulating
+libraries in the country have several complete sets, of which only two
+or three volumes are ever on the shelves at one time. If this is true,
+what thousands and thousands of boys have read and are reading Mr.
+Alger's books! His peculiar style of stories, often imitated but never
+equaled, have taken a hold upon the young people, and, despite their
+similarity, are eagerly read as soon as they appear.
+
+Mr. Alger became famous with the publication of that undying book,
+"Ragged Dick, or Street Life in New York." It was his first book for
+young people, and its success was so great that he immediately devoted
+himself to that kind of writing. It was a new and fertile field for a
+writer then, and Mr. Alger's treatment of it at once caught the fancy of
+the boys. "Ragged Dick" first appeared in 1868, and ever since then it
+has been selling steadily, until now it is estimated that about 200,000
+copies of the series have been sold.--"Pleasant Hours for Boys and
+Girls."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+A writer for boys should have an abundant sympathy with them. He should
+be able to enter into their plans, hopes, and aspirations. He should
+learn to look upon life as they do. Boys object to be written down to. A
+boy's heart opens to the man or writer who understands him.--From
+"Writing Stories for Boys," by Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS ALGER BOOKS.
+
+
+RAGGED DICK SERIES.
+
+    RAGGED DICK.
+    FAME AND FORTUNE.
+    MARK THE MATCH BOY.
+    ROUGH AND READY.
+    BEN THE LUGGAGE BOY.
+    RUFUS AND ROSE.
+
+
+TATTERED TOM SERIES.
+
+    TATTERED TOM.
+    PAUL THE PEDDLER.
+    PHIL THE FIDDLER.
+    SLOW AND SURE.
+
+
+TATTERED TOM SERIES. SECOND SERIES.
+
+    JULIUS.
+    THE YOUNG OUTLAW.
+    SAM'S CHANCE.
+    THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+
+CAMPAIGN SERIES.
+
+    FRANK'S CAMPAIGN.
+    PAUL PRESCOTT'S CHARGE.
+    CHARLIE CODMAN'S CRUISE.
+
+
+LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES. FIRST SERIES.
+
+    LUCK AND PLUCK.
+    SINK OR SWIM.
+    STRONG AND STEADY.
+    STRIVE AND SUCCEED.
+
+
+LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES. SECOND SERIES.
+
+    TRY AND TRUST.
+    BOUND TO RISE.
+    RISEN FROM THE RANKS.
+    HERBERT CARTER'S LEGACY.
+
+
+BRAVE AND BOLD SERIES.
+
+    BRAVE AND BOLD.
+    JACK'S WARD.
+    SHIFTING FOR HIMSELF.
+    WAIT AND HOPE.
+
+
+PACIFIC SERIES.
+
+    THE YOUNG ADVENTURER.
+    THE YOUNG MINER.
+    THE YOUNG EXPLORERS.
+    BEN'S NUGGET.
+
+
+ATLANTIC SERIES.
+
+    THE YOUNG CIRCUS RIDER.
+    DO AND DARE.
+    HECTOR'S INHERITANCE.
+    HELPING HIMSELF.
+
+
+WAY TO SUCCESS SERIES.
+
+    BOB BURTON.
+    THE STORE BOY.
+    LUKE WALTON.
+    STRUGGLING UPWARD.
+
+
+NEW WORLD SERIES.
+
+    DIGGING FOR GOLD.
+    FACING THE WORLD.
+    IN A NEW WORLD.
+
+
+VICTORY SERIES.
+
+    ONLY AN IRISH BOY.
+    ADRIFT IN THE CITY.
+    VICTOR VANE, OR THE YOUNG SECRETARY.
+
+
+FRANK AND FEARLESS SERIES.
+
+    FRANK HUNTER'S PERIL.
+    FRANK AND FEARLESS.
+    THE YOUNG SALESMAN.
+
+
+GOOD FORTUNE LIBRARY.
+
+    WALTER SHERWOOD'S PROBATION.
+    A BOY'S FORTUNE.
+    THE YOUNG BANK MESSENGER.
+
+
+HOW TO RISE LIBRARY.
+
+    JED, THE POORHOUSE BOY.
+    RUPERT'S AMBITION.
+    LESTER'S LUCK.
+
+
+
+
+THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.'S POPULAR JUVENILES: HARRY CASTLEMON BOOKS
+
+
+HOW I CAME TO WRITE MY FIRST BOOK.
+
+When I was sixteen years old I belonged to a composition class. It was
+our custom to go on the recitation seat every day with clean slates, and
+we were allowed ten minutes to write seventy words on any subject the
+teacher thought suited to our capacity. One day he gave out "What a Man
+Would See if He Went to Greenland." My heart was in the matter, and
+before the ten minutes were up I had one side of my slate filled. The
+teacher listened to the reading of our compositions, and when they were
+all over he simply said: "Some of you will make your living by writing
+one of these days." That gave me something to ponder upon. I did not say
+so out loud, but I knew that my composition was as good as the best of
+them. By the way, there was another thing that came in my way just then.
+I was reading at that time one of Mayne Reid's works which I had drawn
+from the library, and I pondered upon it as much as I did upon what the
+teacher said to me. In introducing Swartboy to his readers he made use
+of this expression: "No visible change was observable in Swartboy's
+countenance." Now, it occurred to me that if a man of his education
+could make such a blunder as that and still write a book, I ought to be
+able to do it, too. I went home that very day and began a story, "The
+Old Guide's Narrative," which was sent to the _New York Weekly_, and
+came back, respectfully declined. It was written on both sides of the
+sheets but I didn't know that this was against the rules. Nothing
+abashed, I began another, and receiving some instruction, from a friend
+of mine who was a clerk in a book store, I wrote it on only one side of
+the paper. But mind you, he didn't know what I was doing. Nobody knew
+it; but one day, after a hard Saturday's work--the other boys had been
+out skating on the brick-pond--I shyly broached the subject to my
+mother. I felt the need of some sympathy. She listened in amazement, and
+then said: "Why, do you think you could write a book like that?" That
+settled the matter, and from that day no one knew what I was up to until
+I sent the first four volumes of Gunboat Series to my father. Was it
+work? Well, yes; it was hard work, but each week I had the satisfaction
+of seeing the manuscript grow until the "Young Naturalist" was all
+complete.--_Harry Castlemon in the Writer._
+
+
+GUNBOAT SERIES.
+
+    Frank the Young Naturalist.
+    Frank on a Gunboat.
+    Frank in the Woods.
+    Frank before Vicksburg.
+    Frank on the Lower Mississippi.
+    Frank on the Prairie.
+
+
+ROCKY MOUNTAIN SERIES.
+
+    Frank Among the Rancheros.
+    Frank in the Mountains.
+    Frank at Don Carlos' Rancho.
+
+
+SPORTSMAN'S CLUB SERIES.
+
+    The Sportsman's Club in the Saddle.
+    The Sportsman's Club
+    Among the Trappers.
+    The Sportsman's Club Afloat.
+
+
+FRANK NELSON SERIES.
+
+    Snowed up.
+    Frank in the Forecastle.
+    The Boy Traders.
+
+
+ROUGHING IT SERIES.
+
+    George in Camp.
+    George at the Fort.
+    George at the Wheel.
+
+
+ROD AND GUN SERIES.
+
+    Don Gordon's Shooting Box.
+    The Young Wild Fowlers.
+    Rod and Gun Club.
+
+
+GO-AHEAD SERIES.
+
+    Tom Newcombe.
+    Go-Ahead.
+    No Moss.
+
+
+WAR SERIES.
+
+    True to His Colors.
+    Rodney the Partisan.
+    Rodney the Overseer.
+    Marcy the Blockade-Runner.
+    Marcy the Refugee.
+    Sailor Jack the Trader.
+
+
+HOUSEBOAT SERIES.
+
+    The Houseboat Boys.
+    The Mystery of Lost River Cañon.
+    The Young Game Warden.
+
+
+AFLOAT AND ASHORE SERIES.
+
+    Rebellion in Dixie.
+    A Sailor in Spite of Himself.
+    The Ten-Ton Cutter.
+
+
+
+
+THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.'S POPULAR JUVENILES: J. T. TROWBRIDGE.
+
+
+Neither as a writer does he stand apart from the great currents of life
+and select some exceptional phase or odd combination of circumstances.
+He stands on the common level and appeals to the universal heart, and
+all that he suggests or achieves is on the plane and in the line of
+march of the great body of humanity.
+
+The Jack Hazard series of stories, published in the late _Our Young
+Folks_, and continued in the first volume of _St. Nicholas_, under the
+title of "Fast Friends," is no doubt destined to hold a high place in
+this class of literature. The delight of the boys in them (and of their
+seniors, too) is well founded. They go to the right spot every time.
+Trowbridge knows the heart of a boy like a book, and the heart of a man,
+too, and he has laid them both open in these books in a most successful
+manner. Apart from the qualities that render the series so attractive to
+all young readers, they have great value on account of their
+portraitures of American country life and character. The drawing is
+wonderfully accurate, and as spirited as it is true. The constable,
+Sellick, is an original character, and as minor figures where will we
+find anything better than Miss Wansey, and Mr. P. Pipkin, Esq. The
+picture of Mr. Dink's school, too, is capital, and where else in fiction
+is there a better nick-name than that the boys gave to poor little
+Stephen Treadwell, "Step Hen," as he himself pronounced his name in an
+unfortunate moment when he saw it in print for the first time in his
+lesson in school.
+
+On the whole, these books are very satisfactory, and afford the critical
+reader the rare pleasure of the works that are just adequate, that
+easily fulfill themselves and accomplish all they set out to
+do.--_Scribner's Monthly_.
+
+
+JACK HAZARD SERIES.
+
+    Jack Hazard and His Fortunes.
+    The Young Surveyor.
+    Fast Friends.
+    Doing His Best.
+    A Chance for Himself.
+    Lawrence's Adventures.
+
+
+
+CHARLES ASBURY STEPHENS.
+
+This author wrote his "Camping Out Series" at the very height of his
+mental and physical powers.
+
+     "We do not wonder at the popularity of these books; there is a
+     freshness and variety about them, and an enthusiasm in the
+     description of sport and adventure, which even the older folk can
+     hardly fail to share."--_Worcester Spy._
+
+     "The author of the Camping Out Series is entitled to rank as
+     decidedly at the head of what may be called boys'
+     literature."--_Buffalo Courier._
+
+
+CAMPING OUT SERIES.
+
+
+CAMPING OUT. As Recorded by "Kit."
+
+     "This book is bright, breezy, wholesome, instructive, and stands
+     above the ordinary boys' books of the day by a whole head and
+     shoulders."--_The Christian Register, Boston_.
+
+
+LEFT ON LABRADOR; OR, THE CRUISE OF THE SCHOONER YACHT "CURLEW." As
+Recorded by "Wash."
+
+     "The perils of the voyagers, the narrow escapes, their strange
+     expedients, and the fun and jollity when danger had passed, will
+     make boys even unconscious of hunger."--_New Bedford Mercury._
+
+
+OFF TO THE GEYSERS; OR THE YOUNG YACHTERS IN ICELAND. AS RECORDED BY
+"WADE."
+
+     "It is difficult to believe that Wade and Raed and Kit and Wash
+     were not live boys, sailing up Hudson Straits, and reigning
+     temporarily over an Esquimaux tribe."--_The Independent, New York._
+
+
+LYNX HUNTING: From Notes by the Author of "Camping Out."
+
+     "Of first quality as a boys' book, and fit to take its place beside
+     the best."--_Richmond Enquirer._
+
+
+FOX HUNTING. As Recorded by "Raed."
+
+     "The most spirited and entertaining book that has as yet appeared.
+     It overflows with incident, and is characterized by dash and
+     brilliancy throughout."--_Boston Gazette._
+
+
+ON THE AMAZON; OR, THE CRUISE OF THE "RAMBLER." As Recorded by "Wash."
+
+     "Gives vivid pictures of Brazilian adventure and
+     scenery."--_Buffalo Courier._
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS STANDARD JUVENILES FOR GIRLS
+
+
+A GOOD GIRL'S BOOK IS HARD TO FIND!
+
+One often hears the above quoted. _These_ books have stood the tests of
+time and careful mothers, and will be of the greatest interest to girls
+of all ages. Free from any unhealthy sensationalism, yet full of
+incident and romance, they are the cream of the best girls' books
+published.
+
+
+WAYS AND MEANS LIBRARY. By Margaret Vandegrift.
+
+    Queen's Body Guard.
+    Rose Raymond's Wards.
+    Doris and Theodora.
+    Ways and Means.
+
+
+STORIES FOR GIRLS.
+
+    Dr. Gilbert's Daughters.
+    Marion Berkley.
+    Hartwell Farm.
+
+
+HONEST ENDEAVOR LIBRARY. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+
+    The Family Dilemma.
+    Allison's Adventures.
+    Ruth Endicott's Way.
+
+
+MILBROOK LIBRARY. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+
+    Helen Glenn.
+    The Squire's Daughter.
+    Esther's Fortune.
+    For Honor's Sake.
+
+
+RECENT SUCCESSES
+
+The following, though of recent date, have at once reached such a height
+of popularity that they can already be classified as standards.
+
+    Lady Green Satin. By Baroness Deschesney.
+    Marion Berkley. By Elizabeth B. Comins.
+    Lenny, the Orphan. By Margaret Hosmer.
+    Family Dilemma. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+    Question of Honor. By Lynde Palmer
+    Girl's Ordeal, A. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+    Elinor Belden; or The Step Brothers. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+    Where Honor Leads. By Lynde Palmer.
+    Under the Holly. By Margaret Hosmer.
+    Two Bequests. The; or, Heavenward Led. By Jane R. Sommere.
+    The Thistles of Mount Cedar. By Ursula Tannenforst.
+
+
+
+
+HURLBUT'S STORY OF THE BIBLE told for YOUNG AND OLD
+
+by Rev. Jesse Lyman Hurlbut, D.D.
+
+A Veritable "Arabian Nights" of Entertainment Containing 168 Complete
+Illustrated Stories
+
+
+THE BIBLE MADE FASCINATING TO CHILDREN.--The heroes and the noble men
+and women of the Bible are made to appear as living, acting people. The
+book is an original work, and in no sense an imitation. It has been in
+preparation for a number of years.
+
+THE DISTINGUISHED AUTHOR.--Dr. Hurlbut has long been associated with,
+and director of, the Sunday School work of one of the largest
+denominations, and he has been more closely associated with the detail
+work of the Chautauqua movement than has any other man. He is also well
+known as a writer.
+
+REMARKABLE FOR THE BEAUTY AND NUMBER OF ITS ILLUSTRATIONS.--There are
+sixteen pictures in color prepared for this work by the distinguished
+artist, W. H. Margetson, and reproduced with the beauty and
+attractiveness of the artist's original work. There are also nearly 300
+half-tone engravings in this remarkable book, which is as original in
+the selection of its illustrations as it is in its stories.
+
+WHAT OTHERS THINK OF IT
+
+     "It is a needed and original work. Not an imitation."--_Christian
+     Advocate_, New York.
+
+     "Written in such a style as to fascinate and hold the interest of
+     child or man."--REV. F. E. CLARK, Pres. Society of Christian
+     Endeavor.
+
+     "It is a beautiful book. I hope every family in the land will
+     secure 'Hurlbut's Story of the Bible,'"--GENERAL O. O. HOWARD.
+
+     "The best book of its kind, and that kind the most important."--REV.
+     JAMES A. WORDEN, Presbyterian B'd of Pub. and S. S. Work.
+
+     "I like very much the vocabulary you have used, and I can see how
+     careful you have been in choosing understandable words."--MR.
+     PHILIP E. HOWARD, _Sunday-School Times_, Philadelphia.
+
+     "It is the completest and best thing of the kind I have seen. The
+     book is splendidly illustrated." MARIAN LAWRANCE, General Secretary
+     International Sunday-School Association.
+
+     "Many will be drawn to the Bible who otherwise might look upon it
+     as only adapted for older people."--HON. DAVID J. BREWER, Justice
+     of the Supreme Court of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Telegraph Boy, by Horatio Alger, Jr.
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+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Telegraph Boy, by Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Telegraph Boy
+
+Author: Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+Release Date: December 24, 2007 [EBook #24013]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TELEGRAPH BOY ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from scans of public domain material
+produced by Microsoft for their Live Search Books site.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+<h1>THE TELEGRAPH BOY.</h1>
+
+<h2>BY HORATIO ALGER, <span class="smcap">Jr.</span>,</h2>
+
+<h3>AUTHOR OF "RAGGED DICK SERIES," "LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES," "BRAVE AND BOLD
+SERIES," ETC., ETC.</h3>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a href="images/title.jpg"><img src="images/title.jpg" alt=""/></a>
+</div>
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+
+<h3>
+THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.<br />
+PHILADELPHIA<br />
+CHICAGO      TORONTO</h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h4>To<br />
+THREE YOUNG FRIENDS,<br />
+<span class="smcap">Lorin and Beatrice Bernheimer</span>,<br />
+AND<br />
+<span class="smcap">Florine Arnold</span>,<br />
+This Story<br />
+IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED.</h4>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
+
+<!-- Autogenerated TOC. Modify or delete as required. -->
+<p>
+<a href="#PREFACE">PREFACE.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I. A YOUNG CARPET-BAGGER.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II. DICK RAFFERTY.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III. FRANK FINDS AN EMPLOYER.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV. "PITY THE BLIND."</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V. FRANK THROWS UP HIS SITUATION.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI. FRANK GETS A JOB.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII. AN INVITATION TO DINNER.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII. A NEWSBOY'S EXPERIENCES.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX. VICTOR DUPONT.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X. A NEW PROSPECT.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI. THE TELEGRAPH BOY.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII. A WAYWARD SON.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII. A TIMELY RESCUE.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV. FRANK MAKES AN EVENING CALL.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV. AT WALLACK'S THEATRE.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI. FRANK AS A DETECTIVE.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII. FRANK MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII. A RICH WOMAN'S SORROW.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX. A MESSENGER OF GOOD TIDINGS.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX. A NEW JOB, AND A LETTER FROM HOME.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI. FRANK'S FIRST DISCOVERY.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII. FOLLOWING UP A CLUE.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII. BROUGHT TO BAY.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">CHAPTER XXIV. AN OPEN ENEMY.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">CHAPTER XXV. WHAT THE OLD TRUNK CONTAINED.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">CHAPTER XXVI. A TRAP, AND WHO FELL INTO IT.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">CHAPTER XXVII. FRANK BECOMES A GOOD SAMARITAN.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII">CHAPTER XXVIII. A COUNTRY COUSIN.</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX">CHAPTER XXIX. CONCLUSION.</a><br /><br />
+
+<a href="#FAMOUS_ALGER_BOOKS">FAMOUS ALGER BOOKS.</a><br />
+<a href="#THE_JOHN_C_WINSTON_COS_POPULAR_JUVENILES">THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.'S POPULAR JUVENILES</a><br />
+</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</h2>
+
+<p><a href="#ill1"><span class="smcap">Frank, the Telegraph Boy.</span></a></p>
+<p><a href="#ill2"><span class="smcap">The Merchant Surveyed with Approval.</span></a></p>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="PREFACE" id="PREFACE"></a>PREFACE.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The "Telegraph Boy" completes the series of sketches of street-life in
+New York inaugurated eleven years since by the publication of "Ragged
+Dick." The author has reason to feel gratified by the warm reception
+accorded by the public to these pictures of humble life in the great
+metropolis. He is even more gratified by the assurance that his labors
+have awakened a philanthropic interest in the children whose struggles
+and privations he has endeavored faithfully to describe. He feels it his
+duty to state that there is no way in which these waifs can more
+effectually be assisted than by contributing to the funds of "The
+Children's Aid Society," whose wise and comprehensive plans for the
+benefit of their young wards have already been crowned with abundant
+success.</p>
+
+<p>The class of boys described in the present volume was called into
+existence only a few years since, but they are already so numerous that
+one can scarcely ride down town by any conveyance without having one for
+a fellow-passenger. Most of them reside with their parents and have
+comfortable homes, but a few, like the hero of this story, are wholly
+dependent on their own exertions for a livelihood. The variety of
+errands on which they are employed, and their curious experiences, are
+by no means exaggerated in the present story. In its preparation the
+author has been assisted by an excellent sketch published perhaps a year
+since in the "New York Tribune."</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Horatio Alger, Jr.</span><br /></span>
+</div><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">New York</span>, Sept. 1, 1879.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="THE_TELEGRAPH_BOY" id="THE_TELEGRAPH_BOY"></a>THE TELEGRAPH BOY.</h2>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<h3>A YOUNG CARPET-BAGGER.</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Twenty-five cents to begin the world with!" reflected Frank Kavanagh,
+drawing from his vest-pocket two ten-cent pieces of currency and a
+nickel. "That isn't much, but it will have to do."</p>
+
+<p>The speaker, a boy of fifteen, was sitting on a bench in City-Hall Park.
+He was apparently about fifteen years old, with a face not handsome, but
+frank and good-humored, and an expression indicating an energetic and
+hopeful temperament. A small bundle, rolled up in a handkerchief,
+contained his surplus wardrobe. He had that day arrived in New York by a
+boat from Hartford, and meant to stay in the city if he could make a
+living.</p>
+
+<p>Next to him sat a man of thirty-five, shabbily dressed, who clearly was
+not a member of any temperance society, if an inflamed countenance and
+red nose may be trusted. Frank Kavanagh's display of money attracted his
+attention, for, small as was the boy's capital, it was greater than his
+own.</p>
+
+<p>"Been long in the city, Johnny?" he inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"I only arrived to-day," answered Frank. "My name isn't Johnny, though."</p>
+
+<p>"It's immaterial. Johnny is a generic term," said the stranger. "I
+suppose you have come here to make your fortune."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be satisfied with a living to begin with," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you come from?"</p>
+
+<p>"A few miles from Hartford."</p>
+
+<p>"Got any relations there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes,&mdash;an uncle and aunt."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you were sorry to leave them."</p>
+
+<p>"Not much. Uncle is a pretty good man, but he's fond of money, and aunt
+is about as mean as they make 'em. They got tired of supporting me, and
+gave me money enough to get to New York."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you have some left," said the stranger, persuasively.</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five cents," answered Frank, laughing. "That isn't a very big
+capital to start on, is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Is that all you've got?" asked the shabbily dressed stranger, in a tone
+of disappointment.</p>
+
+<p>"Every cent."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I had ten dollars to give you," said the stranger, thoughtfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir; I wish you had," said Frank, his eyes resting on the
+dilapidated attire of his benevolent companion. Judging from that, he
+was not surprised that ten dollars exceeded the charitable fund of the
+philanthropist.</p>
+
+<p>"My operations in Wall street have not been fortunate of late," resumed
+the stranger; "and I am in consequence hard up."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you do business in Wall street?" asked Frank, rather surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"Sometimes," was the reply. "I have lost heavily of late in Erie and
+Pacific Mail, but it is only temporary. I shall soon be on my feet
+again."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so, sir," said Frank, politely.</p>
+
+<p>"My career has been a chequered one," continued the stranger. "I, too,
+as a mere boy, came up from the country to make my fortune. I embarked
+in trade, and was for a time successful. I resigned to get time to write
+a play,&mdash;a comedy in five acts."</p>
+
+<p>Frank regarded his companion with heightened respect. He was a boy of
+good education, and the author of a play in his eyes was a man of
+genius.</p>
+
+<p>"Was it played?" he inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"No; Wallack said it had too many difficult characters for his company,
+and the rest of the managers kept putting me off, while they were
+producing inferior plays. The American public will never know what they
+have lost. But, enough of this. Sometime I will read you the
+'Mother-in-law,' if you like. Have you had dinner?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," answered Frank. "Do you know where I can dine cheap?" he
+inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered the stranger. "Once I boarded at the Astor House, but
+now I am forced, by dire necessity, to frequent cheap restaurants.
+Follow me."</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name, sir?" asked Frank, as he rose from the bench.</p>
+
+<p>"Montagu Percy," was the reply. "Sorry I haven't my card-case with me,
+or I would hand you my address. I think you said your name was not
+Johnny."</p>
+
+<p>"My name is Frank Kavanagh."</p>
+
+<p>"A very good name. 'What's in a name?' as Shakespeare says."</p>
+
+<p>As the oddly assorted pair crossed the street, and walked down Nassau
+street, they attracted the attention of some of the Arabs who were
+lounging about Printing-House square.</p>
+
+<p>"I say, country, is that your long-lost uncle?" asked a boot-black.</p>
+
+<p>"No, it isn't," answered Frank, shortly.</p>
+
+<p>Though he was willing to avail himself of Mr. Percy's guidance, he was
+not ambitious of being regarded as his nephew.</p>
+
+<p>"Heed not their ribald scoffs," said Montagu Percy, loftily. "Their
+words pass by me 'like the idle wind,' which I regard not."</p>
+
+<p>"Who painted your nose, mister?" asked another boy, of course addressing
+Frank's companion.</p>
+
+<p>"I will hand you over to the next policeman," exclaimed Percy, angrily.</p>
+
+<p>"Look out he don't haul you in, instead," retorted the boy.</p>
+
+<p>Montagu Percy made a motion to pursue his tormentors, but desisted.</p>
+
+<p>"They are beneath contempt," he said. "It is ever the lot of genius to
+be railed at by the ignorant and ignoble. They referred to my nose being
+red, but mistook the cause. It is a cutaneous eruption,&mdash;the result of
+erysipelas."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it?" asked Frank, rather mystified.</p>
+
+<p>"I am not a drinking man&mdash;that is, I indulge myself but rarely. But here
+we are."</p>
+
+<p>So saying he plunged down some steps into a basement, Frank following
+him. Our hero found himself in a dirty apartment, provided with a bar,
+over which was a placard, inscribed:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"FREE LUNCH."</p>
+
+<p>"How much money have you got, Frank?" inquired Montagu Percy.</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five cents."</p>
+
+<p>"Lunch at this establishment is free," said Montagu; "but you are
+expected to order some drink. What will you have?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care for any drink except a glass of water."</p>
+
+<p>"All right; I will order for you, as the rules of the establishment
+require it; but I will drink your glass myself. Eat whatever you like."</p>
+
+<p>Frank took a sandwich from a plate on the counter and ate it with
+relish, for he was hungry. Meanwhile his companion emptied the two
+glasses, and ordered another.</p>
+
+<p>"Can you pay for these drinks?" asked the bar-tender, suspiciously.</p>
+
+<p>"Sir, I never order what I cannot pay for."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know about that. You've been in here and taken lunch more than
+once without drinking anything."</p>
+
+<p>"It may be so. I will make up for it now. Another glass, please."</p>
+
+<p>"First pay for what you have already drunk."</p>
+
+<p>"Frank, hand me your money," said Montagu.</p>
+
+<p>Frank incautiously handed him his small stock of money, which he saw
+instantly transferred to the bar-tender.</p>
+
+<p>"That is right, I believe," said Montagu Percy.</p>
+
+<p>The bar-keeper nodded, and Percy, transferring his attention to the free
+lunch, stowed away a large amount.</p>
+
+<p>Frank observed with some uneasiness the transfer of his entire cash
+capital to the bar-tender; but concluded that Mr. Percy would refund a
+part after they went out. As they reached the street he broached the
+subject.</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't agree to pay for both dinners," he said, uneasily.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course not. It will be my treat next time. That will be fair, won't
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"But I would rather you would give me back a part of my money. I may not
+see you again."</p>
+
+<p>"I will be in the Park to-morrow at one o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>"Give me back ten cents, then," said Frank, uneasily. "That was all the
+money I had."</p>
+
+<p>"I am really sorry, but I haven't a penny about me. I'll make it right
+to-morrow. Good-day, my young friend. Be virtuous and you will be
+happy."</p>
+
+<p>Frank looked after the shabby figure ruefully. He felt that he had been
+taken in and done for. His small capital had vanished, and he was adrift
+in the streets of a strange city without a penny.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<h3>DICK RAFFERTY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>"I've been a fool," said Frank to himself, in genuine mortification, as
+he realized how easily he had permitted himself to be duped. "I ought to
+have stayed in the country."</p>
+
+<p>Even a small sum of money imparts to its possessor a feeling of
+independence, but one who is quite penniless feels helpless and
+apprehensive. Frank was unable even to purchase an apple from the snuffy
+old apple-woman who presided over the stand near by.</p>
+
+<p>"What am I going to do?" he asked himself, soberly.</p>
+
+<p>"What has become of your uncle?" asked a boot-black.</p>
+
+<p>Looking up, Frank recognized one of those who had saluted Percy and
+himself on their way to the restaurant.</p>
+
+<p>"He isn't my uncle," he replied, rather resentfully.</p>
+
+<p>"You never saw him before, did you?" continued the boy.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I didn't."</p>
+
+<p>"That's what I thought."</p>
+
+<p>There was something significant in the young Arab's tone, which led
+Frank to inquire, "Do you know him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he's a dead-beat."</p>
+
+<p>"A what?"</p>
+
+<p>"A dead-beat. Don't you understand English?"</p>
+
+<p>"He told me that he did business on Wall street."</p>
+
+<p>The boot-black shrieked with laughter.</p>
+
+<p>"He do business on Wall street!" he repeated. "You're jolly green, you
+are!"</p>
+
+<p>Frank was inclined to be angry, but he had the good sense to see that
+his new friend was right. So he said good-humoredly, "I suppose I am.
+You see I am not used to the city."</p>
+
+<p>"It's just such fellows as you he gets hold of," continued the
+boot-black. "Didn't he make you treat?"</p>
+
+<p>"I may as well confess it," thought Frank. "This boy may help me with
+advice."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he said aloud. "I hadn't but twenty-five cents, and he made me
+spend it all. I haven't a cent left."</p>
+
+<p>"Whew!" ejaculated the other boy. "You're beginnin' business on a small
+capital."</p>
+
+<p>"That's so," said Frank. "Do you know any way I can earn money?"</p>
+
+<p>Dick Rafferty was a good-natured boy, although rough, and now that Frank
+had appealed to him for advice he felt willing to help him, if he could.</p>
+
+<p>"What can you do?" he asked, in a business-like tone. "Have you ever
+worked?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"What can you do?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can milk cows, hoe corn and potatoes, ride horse to plough, and&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Hold up!" said Dick. "All them things aint goin' to do you no good in
+New York. People don't keep cows as a reg'lar thing here."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I know that."</p>
+
+<p>"And there aint much room for plantin' corn and potatoes. Maybe you
+could get a job over in Jersey."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd rather stay in New York. I can do something here."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you black boots, or sell papers?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can learn."</p>
+
+<p>"You need money to set up in either of them lines," said Dick Rafferty.</p>
+
+<p>"Would twenty-five cents have been enough?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"You could have bought some evening papers with that."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish somebody would lend me some money," said Frank; "I'd pay it back
+as soon as I'd sold my papers. I was a fool to let that fellow swindle
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"That's so," assented Dick; "but it's no good thinkin' of that now. I'd
+lend you the money myself, if I had it; but I've run out my account at
+the Park Bank, and can't spare the money just at present."</p>
+
+<p>"How long have you been in business?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Ever since I was eight years old; and I'm goin' on fifteen now."</p>
+
+<p>"You went to work early."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I had to. Father and mother both died, and I was left to take care
+of myself."</p>
+
+<p>"You took care of yourself when you were only eight years old?" asked
+Frank, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I ought to make a living, for I am fifteen,&mdash;a year older than you
+are now."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you'll get along when you get started," said Dick, encouragingly.
+"There's lots of things to do."</p>
+
+<p>"Is there anything to do that doesn't require any capital?" inquired
+Frank, anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you can smash baggage."</p>
+
+<p>"Will people pay for that?" asked Frank, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course they will. You jest hang round the ferries and steamboat
+landin's, and when a chap comes by with a valise or carpet-bag, you jest
+offer to carry it, that's all."</p>
+
+<p>"Is that what you call smashing baggage?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course. What did you think it was?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank evaded answering, not caring to display his country ignorance.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think I can get a chance to do that?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"You can try it and see."</p>
+
+<p>"I came in by the Hartford boat myself, to-day," said Frank. "If I'd
+thought of it, I would have begun at once."</p>
+
+<p>"Only you wouldn't have knowed the way anywhere, and if a gentleman
+asked you to carry his valise to any hotel you'd have had to ask where
+it was."</p>
+
+<p>"So I should," Frank admitted.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll show you round a little, if you want me to," said Dick. "I shan't
+have anything to do for an hour or two."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish you would."</p>
+
+<p>So the two boys walked about in the lower part of the city, Dick
+pointing out hotels, public buildings, and prominent streets. Frank had
+a retentive memory, and stored away the information carefully. Penniless
+as he was, he was excited and exhilarated by the scene of activity in
+which he was moving, and was glad he was going to live in it, or to
+attempt doing so.</p>
+
+<p>"When I am used to it I shall like it much better than the country," he
+said to Dick. "Don't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know about that," was the reply. "Sometimes I think I'll go
+West;&mdash;a lot of boys that I know have gone there."</p>
+
+<p>"Won't it take a good deal of money to go?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, there's a society that pays boys' expenses, and finds 'em nice
+homes with the farmers. Tom Harrison, one of my friends, went out six
+weeks ago, and he writes me that it's bully. He's gone to some town in
+Kansas."</p>
+
+<p>"That's a good way off."</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't mind that. I'd like ridin' in the cars."</p>
+
+<p>"It would be something new to you; but I've lived in the country all my
+life, I'd rather stay here awhile."</p>
+
+<p>"It's just the way a feller feels," said Dick philosophically. "I've
+bummed around so much I'd like a good, stiddy home, with three square
+meals a day and a good bed to sleep on."</p>
+
+<p>"Can't you get that here?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Not stiddy. Sometimes I don't get but one square meal a day."</p>
+
+<p>Frank became thoughtful. Life in the city seemed more precarious and
+less desirable than he anticipated.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I must go to work again," said Dick, after a while.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are you going to sleep to-night?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know whether I'd better sleep at the Astor House or Fifth
+avenue," said Dick.</p>
+
+<p>Frank looked perplexed.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean that, do you?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I don't. You're too fresh. Don't get mad," he continued
+good-naturedly, seeing the flush on Frank's cheek. "You'll know as much
+about the city as I do before long. I shall go to the Newsboys' Lodgin'
+House, where I can sleep for six cents."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I had six cents," said Frank. "If I could only get work I'd soon
+earn it. You can't think of anything for me to do, can you?"</p>
+
+<p>Dick's face lighted up.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he said, "I can get you a job, though it aint a very good one. I
+wonder I didn't think of it before."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?" asked Frank, anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>"It's to go round with a blind man, solicitin' contributions."</p>
+
+<p>"You mean begging?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; you lead him into stores and countin' rooms, and he asks for
+money."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like it much," said Frank, slowly, "but I must do something.
+After all, it'll be he that's begging, not I."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll take you right round where he lives," said Dick. "Maybe he'll go
+out this evenin'. His other boy give him the slip, and he hasn' got a
+new one yet."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK FINDS AN EMPLOYER.</h3>
+
+
+<p>A stone's throw from Centre street stands a tall tenement-house,
+sheltering anywhere from forty to fifty families in squalid
+wretchedness. The rent which each family pays would procure a neat house
+in a country town, with perhaps a little land beside; but the city has a
+mysterious fascination for the poorer classes, and year after year many
+who might make the change herd together in contracted and noisome
+quarters, when they might have their share of light and space in country
+neighborhoods.</p>
+
+<p>It was in front of this tenement-house that Dick halted, and plunged
+into a dark entrance, admonishing Frank to follow. Up creaking and
+dilapidated staircases to the fourth floor the boys went.</p>
+
+<p>"Here we are," said Dick, panting a little from the rapidity of his
+ascent, and began a vigorous tattoo on a door to the left.</p>
+
+<p>"Is this where the blind gentleman lives?" asked Frank, looking around
+him dubiously.</p>
+
+<p>"He isn't much of a gentleman to look at," said Dick, laughing. "Do you
+hear him?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank heard a hoarse growl from the inside, which might have been "Come
+in." At any rate, Dick chose so to interpret it, and opened the door.</p>
+
+<p>The boys found themselves in a scantily furnished room, with a close,
+disagreeable smell pervading the atmosphere. In the corner was a low
+bedstead, on which lay a tall man, with a long, gray beard, and a
+disagreeable, almost repulsive, countenance. He turned his eyes, which,
+contrary to Frank's expectations, were wide open, full upon his
+visitors.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want?" he asked querulously. "I was asleep, and you have
+waked me up."</p>
+
+<p>"Sorry to disturb you, Mr. Mills," said Dick; "but I come on business."</p>
+
+<p>"What business can you have with me?" demanded the blind man. "Who are
+you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am Dick Rafferty. I black boots in the Park," replied Dick.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I haven't got any money to pay for blacking boots."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't expect you had. I hear your boy has left you."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, the young rascal! He's given me the slip. I expect he's robbed me
+too; but I can't tell, for I'm blind."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want a new boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but I can't pay much. I'm very poor. I don't think the place will
+suit you."</p>
+
+<p>"Nor I either," said Dick, frankly. "I'd rather make a living outside.
+But I've got a boy with me who has just come to the city, and is out of
+business. I guess he'll engage with you."</p>
+
+<p>"What's his name? Let him speak for himself."</p>
+
+<p>"My name is Frank Kavanagh," said our hero, in a clear, distinct voice.</p>
+
+<p>"How old are you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fifteen."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know what your duties will be?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; Dick has told me."</p>
+
+<p>"I told him you'd want him to go round on a collecting tour with you
+every day," said Dick.</p>
+
+<p>"That isn't all. You'll have to buy my groceries and all I need."</p>
+
+<p>"I can do that," said Frank, cheerfully, reflecting that this would be
+much more agreeable than accompanying the old man round the streets.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you honest?" queried the blind man, sharply.</p>
+
+<p>Frank answered, with an indignant flush, "I never stole a cent in my
+life."</p>
+
+<p>"I supposed you'd say that," retorted the blind man, with a sneer. "They
+all do; but a good many will steal for all that."</p>
+
+<p>"If you're afraid I will, you needn't hire me," said Frank,
+independently.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I needn't," said Mills, sharply; "but I am not afraid. If you
+take any of my money I shall be sure to find it out, if I am blind."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't mind him, Frank," said Dick, in a low voice.</p>
+
+<p>"What's that?" asked the blind man, suspiciously. "What are you two
+whispering about?"</p>
+
+<p>"I told Frank not to mind the way you spoke," said Dick.</p>
+
+<p>"Your friend will lend you some, then."</p>
+
+<p>"Not much," answered Dick, laughing. "I'm dead-broke. Haven't you got
+any money, Mr. Mills?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have a little," grumbled the blind man; "but this boy may take it,
+and never come back."</p>
+
+<p>"If you think so," said Frank, proudly, "you'd better engage some other
+boy."</p>
+
+<p>"No use; you're all alike. Wait a minute, and I'll give you some money."</p>
+
+<p>He drew from his pocket a roll of scrip, and handed one to Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think that will be enough," said Frank. "It's only five cents."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you sure it isn't a quarter?" grumbled Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you say,&mdash;you, Dick?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's only five cents, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Is that twenty-five?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Then take it, and mind you don't loiter."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"And be sure to bring back the change."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I will," said Frank indignantly, resenting his employer's
+suspicion.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you think of him, Frank?" asked Dick, as they descended the
+stairs.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like him at all, Dick," said Frank, decidedly. "I wish I could
+get something else to do."</p>
+
+<p>"You can, after a while. As you have no capital you must take what you
+can get now."</p>
+
+<p>"So I suppose; but I didn't come to the city for this."</p>
+
+<p>"If you don't like it you can leave in a few days."</p>
+
+<p>This Frank fully resolved to do at the first favorable opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>Dick showed him where he could buy the articles he was commissioned to
+purchase; and Frank, after obtaining them, went back to the
+tenement-house.</p>
+
+<p>Mills scrupulously demanded the change, and put it back into his pocket.
+Then he made Frank pour out the ale into a glass. This he drank with
+apparent zest, but offered none to Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Ale isn't good for boys," he said. "You can cut the bread, and eat two
+slices. Don't cut them too thick."</p>
+
+<p>The blind man ate some of the bread himself, and then requested Frank to
+help him on with his coat and vest.</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't taken any money to-day," he said "I must try to collect some,
+or I shall starve. It's a sad thing to be blind," he continued, his
+voice changing to a whine.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't look blind," said Frank, thoughtfully. "Your eyes are open."</p>
+
+<p>"What if they are?" said Mills, testily. "I cannot see. When I go out I
+close them, because the light hurts them."</p>
+
+<p>Led by Frank, the blind man descended the stairs, and emerged into the
+street.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<h3>"PITY THE BLIND."</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Where shall I lead you?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"To Broadway first. Do you know Broadway?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Be careful when we cross the street, or you will have me run over."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"If any one asks you about me, say I am your uncle."</p>
+
+<p>"But you are not."</p>
+
+<p>"What difference does that make, you little fool?" said the blind man,
+roughly. "Are you ashamed to own me as your uncle?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank felt obliged, out of politeness, to say "No;" but in his own mind
+he was not quite sure whether he would be willing to acknowledge any
+relationship to the disagreeable old man whom he was leading.</p>
+
+<p>They reached Broadway, and entered a store devoted to gentlemen's
+furnishing goods.</p>
+
+<p>"Charity for a poor blind man!" whined Mills, in the tone of a
+professional beggar.</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, old fellow, you come in here too often," said a young
+salesman. "I gave you five cents yesterday."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't know it," said Mills. "I am a poor blind man. All places are
+alike to me."</p>
+
+<p>"Then your boy should know better. Nothing for you to-day."</p>
+
+<p>Frank and his companion left the store.</p>
+
+<p>In the next they were more fortunate. A nickel was bestowed upon the
+blind mendicant.</p>
+
+<p>"How much is it?" asked Mills, when they were on the sidewalk.</p>
+
+<p>"Five cents, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"That's better than nothing, but we ought to do better. It takes a good
+many five-cent pieces to make a dollar. When you see a well-dressed lady
+coming along, tell me."</p>
+
+<p>Frank felt almost as much ashamed as if he were himself begging, but he
+must do what was expected of him. Accordingly he very soon notified the
+blind man that a lady was close at hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Lead me up to her, and say, Can you spare something for my poor, blind
+uncle?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank complied in part, but instead of "poor, blind uncle" he said
+"poor, blind man." Mills scowled, as he found himself disobeyed.</p>
+
+<p>"How long has he been blind?" asked the lady, sympathetically.</p>
+
+<p>"For many years," whined Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"Is this your boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, ma'am; he is my young nephew, from the country."</p>
+
+<p>"You are fortunate in having him to go about with you."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, ma'am; I don't know what I should do without him."</p>
+
+<p>"Here is something for you, my good man," said the lady, and passed on.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, ma'am. May Heaven bless you!"</p>
+
+<p>"How much is it?" he asked quickly, when the lady was out of hearing.</p>
+
+<p>"Two cents," answered Frank, suppressing with difficulty an inclination
+to laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"The mean jade! I should like to wring her neck!" muttered Mills. "I
+thought it was a quarter, at least."</p>
+
+<p>In the next store they did not meet a cordial reception.</p>
+
+<p>"Clear out, you old humbug!" shouted the proprietor, who was in
+ill-humor. "You ought to be put in the penitentiary for begging about
+the streets."</p>
+
+<p>"I pray to God that you may become blind yourself," said Mills,
+passionately.</p>
+
+<p>"Out of my store, or I'll have you arrested, both of you!" said the
+angry tradesman. "Here, you boy, don't you bring that old fraud in this
+store again, if you know what's best for yourself."</p>
+
+<p>There was nothing to do but to comply with this peremptory order.</p>
+
+<p>"He's a beast!" snarled Mills; "I'd like to put his eyes out myself."</p>
+
+<p>"You haven't got a very amiable temper," thought Frank. "I wouldn't
+like to be blind; but even if I were, I would try to be pleasanter."</p>
+
+<p>Two young girls, passing by, noticed the blind man. They were
+soft-hearted, and stopped to inquire how long he had been blind.</p>
+
+<p>"Before you were born, my pretty maid," said Mills, sighing.</p>
+
+<p>"I have an aunt who is blind," said one of the girls; "but she is not
+poor, like you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am very poor," whined Mills; "I have not money enough to pay my rent,
+and I may be turned out into the street."</p>
+
+<p>"How sad!" said the young girl, in a tone of deep sympathy. "I have not
+much money, but I will give you all I have."</p>
+
+<p>"May God bless you, and spare your eyes!" said Mills, as he closed his
+hand upon the money.</p>
+
+<p>"How much is it?" he asked as before, when they had passed on.</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five cents," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"That is better," said Mills, in a tone of satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>For some time afterwards all applications were refused; in some cases,
+roughly.</p>
+
+<p>"Why don't you work?" asked one man, bluntly.</p>
+
+<p>"What can I do?" asked Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"That's your lookout. Some blind men work. I suppose you would rather
+get your living by begging."</p>
+
+<p>"I would work my fingers to the bone if I could only see," whined Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"So you say; but I don't believe it. At any rate, that boy of yours can
+see. Why don't you set him to work?"</p>
+
+<p>"He has to take care of me."</p>
+
+<p>"I would work if I could get anything to do," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>As he spoke, he felt his hand pressed forcibly by his companion, who did
+not relish his answer.</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot spare him," he whined. "He has to do everything for me."</p>
+
+<p>When they were again in the street, Mills demanded, roughly, "What did
+you mean by saying that?"</p>
+
+<p>"What, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"That you wanted to go to work."</p>
+
+<p>"Because it is true."</p>
+
+<p>"You are at work; you are working for me," said Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"I would rather work in a store, or an office, or sell papers."</p>
+
+<p>"That wouldn't do me any good. Don't speak in that way again."</p>
+
+<p>The two were out about a couple of hours, and very tiresome Frank found
+it. Then Mills indicated a desire to go home, and they went back to the
+room in the old tenement-house. Mills threw himself down on the bed in
+the corner, and heaved a sigh of relief.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, boy, count the money we have collected," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"There's ninety-three cents," Frank announced.</p>
+
+<p>"If I had known it was so near a dollar we would have stayed a little
+longer. Now, get me my pipe."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is it, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"In the cupboard. Fill it with tobacco, and light it."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you not afraid of setting the bedding on fire, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Mind your own business. If I choose to set it on fire, I will," snarled
+Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, sir; I thought I'd mention it."</p>
+
+<p>"You have mentioned it, and you needn't do it again."</p>
+
+<p>"What a sweet temper you've got!" thought Frank.</p>
+
+<p>He sat down on a broken chair, and, having nothing else to do, watched
+his employer. "He looks very much as if he could see," thought Frank;
+for Mills now had his eyes wide open.</p>
+
+<p>"What are you staring at me for, boy?" demanded his employer, rather
+unexpectedly.</p>
+
+<p>"What makes you think I am staring at you, sir?" was Frank's natural
+question. "I thought you couldn't see."</p>
+
+<p>"No more I can, but I can tell when one is staring at me. It makes me
+creep all over."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I'll look somewhere else."</p>
+
+<p>"Would you like to do some work, as you said?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Then take twenty-five cents, and buy some evening papers and sell them;
+but mind you bring the money to me."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," said Frank, with alacrity.</p>
+
+<p>Anything he thought would be better than sitting in that dull room with
+so disagreeable a companion.</p>
+
+<p>"Mind you don't run off with the money," said the blind man, sharply.
+"If you do I'll have you put in the Tombs."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't mean to run away with the money," retorted Frank, indignantly.</p>
+
+<p>"And when you've sold the papers, come home."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>With a feeling of relief, Frank descended the stairs and directed his
+steps to the Park, meaning to ask Dick Rafferty's advice about the
+proper way to start in business as a newsboy.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK THROWS UP HIS SITUATION.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Frank found his friend on Park Row, and made known his errand.</p>
+
+<p>"So old Mills wants you to sell papers for his benefit, does he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but I'd rather do it than to stay with him."</p>
+
+<p>"How much has he agreed to pay you?"</p>
+
+<p>"That isn't settled yet."</p>
+
+<p>"You'd better bring him to the point, or he won't pay you anything
+except board and lodging, and mighty mean both of them will be."</p>
+
+<p>"I won't say anything about it the first day," said Frank. "What papers
+shall I buy?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's rather late. You'd better try for Telegrams."</p>
+
+<p>Frank did so, and succeeded in selling half a dozen, yielding a profit
+of six cents. It was not a brilliant beginning, but he was late in the
+field, and most had purchased their evening papers. His papers sold,
+Frank went home and announced the result.</p>
+
+<p>"Umph!" muttered the blind man. "Give me the money."</p>
+
+<p>"Here it is, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you given me all?" sharply demanded Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I have," said Frank, indignantly.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you be impudent, or I will give you a flogging," said the blind
+man, roughly.</p>
+
+<p>"I am not used to be talked to in that way," said Frank, independently.</p>
+
+<p>"You've always had your own way, I suppose," snarled Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I haven't; but I have been treated kindly."</p>
+
+<p>"You are only a boy, and I won't allow you to talk back to me. Do you
+hear?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Then take care to remember."</p>
+
+<p>"You've got a sweet disposition," thought Frank. "I won't stay with you
+any longer than I am obliged to."</p>
+
+<p>Several days passed without bringing any incidents worth recording.
+Frank took a daily walk with the blind man, sometimes in the morning,
+sometimes in the afternoon. These walks were very distasteful to him.
+The companion of a beggar, he felt as if he himself were begging. He
+liked better the time he spent in selling papers, though he reaped no
+benefit himself. In fact, his wages were poor enough. Thus far his fare
+had consisted of dry bread with an occasional bun. He was a healthy,
+vigorous boy, and he felt the need of meat, or some other hearty food,
+and ventured to intimate as much to his employer.</p>
+
+<p>"So you want meat, do you?" snarled Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; I haven't tasted any for a week."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps you'd like to take your meals at Delmonico's?" sneered the
+blind man.</p>
+
+<p>Frank was so new to the city that this well-known name did not convey
+any special idea to him, and he answered "Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"That's what I thought!" exclaimed Mills, angrily. "You want to eat me
+out of house and home."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I don't; I only want enough food to keep up my strength."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you are getting it. I give you all I can afford."</p>
+
+<p>Frank was inclined to doubt this. He estimated that what he ate did not
+cost his employer over six or eight cents a day, and he generally earned
+for him twenty to thirty cents on the sale of papers, besides helping
+him to collect about a dollar daily from those who pitied his blindness.</p>
+
+<p>He mentioned his grievance to his friend, Dick Rafferty.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you what to do," said Dick.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish you would."</p>
+
+<p>"Keep some of the money you make by selling papers, and buy a square
+meal at an eatin' house."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like to do that; it wouldn't be honest."</p>
+
+<p>"Why wouldn't it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am carrying on the business for Mr. Mills. He supplies the capital."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you'd better carry it on for yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I could."</p>
+
+<p>"Why don't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't any money."</p>
+
+<p>"Has he paid you any wages?"</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"Then make him."</p>
+
+<p>Frank thought this a good suggestion. He had been with Mills a week, and
+it seemed fair enough that he should receive some pay besides a wretched
+bed and a little dry bread. Accordingly, returning to the room, he
+broached the subject.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want wages for?" demanded Mills, displeased.</p>
+
+<p>"I think I earn them," said Frank, boldly.</p>
+
+<p>"You get board and lodging. You are better off than a good many boys."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall want some clothes, some time," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps you'd like to have me pay you a dollar a day," said Mills.</p>
+
+<p>"I know you can't afford to pay me that. I will be satisfied if you will
+pay me ten cents a day," replied Frank.</p>
+
+<p>Frank reflected that, though this was a very small sum, in ten days it
+would give him a dollar, and then he would feel justified in setting up
+a business on his own account, as a newsboy. He anxiously awaited an
+answer.</p>
+
+<p>"I will think of it," said the blind man evasively, and Frank did not
+venture to say more.</p>
+
+<p>The next day, when Mills, led by Frank, was on his round, the two
+entered a cigar-store. Frank was much surprised when the cigar-vender
+handed him a fifty-cent currency note. He thought there was some
+mistake.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir," he said; "but did you mean to give me fifty cents?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said the cigar-vender, laughing; "but I wouldn't have done it, if
+it had been good."</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't it good?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, it's a counterfeit, and a pretty bad one. I might pass it, but it
+would cost me too much time and trouble."</p>
+
+<p>Frank was confounded. He mechanically handed the money to Mills, but did
+not again thank the giver. When they returned to the tenement-house,
+Mills requested Frank to go to the baker's for a loaf of bread.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Here is the money."</p>
+
+<p>"But that is the counterfeit note," said Frank, scrutinizing the bill
+given him.</p>
+
+<p>"What if it is?" demanded Mills, sharply.</p>
+
+<p>"It won't pass."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it will, if you are sharp."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want me to pass counterfeit money, Mr. Mills?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I do; I took it, and I mean to get rid of it."</p>
+
+<p>"But you didn't give anything for it."</p>
+
+<p>"That's neither here nor there. Take it, and offer it to the baker. If
+he won't take it, go to another baker with it."</p>
+
+<p>"I would rather not do it," said Frank, firmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Rather not!" exclaimed Mills, angrily. "Do you pretend to dictate to
+me?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I don't, but I don't mean to pass any counterfeit money for you or
+any other man," said Frank, with spirit.</p>
+
+<p>Mills half rose, with a threatening gesture, but thought better of it.</p>
+
+<p>"You're a fool," said he. "I suppose you are afraid of being arrested;
+but you have only to say that I gave it to you, and that I am blind, and
+couldn't tell it from good money."</p>
+
+<p>"But you know that it is bad money, Mr. Mills."</p>
+
+<p>"What if I do? No one can prove it. Take the money, and come back as
+quick as you can."</p>
+
+<p>"You must excuse me," said Frank, quietly, but firmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you refuse to do as I bid you?" demanded Mills, furiously.</p>
+
+<p>"I refuse to pass counterfeit money."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, by Heaven, I'll flog you!"</p>
+
+<p>Mills rose and advanced directly towards Frank, with his eyes wide open.
+Fortunately our hero was near the door, and, quickly opening it, darted
+from the room, pursued by Mills, his face flaming with wrath. It
+flashed upon Frank that no blind man could have done this. He decided
+that the man was a humbug, and could see a little, at all events. His
+blindness was no doubt assumed to enable him to appeal more effectively
+to the sympathizing public. This revelation disgusted Frank. He could
+not respect a man who lived by fraud. Counterfeit or no counterfeit, he
+decided to withdraw at once and forever from the service of Mr. Mills.</p>
+
+<p>His employer gave up the pursuit before he reached the street. Frank
+found himself on the sidewalk, free and emancipated, no richer than when
+he entered the service of the blind man, except in experience.</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't got a cent," he said to himself, "but I'll get along
+somehow."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK GETS A JOB.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Though Frank was penniless he was not cast down. He was tolerably
+familiar with the lower part of the city, and had greater reliance on
+himself than he had a week ago. If he had only had capital to the extent
+of fifty cents he would have felt quite at ease, for this would have set
+him up as a newsboy.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder if I could borrow fifty cents of Dick Rafferty," considered
+Frank. "I'll try, at any rate."</p>
+
+<p>He ran across Dick in City-Hall Park. That young gentleman was engaged
+in pitching pennies with a brother professional.</p>
+
+<p>"I say, Dick, I want to speak to you a minute," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"All right! Go ahead!"</p>
+
+<p>"I've lost my place."</p>
+
+<p>Dick whistled.</p>
+
+<p>"Got sacked, have you?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but I might have stayed."</p>
+
+<p>"Why didn't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Mills wanted me to pass a counterfeit note, and I wouldn't."</p>
+
+<p>"Was it a bad-looking one?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you're right. You might have got nabbed."</p>
+
+<p>"That wasn't the reason I refused. If I had been sure there'd have been
+no trouble I wouldn't have done it."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?" asked Dick, who did not understand our hero's scruples.</p>
+
+<p>"Because it's wrong."</p>
+
+<p>Dick shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess you belong to the church," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I don't; what makes you think so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, 'cause you're so mighty particular. I wouldn't mind passing it if I
+was sure I wouldn't be cotched."</p>
+
+<p>"I think it's almost as bad as stealing to buy bread, or anything else,
+and give what isn't worth anything for it. You might as well give a
+piece of newspaper."</p>
+
+<p>Though Frank was unquestionably right he did not succeed in making a
+convert of Dick Rafferty. Dick was a pretty good boy, considering the
+sort of training he had had; but passing bad money did not seem to him
+objectionable, unless "a fellow was cotched," as he expressed it.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, what are you going to do now?" asked Dick, after a pause.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess I can get a living by selling papers."</p>
+
+<p>"You can get as good a livin' as old Mills gave you. You'll get a better
+bed at the lodgin'-house than that heap of rags you laid on up there."</p>
+
+<p>"But there's one trouble," continued Frank, "I haven't any money to
+start on. Can you lend me fifty cents?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty cents!" repeated Dick. "What do you take me for? If I was
+connected with Vanderbuilt or Astor I might set you up in business, but
+now I can't."</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five cents will do," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, Frank," said Dick, plunging his hands into his pocket, and
+drawing therefrom three pennies and a nickel, "do you see them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, it's all the money I've got."</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid you have been extravagant, Dick," said Frank, in
+disappointment.</p>
+
+<p>"Last night I went to Tony Pastor's, and when I got through I went into
+a saloon and got an ice-cream and a cigar. You couldn't expect a feller
+to be very rich after that. I say, I'll lend you five cents if you want
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"No, thank you, Dick. I'll wait till you are richer."</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you what, Frank, I'll save up my money, and by day after
+to-morrow I guess I can set you up."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Dick. If I don't have the money by that time myself I'll
+accept your offer."</p>
+
+<p>There was no other boy with whom Frank felt sufficiently well acquainted
+to request a loan, and he walked away, feeling rather disappointed. It
+was certainly provoking to think that nothing but the lack of a small
+sum stood between him and remunerative employment. Once started he
+determined not to spend quite all his earnings, but to improve upon his
+friend Dick's practice, and, if possible, get a little ahead.</p>
+
+<p>When guiding the blind man he often walked up Broadway, and mechanically
+he took the same direction, walking slowly along, occasionally stopping
+to look in at a shop-window.</p>
+
+<p>As he was sauntering along he found himself behind two gentlemen,&mdash;one
+an old man, who wore gold spectacles; the other, a stout,
+pleasant-looking man, of middle age. Frank would not have noticed them
+particularly but for a sudden start and exclamation from the elder of
+the two gentlemen.</p>
+
+<p>"I declare, Thompson," he said, "I've left my umbrella down-town."</p>
+
+<p>"Where do you think you left it?"</p>
+
+<p>"In Peckham's office; that is, I think I left it there."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, well, he'll save it for you."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know about that. Some visitor may carry it away."</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind, Mr. Bowen. You are rich enough to afford a new one."</p>
+
+<p>"It isn't the value of the article, Thompson," said his friend, in some
+emotion. "That umbrella was brought me from Paris by my son John, who
+died. It is as a souvenir of him that I regard and value it. I would not
+lose it for a hundred dollars, nay, five hundred."</p>
+
+<p>"If you value it so much, sir, suppose we turn round and go back for
+it."</p>
+
+<p>Frank had listened to this conversation, and an idea struck him.
+Pressing forward, he said respectfully, "Let me go for it, sir. I will
+get it, and bring it to your house."</p>
+
+<p>The two gentlemen fixed their eyes upon the bright, eager face of the
+petitioner.</p>
+
+<p>"Who are you, my boy?" asked Mr. Thompson.</p>
+
+<p>"I am a poor boy, in want of work," answered our hero promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Frank Kavanagh."</p>
+
+<p>"Where do you live?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am trying to live in the city, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"What have you been doing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Leading a blind man, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Not a very pleasant employment, I should judge," said Thompson,
+shrugging his shoulders. "Well, have you lost that job?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"So the blind man turned you off, did he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Your services were unsatisfactory, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>"He wanted me to pass counterfeit money for him, and I refused."</p>
+
+<p>"If that is true, it is to your credit."</p>
+
+<p>"It is true, sir," said Frank, quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, Mr. Bowen, what do you say,&mdash;shall we accept this boy's services?
+It will save you time and trouble."</p>
+
+<p>"If I were sure he could be trusted," said Bowen, hesitating. "He might
+pawn the umbrella. It is a valuable one."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope, sir, you won't think so badly of me as that," said Frank, with
+feeling. "If I were willing to steal anything, it would not be a gift
+from your dead son."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll trust you, my boy," said the old gentleman quickly. "Your tone
+convinces me that you may be relied upon."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir."</p>
+
+<p>The old gentleman drew a card from his pocket, containing his name and
+address, and on the reverse side wrote the name of the friend at whose
+office he felt sure the umbrella had been left, with a brief note
+directing that it be handed to the bearer.</p>
+
+<p>"All right, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Stop a moment, my boy. Have you got money to ride?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Here, take this, and go down at once in the next stage. The sooner you
+get there the better."</p>
+
+<p>Frank followed directions. He stopped the next stage, and got on board.
+As he passed the City-Hall Park, Dick Rafferty espied him. Frank nodded
+to him.</p>
+
+<p>"How did he get money enough to ride in a 'bus?" Dick asked himself in
+much wonderment. "A few minutes ago he wanted to borrow some money of
+me, and now he's spending ten cents for a ride. Maybe he's found a
+pocket-book."</p>
+
+<p>Frank kept on his way, and got out at Wall street. He found Mr.
+Peckham's office, and on presenting the card, much to his delight, the
+umbrella was handed him.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Bowen was afraid to trust me with it over night," said Mr. Peckham,
+with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"He thought some visitor might carry it off," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Not unlikely. Umbrellas are considered common property."</p>
+
+<p>Frank hailed another stage, and started on his way up-town. There was no
+elevated railway then, and this was the readiest conveyance, as Mr.
+Bowen lived on Madison avenue.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<h3>AN INVITATION TO DINNER.</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Mr. Bowen must be a rich man," thought Frank, as he paused on the steps
+of a fine brown-stone mansion, corresponding to the number on his card.</p>
+
+<p>He rang the bell, and asked, "Is Mr. Bowen at home?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but he is in his chamber. I don't think he will see you."</p>
+
+<p>"I think he will," said Frank, who thought the servant was taking too
+much upon herself, "as I come by his appointment."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you can come into the hall," said the servant, reluctantly.
+"Is your business important?"</p>
+
+<p>"You may tell him that the boy he sent for his umbrella has brought it.
+He was afraid he had lost it."</p>
+
+<p>"He sets great store by that umbrella," said the girl, in a different
+tone. "I'll go and tell him."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bowen came downstairs almost immediately. There was a look of
+extreme gratification upon his face.</p>
+
+<p>"Bless my soul, how quick you were!" he exclaimed. "Why, I've only been
+home a few minutes. Did you find the umbrella at Mr. Peckham's office?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; it had been found, and taken care of."</p>
+
+<p>"Did Peckham say anything?"</p>
+
+<p>"He said you were probably afraid to trust it with him over night, but
+he smiled when he said it."</p>
+
+<p>"Peckham will have his joke, but he is an excellent man. My boy, I am
+much indebted to you."</p>
+
+<p>"I was very glad to do the errand, sir," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you said you were poor," said the old man, thoughtfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir. When I met you I hadn't a cent in the world."</p>
+
+<p>"Haven't you any way to make a living?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir. I could sell papers if I had enough money to set me up in
+business."</p>
+
+<p>"Does it require a large capital?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no, sir," said Frank, smiling, "unless you consider fifty cents a
+large sum."</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty cents!" repeated the old gentleman, in surprise. "You don't mean
+to say that this small sum would set you up in business?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; I could buy a small stock of papers, and buy more with what I
+received for them."</p>
+
+<p>"To be sure. I didn't think of that."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bowen was not a man of business. He had an ample income, and his
+tastes were literary and artistic. He knew more of books than of men,
+and more of his study than of the world.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, my boy," he said after a pause, "how much do I owe you for doing
+this errand?"</p>
+
+<p>"I leave that to you, sir. Whatever you think right will satisfy me."</p>
+
+<p>"Let me see, you want fifty cents to buy papers, and you will require
+something to pay for your bed."</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty cents in all will be enough, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"I think I had better give you a dollar," said the old gentleman,
+opening his pocket-book.</p>
+
+<p>Frank's eyes sparkled. A dollar would do him a great deal of good; with
+a dollar he would feel quite independent.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir," he said. "It is more than I earned, but it will be
+very acceptable."</p>
+
+<p>He put on his hat, and was about to leave the house, when Mr. Bowen
+suddenly said, "Oh, I think you'd better stay to dinner. It will be on
+the table directly. My niece is away, and if you don't stay I shall be
+alone."</p>
+
+<p>Frank did not know what to say. He was rather abashed by the invitation,
+but, as the old gentleman was to be alone, it did not seem so
+formidable.</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid I don't look fit," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"You can go upstairs and wash your face and hands. You'll find a
+clothes-brush there also. I'll ring for Susan to show you the way."</p>
+
+<p>He rang the bell, and the girl who had admitted Frank made her
+appearance.</p>
+
+<p>"Susan," said her master, "you may show this young gentlemen into the
+back chamber on the third floor, and see that he is supplied with towels
+and all he needs. And you may lay an extra plate; he will dine with me."</p>
+
+<p>Susan stared first at Mr. Bowen, and then at Frank, but did not venture
+to make any remark.</p>
+
+<p>"This way, young man," she said, and ascended the front stairs, Frank
+following her closely.</p>
+
+<p>She led the way into a handsomely furnished chamber, ejaculating, "Well,
+I never!"</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you'll find things to your satisfaction, sir," she said, dryly.
+"If we'd known you were coming, we'd have made particular preparations
+for you."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I think this will do," said Frank, smiling for he thought it a good
+joke.</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad you think it'll do," continued Susan. "Things mayn't be as
+nice as you're accustomed to at home."</p>
+
+<p>"Not quite," said Frank, good-humoredly; "but I shan't complain."</p>
+
+<p>"That's very kind and considerate of you, I'm sure," said Susan, tossing
+her head. "Well, I never did!"</p>
+
+<p>"Nor I either, Susan," said Frank, laughing. "I am a poor boy, and I am
+not used to this way of living; so if you'll be kind enough to give me
+any hints, so I may behave properly at the table, I'll be very much
+obliged to you."</p>
+
+<p>This frank acknowledgment quite appeased Susan, and she readily complied
+with our hero's request.</p>
+
+<p>"But I must be going downstairs, or dinner will be late," she said,
+hurriedly. "You can come down when you hear the bell ring."</p>
+
+<p>Frank had been well brought up, though not in the city, and he was aware
+that perfect neatness was one of the first characteristics of a
+gentleman. He therefore scrubbed his face and hands till they fairly
+shone, and brushed his clothes with great care. Even then they certainly
+did look rather shabby, and there was a small hole in the elbow of his
+coat; but, on the whole, he looked quite passable when he entered the
+dining-room.</p>
+
+<p>"Take that seat, my boy," said his host.</p>
+
+<p>Frank sat down and tried to look as if he was used to it.</p>
+
+<p>"Take this soup to Mr. Kavanagh," said Mr. Bowen, in a dignified tone.</p>
+
+<p>Frank started and smiled slightly, feeling more and more that it was an
+excellent joke.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder what Dick Rafferty would say if he could see me now," passed
+through his mind.</p>
+
+<p>He acquitted himself very creditably, however, and certainly displayed
+an excellent appetite, much to the satisfaction of his hospitable host.</p>
+
+<p>After dinner was over, Mr. Bowen detained him and began to talk of his
+dead son, telling anecdotes of his boyhood, to which Frank listened with
+respectful attention, for the father's devotion was touching.</p>
+
+<p>"I think my boy looked a little like you," said the old gentleman. "What
+do you think, Susan?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not a mite, sir," answered Susan, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"When he was a boy, I mean."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't know him when he was a boy, Mr. Bowen."</p>
+
+<p>"No, to be sure not."</p>
+
+<p>"But Mr. John was dark-complected, and this boy is light, and Mr. John's
+hair was black, and his is brown."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose I am mistaken," sighed the old man; "but there was something
+in the boy's face that reminded me of John."</p>
+
+<p>"A little more, and he'll want to adopt him," thought Susan. "That
+wouldn't do nohow, though he does really seem like a decent sort of a
+boy."</p>
+
+<p>At eight o'clock Frank rose, and wished Mr. Bowen good-night.</p>
+
+<p>"Come and see me again, my boy," said the old gentleman, kindly. "You
+have been a good deal of company for me to-night."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad of it, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"I think you might find something better to do than selling papers."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I could, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Come and dine with me again this day week, and I may have something to
+tell you."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir."</p>
+
+<p>Feeling in his pocket to see that his dollar was safe, Frank set out to
+walk down-town, repairing to the lodging-house, where he met Dick, and
+astonished that young man by the recital of his adventures.</p>
+
+<p>"It takes you to get round, Frank," he said. "I wonder I don't get
+invited to dine on Madison avenue."</p>
+
+<p>"I give it up," said Frank.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A NEWSBOY'S EXPERIENCES.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Frank slept that night at the lodging-house, and found a much better bed
+than he had been provided with by his late employer. He was up bright
+and early the next morning, and purchased a stock of morning papers.
+These he succeeded in selling during the forenoon, netting a profit of
+thirty cents. It was not much, but he was satisfied. At any rate he was
+a good deal better off than when in the employ of Mr. Mills. Of course
+he had to economize strictly, but the excellent arrangements of the
+lodging-house helped him to do this. Twelve cents provided him with
+lodging and breakfast. At noon, in company with his friend Dick, he went
+to a cheap restaurant, then to be found in Ann street, near Park row,
+and for fifteen cents enjoyed a dinner of two courses. The first
+consisted of a plate of beef, with a potato and a wedge of bread,
+costing ten cents, and the second, a piece of apple-pie.</p>
+
+<p>"That's a good square meal," said Dick, in a tone of satisfaction. "I
+oughter get one every day, but sometimes I don't have the money."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think you could raise fifteen cents a day for that purpose,
+Dick."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, so I could; but then you see I save my money sometimes to go to
+the Old Bowery, or Tony Pastor's, in the evenin'."</p>
+
+<p>"I would like to go, too, but I wouldn't give up my dinner. A boy that's
+growing needs enough to eat."</p>
+
+<p>"I guess you're right," said Dick. "We'll go to dinner together every
+day, if you say so."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, Dick; I should like your company."</p>
+
+<p>About two o'clock in the afternoon, as Frank was resting on a bench in
+the City-Hall Park, a girl of ten approached him. Frank recognized her
+as an inmate of the tenement-house where Mills, his late employer,
+lived.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want to see me?" asked Frank, observing that she was looking
+towards him.</p>
+
+<p>"You're the boy that went round with the blind man, aint you?" she
+asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"He wants you to come back."</p>
+
+<p>Frank was rather surprised, but concluded that Mills had difficulty in
+obtaining a boy to succeed him. This was not very remarkable,
+considering the niggardly pay attached to the office.</p>
+
+<p>"Did he send you to find me?" asked our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he says you needn't pass that money if you'll come back."</p>
+
+<p>"Tell him that I don't want to come back," said Frank, promptly. "I can
+do better working for myself."</p>
+
+<p>"He wants to know what you are doing," continued the girl.</p>
+
+<p>"Does he? You can tell him that I am a newsboy."</p>
+
+<p>"He says if you don't come back he'll have you arrested for stealing
+money from him. You mustn't be mad with me. That's what he told me to
+say."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't blame you," said Frank, hotly; "but you can tell him that he is
+a liar."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I wouldn't dare to tell him that; he would beat me."</p>
+
+<p>"How can he do that, when he can't see where you are?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know how it is, but he can go right up to where you are just as
+well as if he could see."</p>
+
+<p>"So he can. He's a humbug and a fraud. His eyes may not be very good,
+but he can see for all that. He pretends to be blind so as to make
+money."</p>
+
+<p>"That's what mother and I think," said the girl. "So you won't come
+back?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not much. He can hire some other boy, and starve him. He won't get me."</p>
+
+<p>"Aint you afraid he'll have you arrested for stealing?" asked the girl.</p>
+
+<p>"If he tries that I'll expose him for wanting me to pass a counterfeit
+note. I never took a cent from him."</p>
+
+<p>"He'll be awful mad," said the little girl.</p>
+
+<p>"Let him. If he had treated me decently I would have stayed with him.
+Now I'm glad I left him."</p>
+
+<p>Mills was indeed furious when, by degrees, he had drawn from his young
+messenger what Frank had said. He was sorry to lose him, for he was the
+most truthful and satisfactory guide he had ever employed, and he now
+regretted that he had driven him away by his unreasonable exactions. He
+considered whether it would be worth while to have Frank arrested on a
+false charge of theft, but was restrained by the fear that he would
+himself be implicated in passing counterfeit money, that is, in
+intention. He succeeded in engaging another boy, who really stole from
+him, and finally secured a girl, for whose services, however, he was
+obliged to pay her mother twenty cents every time she went out with him.
+Mean and miserly as he was, he agreed to this with reluctance, and only
+as a measure of necessity.</p>
+
+<p>As he became more accustomed to his new occupation Frank succeeded
+better. He was a boy of considerable energy, and was on the alert for
+customers. It was not long before his earnings exceeded those of Dick
+Rafferty, who was inclined to take things easily.</p>
+
+<p>One evening Dick was lamenting that he could not go to the Old Bowery.</p>
+
+<p>"There's a bully play, Frank," he said. "There's a lot of fightin' in
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it called, Dick?"</p>
+
+<p>"'The Scalpers of the Plains.' There's five men murdered in the first
+act. Oh, it's elegant!"</p>
+
+<p>"Why don't you go, then, Dick?"</p>
+
+<p>"Cause I'm dead-broke&mdash;busted. That's why. I aint had much luck this
+week, and it took all my money to pay for my lodgin's and grub."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want very much to go to the theatre, Dick?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I do; but it aint no use. My credit aint good, and I haint no
+money in the bank."</p>
+
+<p>"How much does it cost?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fifteen cents, in the top gallery."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you see there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it's rather high up; but a feller with good eyes can see all he
+wants to there."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you what I'll do, Dick. You have been a good friend to me,
+and I'll take you at my expense."</p>
+
+<p>"You will? To-night?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"You're a reg'lar trump. We'll have a stavin' time. Sometime, when I'm
+flush, I'll return the compliment."</p>
+
+<p>So the two boys went. They were at the doors early, and secured a front
+seat in the gallery. The performance was well adapted to please the
+taste of a boy, and they enjoyed it exceedingly. Dick was uproarious in
+his applause whenever a man was killed.</p>
+
+<p>"Seems to me you like to see men killed, Dick," said his friend.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it's kinder excitin'."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like that part so well as some others," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"It's' a stavin' play, aint it?" asked Dick, greatly delighted.</p>
+
+<p>Frank assented.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you what, Frank," said Dick; "I'd like to be a hunter and
+roam round the plains, killin' bears and Injuns."</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose they should kill you? That wouldn't suit you so well, would
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I guess not. But I'd like to be a hunter, wouldn't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I would rather live in New York. I would like to make a journey to
+the West if I had money enough; but I would leave the hunting to other
+men."</p>
+
+<p>Dick, however, did not agree with his more sensible companion. Many boys
+like him are charmed with the idea of a wild life in the forest, and
+some have been foolish enough to leave good homes, and, providing
+themselves with what they considered necessary, have set out on a
+journey in quest of the romantic adventures which in stories had fired
+their imaginations. If their wishes could be realized it would not be
+long before the romance would fade out, and they would long for the good
+homes, which they had never before fully appreciated.</p>
+
+<p>When the week was over, Frank found that he had lived within his means,
+as he had resolved to do; but he had not done much more. He began with
+a dollar which he had received from Mr. Bowen, and now he had a dollar
+and a quarter. There was a gain of twenty-five cents. There would have
+been a little more if he had not gone to the theatre with Dick; but this
+he did not regret. He felt that he needed some amusement, and he wished
+to show his gratitude to his friend for various kind services. The time
+had come to accept Mr. Bowen's second dinner invitation. As Frank looked
+at his shabby clothes he wished there were a good pretext for declining,
+but he reflected that this would not be polite, and that the old
+gentleman would make allowances for his wardrobe. He brushed up his
+clothes as well as he could, and obtained a "<i>boss shine</i>" from Dick.
+Then he started for the house on Madison avenue.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll lend you my clo'es if you want 'em," said Dick.</p>
+
+<p>"There are too many spots of blacking on them, Dick. As I'm a newsboy,
+it wouldn't look appropriate. I shall have to make mine answer."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll shine up the blackin' spots if you want me to."</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind, Dick. I'll wait till next time for your suit."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<h3>VICTOR DUPONT.</h3>
+
+
+<p>As Frank was walking on Madison avenue, a little before reaching the
+house of Mr. Bowen he met a boy of his own age, whom he recognized.
+Victor Dupont had spent the previous summer at the hotel in the country
+village where Frank had lived until he came to the city. Victor was
+proud of his social position, but time hung so heavily upon his hands in
+the country that he was glad to keep company with the village boys.
+Frank and he had frequently gone fishing together, and had been
+associated in other amusements, so that they were for the time quite
+intimate. The memories of home and past pleasures thronged upon our hero
+as he met Victor, and his face flushed with pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Victor," he said, eagerly, extending his hand, "how glad I am to
+see you!"</p>
+
+<p>Frank forgot that intimacy in the country does not necessarily lead to
+intimacy in the city, and he was considerably surprised when Victor, not
+appearing to notice his offered hand, said coldly, "I don't think I
+remember you."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't remember me!" exclaimed Frank, amazed. "Why, I am Frank Kavanagh!
+Don't you remember how much we were together last summer, and what good
+times we had fishing and swimming together?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I believe I do remember you now," drawled Victor, still not
+offering his hand, or expressing any pleasure at the meeting. "When did
+you come to the city?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have been here two or three weeks," replied Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, indeed! Are you going to remain?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, if I can earn a living."</p>
+
+<p>Victor scanned Frank's clothes with a critical, and evidently rather
+contemptuous, glance.</p>
+
+<p>"What are you doing?" he asked. "Are you in a store?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I am selling papers."</p>
+
+<p>"A newsboy!" said Victor, with a curve of the lip.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank, his pleasure quite chilled by Victor's manner.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you doing well?" asked Victor, more from curiosity than interest.</p>
+
+<p>"I am making my expenses."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you happen to be in this neighborhood? I suppose you sell papers
+down-town."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but I am invited to dinner."</p>
+
+<p>"Not here&mdash;on the avenue!" ejaculated Victor.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank, enjoying the other's surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Where?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank mentioned the number.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, that is next to my house. Mr. Bowen lives there."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps you know some of the servants," suggested Victor.</p>
+
+<p>"I know one," said Frank, smiling, for he read Victor's thoughts; "but
+my invitation comes from Mr. Bowen."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you ever dine there before?" asked Victor, puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, last week."</p>
+
+<p>"You must excuse my mentioning it, but I should hardly think you would
+like to sit down at a gentleman's table in that shabby suit."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't," answered Frank; "but I have no better."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you ought to decline the invitation."</p>
+
+<p>"I would, but for appearing impolite."</p>
+
+<p>"It seems very strange that Mr. Bowen should invite a newsboy to
+dinner."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps if you'd mention what you think of it," said Frank, somewhat
+nettled, "he would recall the invitation."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, it's nothing to me," said Victor; "but I thought I'd mention it, as
+I know more of etiquette than you do."</p>
+
+<p>"You are very considerate," said Frank, with a slight tinge of sarcasm
+in his tone.</p>
+
+<p>By this time he had reached the house of Mr. Bowen, and the two boys
+parted.</p>
+
+<p>Frank could not help thinking a little about what Victor had said. His
+suit, as he looked down at it, seemed shabbier than ever. Again it
+occurred to him that perhaps Mr. Bowen had forgotten the invitation, and
+this would make it very awkward for him. As he waited for the door to
+open he decided that, if it should appear that he was not expected, he
+would give some excuse, and go away.</p>
+
+<p>Susan opened the door.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Bowen invited me to come here to dinner to-night," began Frank,
+rather nervously.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you are expected," said Susan, very much to his relief. "Wipe your
+feet, and come right in."</p>
+
+<p>Frank obeyed.</p>
+
+<p>"You are to go upstairs and get ready for dinner," said Susan, and she
+led the way to the same chamber into which our hero had been ushered the
+week before.</p>
+
+<p>"There won't be much getting ready," thought Frank. "However, I can stay
+there till I hear the bell ring."</p>
+
+<p>As he entered the room he saw a suit of clothes and some underclothing
+lying on the bed.</p>
+
+<p>"They are for you," said Susan, laconically.</p>
+
+<p>"For me!" exclaimed Frank, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, put them on, and when you come down to dinner Mr. Bowen will see
+how they fit."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it a present from him?" asked Frank, overwhelmed with surprise and
+gratitude, for he could see that the clothes were very handsome.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, they aint from me," said Susan, "so it's likely they come from
+him. Don't be too long, for Mr. Bowen doesn't like to have any one late
+to dinner."</p>
+
+<p>Susan had been in the service of her present mistress fifteen years, and
+was a privileged character. She liked to have her own way; but had
+sterling qualities, being neat, faithful, and industrious.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder whether I am awake or dreaming," thought Frank, when he was
+left alone. "I shouldn't like to wake up and find it was all a dream."</p>
+
+<p>He began at once to change his shabby clothes for the new ones. He
+found that the articles provided were a complete outfit, including
+shirt, collar, cuffs, stockings; in fact, everything that was needful.
+The coat, pants, and vest were a neat gray, and proved to be an
+excellent fit. In the bosom of the shirt were neat studs, and the cuffs
+were supplied with sleeve-buttons to correspond. When Frank stood before
+the glass, completely attired, he hardly knew himself. He was as well
+dressed as his aristocratic acquaintance, Victor Dupont, and looked more
+like a city boy than a boy bred in the country.</p>
+
+<p>"I never looked so well in my life," thought our young hero,
+complacently. "How kind Mr. Bowen is!"</p>
+
+<p>Frank did not know it; but he was indebted for this gift to Susan's
+suggestion. When her master told her in the morning that Frank was
+coming to dinner, she said, "It's a pity the boy hadn't some better
+clothes."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't notice his clothes," said Mr. Bowen. "Are they shabby?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; and they are almost worn out. They don't look fit for one who is
+going to sit at your table."</p>
+
+<p>"Bless my soul! I never thought of that. You think he needs some new
+clothes."</p>
+
+<p>"He needs them badly."</p>
+
+<p>"I will call at Baldwin's, and order some ready-made; but I don't know
+his size."</p>
+
+<p>"He's about two inches shorter than you, Mr. Bowen. Tell 'em that, and
+they will know. He ought to have shirts and stockings, too."</p>
+
+<p>"So he shall," said the old man, quite interested. "He shall have a full
+rig-out from top to toe. Where shall I go for the shirts and things?"</p>
+
+<p>Susan had a nephew about Frank's age, and she was prepared to give the
+necessary information. The old gentleman, who had no business to attend
+to, was delighted to have something to fill up his time. He went out
+directly after breakfast, or as soon as he had read the morning paper,
+and made choice of the articles already described, giving strict
+injunctions that they should be sent home immediately.</p>
+
+<p>This was the way Frank got his new outfit.</p>
+
+<p>When our hero came downstairs Mr. Bowen was waiting eagerly to see the
+transformation. The result delighted him.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, I shouldn't have known you!" he exclaimed, lifting both hands. "I
+had no idea new clothes would change you so much."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know how to thank you, sir," said Frank, gratefully.</p>
+
+<p>"I never should have thought of it if it hadn't been for Susan."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I thank you, Susan," said Frank, offering his hand to the girl, as
+she entered the room.</p>
+
+<p>Susan was pleased. She liked to be appreciated; and she noted with
+satisfaction the great improvement in Frank's appearance.</p>
+
+<p>"You are quite welcome," she said; "but it was master's money that paid
+for the clothes."</p>
+
+<p>"It was your kindness that made him think of it," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>From that moment Susan became Frank's fast friend. We generally like
+those whom we have benefited, if our services are suitably
+acknowledged.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<h3>A NEW PROSPECT.</h3>
+
+
+<p>"Well, Frank, and how is your business?" asked the old gentleman, when
+they were sitting at the dinner-table.</p>
+
+<p>"Pretty good, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you making your expenses?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; just about."</p>
+
+<p>"That is well. Mind you never run into debt. That is a bad plan."</p>
+
+<p>"I shan't have to now, sir. If I had had to buy clothes for myself, I
+might have had to."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you find the shirts and stockings fit you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; they are just right."</p>
+
+<p>"I bought half a dozen of each. Susan will give you the bundle when you
+are ready to go. If they had not been right, they could have been
+exchanged."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir. I shall feel rich with so many clothes."</p>
+
+<p>"Where do you sleep, Frank?"</p>
+
+<p>"At the Newsboy's Lodging-House."</p>
+
+<p>"Is there any place there where you can keep your clothes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir. Each boy has a locker to himself."</p>
+
+<p>"That is a good plan. It would be better if you had a room to yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"I can't afford it yet, sir. The lodging-house costs me only forty-two
+cents a week for a bed, and I could not get a room for that."</p>
+
+<p>"Bless my soul! That is very cheap. Really, I think I could save money
+by giving up my house, and going there to sleep."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think you would like it, sir," said Frank, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"Probably not. Now, Frank, I am going to mention a plan I have for you.
+You don't want to be a newsboy all your life."</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; I think I should get tired of it by the time I was fifty."</p>
+
+<p>"My friend Thompson, the gentleman who was walking with me when we
+first saw you, is an officer of the American District Telegraph Company.
+They employ a large number of boys at their various offices to run
+errands; and, in fact, to do anything that is required of them. Probably
+you have seen some of the boys going about the city."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; they have a blue uniform."</p>
+
+<p>"Precisely. How would you like to get a situation of that kind?"</p>
+
+<p>"Very much, sir," said Frank, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"Would you like it better than being a newsboy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"My friend Thompson, to whom I spoke on the subject, says he will take
+you on in a few weeks, provided you will qualify yourself for the post."</p>
+
+<p>"I will do that, sir, if you will tell me how."</p>
+
+<p>"You must be well acquainted with the city in all its parts, know the
+locations of different hotels, prominent buildings, have a fair
+education, and be willing to make yourself generally useful. You will
+have to satisfy the superintendent that you are fitted for the
+position."</p>
+
+<p>"I think my education will be sufficient," said Frank, "for I always
+went to school till just before I came to the city. I know something
+about the lower part of the city, but I will go about every day during
+the hours when I am not selling papers till I am familiar with all parts
+of it."</p>
+
+<p>"Do so, and when there is a vacancy I will let you know."</p>
+
+<p>"How much pay shall I get, sir, if they accept me?"</p>
+
+<p>"About three dollars a week at first, and more when you get familiar
+with your duties. No doubt money will also be given you by some who
+employ you, though you will not be allowed to ask for any fees. Very
+likely you will get nearly as much in this way as from your salary."</p>
+
+<p>Frank's face expressed satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"That will be bully," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"I beg pardon," said the old gentleman, politely. "What did you
+remark?"</p>
+
+<p>"That will be excellent," said Frank, blushing.</p>
+
+<p>"I thought you spoke of a bully."</p>
+
+<p>"It was a word I learned from Dick Rafferty," said Frank, feeling rather
+embarrassed.</p>
+
+<p>"And who is Dick Rafferty?"</p>
+
+<p>"One of my friends at the Lodging-House."</p>
+
+<p>"Unless his education is better than yours I would not advise you to
+learn any of his words."</p>
+
+<p>"I beg your pardon, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"You must excuse my offering you advice. It is the privilege of the old
+to advise the young."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall always be glad to follow your advice, Mr. Bowen," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Good boy, good boy," said the old gentleman, approvingly. "I wish all
+boys were like you. Some think they know more than their grandfathers.
+There's one of that kind who lives next door."</p>
+
+<p>"His name is Victor Dupont, isn't it, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bowen looked surprised. "How is it that you know his name?" he
+asked.</p>
+
+<p>"We were together a good deal last summer. His family boarded at the
+hotel in the country village where I used to live. He and I went
+bathing and fishing together."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed! Have you seen him since you came to the city?"</p>
+
+<p>"I met him as I was on my way here this afternoon."</p>
+
+<p>"Did he speak to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; though at first he pretended he didn't remember me."</p>
+
+<p>"Just like him. He is a very proud and conceited boy. Did you tell him
+you were coming to dine with me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir. He seemed very much surprised, as I had just told him I was a
+newsboy. He said he was surprised that you should invite a newsboy to
+dine with you."</p>
+
+<p>"I would much rather have you dine with me than him. What more did he
+say?"</p>
+
+<p>"He said he shouldn't think I would like to go out to dinner with such a
+shabby suit."</p>
+
+<p>"We have removed that objection," said Mr. Bowen, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," said Frank; "I think Victor will treat me more respectfully
+now when he meets me."</p>
+
+<p>"The respect of such a boy is of very little importance. He judges only
+by the outside."</p>
+
+<p>At an early hour Frank took his leave, promising to call again before
+long.</p>
+
+<p>"Where can I send to you if you are wanted for a telegraph boy?" asked
+Mr. Bowen.</p>
+
+<p>"A letter to me addressed to the care of Mr. O'Connor at the
+lodging-house will reach me," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Write it down for me," said the old gentleman. "You will find writing
+materials on yonder desk."</p>
+
+<p>When Frank made his appearance at the lodging-house in his new suit,
+with two bundles, one containing his old clothes, and the other his
+extra supply of underclothing, his arrival made quite a sensation.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you come into a fortun'?" asked one boy.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you draw a prize in the Havana lottery?" asked another.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you been playing policy?" asked a third.</p>
+
+<p>"You're all wrong," said Dick Rafferty. "Frank's been adopted by a rich
+man upon Madison avenue. Aint that so, Frank?"</p>
+
+<p>"Something like it," said Frank. "There's a gentleman up there who has
+been very kind to me."</p>
+
+<p>"If he wants to adopt another chap, spake a good word for me," said
+Patsy Reagan.</p>
+
+<p>"Whisht, Patsy, he don't want no Irish bog-trotter," said Phil Donovan.</p>
+
+<p>"You're Irish yourself, Phil, now, and you can't deny it."</p>
+
+<p>"What if I am? I aint no bog-trotter&mdash;I'm the son of an Irish count. You
+can see by my looks that I belong to the gintry."</p>
+
+<p>"Then the gintry must have red hair and freckles, Phil. There aint no
+chance for you."</p>
+
+<p>"Tell us all about it, Frank," said Dick. "Shure I'm your best friend,
+and you might mention my name to the ould gintleman if he's got any more
+good clothes to give away."</p>
+
+<p>"I will with pleasure, Dick, if I think it will do any good."</p>
+
+<p>"You won't put on no airs because you're better dressed than the likes
+of us?"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall wear my old clothes to-morrow, Dick. I can't afford to wear my
+best clothes every day."</p>
+
+<p>"I can," said Dick, dryly, which was quite true, as his best clothes
+were the only ones he had.</p>
+
+<p>Bright and early the next morning Frank was about his work, without
+betraying in any way the proud consciousness of being the owner of two
+suits. He followed Mr. Bowen's advice, and spent his leisure hours in
+exploring the city in its various parts, so that in the course of a
+month he knew more about it than boys who had lived in it all their
+lives. He told Dick his object in taking these long walks, and urged him
+to join him in the hope of winning a similar position; but Dick decided
+that it was too hard work. He preferred to spend his leisure time in
+playing marbles or pitching pennies.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE TELEGRAPH BOY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Six weeks later Frank Kavanagh, through the influence of his patron,
+found himself in the uniform of a District Telegraph Messenger. The blue
+suit, and badge upon the cap, are familiar to every city resident. The
+uniform is provided by the company, but must be paid for by weekly
+instalments, which are deducted from the wages of the wearers. This
+would have seriously embarrassed Frank but for an opportune gift of ten
+dollars from Mr. Bowen, which nearly paid the expense of his suit.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="ill1" id="ill1"></a>
+<img src="images/ill1.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Frank, the Telegraph Boy.</span></h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+
+<p>Frank was employed in one of the up-town offices of the company. For the
+information of such of my young readers as live in the country it may be
+explained that large numbers of houses and offices in the city are
+connected with the offices of the District Telegraph by machines,
+through which, at any time in the day or night, a messenger may be
+summoned for any purpose. It is only necessary to raise a knob in the
+box provided, and a bell is rung in the office of the company. Of course
+there is more or less transient business besides that of the regular
+subscribers.</p>
+
+<p>Boys, on arriving at the office, seat themselves, and are called upon in
+order. A boy just returned from an errand hangs up his hat, and takes
+his place at the foot of the line. He will not be called upon again till
+all who are ahead of him have been despatched in one direction or
+another.</p>
+
+<p>Frank was curious to know what would be his first duty, and waited
+eagerly for his turn to come.</p>
+
+<p>At length it came.</p>
+
+<p>"Go to No. &mdash; Madison avenue," said the superintendent.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later Frank was ascending the steps of a handsome
+brown-stone residence.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you're the telegraph boy," said a colored servant. "You're to go
+upstairs into missus's sitting-room."</p>
+
+<p>Upon entering, Frank found himself in the presence of a rather stout
+lady, who was reclining on a sofa.</p>
+
+<p>He bowed politely, and waited for his instructions.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you are a trustworthy boy," said the stout lady.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so, ma'am."</p>
+
+<p>"Come here, Fido," said the lady.</p>
+
+<p>A little mass of hair, with two red eyes peeping out, rose from the
+carpet and waddled towards the lady, for Fido was about as stout as his
+mistress.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you like dogs?" asked Mrs. Leroy, for this was the lady's name.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, ma'am," answered Frank, wondering what that had to do with his
+errand.</p>
+
+<p>"I sent for you to take my sweet darling out for an airing. His health
+requires that he should go out every day. I generally take him myself,
+but this morning I have a severe headache, and do not feel equal to the
+task. My dear little pet, will you go out with this nice boy?"</p>
+
+<p>Fido looked gravely at Frank and sneezed.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope the darling hasn't got cold," said Mrs. Leroy, with solicitude.
+"My lad, what is your name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Frank Kavanagh, ma'am."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you take great care of my little pet, Frank?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will try to, madam. Where do you want him to go?"</p>
+
+<p>"To Madison Park. He always likes the park, because it is so gay. When
+you get there you may sit down on one of the benches and give him time
+to rest."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, ma'am. How long would you like me to stay out with him?"</p>
+
+<p>"About an hour and a half. Have you a watch?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; but I can tell the time by the clock in front of the Fifth-avenue
+Hotel."</p>
+
+<p>"To be sure. I was going to lend you my watch."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I start now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. Here is the string. Don't make Fido go too fast. He is stout, and
+cannot walk fast. You will be sure to take great care of him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, madam."</p>
+
+<p>"And you keep watch that no bad man carries off my Fido. I used to send
+him out by one of the girls, till I found that she ill-treated the poor
+thing. Of course I couldn't stand that, so I sent her packing, I can
+tell you."</p>
+
+<p>"I will try to follow your directions," said Frank, who wanted to laugh
+at the lady's ridiculous devotion to her ugly little favorite.</p>
+
+<p>"That is right. You look like a good boy. I will give you something for
+yourself when you come back."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, ma'am," said Frank, who was better pleased with this remark
+than any the lady had previously made.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Leroy kissed Fido tenderly, and consigned him to the care of our
+hero.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose," said Frank to himself, "that I am the dog's nurse. It is
+rather a queer office; but as long as I am well paid for it I don't
+mind."</p>
+
+<p>When Fido found himself on the sidewalk he seemed disinclined to move;
+but after a while, by dint of coaxing, he condescended to waddle along
+at Frank's heels.</p>
+
+<p>After a while they reached Madison Park, and Frank, according to his
+instructions, took a seat, allowing Fido to curl up at his side.</p>
+
+<p>"This isn't very hard work," thought Frank. "I wish I had a book or
+paper to read, to while away the time."</p>
+
+<p>While he was sitting there Victor Dupont came sauntering along.</p>
+
+<p>"Halloa!" he exclaimed, in surprise, as he recognized Frank, "is that
+you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I believe it is," answered Frank, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you a telegraph boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought you were a newsboy?"</p>
+
+<p>"So I was; but I have changed my business."</p>
+
+<p>"What are you doing here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Taking care of a dog," said Frank, laughing.</p>
+
+<p>"Is that the dog?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"It's a beastly little brute. What's its name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fido."</p>
+
+<p>"Who does it belong to?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank answered.</p>
+
+<p>"I know," said Victor; "it's a fat lady living on the avenue. I have
+seen her out often with little pug. How do you feel, Fido?" and Victor
+began to pull the hair of the lady's favorite.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't do that, Victor," remonstrated Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Leroy wouldn't like it."</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Leroy isn't here."</p>
+
+<p>"I am," said Frank, emphatically, "and that is the same thing."</p>
+
+<p>Victor, by way of reply, pinched Fido's ear, and the little animal
+squeaked his disapproval.</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, Victor," said Frank, decidedly, "you must stop that."</p>
+
+<p>"Must I?" sneered Victor, contemptuously. "'Suppose I don't?"</p>
+
+<p>"Then I shall punch you," said Frank, quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"You are impertinent," said Victor, haughtily. "You needn't put on such
+airs because you are nurse to a puppy."</p>
+
+<p>"That is better than being a puppy myself," retorted Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean to insult me?" demanded Victor, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"No, unless you choose to think the remark fits you."</p>
+
+<p>"I have a great mind to give you a thrashing," said Victor, furiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I should sit still and let you do it," said Frank, calmly.
+"Fido is under my care, and I can't have him teased. That is right,
+isn't it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I did wrong to notice you," said Victor. "You are only a dog's nurse."</p>
+
+<p>Frank laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"You are right," he said. "It is new business for me, and though it is
+easy enough I can't say I like it. However, I am in the service of the
+Telegraph Company, and must do whatever is required."</p>
+
+<p>Victor walked away, rather annoyed because he could not tease Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"The boy has no pride," he said to himself, "or he wouldn't live out to
+take care of dogs. But, then, it is suitable enough for him."</p>
+
+<p>"Is that dawg yours?" asked a rough-looking man, taking his seat on the
+bench near Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"How old is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know."</p>
+
+<p>"Looks like a dawg I used to own. Let me take him."</p>
+
+<p>"I would rather not," said Frank, coldly. "It belongs to a lady who is
+very particular."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you won't, won't you?" said the man, roughly. "Danged if I don't
+think it is my dawg, after all;" and the man seized Fido, and was about
+to carry him away.</p>
+
+<p>But Frank seized him by the arm, and called for help.</p>
+
+<p>"What's the matter?" asked a park policeman who, unobserved by either,
+had come up behind.</p>
+
+<p>"This man is trying to steal my dog," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"The dog is mine," said the thief, boldly.</p>
+
+<p>"Drop him!" said the officer, authoritatively. "I have seen that dog
+before. He belongs to neither of you."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true," said Frank. "It belongs to Mrs. Leroy, of Madison
+avenue, and I am employed to take it out for an airing."</p>
+
+<p>"It's a lie!" said the man, sullenly.</p>
+
+<p>"If you are seen again in this neighborhood," said the policeman, "I
+shall arrest you. Now clear out!"</p>
+
+<p>The would-be thief slunk away, and Frank thanked the officer.</p>
+
+<p>"That man is a dog-stealer," said the policeman. "His business is to
+steal dogs, and wait till a reward is offered. Look out for him!"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A WAYWARD SON.</h3>
+
+
+<p>When Frank carried Fido back to his mistress, he thought it his duty to
+tell Mrs. Leroy of the attempt to abduct the favorite.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Leroy turned pale.</p>
+
+<p>"Did the man actually take my little pet?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, ma'am. He said it was his dog."</p>
+
+<p>"The horrid brute! How could I have lived without my darling?" and the
+lady caressed her favorite tenderly. "How did you prevent him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I seized him by the arm, and held him till a policeman came up."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a brave boy," said Mrs. Leroy, admiringly. "But for you, Fido
+would have been stolen."</p>
+
+<p>"The policeman said the man was a professional dog-stealer. He steals
+dogs for the reward which is offered."</p>
+
+<p>"I was sure I could trust you with my pet," said Mrs. Leroy. "You
+deserve a reward yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"I was only doing my duty, ma'am," said Frank, modestly.</p>
+
+<p>"It isn't everybody that does that."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Leroy rose, and, going to her bureau, drew an ivory portemonnaie
+from a small upper drawer; from this she extracted a two-dollar bill,
+and gave it to Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"This is too much," said Frank, surprised at the size of the gift.</p>
+
+<p>"Too much for rescuing my little pet? No, no, I am the best judge of
+that. I wouldn't have lost him for fifty times two dollars."</p>
+
+<p>"You are very liberal, and I am very much obliged to you," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"If I send again for a boy to take out Fido, I want you to come."</p>
+
+<p>"I will if I can, ma'am."</p>
+
+<p>For several days, though Frank was employed on errands daily, there was
+nothing of an unusual character. About eleven o'clock one evening (for
+Frank had to take his turn at night work) he was sent to a house on
+West Thirty-eighth street. On arriving, he was ushered into the presence
+of a lady of middle age, whose anxious face betrayed the anxiety that
+she felt.</p>
+
+<p>"I have a son rather larger and older than you," she said, "who, to my
+great sorrow, has been led away by evil companions, who have induced him
+to drink and play cards for money. I will not admit them into my house,
+but I cannot keep him from seeking them out. He is no doubt with them
+to-night."</p>
+
+<p>Frank listened with respectful sympathy, and waited to hear what he was
+desired to do in the matter.</p>
+
+<p>"The boy's father is dead," continued Mrs. Vivian, with emotion, "and I
+cannot fill his place. Fred is unwilling to obey his mother. His
+companions have persuaded him that it is unmanly."</p>
+
+<p>"I would gladly obey my mother if I could have her back," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Is your mother dead, then?" inquired Mrs. Vivian, with quick sympathy.</p>
+
+<p>"I have neither father nor mother," Frank answered gravely.</p>
+
+<p>"Poor boy! And yet you do not fall into temptation."</p>
+
+<p>"I have no time for that, ma'am; I have to earn my living."</p>
+
+<p>"If I could get Fred to take a position it might be a benefit to him,"
+said Mrs. Vivian, thoughtfully. "But the question now is, how I may be
+able to find him."</p>
+
+<p>"When did you see him last?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"About three o'clock this afternoon I gave him seventy-five dollars, and
+sent him to pay a bill. I was perhaps imprudent to trust him with such a
+sum of money; but for a few days past he has been more steady than
+usual, and I thought it would show my confidence in him if I employed
+him in such a matter."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think it would, ma'am."</p>
+
+<p>"But I am afraid Fred fell in with some of his evil companions, and let
+them know that he was well provided with money. That would be enough to
+excite their cupidity."</p>
+
+<p>"Who are the companions you speak of?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Boys, or rather young men, for they are all older than Fred, of lower
+social rank than himself. I don't attach any special importance to that,
+nor do I object to them on that ground; but they are, I have reason to
+think, ill-bred and disreputable. They know Fred to be richer than
+themselves, and induce him to drink and play, in the hope of getting
+some of his money. I have sent for you to go in search of my son. If you
+find him you must do your best to bring him home."</p>
+
+<p>"I will," said Frank. "Can you give me any idea where he may be found?"</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Vivian wrote on a card two places,&mdash;one a billiard saloon, which
+she had reason to suspect that her son frequented.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," said Frank, "will you be kind enough to describe your son to me,
+so that I may know him when I see him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will show you his photograph," said Mrs. Vivian.</p>
+
+<p>She opened an album, and showed the picture of a boy of seventeen, with
+a pleasant face, fair complexion, and hair somewhat curly. His forehead
+was high, and he looked gentlemanly and refined.</p>
+
+<p>"Is he not good-looking?" said the mother.</p>
+
+<p>"He looks like a gentleman," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"He would be one if he could throw off his evil associates. Do you think
+you will know him from the picture?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I think so. Is he tall?"</p>
+
+<p>"Two or three inches taller than you are. You had better take the
+picture with you. I have an extra one, which you can put in your pocket
+to help you identify him. By the way, it will be as well that you should
+be supplied with money in case it is necessary to bring him home in a
+cab."</p>
+
+<p>Frank understood what the mother found it difficult to explain. She
+feared that her boy might be the worse for drink.</p>
+
+<p>She handed our hero a five-dollar bill.</p>
+
+<p>"I will use it prudently, madam," said he, "and account to you for all I
+do not use."</p>
+
+<p>"I trust you wholly," said the lady. "Now go as quickly as possible."</p>
+
+<p>Frank looked at the two addresses he had on the card. The
+billiard-saloon was on the east side of the city, in an unfashionable
+locality.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll go there first," he decided.</p>
+
+<p>Crossing to Third avenue he hailed a car, and rode down-town. His
+knowledge of the city, gained from the walks he took when a newsboy,
+made it easy for him to find the place of which he was in search. Though
+it was nearly midnight, the saloon was lighted up, and two tables were
+in use. On the left-hand side, as he entered, was a bar, behind which
+stood a man in his shirt-sleeves, who answered the frequent calls for
+drinks. He looked rather suspiciously at Frank's uniform when he
+entered.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want?" he asked. "Have you any message for me?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," said Frank, carelessly. "Let me have a glass of lemonade."</p>
+
+<p>The bar-keeper's face cleared instantly, and he set about preparing the
+beverage required.</p>
+
+<p>"Won't you have something in it?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"You boys are kept out pretty late," said the bar-keeper, socially.</p>
+
+<p>"Not every night," said Frank. "We take turns."</p>
+
+<p>Frank paid ten cents for his lemonade, and, passing into the
+billiard-saloon, sat down and watched a game. He looked around him, but
+could not see anything of Fred. In fact, all the players were men.</p>
+
+<p>Sitting next to him was a young fellow, who was watching the game.</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose we try a game," he said to Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Not to-night. I came in here to look for a friend, but I guess he isn't
+here."</p>
+
+<p>"I've been here two hours. What does your friend look like?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's his picture," said Frank, displaying the photograph.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes," said his new acquaintance, "he is here now. His name is Fred,
+isn't it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank, eagerly; "I don't see him. Where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"He's playing cards upstairs, but I don't believe he can tell one card
+from the other."</p>
+
+<p>"Been drinking, I suppose," said Frank, betraying no surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"I should say so. Do you know the fellows he's with?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am not sure about that. How long has Fred been upstairs?"</p>
+
+<p>"About an hour. He was playing billiards till he couldn't stand
+straight, and then they went upstairs."</p>
+
+<p>"Would you mind telling him that there is a friend downstairs who wishes
+to see him, that is, if you know the way?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes, I live here. Won't you come up with me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps I had better," said Frank, and followed his companion through a
+door in the rear, and up a dark and narrow staircase to the street
+floor.</p>
+
+<p>"It'll be a hard job to get him away," thought Frank; "but, for his
+mother's sake, I will do my best."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A TIMELY RESCUE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>As Frank entered the room he hastily took in the scene before him. Round
+a table sat three young men, of not far from twenty, the fourth side
+being occupied by Fred Vivian. They were playing cards, and sipping
+drinks as they played. Fred Vivian's handsome face was flushed, and he
+was nervously excited. His hands trembled as he lifted the glass, and
+his wandering, uncertain glances showed that he was not himself.</p>
+
+<p>"It's your play, Fred," said his partner.</p>
+
+<p>Fred picked up a card without looking at it, and threw it down on the
+table.</p>
+
+<p>"That settles it," said another. "Fred, old boy, you've lost the game.
+You're another five dollars out."</p>
+
+<p>Fred fumbled in his pocket for a bill, and it was quickly taken from his
+hand before he could well see of what value it was. Frank, however,
+quickly as it was put away, saw that it was a ten. It was clear that
+Fred was being cheated in the most barefaced manner.</p>
+
+<p>Frank's entrance was evidently unwelcome to most of the company.</p>
+
+<p>"What are you bringing in that boy for, John?" demanded a low-browed
+fellow, with a face like a bull-dog.</p>
+
+<p>"He is a friend of Fred," answered John.</p>
+
+<p>"He's a telegraph boy. He comes here a spy. Fred don't know him. Clear
+out, boy!"</p>
+
+<p>Frank took no notice of this hostile remark, but walked up to Fred
+Vivian.</p>
+
+<p>"Fred," said he, thinking it best to speak as if he knew him, "it is
+getting late, and your mother is anxious about you. Won't you come home
+with me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Who are you?" asked Fred, with drunken gravity. "You aint my mother."</p>
+
+<p>"I come from your mother. Don't you know me? I am Frank Kavanagh."</p>
+
+<p>"How do, Frank? Glad to see you, ol' feller. Take a drink. Here, you
+boy, bring a drink for my frien', Frank Kavanagh."</p>
+
+<p>The three others looked on disconcerted. They were not ready to part
+with Fred yet, having secured only a part of his money.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't know him, Fred," said the one who had appropriated the
+ten-dollar bill. "He's only a telegraph boy."</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you he's my frien', Frank Kav'nagh," persisted Fred, with an
+obstinacy not unusual in one in his condition.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, if he is, let him sit down, and have a glass of something hot."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I thank you," said Frank, coldly. "Fred and I are going home."</p>
+
+<p>"No, you're not," exclaimed the other, bringing his fist heavily down
+upon the table. "We won't allow our friend Fred to be kidnapped by a boy
+of your size,&mdash;not much we won't, will we, boys?"</p>
+
+<p>"No! no!" chimed in the other two.</p>
+
+<p>Fred Vivian looked at them undecided.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess I'd better go," he stammered "There's something the matter with
+my head."</p>
+
+<p>"You need another drink to brace you up. Here, John, bring up another
+punch for Fred."</p>
+
+<p>Frank saw that unless he got Fred away before drinking any more, he
+would not be in a condition to go at all. It was a critical position,
+but he saw that he must be bold and resolute.</p>
+
+<p>"You needn't bring Fred anything more," he said. "He has had enough
+already."</p>
+
+<p>"I have had enough already," muttered Fred, mechanically.</p>
+
+<p>"Boys, are we going to stand this?" said the low-browed young man. "Are
+we going to let this telegraph boy interfere with a social party of
+young gentlemen? I move that we throw him downstairs."</p>
+
+<p>He half rose as he spoke, but Frank stood his ground.</p>
+
+<p>"You'd better not try it," he said quietly, "unless you want to pass the
+night in the station-house."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, you young jackanapes?" said the other angrily. "What
+charge can you trump up against us?"</p>
+
+<p>"You have been cheating Fred out of his money," said Frank, firmly.</p>
+
+<p>"It's a lie! We've been having a friendly game, and he lost. If we'd
+lost, we would have paid."</p>
+
+<p>"How much did he lose?"</p>
+
+<p>"Five dollars."</p>
+
+<p>"And you took ten from him."</p>
+
+<p>"It's a lie!" repeated the other; but he looked disconcerted.</p>
+
+<p>"It is true, for I noticed the bill as you took it from him. But it's
+not much worse than playing for money with him when he is in no
+condition to understand the game. You'd better give him back that
+ten-dollar bill."</p>
+
+<p>"I've a great mind to fling you downstairs, you young scamp!"</p>
+
+<p>"You are strong enough to do it," said Frank, exhibiting no trace of
+fear, "but I think you would be sorry for it afterwards. Come, Fred."</p>
+
+<p>Though Frank was so much younger and smaller, there was something in his
+calm, self-possessed manner that gave him an ascendency over the weak,
+vacillating Fred. The latter rose, and, taking our hero's arm, turned to
+leave the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Let him go," said the leader, who had been made uneasy by Frank's
+threat, and saw that it was politic to postpone his further designs upon
+his intended victim. "If he chooses to obey a small telegraph boy, he
+can."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't mind him, Fred," said Frank. "You know I'm your friend."</p>
+
+<p>"My friend, Frank Kavanagh!" repeated Fred, drowsily. "I'm awful sleepy,
+Frank. I want to go to bed."</p>
+
+<p>"You shall go to bed as soon as you get home, Fred."</p>
+
+<p>"I say, boy," said the leader, uneasily, "that was all a lie about the
+ten-dollar bill. You didn't see straight. Did he, Bates?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course he didn't."</p>
+
+<p>"One lies and the other swears to it," thought Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing will be done about it," he said, "if you will let Fred alone
+hereafter. The money you have won from him belongs to his mother, and,
+unless you keep away from him, she will order your arrest."</p>
+
+<p>"You're altogether too smart for a boy of your size," sneered the other.
+"Take your friend away. We don't care to associate with a milksop, who
+allows himself to be ordered around by women and children."</p>
+
+<p>Fortunately Fred was too drowsy to pay heed to what was being said; in
+fact he was very sleepy, and was anxious to go to bed. Frank got him
+into a cab, and in twenty minutes they safely reached his mother's house
+in Thirty-eighth street.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Vivian was anxiously awaiting the return of the prodigal.</p>
+
+<p>"O Fred," she said, "how could you stay away so, when you know how
+worried I get? You have been drinking, too."</p>
+
+<p>"This is my friend, Frank Kavanagh," hiccoughed Fred.</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I go up and help put him to bed?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Does he require help?" asked Mrs. Vivian, sorrowfully.</p>
+
+<p>"He has been drinking a good deal."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you may go up. I will lead the way to his chamber. Afterwards I
+want to speak to you."</p>
+
+<p>"All right."</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you find him?" asked Mrs. Vivian, when Frank with some
+difficulty had prepared his charge for bed.</p>
+
+<p>"In the billiard-saloon to which you directed me. He was upstairs
+playing cards for money. They were cheating him in the most outrageous
+manner."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose they got all his money."</p>
+
+<p>"Not all; but they would soon have done so. Here is his pocket-book,
+which I just took from his pocket."</p>
+
+<p>"There are twenty dollars left," said 'Mrs. Vivian, after an
+examination. "They must have secured the rest. O my poor boy! Would that
+I could shield you from these dangerous companions!"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think they will trouble him again, Mrs. Vivian."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not? You do not know them."</p>
+
+<p>"I told them that, if they came near him, hereafter, you would have them
+arrested for swindling your son out of money belonging to you."</p>
+
+<p>"Will that have any effect upon them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, because they know that I am ready to appear as a witness against
+them."</p>
+
+<p>"Did Fred show any unwillingness to come with you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I made him think I was an old acquaintance of his. Besides, he was
+feeling sleepy."</p>
+
+<p>"You have acted with great judgment for so young a lad," said Mrs.
+Vivian. "I wish Fred had a companion like you to influence him for good.
+Where do you live?"</p>
+
+<p>"At the Newsboys Lodging-House. I cannot afford to hire a room."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Vivian looked thoughtful.</p>
+
+<p>"Give me your name and address," she said.</p>
+
+<p>These she noted down.</p>
+
+<p>"I won't keep you any longer to-night," she said, "for you must be
+tired. You will hear from me again."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh," said Frank, "I nearly forgot. Here is the balance of the money you
+handed me for expenses."</p>
+
+<p>"Keep it for yourself," said Mrs. Vivian, "and accept my thanks
+besides."</p>
+
+<p>Though Frank had paid for the cab, there was a balance of nearly two
+dollars in his hands which he was very glad to keep.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK MAKES AN EVENING CALL.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The next day Frank chanced to meet Mrs. Vivian in the street. She
+recognized him at once.</p>
+
+<p>"I see you are kept busy," she said, pleasantly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank. "Our business is pretty good just now. How is
+your son?"</p>
+
+<p>"He slept well, and woke much refreshed this morning. He is a good boy
+naturally, but unable to withstand temptation. I have decided to send
+him to the country for a few weeks, to visit a cousin of about his own
+age. There he will be secure from temptation, and will have a chance to
+ride. I would have sent him away before, but that it would leave me
+alone in the house. You told me last evening that you had no
+boarding-place."</p>
+
+<p>"My only home is at the lodging-house," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"How would you like to occupy a room at my house while my son is away?"</p>
+
+<p>"Very much," said Frank, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall find it convenient to have you in the house, and shall feel
+safer."</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid I shouldn't be a match for an able-bodied burglar," said
+Frank, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps not; but you could summon a policeman. When can you come and
+see me about this arrangement?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am off duty to-night."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well; I will expect you. Fred will not go away till to-morrow, and
+you will have a chance to see him under more favorable circumstances
+than last evening."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you very much for your kind invitation," said Frank, politely.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Vivian bade him good-morning, very favorably impressed with his
+manners and deportment.</p>
+
+<p>Frank looked upon the proposal made him by Mrs. Vivian as a piece of
+great good-fortune. In his new position, excellent as were the beds at
+the lodging-house, he found it inconvenient to go there to sleep. Once
+or twice, on account of the late hour at which he was released from
+duty, he was unable to secure admittance, and had to pay fifty cents for
+a bed at a hotel on the European system. He had for some time been
+thinking seriously of hiring a room; but the probable expense deterred
+him. At Mrs. Vivian's he would have nothing to pay.</p>
+
+<p>In the evening he changed his uniform for the neat suit given him by Mr.
+Bowen, and about eight o'clock rang the bell of the house in
+Thirty-eighth street.</p>
+
+<p>He was at once ushered into the presence of Mrs. Vivian and her son.</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to see you, my young friend," said Mrs. Vivian, glancing with
+approval at the neat appearance of her young visitor. "Fred, this is the
+young man who brought you home last night."</p>
+
+<p>"I am much obliged to you," said Fred Vivian, offering his hand to
+Frank. "I am ashamed of having been found in such a place."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think the young men with you were very much your friends," said
+Frank; "I detected one in cheating you."</p>
+
+<p>"You mean at cards?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't mean that, though I presume they did; but you handed a
+ten-dollar bill to one of them, and he took it as a five."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you sure of that?" asked Fred, his face flushing with indignation.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I saw the number of the bill, though he put it away very quickly."</p>
+
+<p>"And I had been treating that fellow all the afternoon! I gave him a
+good dinner, too."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you surprised at such treatment from such a person?" asked his
+mother. "I should have expected it."</p>
+
+<p>"I will never notice the fellow again as long as I live," said Fred, who
+seemed a good deal impressed by his companion's treachery. "Why, it's
+nothing better than robbery."</p>
+
+<p>"You have given it the right name, Fred," said his mother, quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"He ought to give the money back," said Fred.</p>
+
+<p>"Let it go, my son. I am willing to lose it, if it severs all
+acquaintance between you and your unworthy companions."</p>
+
+<p>"Have I ever met you before?" asked Fred, turning to Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Not before last evening."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought you spoke of yourself as an old acquaintance."</p>
+
+<p>"That was to induce you to come with me," explained Frank. "I hope you
+will excuse the deception."</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly I will. I had been drinking so much that it was quite
+necessary to treat me as a child; but I don't mean to be caught in such
+a scrape again."</p>
+
+<p>"May you keep that resolution, Fred!" said his mother, earnestly.</p>
+
+<p>"I will try to, mother."</p>
+
+<p>"My mother tells me that you are going to take my place while I am in
+the country," said Fred, turning to Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be very glad to do so," said our hero. "I never had such a good
+home before."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a telegraph boy, are you not?" asked Fred.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me about it. Is it hard work?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not hard, but sometimes when I have been kept pretty busy, I get tired
+towards night."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think it would be rather good fun," said Fred.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think you would like it?" asked his mother, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"I might like it for about half a day, but all day would be too much for
+me. However, I am too old for such a position."</p>
+
+<p>Fred had no false pride, and though he knew that Frank was in a social
+position considerably below his own, he treated him as an equal. Those
+who are secure of their own position are much more likely to avoid
+"putting on airs" than those who have recently been elevated in the
+social scale. Frank was destined that same evening to see the contrast
+between true and false gentility.</p>
+
+<p>It so happened that Victor Dupont, already mentioned, was an
+acquaintance and former school-fellow of Fred Vivian. It also chanced
+that he selected this evening for a call, as the Vivians stood very high
+socially, being an old family. Victor was rather proud of his
+acquaintance with them, and took occasion to call frequently.</p>
+
+<p>As he was ushered into the room he did not at first recognize Frank in
+his new clothes.</p>
+
+<p>"Victor, this is a friend of mine, Frank Kavanagh," said Fred,
+introducing his two visitors. "Frank, let me introduce my old
+school-fellow Victor Dupont."</p>
+
+<p>"We are already acquainted," said Frank. "Good-evening, Victor."</p>
+
+<p>Victor stared in amusing astonishment at Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"How do you happen to be here?" asked Victor, brusquely.</p>
+
+<p>"By Mrs. Vivian's kind invitation," said Frank, quite at ease.</p>
+
+<p>"How do you two happen to know each other?" asked Fred.</p>
+
+<p>"We met in the country last summer," said Frank, finding Victor did not
+answer.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you had a very good time together," said Mrs. Vivian.</p>
+
+<p>"Our acquaintance was very slight," said Victor superciliously.</p>
+
+<p>"We must have gone fishing together at least a dozen times," said Frank,
+quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"How in the world did the fellow thrust himself in here?" said Victor to
+himself. "They can't know his low position."</p>
+
+<p>In the amiable desire of enlightening the Vivians Victor took an early
+opportunity to draw Fred aside.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you known Frank Kavanagh long?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Not very long."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know that he is a telegraph boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes," answered Fred, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"He used to be a newsboy, and sell papers in the lower part of the
+city."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't know that," said Fred indifferently.</p>
+
+<p>"I must say that I am rather surprised to see him here."</p>
+
+<p>"Why?" asked Fred, with provoking calmness.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you know, he is much below us in a social point of view."</p>
+
+<p>"I know that he is a poor boy; but some of our most prominent men were
+once poor boys."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't believe in mixing up different ranks."</p>
+
+<p>"You didn't think so in the country last summer."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, well, a fellow must have some company, and there was no better to
+be had."</p>
+
+<p>"You will probably be surprised to hear that your old acquaintance is to
+live here while I am in the country. I am going away to-morrow to spend
+a few weeks with my cousin."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it possible!" exclaimed Victor, in surprise and annoyance. "Perhaps
+he is to be here as an errand boy?" he suggested, evidently relieved by
+the idea.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no; he will be treated in all respects as one of the family."</p>
+
+<p>"Hadn't you better tell your mother that he was once a newsboy? She
+might recall the invitation."</p>
+
+<p>"It would make no difference with her. It seems to me, Victor, you are
+prejudiced against Frank."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I am not; but I like to see newsboys and telegraph messengers keep
+their place."</p>
+
+<p>"So do I. I hope Frank will keep his place till he can find a better
+one."</p>
+
+<p>"That isn't what I meant. How can you associate with such a boy on an
+equality?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because he seems well-bred and gentlemanly."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't believe he gets more than three or four dollars a week," said
+Victor, contemptuously.</p>
+
+<p>"Then I really hope his wages will soon be increased."</p>
+
+<p>Victor saw that he could do Frank no harm, and was forced, out of
+policy, to treat our hero with more politeness than he wished.</p>
+
+<p>When Frank rose to go, Mrs. Vivian desired him to send round his trunk,
+and take possession of his room the next day.</p>
+
+<p>"She doesn't suspect that I never owned a trunk," thought Frank. "I will
+buy one to-morrow, though I haven't got much to put in it."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+<h3>AT WALLACK'S THEATRE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The next day Frank devoted what small leisure he had to the purchase of
+a trunk, in which he stored his small supply of clothing, leaving out,
+however, the clothes in which he made his first appearance in the city.
+These he gave to his friend, Dick Rafferty, to whom they were a welcome
+gift, being considerably better than those he usually wore. Dick might,
+out of his earnings, have dressed better, but when he had any extra
+money it went for some kind of amusement. He was one of the steadiest
+patrons of the Old Bowery, and was often to be seen in the gallery of
+other places of amusement. He was surprised to hear of Frank's intended
+removal from the lodging-house.</p>
+
+<p>"I say, Frank," he said, "you're gettin' on fast. Here you are, goin' to
+live in a tip-top house up-town. You'll be a reg'lar swell."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope not, Dick. I don't like swells very much."</p>
+
+<p>"You won't notice your old friends bimeby."</p>
+
+<p>"That shows you don't know me, Dick. I shall be glad to notice you
+whenever we meet."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't see why I can't be in luck too," said Dick. "I wish I could
+find some rich lady to give me a room in her house."</p>
+
+<p>"You'll have to get some new clothes first, Dick."</p>
+
+<p>"I know I aint got a genteel look," said Dick, surveying his well-worn
+clothes, soiled and ragged; "but it wouldn't be no use if I was to dress
+in velvet."</p>
+
+<p>"Unless you kept your face clean," suggested Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"A feller can't be washin' his face all the time," said Dick.</p>
+
+<p>"It's the fashion to have a clean face in good society," said Frank,
+smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"It must be a good deal of trouble," said Dick. "Is my face very dirty?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not very. There's a black spot on each cheek, and one on the side of
+your nose, and your chin looks a little shady."</p>
+
+<p>"A feller can't keep very clean in my business."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose it is rather hard," Frank admitted; "but you won't be a
+boot-black always, I hope."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd just as lieves give it up for bankin', or cashier of a
+savings-bank," said Dick. "Them's light, genteel kinds of business, and
+don't dirty the hands."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Dick, if I hear of an opening in either line I'll let you know.
+Now I must go and buy a trunk."</p>
+
+<p>"I never expect to get as far as a trunk," said Dick. "I shall feel like
+a gentleman when I can set up one. It wouldn't be no use to me now. I'd
+have to stuff it with rocks to make a show."</p>
+
+<p>"Poor Dick!" thought Frank as he left his friend. "He takes the world
+too easy. He hasn't any ambition, or he wouldn't be content to keep on
+blacking boots when there are so many better ways of making a living. If
+I ever get a chance to give him a lift I will. He aint much to look at,
+but he's a good-hearted boy, and would put himself to a good deal of
+trouble to do me a favor."</p>
+
+<p>It was not much trouble to pack his trunk. Indeed, he had scarcely
+enough clothing to fill it one-third full.</p>
+
+<p>"I may have to adopt Dick's plan, and fill it with rocks," said Frank to
+himself. "Some day I shall be better supplied. I can't expect to get on
+too fast."</p>
+
+<p>The room assigned to Frank was a small one; but it was neatly furnished,
+and provided with a closet. The bed, with its clean white spread, looked
+very tempting, and Frank enjoyed the prospect of the privacy he would
+have in a room devoted to his sole use. At the lodging-house, though his
+bed was comfortable, there were sixty to eighty boys who slept in the
+same room, and of course he had no more rights than any other.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you like your room, Frank," said Mrs. Vivian.</p>
+
+<p>"It is the best I ever had," he replied.</p>
+
+<p>"How early are you obliged to be on duty?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"At eight o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not breakfast till that hour; but I will direct the cook to have a
+cup of coffee and some breakfast ready for you at seven."</p>
+
+<p>"Am I to take my meals here?" asked Frank, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly. Did you think I was going to send you out to a restaurant?"
+inquired Mrs. Vivian, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"I am very much obliged to you; but I am afraid it will inconvenience
+the cook to get me an early breakfast."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to see you so considerate of others. I can answer for Mary,
+however, who is very obliging. You can get lunch outside, as I suppose
+it will be inconvenient for you to leave your duties to come so far as
+Thirty-eighth street."</p>
+
+<p>"You are very kind to me, Mrs. Vivian," said Frank, gratefully.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall claim an occasional service of you in return," said Mrs.
+Vivian.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you will," said Frank, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>Two days after he had taken up his residence in his new quarters Frank
+was called upon to render a very agreeable service.</p>
+
+<p>"I have two tickets for Wallack's theatre for this evening," said Mrs.
+Vivian. "Will it be agreeable for you to accompany me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should like it very much."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you shall be my escort. When Fred is at home he goes with me; but
+now I must depend on you. Have you a pair of kid gloves?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank was obliged to confess that he had not. In fact he had never owned
+a pair in his life.</p>
+
+<p>"I will give you a pair of mine. Probably there is little difference in
+the size of our hands."</p>
+
+<p>This proved to be true.</p>
+
+<p>Somehow Frank in his new life seemed always running across Victor
+Dupont. That young gentleman and his sister sat in the row behind Mrs.
+Vivian and her youthful escort, but did not immediately become aware of
+it.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Victor," said his sister, who had been looking about her, "there
+is Mrs. Vivian in the next row. Who is that nice-looking boy with her?
+It can't be Fred, for he is larger."</p>
+
+<p>Victor turned his glance in the direction of Mrs. Vivian. His surprise
+and disgust were about equal when he saw the country-boy he had looked
+down upon, faultlessly attired, with neat-fitting gloves, and a rose in
+his button-hole and looking like a gentleman.</p>
+
+<p>"I never saw such cheek!" he exclaimed, in disgust.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean, Victor?" asked his sister, looking puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want to know who that boy is with Mrs. Vivian?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he is very nice-looking."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you can marry him if you like. That boy is a telegraph messenger.
+I used to know him in the country. A few weeks ago he was selling papers
+in front of the Astor House."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't say so!" ejaculated Flora Dupont, "Aren't you mistaken?"</p>
+
+<p>"I guess not. I know him as well as I know you."</p>
+
+<p>"He is a good-looking boy, at any rate," said Flora, who was less
+snobbish than her brother.</p>
+
+<p>"I can't see it," said Victor, annoyed. "He looks to me very common and
+vulgar. I don't see how Mrs. Vivian can be willing to appear with him at
+a fashionable theatre like this."</p>
+
+<p>"It's a pity he is a telegraph boy, he is so nice-looking."</p>
+
+<p>Just then Frank, turning, recognized Victor and bowed. Victor could not
+afford not to recognize Mrs. Vivian's escort, and bowed in return.</p>
+
+<p>But Victor was not the only one of Frank's acquaintances who recognized
+him that evening. In the upper gallery sat Dick Rafferty and Micky Shea,
+late fellow-boarders at the lodging-house. It was not often that these
+young gentlemen patronized Wallack's, for even a gallery ticket there
+was high-priced; but both wanted to see the popular play of "Ours," and
+had managed to scrape together fifty cents each.</p>
+
+<p>"Dick," said Micky, suddenly, "there's Frank Kavanagh down near the
+stage, in an orchestra seat."</p>
+
+<p>"So he is," said Dick. "Aint he dressed splendid though, wid kid gloves
+on and a flower in his button-hole, and an elegant lady beside him? See,
+she's whisperin' to him now. Who'd think he used to kape company wid the
+likes of us?"</p>
+
+<p>"Frank's up in the world. He's a reg'lar swell now."</p>
+
+<p>"And it's I that am glad of it. He's a good fellow, Frank is, and he
+won't turn his back on us."</p>
+
+<p>This was proved later in the evening, for, as Frank left the theatre
+with Mrs. Vivian, he espied his two old friends standing outside, and
+bowed with a pleasant smile, much to the gratification of the two street
+boys, who were disposed to look upon their old friend as one of the
+aristocracy.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK AS A DETECTIVE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Of course Frank's daily duties were far the most part of a commonplace
+character. They were more varied, to be sure, than those of an
+errand-boy, or shop-boy, but even a telegraph messenger does not have an
+adventure every day. Twice in the next three weeks our hero was summoned
+by Mrs. Leroy to give her pet dog an airing. It was not hard work, but
+Frank did not fancy it, though he never failed to receive a handsome fee
+from the mistress of Fido.</p>
+
+<p>One day Frank was summoned to a fashionable boarding-house in a side
+street above the Fifth-avenue hotel. On presenting himself, the servant
+said, "It's one of the boarders wants you. Stay here, and I'll let him
+know you've come."</p>
+
+<p>"All right!" said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Come right up," said the girl, directly after, speaking from the upper
+landing.</p>
+
+<p>Frank ascended the stairs, and entered a room on the second floor. A
+gentleman, partially bald, with a rim of red hair around the bare
+central spot, sat in a chair by the window, reading a morning paper.</p>
+
+<p>"So you're the telegraph boy, are you?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"You are honest, eh?"</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Because I am going to trust you with a considerable sum of money."</p>
+
+<p>"It will be safe, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"I want you to do some shopping for me. Are you ever employed in that
+way?"</p>
+
+<p>"I was once, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Let me see,&mdash;I want some linen handkerchiefs and some collars. Are you
+a judge of those articles?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not particularly."</p>
+
+<p>"However, I suppose you know a collar from a pair of cuffs, and a
+handkerchief from a towel," said the stranger, petulantly.</p>
+
+<p>"I rather think I can tell them apart," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Now let me see how many I want," said the stranger, reflectively. "I
+think half-a-dozen handkerchiefs will do."</p>
+
+<p>"How high shall I go?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"You ought to get them for fifty cents apiece, I should think."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, I can get them for that."</p>
+
+<p>"And the collars&mdash;well, half-a-dozen will do. Get them of good quality,
+size 15, and pay whatever is asked."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; do you want anything more?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think not, this morning. I have a headache, or I would go out
+myself," explained the stranger. "I live up the Hudson, and I must go
+home this afternoon by the boat."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want me to buy the articles at any particular store?" inquired
+Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"No; I leave that to your judgment. A large store is likely to have a
+better assortment, I suppose."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Come back as soon as you can, that's all."</p>
+
+<p>"You haven't given me the money yet, sir," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I beg pardon! That is an important omission."</p>
+
+<p>The stranger drew out a pocket-book, which appeared to be well filled,
+and extracted two bills of twenty dollars each, which he passed to
+Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"This is too much, sir," said the telegraph boy. "One of these bills
+will be much more than sufficient."</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind. I should like to have them both changed. You can buy the
+articles at different places, as this will give you a chance to get
+change for both."</p>
+
+<p>"I can get them changed at a bank, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"No," said the stranger, hastily, "I would rather you would pay them for
+goods. Shopkeepers are bound to change bills for a customer."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't see what difference it makes to you as long as they are
+changed," thought Frank. However it was not his business to question his
+employer's decision.</p>
+
+<p>Sixth avenue was not far distant, and as Frank was left to his own
+choice he betook himself hither on his shopping tour. Entering a large
+retail store, he inquired for gentleman's linen handkerchiefs.</p>
+
+<p>"Large or small?" asked the girl in attendance.</p>
+
+<p>"Large, I should think."</p>
+
+<p>He was shown some of good quality, at fifty cents.</p>
+
+<p>"I think they will do," said Frank, after examination. "I will take
+half-a-dozen."</p>
+
+<p>So saying he drew out one of the twenty-dollar bills.</p>
+
+<p>"Cash!" called the saleswoman, tapping on the counter with her pencil.</p>
+
+<p>Several small boys were flitting about the store in the service of
+customers. One of them made his appearance.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you nothing smaller?" asked the girl, noticing the denomination of
+the bill.</p>
+
+<p>"No," answered Frank.</p>
+
+<p>She put the bill between the leaves of a small blank book, and handed
+both that and the goods to the boy.</p>
+
+<p>Frank sat down on a stool by the counter to wait.</p>
+
+<p>Presently the cash-boy came back, and the proprietor of the store with
+him. He was a portly man, with a loud voice and an air of authority. To
+him the cash-boy pointed out Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you the purchaser of these handkerchiefs?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," answered Frank, rather surprised at the question.</p>
+
+<p>"And did you offer this twenty-dollar bill in payment?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you get it? Think well," said the trader, sternly.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter? Isn't the bill a good one?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"You have not answered my question. However, I will answer yours. The
+bill is a counterfeit."</p>
+
+<p>Frank looked surprised, and he understood at a flash why he had been
+trusted with two of these bills when one would answer.</p>
+
+<p>"I have nothing to do with that," said the telegraph boy. "I was sent
+out to buy some articles, and this money was given me to pay for them."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you got any other money of this description?" asked the trader,
+suspiciously.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank, readily. "I have another twenty."</p>
+
+<p>"Let me see it."</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly. I should like to know whether that is bad too."</p>
+
+<p>The other twenty proved to be a fac-simile of the first.</p>
+
+<p>"I must know where you got this money," said the merchant. "You may be
+in the service of counterfeiters."</p>
+
+<p>"You might know, from my uniform, that I am not," said Frank,
+indignantly. "I once lost a place because I would not pass counterfeit
+money."</p>
+
+<p>"I have a detective here. You must lead him to the man who supplied you
+with the money."</p>
+
+<p>"I am quite willing to do it," said our hero. "He wanted to make a tool
+of me. If I can put him into the hands of the law, I will."</p>
+
+<p>"That boy is all right," said a gentleman standing by. "The rogue was
+quite ingenious in trying to work off his bad money through a telegraph
+messenger."</p>
+
+<p>"What is the appearance of this man?" asked the detective as they walked
+along.</p>
+
+<p>"Rather a reddish face, and partly bald."</p>
+
+<p>"What is the color of the hair he has?"</p>
+
+<p>"Red."</p>
+
+<p>"Very good. It ought to be easy to know him by that description."</p>
+
+<p>"I should know him at once," said Frank, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"If he has not changed his appearance. It is easy to do that, and these
+fellows understand it well."</p>
+
+<p>Reaching the house, Frank rang the bell, the detective sauntering along
+on the opposite side of the street.</p>
+
+<p>"Is Mr. Stanley at home?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"I will see."</p>
+
+<p>The girl came down directly, with the information that Mr. Stanley had
+gone out.</p>
+
+<p>"That is queer," said Frank. "He told me to come right back. He said he
+had a headache, too, and did not want to go out."</p>
+
+<p>As he spoke, his glance rested on a man who was lounging at the corner.
+This man had black hair, and a full black beard. By chance, Frank's eye
+fell upon his right hand, and with a start he recognized a large ring
+with a sparkling diamond, real or imitation. This ring he had last seen
+on Mr. Stanley's hand. He crossed the street in a quiet, indifferent
+manner, and imparted his suspicions to the detective.</p>
+
+<p>"Good!" said the latter; "you are a smart boy."</p>
+
+<p>He approached the man alluded to, who, confident in his disguise, did
+not budge, and, placing his hand on his shoulder, said, "Mr. Stanley, I
+believe."</p>
+
+<p>"You are mistaken," said the man, shrugging his shoulders in a
+nonchalant way, with a foreign accent, "I am M. Lavalette. I do not know
+your M. Stanley."</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid you are forgetful, monsieur. I beg pardon, but do you wear
+a wig?" and with a quick movement he removed the stranger's hat, and,
+dislodging his black wig, displayed the rim of red hair.</p>
+
+<p>"This is an outrage!" said the rogue, angrily; "I will have you
+arrested, monsieur."</p>
+
+<p>"I will give you a chance, for here is an officer," said the detective.</p>
+
+<p>"I give this man in charge for passing counterfeit money," said the
+detective. "The next time, Mr. Stanley, don't select so smart a
+telegraph boy. He recognized you, in spite of your disguise, by the ring
+upon your finger."</p>
+
+<p>The rogue angrily drew the ring from his finger, and threw it on the
+sidewalk.</p>
+
+<p>"Curse the ring!" he said. "It has betrayed me."</p>
+
+<p>It only remains to add that Stanley was convicted through Frank's
+testimony. He proved to be an old offender, and the chief of a gang of
+counterfeiters.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Frank was more fortunate than the generality of the telegraph boys in
+obtaining fees from those who employed him. He was not allowed to
+solicit gifts, but was at liberty to accept them when offered. In one
+way or another he found his weekly receipts came to about seven dollars.
+Out of this sum he would have been able to save money, even if he had
+been obliged to pay all his expenses, that is by the exercise of strict
+economy. But, as we know, he was at no expense for room or board, with
+the exception of a light lunch in the middle of the day. Making a little
+calculation, he found that he could save about four dollars a week. As
+it had only been proposed to him to stay at Mrs. Vivian's while Fred was
+in the country, it seemed prudent to Frank to "make hay while the sun
+shone," and save up a little fund from which he could hereafter draw, in
+case it were necessary.</p>
+
+<p>So when he had saved ten dollars he presented himself at the counter of
+the Dime Savings-Bank, then located in Canal street, and deposited it,
+receiving a bank-book, which he regarded with great pride.</p>
+
+<p>"I begin to feel like a capitalist," he said to himself. "I am rather
+better off now than I was when I led round old Mills, the blind man. I
+wonder how he is getting along."</p>
+
+<p>As Frank entered Broadway from Canal street, by a strange coincidence he
+caught sight of the man of whom he had been thinking. Mills, with the
+same querulous, irritable expression he knew well, was making his way up
+Broadway, led by a boy younger than Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Pity a poor blind man!" he muttered from time to time in a whining
+voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Look out, you young rascal, or you will have me off the sidewalk,"
+Frank heard the blind man say; "I'll have a reckoning with you when I
+get home."</p>
+
+<p>The boy, who was pale and slight, looked frightened.</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't help it, Mr. Mills," he said. "It was the crowd."</p>
+
+<p>"You are getting careless, that's what's the matter," said Mills,
+harshly. "You are looking in at the shop windows, and neglect me."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I am not," said the boy, in meek remonstrance.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you contradict me!" exclaimed the blind man, grasping his stick
+significantly. "Pity a poor blind man!"</p>
+
+<p>"What an old brute he is!" thought Frank; "I will speak to him."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you do, Mr. Mills?" he said, halting before the blind man.</p>
+
+<p>"Who are you?" demanded Mills, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"You ought to know me; I am Frank Kavanagh, who used to go round with
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"I have had so many boys&mdash;most of them good for nothing&mdash;that I don't
+remember you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am the boy who wouldn't pass counterfeit money for you."</p>
+
+<p>"Hush!" said the blind man apprehensively, lest some one should hear
+Frank. "There was some mistake about that. I remember you now. Do you
+want to come back? This boy doesn't attend to his business."</p>
+
+<p>Frank laughed. Situated as he was now, the proposal seemed to him an
+excellent joke, and he was disposed to treat it as such.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, the fact is, Mr. Mills, you fed me on such rich food that I
+shouldn't dare to go back for fear of dyspepsia."</p>
+
+<p>"Or starvation," he added to himself.</p>
+
+<p>"I live better now," said Mills. "I haven't had any boy since, that
+suited me as well as you."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you; but I am afraid it would be a long time before I got rich on
+the wages you would give me."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll give you fifty cents a week," said Mills, "and more if I do well.
+You can come to-day, if you like."</p>
+
+<p>"You are very kind, but I am doing better than that," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"What are you doing,&mdash;selling papers?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I have given that up. I am a telegraph boy."</p>
+
+<p>"How much do you make?"</p>
+
+<p>"Seven dollars last week."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, you will be rich," said the blind man, enviously. "I don't think I
+get as much as that myself, and I have to pay a boy out of it."</p>
+
+<p>His poor guide did not have the appearance of being very liberally paid.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you won't come back?" said Mills, querulously.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I guess not."</p>
+
+<p>"Come along, boy!" said Mills, roughly, to his little guide. "Are you
+going to keep me here all day?"</p>
+
+<p>"I thought you wanted to speak to this boy."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I have got through. He has deserted me. It is the way of the
+world. There's nobody to pity the poor, blind man."</p>
+
+<p>"Here's five cents for old acquaintance' sake. Mr. Mills," said Frank,
+dropping a nickel into the hand of the boy who was guiding him.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you! May you never know what it is to be blind!" said Mills, in
+his professional tone.</p>
+
+<p>"If I am, I hope I can see as well as you," thought Frank. "What a
+precious old humbug he is, and how I pity that poor boy! If I had a
+chance I would give him something to save him from starvation."</p>
+
+<p>Frank walked on, quite elated at the change in his circumstances which
+allowed him to give money in charity to the person who had once been his
+employer. He would have given it more cheerfully if in his estimation
+the man had been more worthy.</p>
+
+<p>Frank's errand took him up Broadway. He had two or three stops to make,
+which made it inconvenient for him to ride. A little way in front of him
+he saw a boy of fourteen, whom he recognized as an errand-boy, and a
+former fellow-lodger at the Newsboy's Lodging-House. He was about to
+hurry forward and join John Riley,&mdash;for this was the boy's name,&mdash;when
+his attention was attracted, and his suspicions aroused, by a man who
+accosted John. He was a man of about thirty, rather showily dressed,
+with a gold chain dangling from his vest.</p>
+
+<p>"Johnny," he said, addressing the errand-boy "do you want to earn ten
+cents?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should like to," answered the boy, "but I am going on an errand, and
+can't spare the time."</p>
+
+<p>"It won't take five minutes," said the young man. "It is only to take
+this note up to Mr. Conant's room, on the fourth floor of this
+building."</p>
+
+<p>They were standing in front of a high building occupied as offices.</p>
+
+<p>The boy hesitated.</p>
+
+<p>"Is there an answer?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"No; you can come right down as soon as the letter is delivered."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose I could spare the time for that," said John Riley.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course you can. It won't take you two minutes. Here is the ten
+cents. I'll hold your bundle for you while you run up."</p>
+
+<p>"All right!" said the errand-boy, and, suspecting nothing, he
+surrendered his parcel, and taking the note and the dime, ran upstairs.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner was he out of sight than the young man began to walk off
+rapidly with the bundle. It was an old trick, that has been many times
+played upon unsuspecting boys, and will continue to be played as long as
+there are knavish adventurers who prefer dishonest methods of getting a
+living to honest industry.</p>
+
+<p>In this case, however, the rogue was destined to disappointment. It may
+be stated that he had been present in the dry-goods store from which the
+parcel came, and, knowing that the contents were valuable, had followed
+the boy.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner did Frank understand the fellow's purpose than he pursued him,
+and seized him by the arm.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want of me?" demanded the rogue, roughly. "I am in a hurry
+and can't be detained."</p>
+
+<p>"I want you to give me that bundle which you are trying to steal from my
+friend, John Riley."</p>
+
+<p>The rogue's countenance changed.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?" he demanded, to gain time.</p>
+
+<p>"I mean that I heard your conversation with him, and I know your game.
+Come back, or I will call a policeman."</p>
+
+<p>The young man was sharp enough to see that he must give up his purpose.</p>
+
+<p>"There, take the bundle," he said, tossing it into Frank's arms. "I was
+only going for a cigar; I should have brought it back."</p>
+
+<p>When John Riley came downstairs, with the letter in his hand,&mdash;for he
+had been unable to find any man named Conant in the building,&mdash;he found
+Frank waiting with the parcel.</p>
+
+<p>"Holloa, Frank! Where's that man that sent me upstairs? I can't find Mr.
+Conant."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course you can't. There's no such man in the building. That man was
+a thief; but for me he would have carried off your bundle."</p>
+
+<p>"What a fool I was!" said the errand-boy. "I won't let myself be fooled
+again."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't give up a bundle to a stranger again," said Frank. "I'm only a
+country boy, but I don't allow myself to be swindled as easily as you."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish that chap would come here again," said Johnny, indignantly. "But
+I've come out best, after all," he added, brightening up. "I've made ten
+cents out of him."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A RICH WOMAN'S SORROW.</h3>
+
+
+<p>One day Frank was summoned to a handsome residence on Madison avenue.</p>
+
+<p>"Sit down in the parlor," said the servant "and I will call Mrs.
+Graham."</p>
+
+<p>As Frank looked around him, and noted the evidences of wealth in the
+elegant furniture and rich ornaments profusely scattered about, he
+thought, "How rich Mrs. Graham must be! I suppose she is very happy. I
+should be if I could buy everything I wanted."</p>
+
+<p>It was a boy's thought, and betrayed our hero's inexperience. Even
+unlimited means are not sure to produce happiness, nor do handsome
+surroundings prove wealth.</p>
+
+<p>Five minutes later an elderly lady entered the room. She was richly
+dressed, but her face wore a look of care and sorrow.</p>
+
+<p>As she entered, Frank rose with instinctive politeness, and bowed.</p>
+
+<p>"You are the telegraph boy," said the lady, inquiringly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, ma'am."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Graham looked at him earnestly, as if to read his character.</p>
+
+<p>"I have sent for you," she said, at length, "to help me in a matter of
+some delicacy, and shall expect you not to speak of it, even to your
+employers."</p>
+
+<p>"They never question me," said Frank, promptly. "You may rely upon my
+secrecy."</p>
+
+<p>Frank's statement was correct. The business entrusted to telegraph
+messengers is understood to be of a confidential nature, and they are
+instructed to guard the secrets of those who make use of their services.</p>
+
+<p>"I find it necessary to raise some money," continued the lady,
+apparently satisfied, "and am not at liberty, for special reasons, to
+call upon my husband for it. I have a diamond ring of considerable
+value, which I should like to have you carry, either to a jeweller or a
+pawnbroker, and secure what advance you can upon it."</p>
+
+<p>"And I believed she had plenty of money," thought Frank, wondering.</p>
+
+<p>"I will do the best I can for you, madam," said our hero.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Graham drew from her pocket a small box, containing a diamond ring,
+which sparkled brilliantly in the sunshine.</p>
+
+<p>"It is beautiful," said Frank, admiringly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it cost originally eight hundred dollars," said the lady.</p>
+
+<p>"Eight hundred dollars!" echoed Frank, in wonder. He had heard of
+diamond rings, and knew they were valuable, but had no idea they were so
+valuable as that.</p>
+
+<p>"How much do you expect to get on it?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing near its value, of course, nor is that necessary. Two hundred
+dollars will be as much as I care to use, and at that rate I shall be
+able the sooner to redeem it. I believe I will tell you why I want the
+money."</p>
+
+<p>"Not unless you think it best," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"It is best, for I shall again require your services in disposing of the
+money."</p>
+
+<p>The lady sat down on the sofa beside Frank, and told him the story which
+follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I have two children," she said, "a daughter and a son. The son has
+recently graduated from college, and is now travelling in Europe. My
+daughter is now twenty-six years of age. She was beautiful, and our
+social position was such that my husband, who is a proud man,
+confidently anticipated that she would make a brilliant match. But at
+the age of nineteen Ellen fell in love with a clerk in my husband's
+employ. He was a young man of good appearance and character, and nothing
+could be said against him except that he was poor. This, however, was
+more than enough in Mr. Graham's eyes. When Lawrence Brent asked for the
+hand of our daughter, my husband drove him from the house with insult,
+and immediately discharged him from his employ. Ellen was high-spirited,
+and resented this treatment of the man she loved. He soon obtained a
+place quite as good as the one he had lost, and one day Ellen left the
+house and married him. She wrote to us, excusing her action, and I would
+gladly have forgiven her; but her father was obdurate. He forbade my
+mentioning her name to him, and from that day to this he has never
+referred to her.</p>
+
+<p>"I am now coming to the business in which you are to help me. For years
+my son-in-law was able to support his wife comfortably, and also the two
+children which in time came to them. But, a year since, he became sick,
+and his sickness lasted till he had spent all his savings. Now he and
+his poor family are living in wretched lodgings, and are in need of the
+common necessaries of life. It is for them I intend the money which I
+can secure upon this ring."</p>
+
+<p>Frank could not listen without having his sympathies aroused.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be still more glad to help you," he said, "now that I know how
+the money is to be used."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you," said the lady. "You are a good boy, and I see that I can
+trust you implicitly."</p>
+
+<p>She handed Frank the box, enjoining upon him to be careful not to lose
+it.</p>
+
+<p>"It is so small that it might easily slip from your pocket," she said.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall take the best care of it," said Frank. "Where would you advise
+me to go first?"</p>
+
+<p>"I hardly know. If I wished to sell it I would carry it to Tiffany; but
+it was purchased there, and it might in that case come to my husband's
+ears. There is a pawnbroker, named Simpson, who, I hear, is one of the
+best of his class. You may go there first."</p>
+
+<p>"How much shall I say you want on it?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't mention my name at all," said the lady, hastily.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose I shall have to give some name," said Frank, "in order that
+the ticket may be made out."</p>
+
+<p>"What is your own name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Frank Kavanagh."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you a mother living?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," said Frank, gravely.</p>
+
+<p>"Then let the ticket be made out in your name."</p>
+
+<p>"If you wish it."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I bring the money to you, Mrs. Graham?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; my husband might be at home, and it would arouse his suspicions. At
+twelve o'clock I will meet you at Madison Park, at the corner opposite
+the Union League Club House. You can then report to me your success."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>He went at once to the pawnbroker mentioned by Mrs. Graham. But for his
+uniform he would have been questioned closely as to how he came by the
+ring; but telegraph boys are so often employed on similar errands that
+the pawnbroker showed no surprise. After a careful examination he agreed
+to advance two hundred dollars, and gave Frank the money and the ticket.
+When Frank gave his own name, he said, "That is your name, is it not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"But the ring does not belong to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; it belongs to a lady who does not wish her name known."</p>
+
+<p>"It is all the same to us."</p>
+
+<p>"That was easily done," thought Frank. "Now I must go and meet Mrs.
+Graham."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you got the money?" asked Mrs. Graham, anxiously, as Frank made
+his appearance.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," replied Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"How much?"</p>
+
+<p>"The amount you asked for."</p>
+
+<p>"That is well. Now I shall be able to relieve my poor daughter. I cannot
+bear to think of her and her poor children suffering for the lack of
+bread, while I am living in luxury. I wish Mr. Graham was not so
+unforgiving."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you take the money now?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish you to take fifty dollars to my daughter."</p>
+
+<p>"I will do so with pleasure. What is her address?"</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Graham drew out a card, on which she had pencilled her daughter's
+address. It proved to be a tenement-house on the east side of the city,
+not far from Fourteenth street.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I could go myself," said Mrs. Graham, sadly; "but I do not dare
+to do so at present. Give Ellen this money, with my best love; and say
+to her that a month hence I will again send her the same sum. Tell her
+to keep up good courage. Brighter days may be in store."</p>
+
+<p>"I will be sure to remember," said Frank, in a tone of sympathy.</p>
+
+<p>The errand was to his taste; for he was about to carry help and comfort
+to those who needed both.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>A MESSENGER OF GOOD TIDINGS.</h3>
+
+
+<p>There stands a large tenement-house on East Fourteenth street, five
+stories in height, and with several entrances. Scores of barefooted and
+scantily attired children play in the halls or on the sidewalk in front,
+and the great building is a human hive, holding scores of families. Some
+of them, unaccustomed to live better, are tolerably content with their
+squalid and contracted accommodations; but a few, reduced by gradual
+steps from respectability and comfort, find their positions very hard to
+bear.</p>
+
+<p>On the third floor three small rooms were occupied by Mr. and Mrs.
+Robert Morgan, and their two children. She was the daughter of Mrs.
+Graham, and had been reared in affluence. How she had incurred her
+father's displeasure has already been told. He had been taken sick some
+months before, his little stock of money had melted away, and now he was
+unable even to pay the small expenses of life in a tenement-house.</p>
+
+<p>Just before Frank made his appearance there was sadness in the little
+household.</p>
+
+<p>"How much money is there left, Ellen?" asked Robert Morgan.</p>
+
+<p>"Seventy-five cents," she answered, in a tone which she tried to make
+cheerful.</p>
+
+<p>"And our week's rent will become due to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>"I may hear from mother," suggested Mrs. Morgan.</p>
+
+<p>"If you don't, I don't know what will become of us all. We shall be
+thrust into the street. Even this squalid home will be taken from us."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't get discouraged, Robert."</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't there enough to make me despondent, Ellen? I can see now that I
+did very wrong to marry you."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you regret our marriage, then, Robert?" asked his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"Only because it has brought you poverty and discomfort."</p>
+
+<p>"I have not yet regretted it."</p>
+
+<p>"How different a position you would have occupied if I had not dragged
+you down! You would still be living in luxury."</p>
+
+<p>"I should not have you and these dear children."</p>
+
+<p>"And will they compensate you for what has come upon you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," she answered, emphatically.</p>
+
+<p>"You have more philosophy than I have, Ellen."</p>
+
+<p>"More trust, perhaps. Do you know, Robert, I think we are on the eve of
+good fortune?"</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so, but I see no prospects of it."</p>
+
+<p>Just then there was a knock at the door.</p>
+
+<p>Thinking that it might be some humble neighbor, on a borrowing
+expedition, Mrs. Morgan opened the door. Before her stood our hero in
+his uniform.</p>
+
+<p>"Is this Mrs. Robert Morgan?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," she answered.</p>
+
+<p>"I come from your mother."</p>
+
+<p>"From my mother? Robert, do you hear that?" said the poor woman, in a
+voice of gladness. "Here is a messenger from my mother. Didn't I tell
+you there was good luck in store for us?"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Morgan did not answer. He waited anxiously to hear what Frank had to
+communicate.</p>
+
+<p>"Your mother sends you her love, and fifty dollars," continued Frank.
+"She hopes to call soon herself."</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty dollars!" exclaimed Ellen Morgan, in delight. "It is a fortune."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank Heaven!" ejaculated her husband, in great relief.</p>
+
+<p>"A month hence you may expect a similar sum," said Frank. "I suppose I
+shall bring it. Shall I find you here?"</p>
+
+<p>Ellen Morgan looked at her husband.</p>
+
+<p>"No," said he. "Let us get out of this neighborhood as soon as possible.
+Can't you find a respectable place to-day?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said his wife. "I shall be glad to move. I saw some neat rooms on
+West Twentieth street on Monday. They will cost us but little more, and
+will suit us better."</p>
+
+<p>"I will send my mother my new address," she said to Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you may send it under cover to me, and I will see that she gets it
+privately," said Frank, who had received instructions to that effect
+from Mrs. Graham.</p>
+
+<p>When Frank had left the room the little household seemed quite
+transformed. Hope had entered, and all looked more cheerful.</p>
+
+<p>"We are provided for, for two months, Robert," said his wife. "Is not
+that a piece of good luck?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, indeed it is," he answered heartily. "Before that time I can get
+to work again, and with health and employment I shall not need to ask
+favors of any one."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish father were as forgiving as mother," said Ellen Morgan.</p>
+
+<p>"Your father is a hard man. He will never forgive you for marrying a
+poor man. He would punish you by starvation."</p>
+
+<p>"He is very proud," said Mrs. Morgan. "I was an only daughter, you know,
+and he had set his heart upon my making a brilliant marriage."</p>
+
+<p>"As you might have done."</p>
+
+<p>"As I did not care to do. I preferred to make a happy marriage with the
+man of my choice."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a good wife, Ellen."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you will always find me so, Robert."</p>
+
+<p>"I should have sunk utterly if you had been like some women."</p>
+
+<p>In the afternoon Mrs. Morgan went out, taking one of her children with
+her. She went to the rooms on West Twentieth street, and, finding them
+still vacant, secured them, paying a month's rent in advance, as her
+mother's timely gift enabled her to do. Before the next evening they
+were installed in their new home, and Mrs. Morgan sent a note to her
+mother, under cover to Frank, apprising her of the removal.</p>
+
+<p>Two days later Frank received a summons to the house on Madison avenue.
+He obeyed, thinking he should probably be sent with some message to Mrs.
+Morgan.</p>
+
+<p>He found Mrs. Graham in a state of nervous excitement.</p>
+
+<p>"My husband has been stricken with paralysis," she said. "It is terribly
+sudden. He went out yesterday, apparently in vigorous health. He was
+brought home pale and helpless."</p>
+
+<p>"Can I do anything for him or you?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; you can go at once to my daughter, and summon her to her father's
+bedside."</p>
+
+<p>Frank was surprised, remembering how obdurate Mrs. Graham had described
+her husband to be.</p>
+
+<p>"You look surprised," she said; "but sickness often produces a great
+change in us. My husband's pride has given way. His affection has
+returned; and it is at his request that I send for Ellen."</p>
+
+<p>Frank had come to feel a personal interest in the family, and he gladly
+set out for the modest home in West Twentieth street. He felt that it
+was pleasant to be a messenger of reconciliation.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Morgan recognized him at once, and received him cordially.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you come from my mother?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. She wishes you to come home at once."</p>
+
+<p>"But&mdash;my father."</p>
+
+<p>"Your father is very sick; and he joins in the request."</p>
+
+<p>"It has come at last,&mdash;the time I have looked forward to for so long,"
+said Ellen Morgan, clasping her hands. "Robert, do you feel equal to
+looking after the children while I am gone?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Ellen. Go at once. God grant that your father's heart may be
+softened, for your sake. For myself I am content to live in poverty; but
+I don't like to see you suffer."</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter with father? Did my mother tell you?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank explained, and thus gave her fresh cause for anxiety.</p>
+
+<p>On reaching her father's chamber she was shocked by his changed
+appearance; but her heart was gladdened by the wan smile that lighted
+up his face, assuring her that she was welcome. From the doctor she
+received the assurance that her father was in no immediate danger.
+Indeed, he expressed a confident hope that Mr. Graham would rally from
+his present attack, and be able to go about his business again, though
+caution would be required against undue excitement or fatigue.</p>
+
+<p>The doctor's prediction was verified. Mr. Graham recovered; but his old
+pride and obduracy did not come back. He became reconciled to his
+son-in-law, and provided him a well-paid position in his own mercantile
+establishment, and provided rooms in the Madison-avenue mansion for the
+little family whom Frank had first visited in the squalid tenement-house
+in Fourteenth street, and the glad voices of children made the house no
+longer lonely.</p>
+
+<p>"You must call and see us often," said Ellen Morgan to our hero. "I
+shall always remember you as the messenger who brought us good tidings
+at the darkest hour in our fortunes. We shall always welcome you as a
+friend."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+<h3>A NEW JOB, AND A LETTER FROM HOME.</h3>
+
+
+<p>One morning an elderly gentleman entered the office in which Frank was
+employed, and sought an interview with the superintendent.</p>
+
+<p>"I want a smart boy for detective work," he said. "Have you one you can
+recommend?"</p>
+
+<p>The superintendent cast his eyes over the line of boys, and called
+Frank. Our hero's recognition of the disguised counterfeiter by his ring
+had given him a reputation for shrewdness.</p>
+
+<p>"I think this boy will suit you," he said. "Do you wish him to go with
+you now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I may want him a week."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well."</p>
+
+<p>Frank accompanied the gentleman into the street.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you no other clothes except this uniform?" asked Mr. Hartley.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Then go and put them on. Then report to me at No. &mdash; Broadway."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"It is fortunate I have a good suit," thought Frank.</p>
+
+<p>He was not long in exchanging his uniform for the neat suit given him by
+Mr. Bowen. Thus attired, he presented himself in Mr. Hartley's
+counting-room. The merchant surveyed him with approval.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="ill2" id="ill2"></a>
+<img src="images/ill2.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">The Merchant Surveyed with Approval.</span></h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+
+<p>"You will enter my service as errand-boy," he said. "You will be sent to
+the post-office, the bank, and on similar errands, in order not to
+excite suspicion of the real object of your presence. Keep your eyes
+open, and I will take an opportunity of explaining to you later what I
+wish you to do."</p>
+
+<p>Frank bowed.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Haynes," said the merchant, calling a thin, sallow young man, "I
+have engaged this boy as an errand-boy. Has any one been to the
+post-office this morning?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Then he will go."</p>
+
+<p>Haynes regarded Frank with disfavor.</p>
+
+<p>"I have a nephew who would have liked the position," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Too late now," said the merchant, curtly.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name, boy?" asked Haynes, coldly..</p>
+
+<p>"Frank Kavanagh."</p>
+
+<p>"How did Mr. Hartley happen to engage you?" asked the subordinate.</p>
+
+<p>"A gentleman recommended me," Frank answered.</p>
+
+<p>"I had already mentioned my nephew to him. I am surprised he said
+nothing to me about engaging a boy."</p>
+
+<p>Frank said nothing, feeling no particular interest in the matter. As he
+was only filling temporarily the position of errand boy, it made little
+difference to him whether he was acceptable to Mr. Haynes or not.</p>
+
+<p>In the course of the day Mr. Hartley handed Frank a card, containing the
+street and number of his residence, with a pencilled invitation to call
+that evening.</p>
+
+<p>Of course Frank did so.</p>
+
+<p>Seated alone with the merchant in his back parlor, the latter said, "I
+have invited you here because I could not speak with you freely at the
+store. How do you like Mr. Haynes?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank was surprised at the abruptness of the question.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like him," he answered, candidly.</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?"</p>
+
+<p>"There is no good reason that I know of," said Frank; "but I think his
+manner is disagreeable."</p>
+
+<p>"Our instincts are often to be trusted," said the merchant,
+thoughtfully. "I confess that I myself don't like Haynes, nor do I feel
+implicit confidence in him, though he has been eight years in the
+service of our house. He is outwardly very circumspect, and apparently
+very faithful, but there is something in his eye which I don't like."</p>
+
+<p>Frank had noticed this, but Mr. Hartley's remark called fresh attention
+to its furtive, crafty expression.</p>
+
+<p>Frank's curiosity was aroused, naturally enough. He wondered what Mr.
+Haynes had to do with his mission. He did not have long to wait for
+information.</p>
+
+<p>"I will come to the point," said Mr. Hartley, after a pause. "I am an
+importing merchant, and deal, among other articles, in silks. During the
+last year I have discovered that some one is systematically robbing me,
+and that parts of my stock have been spirited away. The loss I have
+sustained is already considerable, and unless the leakage is put a stop
+to, I may as well give up business. You can now guess why I have engaged
+you. No one will suspect an errand boy of being a detective, while a man
+would very probably excite distrust, and put the rogue on his guard."</p>
+
+<p>Frank listened attentively to his employer.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you suspect any one in particular, Mr. Hartley?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"It must be some one in my employ," he said. "The man who, more than any
+other, has facilities for robbing me is the man of whom I have spoken to
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Haynes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Mr. Haynes. He holds an important position, and enjoys special
+privileges. On the other hand, so far as I can learn, he lives in a
+sober, inexpensive way, quite within his salary, which is liberal. He is
+prominently connected with an up-town church, and it seems very
+improbable that he would be guilty of robbery, or breach of trust; yet
+there have been such cases before. At any rate, I cannot wholly divest
+myself of suspicion."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you wish me to do?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"To watch Mr. Haynes carefully, both in and out of the store, to
+ascertain whether he has any unexplained expenses, or any questionable
+companions. I want to know how he spends his time out of the office. It
+may be that the result of my investigation will be to his credit. It may
+be that he is all that he seems,&mdash;a reputable member of the church and
+of society, with nothing against him but an unpleasant manner. Should
+this be the case, I shall be glad to correct my suspicions, and give him
+back my confidence. In that case, we must look elsewhere for the rogue
+who is robbing me."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you any particular instructions to give me?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"No, only to follow Haynes, and find out all you can about him. Use
+great care in doing it, not to arouse his or any one else's suspicion. I
+will find an opportunity for you to make your reports."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, sir."</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>When Frank got home, he found a letter awaiting him from his country
+home. It was in answer to one which he had written to his uncle, Deacon
+Pelatiah Kavanagh, in reference to a trunk which had belonged to his
+father.</p>
+
+<p>This is the letter:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">My dear Nephew</span>,&mdash;I am glad to learn that you are making a living in
+the city. It is much better that you should earn your own living
+than to be a burden upon me, though of course I would not see you
+suffer. But a man's duty is to his own household, and my income
+from the farm is very small, and Hannah and I agreed that we had
+little to spare for others.</p>
+
+<p>There is an old trunk, belonging to your deceased father, in the
+attic. It contains some old clothes, which may be made over for
+you, and so save you expense. I would use them myself, and allow
+you for them, but your father was a much smaller man than I, and
+his clothes would not fit me. I will send the trunk by express to
+the address which you gave me. Of course I shall expect you to pay
+the express, as I have no interest in it, or its contents.</p>
+
+<p>Your cousin Jonathan has left school, and is working on the farm. I
+feel <i>so</i> glad that he has no extravagant tastes, but inherits the
+careful and economical habits of his mother and myself. I am sure
+he will never waste or squander the little property which I hope to
+leave him.</p></div>
+
+<p>"I don't believe he will," thought Frank, "for he is about as mean as
+his mother, and that is saying a good deal."</p>
+
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>Your aunt and I hope that you will steer clear of the temptations
+of the city. Do not seek after vain amusements, but live a sober
+life, never spending a cent unnecessarily, and you will in time
+become a prosperous man. I would invite you to come and stop with
+us over Sunday, but for the railroad fare, which is high. It will
+be better to save your money, and put off the visit till you can
+afford it.</p>
+
+<p>Your uncle,</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Pelatiah Kavanagh.</span></p></div>
+
+<p>Reading this letter, it would hardly be supposed that the writer owned
+ten thousand dollars in stocks, bonds, and mortgages, over and above an
+excellent farm. Such, however, was the worldly position of the man who
+sent Frank to the city in quest of a living, because he could not afford
+to provide for him. With some men prudence is a virtue; with Deacon
+Pelatiah Kavanagh it was carried so far as to be a positive defect.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK'S FIRST DISCOVERY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>So far as Frank could observe, Mr. Haynes was an active, energetic
+salesman. He appeared to understand his duties thoroughly, and to go
+about them in a straightforward manner. So far as his personal habits
+were concerned, they seemed irreproachable. He was neatly but plainly
+dressed, wore no jewelry, and carried a plain silver watch, which, when
+new, probably did not cost over twenty dollars.</p>
+
+<p>Frank had no difficulty in ascertaining where he lived. It was in a
+brick house, on Waverley place, very unpretentious and certainly not
+fashionable. In order to find out how much he paid for his
+accommodations Frank visited the house on pretence of being in search of
+board.</p>
+
+<p>"We have a hall bed-room on the third floor, at five dollars a week,
+including board," said the landlady. "How would that suit you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I may have a friend board with me," said Frank. "In that case we should
+need a large room. Have you any vacant?"</p>
+
+<p>"There is the front room on the third floor. We would let it to two
+gentlemen at eleven dollars for the two."</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't the back room cheaper?" inquired our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but it is occupied by a business gentleman."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you tell me his name? I may be acquainted with him."</p>
+
+<p>"His name is Haynes."</p>
+
+<p>"How much does he pay?"</p>
+
+<p>"He pays eight dollars a week, and has the room alone."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose his room is not likely to become vacant soon?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, dear, no. He has been with us for several years. We should be sorry
+to lose him. Last Christmas he gave my daughter a present of a nice
+silk-dress pattern."</p>
+
+<p>Frank was struck by this information.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't believe he paid anything for the silk," thought he. "I wish I
+could find out."</p>
+
+<p>He had learned all he cared for, and left, saying he might call again.</p>
+
+<p>"His expenses seem very moderate for a man in his position," thought
+Frank. "I wonder if he makes any investments."</p>
+
+<p>Fortune favored our hero in the prosecution of his inquiry. Keeping
+Haynes in sight, as was his custom, he observed that the latter, in
+pulling out a handkerchief from the breast-pocket of his coat, had
+brought with it a letter also. Frank, quickly and unobserved, picked it
+up, and when he was alone looked at the address. It was directed to
+James Haynes, at his residence in Waverley place. On the envelope was
+the printed address of a real-estate broker in Brooklyn.</p>
+
+<p>Frank knew that there was at that time considerable speculation in
+Brooklyn real estate, and he examined the letter. It ran thus:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>We have found a corner lot, with several lots adjoining, near
+Prospect Park, which may be obtained for five thousand dollars,
+half cash. We have no hesitation in recommending the purchase,
+being convinced, from the tendencies of the market, that the buyer
+will double his money in a comparatively short time. If you are
+engaged at other times, come over on Sunday afternoon, and we will
+show you the property. The house you purchased of us last year is
+worth fully a thousand dollars more than the price you gave.</p></div>
+
+<p>"I wonder how much he gave," said Frank to himself.</p>
+
+<p>The letter was signed "Henderson &amp; Co., No. &mdash; Fulton street."</p>
+
+<p>Our hero was elated by the discovery he had made, and he sought an
+interview with Mr. Hartley.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you discovered anything?" asked the merchant, noticing the eager
+look of his young detective.</p>
+
+<p>Without attaching especial importance to the fact, Frank answered, "I
+have found out that Mr. Haynes owns a house in Brooklyn."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed!" said Hartley, quickly. "But," he continued more slowly, "he
+might buy one with the money saved from his salary."</p>
+
+<p>"He is also thinking of buying some lots near Prospect Park."</p>
+
+<p>"How did you learn this?" asked the merchant, surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"I would rather not tell you," said Frank, who was not quite sure
+whether Mr. Hartley would sanction his examination of a private letter.
+"You may be sure that it is true."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well; I will rest contented with that assurance. I will leave you
+to work in your own way. Your information is important, for it seems to
+show that Mr. Haynes has made investments beyond his ability, if he were
+dependent upon his savings alone."</p>
+
+<p>"That is what I thought," said Frank. "I must try to find out where he
+gets this extra money."</p>
+
+<p>"If you do that, and prove my suspicions correct, I will make you a
+handsome present, besides paying the company regular rates for your
+services."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir. I will try to earn your gifts."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+<h3>FOLLOWING UP A CLUE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>This is not a detective story, and I shall not, therefore, detail the
+steps by which our young hero succeeded in tracing out the agency of
+Haynes in defrauding the firm by which he was employed. It required not
+one week, but three, to follow out his clues, and qualify himself to
+make a clear and intelligible report to Mr. Hartley. He had expressly
+requested the merchant not to require any partial report, as it might
+interfere with his working unobserved. Towards the end of the third week
+he asked an interview with Mr. Hartley.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Frank," said the merchant, familiarly, "who is the rogue?"</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Haynes," answered our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"You speak confidently," said his employer; "but surmise will not do. I
+want proof, or I cannot act."</p>
+
+<p>"I will tell you what I have discovered," said Frank; "and I leave you
+to judge for yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you a customer in Hartford named Davis?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; and a very good customer. He is frequent in his orders, and makes
+prompt payments. I wish I had more like him."</p>
+
+<p>"If you had more like him you would soon be bankrupt," said Frank,
+quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?" asked Mr. Hartley, in genuine surprise. "How can a
+customer who buys largely, and pays promptly, be undesirable?"</p>
+
+<p>"Did you know that Mr. Davis is a brother-in-law of Mr. Haynes?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; but even if he is I have to thank Mr. Haynes for securing me so
+excellent a customer."</p>
+
+<p>Hartley spoke confidently, evidently believing that Frank was on the
+wrong tack.</p>
+
+<p>"I have noticed," said Frank, "that when goods are packed to go to Mr.
+Davis, Mr. Haynes personally superintends the packing, and employs one
+particular man to pack."</p>
+
+<p>"What then?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think he has something to conceal."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't understand what he can have to conceal. If Davis is his
+brother-in-law, it is natural that he should feel a special interest in
+filling his orders."</p>
+
+<p>"I shouldn't wonder if Mr. Haynes were a partner as well as a
+brother-in-law of Mr. Davis."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Hartley looked surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"That may be true; though I don't know why you should conjecture it.
+Admitting that you are right, I don't know that I have any right to
+object. I should like it better, however, if I were frankly told by Mr.
+Haynes of this circumstance."</p>
+
+<p>"I will tell you what I think I have discovered," continued Frank. "The
+cases that are shipped to Mr. Davis not only contain the goods he has
+ordered, but valuable silks that he has not ordered, and does not
+propose to pay for."</p>
+
+<p>"I see, I see," exclaimed Mr. Hartley, a light dawning upon him for the
+first time. "I was stupid not to comprehend your meaning earlier. What
+warrant have you for suspecting this?"</p>
+
+<p>"First, your steady losses of goods; next, the ease with which Mr.
+Haynes, in his position of trust, could carry out this plan. Why should
+he superintend the packing of Mr. Davis's goods, alone of all your
+customers?"</p>
+
+<p>"There is weight in what you say, Frank. You are certainly an
+extraordinary boy. You have shown so much shrewdness that I now ask your
+advice. What steps shall I take to ascertain whether Mr. Haynes is
+really guilty of what we suspect him?"</p>
+
+<p>"There is an order now being filled for Mr. Davis," answered Frank.
+"When the order is filled, can't you open the case, and find out whether
+the contents correspond exactly to the bill?"</p>
+
+<p>"The very thing. To facilitate matters I will send Mr. Haynes to
+Brooklyn on a confidential errand. Fortunately there is a matter that
+will give me a good excuse for doing so. Go back to your post, and when
+Mr. Haynes appears to be at liberty send him to me."</p>
+
+<p>Half an hour later Mr. Haynes entered the counting room of his
+employer.</p>
+
+<p>"You sent for me, sir?" he said, a little uneasily; for, when conscience
+accuses, the mind is always apprehensive.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Mr. Haynes," said the merchant, in his usual tone. "Have you any
+objection to go to Brooklyn for me, on a confidential errand?"</p>
+
+<p>"None in the world, sir," said Haynes, relieved. "I shall be glad to
+take the trip this fine morning. It is almost too pleasant to remain
+in-doors."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you; I will give you your instructions, and shall be glad to have
+you go at once."</p>
+
+<p>It is not necessary to our story that we should know the nature of the
+errand on which Haynes was sent. It served the purpose of getting him
+out of the way.</p>
+
+<p>When the suspected clerk was fairly on his way Mr. Hartley went to the
+packing-room, and looked about him till he discovered the case addressed
+to</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">H. L. DAVIS &amp; CO.,<br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Hartford, Conn.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"Open this case," said he to one of the workmen. "There was a mistake
+recently in sending some goods to Davis, and I wish to compare these
+with the bill."</p>
+
+<p>"I think they are all right, sir," said the man addressed. "Mr. Haynes
+saw them packed."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Haynes will not be responsible for any mistake," said Mr. Hartley.
+"I would rather see for myself."</p>
+
+<p>The case was opened, and the merchant discovered about two hundred
+dollars' worth of silk, which was not included in the bill.</p>
+
+<p>"Go and call Mr. Hunting," said Mr. Hartley, quietly.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Hunting filled one of the most important positions in the
+establishment. To him his employer explained the nature of his
+discovery.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Hunting," he said, "I wish you to see and attest the fraud that has
+been attempted upon me. This case was packed under the special charge of
+Mr. Haynes."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it possible that Mr. Haynes knew of this?" exclaimed his
+fellow-clerk.</p>
+
+<p>"Davis is his brother-in-law," said Mr. Hartley, significantly.</p>
+
+<p>"Has this been going on long, do you think, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"For several years, I suspect. Mr. Haynes has, no doubt, found it very
+profitable."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I close up the case again, sir?" asked the workman.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but it is not to go. You may await my further orders."</p>
+
+<p>The silk was taken out, and replaced in the silk department.</p>
+
+<p>"So much has been saved, at least," said the merchant.</p>
+
+<p>"When Mr. Haynes comes back," he said to the usher, "send him to me."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>BROUGHT TO BAY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Mr. Haynes had a private reason for accepting readily the commission to
+visit Brooklyn. It occurred to him at once that it would give him an
+excellent chance to call on his real-estate agent, and confer with him
+upon future investments. For James Haynes had the comfortable
+consciousness that he was a prosperous man. Month by month, and year by
+year, he was adding largely to his gains, and while he was still a young
+man he would be rich, <i>if all went well</i>.</p>
+
+<p>Of course this meant if his peculations remained undiscovered. Why
+should they not be? He plumed himself on the skill with which he managed
+to rob his employer. He was no vulgar bungler to break into the store,
+or enter into an alliance with burglars. Not he! The property he took
+was carried off openly before Mr. Hartley's very eyes, and he knew
+nothing of it. He did not even suspect that he was being robbed. This is
+what Mr. Haynes thought; but, as we know, he was mistaken. Even now he
+was in a net; but did not know it.</p>
+
+<p>After attending to Mr. Hartley's commission Haynes went to see his
+broker. The conversation he had with the broker was of a very
+encouraging character. He was congratulated upon his investments, and
+assured that they would pay him handsomely.</p>
+
+<p>James Haynes returned from Brooklyn in a very pleasant mood.</p>
+
+<p>"A year or two more of life as a clerk, and I will throw off the yoke,"
+he said to himself. "I must be worth at least fifteen thousand dollars
+now, apart from any rise in the value of my investments. When I reach
+twenty-five thousand I will resign my position, and go to Europe. I
+shall than possess an income adequate to my simple wants."</p>
+
+<p>"Is Mr. Hartley in the counting-room?" he asked, as he re&euml;ntered the
+store.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, and he wishes to see you."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course he wants to see me,&mdash;to hear my report."</p>
+
+<p>The merchant looked up as Haynes entered the counting-room.</p>
+
+<p>"So you are back?" he said, gravely.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; I was detained a little, but I fulfilled my commission."</p>
+
+<p>"That is well."</p>
+
+<p>Here Haynes made his report. Mr. Hartley listened with an abstracted
+air, for his thoughts were upon the defalcation of the man before him.</p>
+
+<p>Finishing his statement, James Haynes turned to leave the office, but
+his employer called him back.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a minute, Mr. Haynes," he said, gravely. "I wish to ask you one or
+two questions."</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe we have transactions with a party in Hartford, with the
+firm-name of H. L. Davis &amp; Co.?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," said Haynes, starting and flushing a little.</p>
+
+<p>"Is Mr. Davis a relative of yours?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir. I wonder where he heard that?" Haynes asked himself. "Is
+there any trouble? Is he behind in his payments?" inquired the clerk.</p>
+
+<p>"No; he has always settled his bills with commendable promptness."</p>
+
+<p>"I insisted on that," said Haynes, in a satisfied tone. "I didn't want
+you to lose by any connection of mine."</p>
+
+<p>"And you are quite sure that I have lost nothing by Mr. Davis?" demanded
+the merchant, regarding Haynes intently.</p>
+
+<p>The latter changed color.</p>
+
+<p>"How is that possible," he inquired, "since he has met his payments
+promptly?"</p>
+
+<p>"You have personally seen to the packing of Mr. Davis's goods, I
+believe, Mr. Haynes?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well&mdash;generally," stammered the rather disconcerted clerk.</p>
+
+<p>"At all events, you did so this morning?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ye-es."</p>
+
+<p>"After you started for Brooklyn, I had the case opened, and found some
+patterns of silk not included in the bill."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose there was a mistake," said Haynes, turning pale.</p>
+
+<p>"You think this has not happened before?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am sure of it."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Haynes," said his employer, sternly, "you may as well drop the mask
+of innocence. I have been robbed systematically for the last three
+years, and I now understand how it was done. You and Davis, between you,
+have plundered me in an exceedingly ingenious manner. It will go hard
+with you before a jury."</p>
+
+<p>"You won't have me arrested!" exclaimed Haynes, his pallor indicating
+his dismay.</p>
+
+<p>"Why should I not?"</p>
+
+<p>"You could prove nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"I will take my chance of that. Have you nothing more to say?"</p>
+
+<p>"I&mdash;though I do not admit that your charge is correct&mdash;I am willing to
+make over to you the greater part of my property, to avoid the scandal
+of a trial."</p>
+
+<p>"That will not do, Mr. Haynes. Were I to accept this upon such a ground,
+you could rightfully bring against me a charge of blackmail."</p>
+
+<p>"What, then, are your terms?" asked Haynes, sullenly.</p>
+
+<p>"You must write out a confession of your guilt, which I shall put among
+my private papers, and not make public unless necessary, and in addition
+you must make over to me property to the amount of ten thousand dollars.
+It will not make up my losses, but I will accept it as restitution in
+full."</p>
+
+<p>Against this James Haynes most strongly protested, alleging that the sum
+demanded was far beyond the amount of his purloinings; but finally he
+yielded, being privately resolved to make his brother-in-law pay
+one-half of the forfeiture.</p>
+
+<p>"You will leave my service at the end of the week, Mr. Haynes," said his
+employer, "and during next week you must attend to the transfer."</p>
+
+<p>"How did he find out?" said Haynes to himself, as with grave face he
+went about the duties of the place he was so soon to leave. "If I could
+find out, I would have my revenge."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>AN OPEN ENEMY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Frank remained with Mr. Hartley till the guilty clerk left the
+establishment. This was at the special request of the merchant, who did
+not care to let Mr. Haynes suspect who had been instrumental in bringing
+his guilt to light.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you have no further use for me, now, Mr. Hartley?" said the
+telegraph boy.</p>
+
+<p>"Not at present, Frank," said his employer, kindly.</p>
+
+<p>"Then I will report for duty at the telegraph office."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a moment. You have done me a great service."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad of that sir," answered Frank, modestly.</p>
+
+<p>"You have shown uncommon shrewdness and intelligence."</p>
+
+<p>Frank looked gratified, and expressed his thanks for the compliment.</p>
+
+<p>"I want to make you a present, in addition to the wages which you
+receive from the office," said Mr. Hartley.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Hartley drew from his desk a five-twenty government bond, of one
+hundred dollars, and handed it to our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean all this for me?" asked Frank, quite overwhelmed by the
+magnitude of the gift.</p>
+
+<p>"It is not more than you deserve. I might have given you the money value
+of the bond; but I give it to you in this shape, because I hope you will
+keep it as an investment. It will yield you six dollars interest
+annually in gold. I hope the time will come when you will have more
+interest in the same way."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope I shall, sir. I shall feel quite rich now."</p>
+
+<p>"You are richer in the qualities which have won you this acknowledgment.
+How do you like the telegraph service?"</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, sir, for the present. It is much better than being a
+newsboy."</p>
+
+<p>"Exactly; but there are positions you would prefer?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir; I would like to be in some mercantile business, where I might
+work my way up. In a few years I shall be too old for a telegraph boy,
+and then I shall be out of place."</p>
+
+<p>"I will relieve your fears on that score. In six months I shall make
+some changes in the list of employees. When that time comes I will find
+a place for you."</p>
+
+<p>"There is nothing I should like better, sir," said Frank, his face
+flushing with pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>"I am satisfied that you will make a useful and intelligent clerk. Until
+I want you, remain where you are. The discipline of your present office
+will do you no harm, but will help qualify you for usefulness and
+success in the mercantile career."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir. Now I have something to look forward to I shall work
+much more cheerfully."</p>
+
+<p>Frank went back to the office, and resumed his ordinary duties. One day
+he was riding down Broadway in a stage, when he became sensible that he
+had attracted the attention of a gentleman sitting opposite. This led
+him to scan the face of the man who was observing him. He at once
+recognized Mr. Haynes.</p>
+
+<p>The stage was not full, and the latter came over, and took a seat next
+to the telegraph boy.</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't your name Frank Kavanagh?" he asked, abruptly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Were you not for a short time in the employ of Mr. Hartley?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Frank, feeling embarrassed, for he knew that he was
+suspected.</p>
+
+<p>"I infer from your uniform that you have left Mr. Hartley."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Why did you leave him?" asked Haynes, sharply.</p>
+
+<p>"Because he had no further occasion for my services. Why did <i>you</i>
+leave him?" asked Frank, in turn.</p>
+
+<p>James Haynes colored, and looked angry. However, he answered the
+question.</p>
+
+<p>"I have other business views," he said, briefly.</p>
+
+<p>"So have I."</p>
+
+<p>The next question was also of an embarrassing character.</p>
+
+<p>"Were you a telegraph boy before you entered Mr. Hartley's employ?"</p>
+
+<p>"I was," answered Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Were you detailed for duty there?"</p>
+
+<p>Our hero thought that he had answered questions enough by this time, and
+signified as much to his questioner.</p>
+
+<p>"If I had been," he said, "I shouldn't be permitted to inform a
+stranger."</p>
+
+<p>"I have particular reasons for asking the question," said Haynes.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you can ask Mr. Hartley, or the superintendent of my office.
+Good-morning, sir, I get out here."</p>
+
+<p>Frank pulled the strap, and got out. But he was not rid of his
+questioner. Haynes got out too, and walked beside our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"I believe," he said, sternly, "that you were sent for to act as a spy
+on me."</p>
+
+<p>"What makes you think so?" asked the telegraph boy, looking him in the
+eye.</p>
+
+<p>"There was a difficulty between Mr. Hartley and myself, occasioned by a
+base and groundless charge, concocted by some enemy. I believe that you
+had something to do with this."</p>
+
+<p>"I have brought no groundless charge against any one," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you make any report to Mr. Hartley in regard to me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I must refer you to Mr. Hartley for information," said Frank. "I have
+an errand in here;" and he entered a store in the lower part of
+Broadway.</p>
+
+<p>"There is no doubt about it," thought Haynes.</p>
+
+<p>"That boy was a spy upon me. I have learned all I cared to. I owe you a
+debt of gratitude for this, Frank Kavanagh, and mean to pay the debt."</p>
+
+<p>When Frank came out he thought it possible that Haynes might be waiting
+for him; but the disgraced clerk was gone.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose he would injure me if he had a chance," thought the telegraph
+boy. "I won't give him the chance if I can help it."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>CHAPTER XXV.</h2>
+
+<h3>WHAT THE OLD TRUNK CONTAINED.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Mention has been made of an old trunk belonging to Frank's father,
+which, had been forwarded to him from the country by his Uncle Pelatiah.
+It may be mentioned here that our hero's father had been agent of a
+woollen mill in a large manufacturing town. For a considerable number of
+years he had been in receipt of a handsome salary, and had lived in good
+style, but still within his income. He was naturally supposed to possess
+a comfortable property.</p>
+
+<p>His death was sudden. He was thrown from a carriage, and, striking his
+head upon the curbstone, was picked up senseless, and died unconscious.
+Upon examining into his affairs his administrator was unable to find any
+property beyond what was needed to pay the few debts he left behind him.
+So it came about that Frank was left a penniless orphan. His Uncle
+Pelatiah was his nearest relative, and to him he was sent. Pelatiah
+Kavanagh was not a bad man, nor was he intentionally unkind; but he was
+very close. All his life he had denied himself, to save money; and in
+this he had been ably assisted by his wife, who was even closer and
+meaner than her husband. It may readily be supposed that it was very
+disagreeable to both husband and wife to have a penniless nephew thrown
+upon their care and protection.</p>
+
+<p>"How could your brother be so thoughtless and inconsiderate as to use up
+all his money, and leave his son destitute? Didn't he have a handsome
+income?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said Pelatiah. "He got two thousand dollars a year, and maybe
+more."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't say so!" ejaculated his wife. "He'd ought to have saved
+two-thirds of it. I declare it's scandalous for a man to waste his
+substance in that way."</p>
+
+<p>"My brother was allus free with his money. He wasn't so keerful as you
+and I be."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think not, indeed. We don't begin to spend half as much as he
+did, and now he comes upon us to support his child."</p>
+
+<p>"It don't seem right," said Pelatiah.</p>
+
+<p>"Right? It's outrageous!" exclaimed Mrs. Kavanagh, energetically. "I
+declare I have no patience with such a man. It would only be right to
+send this boy Frank to the poor-house."</p>
+
+<p>"The neighbors would talk," protested Pelatiah, who was half inclined to
+accept his wife's view, but was more sensitive to the criticism of the
+community in which he lived.</p>
+
+<p>"Let 'em talk!" said his more independent helpmate. "It isn't right that
+this boy should use up the property that we have scraped together for
+his cousin Jonathan."</p>
+
+<p>"We must keep him for a while, Hannah; but I'll get rid of him as soon I
+can consistently."</p>
+
+<p>With this Mrs. Kavanagh had to be satisfied; but, during her nephew's
+stay of two months in the farm-house, she contrived to make him
+uncomfortable by harsh criticisms of his dead father, whom he had
+tenderly loved.</p>
+
+<p>"You must have lived very extravagant," she said, "or your father would
+have left a handsome property."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think we did, Aunt Hannah."</p>
+
+<p>"You father kept a carriage,&mdash;didn't he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he had considerable riding to do."</p>
+
+<p>"How much help did he keep?"</p>
+
+<p>"Only one servant in the kitchen, and a stable-boy."</p>
+
+<p>"There was no need of a boy. You could have done the work in the
+stable."</p>
+
+<p>"I was kept at school."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, of course!" sneered his aunt. "You must be brought up as a young
+gentleman. Our Jonathan never had any such chances, and now you're
+livin' on him, or about the same. I suppose you kept an extravagant
+table too. What did you generally have for breakfast?"</p>
+
+<p>So Aunt Hannah continued her catechising, much to Frank's discomfort.
+She commented severely upon the wastefulness of always having pastry for
+dinner.</p>
+
+<p>"We can't afford it," she said, emphatically; "but then again we don't
+mean to have our Jonathan beholden to anybody in case your uncle and I
+are cast off sudden. What did you have for dinner on Sunday?"</p>
+
+<p>"Meat and pudding and ice-cream,&mdash;that is, in warm weather."</p>
+
+<p>"Ice-cream!" ejaculated Aunt Hannah, holding up both hands. "No wonder
+your father didn't leave nothin'. Why, we don't have ice-cream more'n
+once a year, and now we can't afford to have it at all, since we've got
+another mouth to feed."</p>
+
+<p>"I am sorry that you have to stint yourself on my account," replied
+Frank, feeling rather uncomfortable.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose it's our cross," said Mrs. Kavanagh, gloomily; "but it does
+seem hard that we can't profit by our prudence because of your father's
+wasteful extravagance."</p>
+
+<p>Such remarks were very disagreeable to our young hero, and it was hard
+for him to hear his father so criticised. He supposed they must have
+lived extravagantly, since it was so constantly charged by those about
+him, and he felt puzzled to account for his father's leaving nothing.
+When, after two months, his uncle and aunt, who had deliberated upon
+what was best to be done, proposed to him to go to New York and try to
+earn his own living, he caught at the idea. He knew that he might suffer
+hardships in the new life that awaited him, but if he could support
+himself in any way he would escape from the cruel taunts to which he was
+now forced to listen every day. How he reached the city, and how he
+succeeded, my readers know. We now come to the trunk, which, some time
+after its reception, Frank set about examining.</p>
+
+<p>He found it was filled with clothing belonging to his father. Though a
+part were in good condition it seemed doubtful whether they would be of
+much service to him. It occurred to him to examine the pockets of the
+coats. In one he found a common yellow envelope, bearing his father's
+name. Opening it, he found, to his great astonishment, that it was a
+certificate of railroad stock, setting forth his father's ownership of
+one hundred shares of the capital stock of the said railway.</p>
+
+<p>Our hero was greatly excited by his discovery. This, then, was the form
+in which his father had invested his savings. What the shares were worth
+he had no idea; but he rejoiced chiefly because now he could defend his
+father from the charge of recklessly spending his entire income, and
+saving nothing. He resolved, as soon as he could find time, to visit a
+Wall-street broker, by whom he had occasionally been employed, and
+inquire the value of the stock. Two days afterwards the opportunity
+came, and he availed himself of it at once.</p>
+
+<p>"Can you tell me the value of these shares, Mr. Glynn?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"They are quoted to-day at one hundred and ten," answered the broker,
+referring to a list of the day's stock quotations.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean that each share is worth a hundred and ten dollars?" asked
+Frank, in excitement.</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly."</p>
+
+<p>"Then the whole are worth five thousand five hundred dollars?"</p>
+
+<p>"Rather more; for the last semi-annual dividend has not been collected.
+To whom do they belong?"</p>
+
+<p>"They did belong to my father. Now I suppose they are mine."</p>
+
+<p>"Has your father's estate been administered upon?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but these shares had not then been found."</p>
+
+<p>"Then some legal steps will be necessary before you can take possession,
+and dispose of them. I will give you the address of a good lawyer, and
+advise you to consult him at once."</p>
+
+<p>Frank did so, and the lawyer wrote to Uncle Pelatiah to acquaint him
+with the discovery. The news created great excitement at the farm.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Frank's a rich boy!" ejaculated Aunt Hannah.</p>
+
+<p>"And my brother wasn't so foolishly extravagant as we supposed."</p>
+
+<p>"That may be; but with his salary we could have saved more."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps we might; but these shares are worth almost six thousand
+dollars. That's a good deal of money, Hannah."</p>
+
+<p>"So it is, Pelatiah. I'll tell you what we'd better do."</p>
+
+<p>"What?"</p>
+
+<p>"Invite Frank to come back and board with us. He can afford to pay
+handsome board, and it seems better that the money should go to us than
+a stranger."</p>
+
+<p>"Just so, Hannah. He could board with us, and go to school."</p>
+
+<p>"You'd better write and invite him to come. I allus liked the boy, and
+if we could have afforded it, I'd have been in favor of keepin' him for
+nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"So would I," said his uncle; and he probably believed it, though after
+what had happened it will be rather difficult for the reader to credit
+it.</p>
+
+<p>The letter was written, but Frank had no desire to return to the old
+farm, and the society of his uncle's family.</p>
+
+<p>"I have got used to the city," he wrote, "and have made a good many
+friends here. I don't know yet whether I shall take a business position,
+or go to school; but, if the latter, the schools here are better than in
+the country. I hope to come and see you before long; but, I would prefer
+to live in New York."</p>
+
+<p>"He's gettin' uppish," said Aunt Hannah, who was considerably
+disappointed, for she had made up her mind just how much they could
+venture to charge for board, and how this would increase their annual
+savings.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose it's natural for a boy to prefer the city," said his uncle.</p>
+
+<p>"If the boy has a chance to handle his money there won't be much of it
+left by the time he's twenty-one," said Aunt Hannah. "You ought to be
+his guardian."</p>
+
+<p>"He has the right to choose his own guardian," said Uncle Pelatiah.
+"He'll take some city man likely."</p>
+
+<p>Frank did, in fact, select the lawyer, having learned that he was a man
+of high reputation for integrity. He offered it to Mr. Bowen; but that
+gentleman, while congratulating his young friend upon his greatly
+improved prospects, said that he was a man of books rather than of
+business, and would prefer that some other person be selected.</p>
+
+<p>The next thing was to resign his place as telegraph boy.</p>
+
+<p>"We are sorry to lose you," said the superintendent. "Your are one of
+our best boys. Do you wish to go at once?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; I will stay till the end of the month."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well. We shall be glad to have you."</p>
+
+<p>Three weeks yet remained till the close of the month. It was not long,
+but before the time had passed Frank found himself in a very unpleasant
+predicament, from no fault of his own, but in consequence of the enmity
+of the clerk whom he had been instrumental in displacing.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2>
+
+<h3>A TRAP, AND WHO FELL INTO IT.</h3>
+
+
+<p>No one rejoiced more sincerely at Frank's good luck than Mrs. Vivian.
+Her interest in our hero had increased, and while at first she regarded
+herself as his patroness she had come now to look upon him as a member
+of the family. Fred had already returned, and Frank, bearing in mind
+that he had only been invited to remain during his absence, proposed to
+find another home, but Mrs. Vivian would not hear of it.</p>
+
+<p>"No," she said, "Fred needs a young companion, and I prefer you to any
+one I know of."</p>
+
+<p>As Fred was of his mother's opinion, Frank readily agreed to stay. He
+occupied a room adjoining the one assigned to Fred, and during his hours
+of leisure the two were constantly together.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad when you leave the telegraph office," said Fred. "Then
+we can be together more."</p>
+
+<p>"You may get tired of me."</p>
+
+<p>"If I do I will let you know."</p>
+
+<p>Two days afterwards Frank was riding down town in a Sixth-avenue car.
+Until he had taken his seat he was not aware that James Haynes was a
+passenger. When a lady who sat between them got out, Haynes moved up, so
+as to sit next to our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"I see you are still in the telegraph service," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," answered Frank, briefly.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder Mr. Hartley didn't offer you a permanent position in his
+employ," said Haynes, with a sneer. "Spies are useful sometimes."</p>
+
+<p>"He may give me a position sometime," said Frank, not regarding the
+sneer.</p>
+
+<p>"You earned it," said Haynes, unpleasantly.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you," said Frank, knowing that Haynes would be provoked by his
+appearing to accept the compliment in good faith.</p>
+
+<p>Haynes scowled, but said no more. He drew a morning paper from his
+pocket, and appeared to be absorbed in reading it.</p>
+
+<p>At Canal street Frank rose to leave the car. He had not yet reached the
+door, when Haynes sprang to his feet, followed him quickly, and,
+grasping him by the arm, said, "Not so fast young man! Give me back my
+pocket-book."</p>
+
+<p>Frank was struck with amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?" he asked, indignantly.</p>
+
+<p>"I mean that you have relieved me of my pocket-book. Gentlemen," turning
+to his fellow-passengers, "I demand that this boy be searched."</p>
+
+<p>"You can search me if you like," said Frank. "You know very well that
+your accusation is false."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be satisfied if you produce what is in your pockets."</p>
+
+<p>"That's fair," said a passenger.</p>
+
+<p>Our hero thrust his hand into his pocket. To his dismay he drew out a
+Russia-leather pocket-book, of which he knew nothing.</p>
+
+<p>"That is my pocket-book, gentlemen," said Haynes, triumphantly. "I can
+tell you exactly what is in it. You will find two five-dollar bills, a
+two and a one. Be kind enough to examine it, sir."</p>
+
+<p>The pocket-book was examined, and, of course, Haynes was correct.</p>
+
+<p>Suspicious glances were directed at poor Frank. Innocent as he was, he
+was so overwhelmed by the suddenness of the charge, and the apparent
+proof of it, that he looked confused and embarrassed.</p>
+
+<p>"You are beginning early, my boy," said a tall gentleman, in a white
+cravat,&mdash;a clergyman. "It is well that you are checked in the beginning
+of a guilty career."</p>
+
+<p>"Sir," said Frank, "I am as innocent as you are. This man is my enemy,
+and he must have put the pocket-book in my pocket. He threatened some
+time since to get me into a scrape."</p>
+
+<p>"That story is rather too thin," said Haynes, looking around him with a
+sneer. "You won't find any one here quite verdant enough to believe
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"There you are mistaken," said a gentleman who was seated directly
+opposite to Haynes and Frank. "<i>I</i> believe it."</p>
+
+<p>Haynes scowled at him malignantly.</p>
+
+<p>"I really don't think it very important what you believe, sir. The boy
+is evidently a professional thief, and you may belong to the same gang
+for aught I know. I propose to give him in charge to the next policeman
+we meet."</p>
+
+<p>"Do so," said the stranger, coolly. "I shall be present at his trial,
+and offer some important testimony."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed!" said Haynes, uneasily. "May I ask what it is?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly. <i>I saw you thrust the wallet into the boy's pocket!</i> Of that
+I am willing to make oath."</p>
+
+<p>James Haynes turned pale. There was a sudden change in public opinion.
+It was he who now had become an object of suspicion.</p>
+
+<p>"Young man," said the clergyman, solemnly, "what could have induced you
+to enter into such a wicked conspiracy against the poor boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Mind your own business!" said Haynes, rudely. "It is a lie."</p>
+
+<p>"It is the truth," said the volunteer witness, calmly.</p>
+
+<p>Here a policeman became visible from the car-window, leisurely walking
+his beat on the western sidewalk.</p>
+
+<p>"There's a policeman," said Frank's new friend. "Call him, and have the
+boy arrested."</p>
+
+<p>"He would be cleared by false testimony," said Haynes, sullenly. "I have
+my money back, and will let him go."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," said the stranger, rising, and displaying the badge of a
+detective, "I shall arrest you on a charge of conspiracy."</p>
+
+<p>Haynes was fairly caught in his own trap.</p>
+
+<p>"This is a put-up job, gentlemen," he said. "Am I to be robbed first,
+and arrested afterwards for exposing the thief?"</p>
+
+<p>He looked about him appealingly; but in vain. Public sentiment was
+wholly against him now.</p>
+
+<p>"O you ould villain!" said a stout Irish woman, "to try to ruin the
+poor b'ye. Hangin's too good for you."</p>
+
+<p>This was rather an extreme sentiment; but Haynes saw that he was in
+peril. He gave an unexpected spring, and, reaching the platform, sprang
+out, running up a side street.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know him?" asked the detective of Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you account for his hostility to you?"</p>
+
+<p>Frank briefly recounted the story already known to the reader.</p>
+
+<p>"He can easily be found then."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you will not arrest him, sir," said Frank. "He has been pretty
+well punished already, and I don't think he will trouble me again."</p>
+
+<p>"If he does, send for me," and the detective handed Frank his card and
+address.</p>
+
+<p>"It is fortunate for me," said the telegraph boy, "that you saw him put
+the money in my pocket."</p>
+
+<p>"You would have experienced some inconvenience; but the story you have
+told me would have cleared you with the jury."</p>
+
+<p>"My young friend," said the clergyman, "I owe you an apology. I too
+hastily assumed that you were guilty."</p>
+
+<p>"It looked like it, sir. You were quite justified in what you said. Mr.
+Haynes did not appear to relish your remarks to him," added Frank,
+laughing.</p>
+
+<p>"His crime was greater and meaner than the one charged upon you. To
+steal is certainly a grave offence,&mdash;yet sometimes it is prompted by
+necessity; but a deliberate attempt to fasten a false charge upon a
+fellow-creature is vastly more atrocious."</p>
+
+<p>"So it is, sir," said the old Irish woman, nodding assent vigorously. "I
+quite agree wid your honor. It is owtracious."</p>
+
+<p>The passengers smiled at the old woman's mistake; but it was clear that
+they agreed with her in sentiment.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile the car had been speeding along, and was near its terminus.
+Frank bethought himself that he had been carried considerably beyond
+his destination.</p>
+
+<p>He pulled the bell, and, as he got out, he said, "Thank you all for
+taking my part."</p>
+
+<p>"We don't quite deserve that," said one of the passengers, after Frank
+had left the car. "I was at first of opinion that the boy was guilty."</p>
+
+<p>"We have been saved from doing a great injustice," said the clergyman.
+"It should be a lesson to all of us not to be too hasty in our
+judgments."</p>
+
+<p>James Haynes in his hurried exit from the car fully believed that he
+would be pursued and arrested. He was relieved to find his fears
+groundless. But he was disappointed at the failure of his scheme. He had
+carefully prepared it, and for several days he had been in readiness to
+carry it into execution whenever he should meet Frank. This morning had
+brought the opportunity; but it had miscarried.</p>
+
+<p>"But for that cursed detective I would have carried the thing through,"
+he muttered. "He spoiled all. I <i>hate</i> that boy!"</p>
+
+<p>But, though revengeful, Haynes was prudent. He gave up the thought of
+injuring Frank because he saw that it would be dangerous to himself. He
+did not remain long in New York, but soon joined his confederate in
+Hartford.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2>
+
+<h3>FRANK BECOMES A GOOD SAMARITAN.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The close of the month came, and Frank laid aside his uniform. He was a
+telegraph boy no more.</p>
+
+<p>The superintendent shook hands with him cordially, and bade him good-by.</p>
+
+<p>"Come and see us sometimes," he said. "I wish you all success. Your
+services have been very satisfactory, and you have gained an excellent
+reputation."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir," said Frank. "I have tried to do my duty. Good-by,
+boys!"</p>
+
+<p>He shook hands with all his young comrades, with whom he was very
+popular. They knew of his good fortune, and were disposed to regard him
+as very rich. Six thousand dollars in a boy's eyes is a fortune.</p>
+
+<p>"Now you're rich, Frank, I suppose you won't notice the likes of us,"
+said Johnny O'Connor.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you don't think as badly of me as that, Johnny," said Frank,
+earnestly. "I am not rich; but, even if I were, I should always be glad
+to meet any of you. If I am ever able to do a favor to any of you I
+will."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you, Frank," said Johnny. "You was always a good feller."</p>
+
+<p>"Where's Tom Brady?" asked Frank, looking about him. "Is he out on an
+errand?"</p>
+
+<p>"Tom's sick," said the superintendent. "He's got a fever."</p>
+
+<p>"It's bad for him," said Johnny, "for his mother and sister depended on
+Tom's wages. Poor Tom felt bad because he had to give up work."</p>
+
+<p>"Where does he live?" asked Frank, with quick sympathy.</p>
+
+<p>"No. &mdash; East Fourteenth street," answered Johnny. "I know, because I
+live in the same block."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll go and see him."</p>
+
+<p>Frank's heart was not hardened by his own prosperity. He knew what it
+was to be poor, and could enter into the feelings of the unfortunate
+telegraph boy.</p>
+
+<p>Half an hour found him in front of a large tenement-house, in front of
+which were playing children of all ages, most of them showing in their
+faces that unhealthy pallor which so generally marks a tenement-house
+population.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know where Mrs. Brady lives?" asked Frank of a girl of twelve.</p>
+
+<p>"Which Brady is it?" asked the girl. "There's three lives here."</p>
+
+<p>"It's Tom Brady's mother," answered our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"Is it Tom, the telegraph boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll show you then. Tom's been sick for some time."</p>
+
+<p>"I know it. I have come to see him."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know Tom?" asked the girl, in some surprise; for Frank, having
+laid aside his uniform, was handsomely dressed, and looked like the son
+of a rich man.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Tom is a friend of mine. I am sorry he's sick."</p>
+
+<p>Up two flights of rickety stairs Frank followed the girl, who halted
+before a door.</p>
+
+<p>"That's the place," said his young guide, and disappeared down the
+stairs, sliding down the banisters. Young ladies in the best society do
+not often indulge in this amusement, but Mary Murphy knew little of
+etiquette or conventionality.</p>
+
+<p>In answer to Frank's knock, the door was opened by Mrs. Brady, a poorly
+clad and care-worn woman.</p>
+
+<p>"What is your wish, young gentleman?" she said.</p>
+
+<p>"I've come to see Tom. How is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know my Tom?" asked Mrs. Brady, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; is he very sick?"</p>
+
+<p>"The poor boy has got a fever."</p>
+
+<p>"Can I see him?"</p>
+
+<p>"If you'll come into such a poor place, sir. We're very poor, and now
+that Tom's wages is stopped I don't know how we'll get along at all."</p>
+
+<p>"Better than you think, perhaps, Mrs. Brady," said Frank, cheerfully.
+"Why, Tom, what made you get sick?"</p>
+
+<p>He had entered the room, and reached the bed on which the sick boy was
+lying.</p>
+
+<p>Tom looked up in surprise and pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>"Is it you, Frank?" he said. "I'm glad you've come to see me. But how
+did you find me out?"</p>
+
+<p>"Johnny O'Connor told me where you lived. How long have you been sick?"</p>
+
+<p>"Three days. It's rough on a poor boy like me. I ought to be earning
+money for my mother."</p>
+
+<p>"We'll miss Tom's wages badly," said Mrs. Brady; "I can't earn much
+myself, and there's three of us to feed, let alone the rint."</p>
+
+<p>"How did you get off, Frank?" asked Tom.</p>
+
+<p>"I've left the office."</p>
+
+<p>"Was this young gentleman a telegraph boy?" asked Mrs. Brady, in
+surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said Tom; "but he's come into a fortune, and now he won't have to
+work."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm sure I'm glad of his good luck, and it's a great condescension for
+a rich young gentleman to come and see my Tom."</p>
+
+<p>"I have come into some money, but not a fortune, Mrs. Brady," said
+Frank; "but it does not make me any better than when I was a poor
+telegraph boy."</p>
+
+<p>Evidently Mrs. Brady was not of this opinion, for she carefully dusted
+with her apron the best chair in the room, and insisted on Frank's
+seating himself in it.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you had a doctor, Mrs. Brady?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"What does he say?"</p>
+
+<p>"He says that Tom will be sick for three or four weeks, and I don't know
+what we'll do without his wages all that time."</p>
+
+<p>"That's what troubles me," said Tom. "I wouldn't mind it so much if I'd
+get my pay reg'lar while I'm sick."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you needn't be troubled, Tom," said Frank, promptly, "for you
+shall get it regularly."</p>
+
+<p>"They won't give it to me," said Tom, incredulously.</p>
+
+<p>"They won't, but I will."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean it, Frank?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly I do. I will give you a week's pay this morning, and I will
+call every week, and pay you the same."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you hear that, mother?" said Tom, joyfully.</p>
+
+<p>"God bless you, young gentleman, for your kindness to us!" said Mrs.
+Brady, gratefully.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, it isn't much," said Frank; "I can spare it well enough. I have had
+such good luck myself that I ought to do something for those who need
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"You're a good feller, Frank," said Tom, warmly. "I'll get well quick
+now. If you ever want anybody to fight for you, just call on Tom Brady."</p>
+
+<p>"I generally do my own fighting, Tom," said Frank, laughing, "but I'll
+remember your offer. When you are well, you must come and spend an
+evening with me."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm sure he'll be proud to do the same," said Mrs. Brady.</p>
+
+<p>"I must bid you good-by, now, Tom. Keep a 'stiff upper lip,' and don't
+be down-hearted. We must all be sick sometimes, you know, and you'll
+soon be well."</p>
+
+<p>"I won't be down-hearted now," said Tom, "with my wages comin' in
+reg'lar. Remember me to the boys, Frank."</p>
+
+<p>"I will, Tom."</p>
+
+<p>When Frank reached home he found a large, overgrown boy, with big red
+hands, and clothes of rural cut, who apparently did not know what to do
+with his legs and arms, waiting to see him.</p>
+
+<p>It was his cousin Jonathan.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A COUNTRY COUSIN.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Jonathan was a loose-jointed, heavily built, and awkward boy of
+seventeen, bearing not the slightest resemblance to his cousin Frank.
+Still he was a relation, and our hero was glad to see him.</p>
+
+<p>"How are you, Jonathan?" said Frank, cordially. "I wasn't expecting to
+see you. Are all well at home?"</p>
+
+<p>"They're pooty smart," answered Jonathan. "I thought I'd come down and
+look round a little."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad to show you round. Where would you like to go?&mdash;to
+Central Park?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care much about it," said the country cousin. "It's only a big
+pasture, dad says. I'd rather go round the streets. Is there any place
+where I can buy a few doughnuts? I feel kinder empty."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you prefer doughnuts to anything else?" asked Frank, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"I hear they're cheap,&mdash;only a cent apiece," answered Jonathan, "and I
+calc'late five or six will be enough to fill me up."</p>
+
+<p>"You needn't mind the expense, cousin; I shall pay for your dinner."</p>
+
+<p>Jonathan's heavy face lighted up with satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care if you do," he said. "I hear you've got a lot of money
+now, Frank."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall have enough, to make me comfortable, and start me in business."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I had as much money as you," said Jonathan, longingly.</p>
+
+<p>"You are all right. Some time you will have more than I."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know about that. Dad keeps me awful close."</p>
+
+<p>"You have all you want, don't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I've got some money in the bank," said Jonathan, "but I'd like to put
+in more. I never thought you'd have more money than I."</p>
+
+<p>"You used to tell me I ought to go to the poor-house," said Frank,
+smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"That's because you was livin' on dad, you know," explained Jonathan.
+"It wasn't fair to me, because he wouldn't have so much to leave me."</p>
+
+<p>In the country Frank had not found much satisfaction in the company of
+his cousin, who inherited the combined meanness of both parents, and
+appeared to grudge poor Frank every mouthful he ate; but in the sunshine
+of his present prosperity he was disposed to forgive and forget.</p>
+
+<p>Frank led the way to a restaurant not far away, where he allowed his
+cousin to order an ample dinner, which he did without scruple, since he
+was not to pay for it.</p>
+
+<p>"It costs a sight to live in the city," he said, as he looked over the
+bill of fare.</p>
+
+<p>"It costs something in the country, too, Jonathan."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish you'd come and board with dad. He'd take you for five dollars a
+week, and it will cost you more in New York."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, it will cost me more here."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you'll come, won't you? You'll be company for me."</p>
+
+<p>Frank doubted whether Jonathan would be much company for him.</p>
+
+<p>"You didn't use to think so, Jonathan."</p>
+
+<p>"You couldn't pay your board then."</p>
+
+<p>"Now that I can I prefer to remain in the city. I mean to go to school,
+and get a good education."</p>
+
+<p>"How much do you have to pay for board here?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can't tell what I shall have to pay. At present I am staying with
+friends, and pay nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think they'd take me for a week the same way?" asked Jonathan,
+eagerly. "I'd like to stay a week first-rate if it didn't cost nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"I shouldn't like to ask them; but some time I will invite you to come
+and pay me a visit of a week; it shall not cost you anything."</p>
+
+<p>"You're a real good feller, Frank," said Jonathan, highly pleased by the
+invitation. "I'll come any time you send for me. It's pretty high
+payin' on the railroad, but I guess I can come."</p>
+
+<p>Frank understood the hint, but did not feel called upon to pay his
+cousin's railway fare in addition to his week's board.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you think of that?" asked Jonathan, presently, displaying a
+huge ring on one of his red fingers.</p>
+
+<p>"Is that something you have bought in the city?" asked Frank.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered his cousin, complacently. "I got it at a bargain."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you buy it in a jewelry store?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I'll tell you how it was. I was goin' along the street, when I saw
+a well-dressed feller, who looked kinder anxious. He come up to me, and
+he said, 'Do you know any one who wants to buy a splendid gold ring
+cheap?' Then he told me he needed some money right off to buy vittles
+for his family, bein' out of work for a month. He said the ring cost him
+fifteen dollars, and he'd sell it for three. I wasn't goin' to pay no
+such price, and I finally beat him down to a dollar," said Jonathan,
+chuckling. "I guess that's doing pretty well for one day. He said any
+jeweller would pay me six or seven dollars for it."</p>
+
+<p>"Then why didn't he sell it to a jeweller him self, instead of giving it
+to you for a dollar?"</p>
+
+<p>"I never thought of that," said Jonathan, looking puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid it is not so good a bargain as you supposed," said Frank.</p>
+
+<p>Great drops of perspiration came out on Jonathan's brow.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't think it's brass, do you?" he gasped.</p>
+
+<p>"Here is a jewelry store. We can go in and inquire."</p>
+
+<p>They entered the store, and Frank, calling attention to the ring,
+inquired its probable value.</p>
+
+<p>"It might be worth about three cents," said the jeweller, laughing. "I
+hope you didn't give much more for it."</p>
+
+<p>"I gave a dollar," said Jonathan, in a voice which betrayed his
+anguish.</p>
+
+<p>"Of whom did you buy it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of a man in the street."</p>
+
+<p>"Served you right, then. You should have gone to a regular jewelry
+store."</p>
+
+<p>"The man said it cost him fifteen dollars," said Jonathan, sadly.</p>
+
+<p>"I dare say. He was a professional swindler, no doubt."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to give him a lickin'," said Jonathan, wrathfully, as they
+left the store.</p>
+
+<p>"What would you do if you was me?" he asked of his cousin.</p>
+
+<p>"Throw it away."</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't do that. Maybe I can sell it up in the country," he said,
+his face brightening up.</p>
+
+<p>"For how much?"</p>
+
+<p>"For what I gave."</p>
+
+<p>"But that would be swindling."</p>
+
+<p>"No, it wouldn't. I have a right to ask as much as I gave. It's real
+handsome if it is brass."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think that would be quite honest, Jonathan."</p>
+
+<p>"You wouldn't have me lose the dollar, would you? That would be smart."</p>
+
+<p>"I would rather be honest than be smart."</p>
+
+<p>Jonathan dropped the subject, but eventually he sold the ring at home
+for a dollar and a quarter.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>CONCLUSION.</h3>
+
+
+<p>After he had accompanied his cousin to the depot, where he took the cars
+for home, Frank met Victor Dupont, on Madison avenue.</p>
+
+<p>"Where's your uniform?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"I have taken it off."</p>
+
+<p>"Aint you a telegraph boy any longer?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I have left the office."</p>
+
+<p>"They turned you off, I suppose," said Victor, with a sneer.</p>
+
+<p>"They would like to have had me stay longer," said Frank, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>Victor shrugged his shoulders incredulously.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going back to your old business of selling papers?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"I think not."</p>
+
+<p>"What are you going to do for a living?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am much obliged to you for your interest in my affairs, Victor; I
+don't mean to go to work at all at present,&mdash;I am going to school."</p>
+
+<p>"How are you going to pay your expenses, then?" asked Victor, in
+surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"I have had some money left me."</p>
+
+<p>"Is that so? How much?"</p>
+
+<p>"Some thousands of dollars,&mdash;enough to support me while I am getting an
+education."</p>
+
+<p>"Who left it to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"My father left it, but I have only just received it."</p>
+
+<p>"You are awfully lucky," said Victor, evidently annoyed. "Are you going
+to live with the Vivians?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know."</p>
+
+<p>"I shouldn't think you would. It would be imposing upon them."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you for your kind advice. Won't you take me to board at your
+house?"</p>
+
+<p>"We don't take boarders," said Victor, haughtily.</p>
+
+<p>It so happened that Frank entered himself as a scholar at the school
+where Victor was a student, and was put in the same class. Frank at
+once took a higher place, and in time graduated with the highest honors,
+while Victor came out nearly at the foot.</p>
+
+<p>Frank did remain with the Vivians; they would not hear of his leaving
+them, nor would they permit him to pay any board.</p>
+
+<p>"You are a companion for Fred," said Mrs. Vivian, "and you exert a good
+influence over him. Having your company, he does not wish to seek
+society outside. You must let me look upon you as one of my boys, and
+accept a home with us."</p>
+
+<p>Against this, Frank could urge no objection. He was offered a home far
+more attractive than a boarding-house, which his presence made more
+social and attractive. Having no board to provide for, the income of his
+little property was abundant to supply his other wants, and, when he
+left school, it was unimpaired.</p>
+
+<p>It was a serious question with our hero whether he would continue his
+studies through a collegiate course. He finally decided in the negative,
+and accepted a good position in the mercantile establishment of Mr.
+Hartley. Here he displayed such intelligence and aptitude for business
+that he rose rapidly, and in time acquired an interest in the firm, and
+will in time obtain a junior partnership. It must not be supposed that
+all this came without hard work. It had always been Frank's custom to
+discharge to the utmost of his ability the duties of any position in
+which he was placed. To this special trait of our hero, most of his
+success was owing.</p>
+
+<p>Our hero had the satisfaction of giving a place to his companion in the
+telegraph office, Tom Brady, who was in time able to earn such a salary
+as raised his mother and sister above want. Frank did not forget his old
+street comrade, Dick Rafferty, but gave him a position as porter, Dick's
+education not being sufficient to qualify him for a clerkship. He even
+sought out old Mills, the blind man, to whom he had small reason to feel
+grateful; but found that the old man had suddenly died, leaving behind
+him, to the surprise of every one who knew him, several hundred dollars
+in gold and silver, which were claimed by a sister of the deceased, to
+whom they were most acceptable.</p>
+
+<p>Here end the experiences of the Telegraph Boy. He has been favored above
+most of his class; but the qualities which helped him achieve success
+are within the reach of all. Among the busy little messengers who flit
+about the city, in all directions, there are some, no doubt, who will in
+years to come command a success and prosperity as great as our hero has
+attained. In a republic like our own, the boy who begins at the bottom
+of the ladder may in time reach the highest round.</p>
+
+
+<p>THE END.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2><a name="FAMOUS_ALGER_BOOKS" id="FAMOUS_ALGER_BOOKS"></a>FAMOUS ALGER BOOKS.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The enormous sales of the books of Horatio Alger, Jr., show the
+greatness of his popularity among the boys, and prove that he is one of
+their most favored writers. I am told that more than half a million
+copies altogether have been sold, and that all the large circulating
+libraries in the country have several complete sets, of which only two
+or three volumes are ever on the shelves at one time. If this is true,
+what thousands and thousands of boys have read and are reading Mr.
+Alger's books! His peculiar style of stories, often imitated but never
+equaled, have taken a hold upon the young people, and, despite their
+similarity, are eagerly read as soon as they appear.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Alger became famous with the publication of that undying book,
+"Ragged Dick, or Street Life in New York." It was his first book for
+young people, and its success was so great that he immediately devoted
+himself to that kind of writing. It was a new and fertile field for a
+writer then, and Mr. Alger's treatment of it at once caught the fancy of
+the boys. "Ragged Dick" first appeared in 1868, and ever since then it
+has been selling steadily, until now it is estimated that about 200,000
+copies of the series have been sold.&mdash;"Pleasant Hours for Boys and
+Girls."</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>A writer for boys should have an abundant sympathy with them. He should
+be able to enter into their plans, hopes, and aspirations. He should
+learn to look upon life as they do. Boys object to be written down to. A
+boy's heart opens to the man or writer who understands him.&mdash;From
+"Writing Stories for Boys," by Horatio Alger, Jr.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+
+<h3>RAGGED DICK SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Ragged Dick.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Fame and Fortune.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Mark the Match Boy.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Rough and Ready.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Ben the Luggage Boy.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Rufus and Rose.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>TATTERED TOM SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Tattered Tom.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Paul the Peddler.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Phil the Fiddler.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Slow and Sure.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>TATTERED TOM SERIES. <span class="smcap">Second Series.</span></h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Julius.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">The Young Outlaw.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Sam's Chance.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">The Telegraph Boy.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>CAMPAIGN SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Frank's Campaign.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Paul Prescott's Charge.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Charlie Codman's Cruise.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES. <span class="smcap">First Series.</span></h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Luck and Pluck.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Sink or Swim.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Strong and Steady.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Strive and Succeed.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES. <span class="smcap">Second Series.</span></h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Try and Trust.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Bound to Rise.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Risen from the Ranks.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Herbert Carter's Legacy.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>BRAVE AND BOLD SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Brave and Bold.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Jack's Ward.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Shifting for Himself.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Wait and Hope.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>PACIFIC SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">The Young Adventurer.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">The Young Miner.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">The Young Explorers.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Ben's Nugget.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>ATLANTIC SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">The Young Circus Rider.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Do and Dare.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Hector's Inheritance.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Helping Himself.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>WAY TO SUCCESS SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Bob Burton.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">The Store Boy.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Luke Walton.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Struggling Upward.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>NEW WORLD SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Digging for Gold.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">Facing the World.</span><br /></span>
+<span class="i0"><span class="smcap">In a New World.</span><br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>VICTORY SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Only an Irish Boy.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Adrift in the City.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Victor Vane, or the Young Secretary.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>FRANK AND FEARLESS SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Frank Hunter's Peril.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank and Fearless.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Young Salesman.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>GOOD FORTUNE LIBRARY.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Walter Sherwood's Probation.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">A Boy's Fortune.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Young Bank Messenger.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>HOW TO RISE LIBRARY.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Jed, the Poorhouse Boy.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Rupert's Ambition.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Lester's Luck.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2><a name="THE_JOHN_C_WINSTON_COS_POPULAR_JUVENILES" id="THE_JOHN_C_WINSTON_COS_POPULAR_JUVENILES">THE JOHN C WINSTON COS POPULAR JUVENILES</a></h2>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+
+<h3>HARRY CASTLEMON BOOKS</h3>
+
+
+<p>HOW I CAME TO WRITE MY FIRST BOOK.</p>
+
+<p>When I was sixteen years old I belonged to a composition class. It was
+our custom to go on the recitation seat every day with clean slates, and
+we were allowed ten minutes to write seventy words on any subject the
+teacher thought suited to our capacity. One day he gave out "What a Man
+Would See if He Went to Greenland." My heart was in the matter, and
+before the ten minutes were up I had one side of my slate filled. The
+teacher listened to the reading of our compositions, and when they were
+all over he simply said: "Some of you will make your living by writing
+one of these days." That gave me something to ponder upon. I did not say
+so out loud, but I knew that my composition was as good as the best of
+them. By the way, there was another thing that came in my way just then.
+I was reading at that time one of Mayne Reid's works which I had drawn
+from the library, and I pondered upon it as much as I did upon what the
+teacher said to me. In introducing Swartboy to his readers he made use
+of this expression: "No visible change was observable in Swartboy's
+countenance." Now, it occurred to me that if a man of his education
+could make such a blunder as that and still write a book, I ought to be
+able to do it, too. I went home that very day and began a story, "The
+Old Guide's Narrative," which was sent to the <i>New York Weekly</i>, and
+came back, respectfully declined. It was written on both sides of the
+sheets but I didn't know that this was against the rules. Nothing
+abashed, I began another, and receiving some instruction, from a friend
+of mine who was a clerk in a book store, I wrote it on only one side of
+the paper. But mind you, he didn't know what I was doing. Nobody knew
+it; but one day, after a hard Saturday's work&mdash;the other boys had been
+out skating on the brick-pond&mdash;I shyly broached the subject to my
+mother. I felt the need of some sympathy. She listened in amazement, and
+then said: "Why, do you think you could write a book like that?" That
+settled the matter, and from that day no one knew what I was up to until
+I sent the first four volumes of Gunboat Series to my father. Was it
+work? Well, yes; it was hard work, but each week I had the satisfaction
+of seeing the manuscript grow until the "Young Naturalist" was all
+complete.&mdash;<i>Harry Castlemon in the Writer.</i></p>
+
+
+
+<h3>GUNBOAT SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Frank the Young Naturalist.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank on a Gunboat.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank in the Woods.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank before Vicksburg.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank on the Lower Mississippi.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank on the Prairie.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>ROCKY MOUNTAIN SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Frank Among the Rancheros.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank in the Mountains.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank at Don Carlos' Rancho.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>SPORTSMAN'S CLUB SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">The Sportsman's Club in the Saddle.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Sportsman's Club<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Among the Trappers.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Sportsman's Club Afloat.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>FRANK NELSON SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Snowed up.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Frank in the Forecastle.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Boy Traders.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>ROUGHING IT SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">George in Camp.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">George at the Fort.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">George at the Wheel.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>ROD AND GUN SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Don Gordon's Shooting Box.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Young Wild Fowlers.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Rod and Gun Club.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>GO-AHEAD SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Tom Newcombe.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Go-Ahead.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">No Moss.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>WAR SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">True to His Colors.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Rodney the Partisan.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Rodney the Overseer.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Marcy the Blockade-Runner.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Marcy the Refugee.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Sailor Jack the Trader.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>HOUSEBOAT SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">The Houseboat Boys.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Mystery of Lost River Ca&ntilde;on.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Young Game Warden.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>AFLOAT AND ASHORE SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Rebellion in Dixie.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">A Sailor in Spite of Himself.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Ten-Ton Cutter.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h3>J. T. TROWBRIDGE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Neither as a writer does he stand apart from the great currents of life
+and select some exceptional phase or odd combination of circumstances.
+He stands on the common level and appeals to the universal heart, and
+all that he suggests or achieves is on the plane and in the line of
+march of the great body of humanity.</p>
+
+<p>The Jack Hazard series of stories, published in the late <i>Our Young
+Folks</i>, and continued in the first volume of <i>St. Nicholas</i>, under the
+title of "Fast Friends," is no doubt destined to hold a high place in
+this class of literature. The delight of the boys in them (and of their
+seniors, too) is well founded. They go to the right spot every time.
+Trowbridge knows the heart of a boy like a book, and the heart of a man,
+too, and he has laid them both open in these books in a most successful
+manner. Apart from the qualities that render the series so attractive to
+all young readers, they have great value on account of their
+portraitures of American country life and character. The drawing is
+wonderfully accurate, and as spirited as it is true. The constable,
+Sellick, is an original character, and as minor figures where will we
+find anything better than Miss Wansey, and Mr. P. Pipkin, Esq. The
+picture of Mr. Dink's school, too, is capital, and where else in fiction
+is there a better nick-name than that the boys gave to poor little
+Stephen Treadwell, "Step Hen," as he himself pronounced his name in an
+unfortunate moment when he saw it in print for the first time in his
+lesson in school.</p>
+
+<p>On the whole, these books are very satisfactory, and afford the critical
+reader the rare pleasure of the works that are just adequate, that
+easily fulfill themselves and accomplish all they set out to
+do.&mdash;<i>Scribner's Monthly</i>.</p>
+
+
+<h3>JACK HAZARD SERIES.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Jack Hazard and His Fortunes.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Young Surveyor.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Fast Friends.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Doing His Best.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">A Chance for Himself.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Lawrence's Adventures.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+
+<h3>CHARLES ASBURY STEPHENS.</h3>
+
+<p>This author wrote his "Camping Out Series" at the very height of his
+mental and physical powers.</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"We do not wonder at the popularity of these books; there is a
+freshness and variety about them, and an enthusiasm in the
+description of sport and adventure, which even the older folk can
+hardly fail to share."&mdash;<i>Worcester Spy.</i></p></div>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"The author of the Camping Out Series is entitled to rank as
+decidedly at the head of what may be called boys'
+literature."&mdash;<i>Buffalo Courier.</i></p></div>
+
+
+<h3>CAMPING OUT SERIES.</h3>
+
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Camping Out</span>. As Recorded by "Kit."</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"This book is bright, breezy, wholesome, instructive, and stands
+above the ordinary boys' books of the day by a whole head and
+shoulders."&mdash;<i>The Christian Register, Boston</i>.</p></div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Left on Labrador; Or, the Cruise of the Schooner Yacht "Curlew."</span> As
+Recorded by "Wash."</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"The perils of the voyagers, the narrow escapes, their strange
+expedients, and the fun and jollity when danger had passed, will
+make boys even unconscious of hunger."&mdash;<i>New Bedford Mercury.</i></p></div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Off to the Geysers; or the Young Yachters in Iceland.</span> As Recorded by
+"Wade."</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"It is difficult to believe that Wade and Raed and Kit and Wash
+were not live boys, sailing up Hudson Straits, and reigning
+temporarily over an Esquimaux tribe."&mdash;<i>The Independent, New York.</i></p></div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Lynx Hunting:</span> From Notes by the Author of "Camping Out."</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"Of first quality as a boys' book, and fit to take its place beside
+the best."&mdash;<i>Richmond Enquirer.</i></p></div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Fox Hunting.</span> As Recorded by "Raed."</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"The most spirited and entertaining book that has as yet appeared.
+It overflows with incident, and is characterized by dash and
+brilliancy throughout."&mdash;<i>Boston Gazette.</i></p></div>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">On the Amazon; or, the Cruise of the "Rambler."</span> As Recorded by "Wash."</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"Gives vivid pictures of Brazilian adventure and
+scenery."&mdash;<i>Buffalo Courier.</i></p></div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h3>FAMOUS STANDARD JUVENILES FOR GIRLS</h3>
+
+
+<p>A GOOD GIRL'S BOOK IS HARD TO FIND!</p>
+
+<p>One often hears the above quoted. <i>These</i> books have stood the tests of
+time and careful mothers, and will be of the greatest interest to girls
+of all ages. Free from any unhealthy sensationalism, yet full of
+incident and romance, they are the cream of the best girls' books
+published.</p>
+
+
+<h3>WAYS AND MEANS LIBRARY. By Margaret Vandegrift.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Queen's Body Guard.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Rose Raymond's Wards.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Doris and Theodora.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Ways and Means.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>STORIES FOR GIRLS.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Dr. Gilbert's Daughters.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Marion Berkley.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Hartwell Farm.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>HONEST ENDEAVOR LIBRARY. By Lucy C. Lillie.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">The Family Dilemma.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Allison's Adventures.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Ruth Endicott's Way.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<h3>MILBROOK LIBRARY. By Lucy C. Lillie.</h3>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Helen Glenn.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Squire's Daughter.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Esther's Fortune.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">For Honor's Sake.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h3>RECENT SUCCESSES</h3>
+
+<p>The following, though of recent date, have at once reached such a height
+of popularity that they can already be classified as standards.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Lady Green Satin. By Baroness Deschesney.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Marion Berkley. By Elizabeth B. Comins.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Lenny, the Orphan. By Margaret Hosmer.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Family Dilemma. By Lucy C. Lillie.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Question of Honor. By Lynde Palmer<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Girl's Ordeal, A. By Lucy C. Lillie.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Elinor Belden; or The Step Brothers. By Lucy C. Lillie.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Where Honor Leads. By Lynde Palmer.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Under the Holly. By Margaret Hosmer.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Two Bequests. The; or, Heavenward Led. By Jane R. Sommere.<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">The Thistles of Mount Cedar. By Ursula Tannenforst.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h3>HURLBUT'S STORY OF THE BIBLE told for YOUNG AND OLD</h3>
+
+<h3>by Rev. Jesse Lyman Hurlbut, D.D.</h3>
+
+
+<p>A Veritable "Arabian Nights" of Entertainment Containing 168 Complete
+Illustrated Stories</p>
+
+
+<p>THE BIBLE MADE FASCINATING TO CHILDREN.&mdash;The heroes and the noble men
+and women of the Bible are made to appear as living, acting people. The
+book is an original work, and in no sense an imitation. It has been in
+preparation for a number of years.</p>
+
+<p>THE DISTINGUISHED AUTHOR.&mdash;Dr. Hurlbut has long been associated with,
+and director of, the Sunday School work of one of the largest
+denominations, and he has been more closely associated with the detail
+work of the Chautauqua movement than has any other man. He is also well
+known as a writer.</p>
+
+<p>REMARKABLE FOR THE BEAUTY AND NUMBER OF ITS ILLUSTRATIONS.&mdash;There are
+sixteen pictures in color prepared for this work by the distinguished
+artist, W. H. Margetson, and reproduced with the beauty and
+attractiveness of the artist's original work. There are also <b>nearly 300
+half-tone</b> engravings in this remarkable book, which is as original in
+the selection of its illustrations as it is in its stories.</p>
+
+<p>WHAT OTHERS THINK OF IT</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p>"It is a needed and original work. Not an imitation."&mdash;<i>Christian
+Advocate</i>, New York.</p>
+
+<p>"Written in such a style as to fascinate and hold the interest of
+child or man."&mdash;<span class="smcap">Rev. F. E. Clark</span>, Pres. Society of Christian
+Endeavor.</p>
+
+<p>"It is a beautiful book. I hope every family in the land will
+secure 'Hurlbut's Story of the Bible,'"&mdash;<span class="smcap">General O. O. Howard.</span></p>
+
+<p>"The best book of its kind, and that kind the most important."&mdash;<span class="smcap">Rev.
+James A. Worden</span>, Presbyterian B'd of Pub. and S. S. Work.</p>
+
+<p>"I like very much the vocabulary you have used, and I can see how
+careful you have been in choosing understandable words."&mdash;<span class="smcap">Mr.
+Philip E. Howard</span>, <i>Sunday-School Times</i>, Philadelphia.</p>
+
+<p>"It is the completest and best thing of the kind I have seen. The
+book is splendidly illustrated." <span class="smcap">Marian Lawrance</span>, General Secretary
+International Sunday-School Association.</p>
+
+<p>"Many will be drawn to the Bible who otherwise might look upon it
+as only adapted for older people."&mdash;<span class="smcap">Hon. David J. Brewer</span>, Justice
+of the Supreme Court of the United States.</p></div>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Telegraph Boy, by Horatio Alger, Jr.
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+</body>
+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Telegraph Boy, by Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Telegraph Boy
+
+Author: Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+Release Date: December 24, 2007 [EBook #24013]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE TELEGRAPH BOY ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from scans of public domain material
+produced by Microsoft for their Live Search Books site.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                           THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+                         BY HORATIO ALGER, JR.,
+
+AUTHOR OF "RAGGED DICK SERIES," "LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES," "BRAVE AND BOLD
+SERIES," ETC., ETC.
+
+                         HORATIO ALGER'S BOOKS
+                          FOR BOYS AND GIRLS.
+
+
+
+
+    THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.
+    PHILADELPHIA
+    CHICAGO      TORONTO
+
+
+    To
+    THREE YOUNG FRIENDS,
+    LORIN AND BEATRICE BERNHEIMER,
+    AND
+    FLORINE ARNOLD,
+    This Story
+    IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+The "Telegraph Boy" completes the series of sketches of street-life in
+New York inaugurated eleven years since by the publication of "Ragged
+Dick." The author has reason to feel gratified by the warm reception
+accorded by the public to these pictures of humble life in the great
+metropolis. He is even more gratified by the assurance that his labors
+have awakened a philanthropic interest in the children whose struggles
+and privations he has endeavored faithfully to describe. He feels it his
+duty to state that there is no way in which these waifs can more
+effectually be assisted than by contributing to the funds of "The
+Children's Aid Society," whose wise and comprehensive plans for the
+benefit of their young wards have already been crowned with abundant
+success.
+
+The class of boys described in the present volume was called into
+existence only a few years since, but they are already so numerous that
+one can scarcely ride down town by any conveyance without having one for
+a fellow-passenger. Most of them reside with their parents and have
+comfortable homes, but a few, like the hero of this story, are wholly
+dependent on their own exertions for a livelihood. The variety of
+errands on which they are employed, and their curious experiences, are
+by no means exaggerated in the present story. In its preparation the
+author has been assisted by an excellent sketch published perhaps a year
+since in the "New York Tribune."
+
+    HORATIO ALGER, JR.
+    NEW YORK, Sept. 1, 1879.
+
+
+
+
+THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+A YOUNG CARPET-BAGGER.
+
+
+"Twenty-five cents to begin the world with!" reflected Frank Kavanagh,
+drawing from his vest-pocket two ten-cent pieces of currency and a
+nickel. "That isn't much, but it will have to do."
+
+The speaker, a boy of fifteen, was sitting on a bench in City-Hall Park.
+He was apparently about fifteen years old, with a face not handsome, but
+frank and good-humored, and an expression indicating an energetic and
+hopeful temperament. A small bundle, rolled up in a handkerchief,
+contained his surplus wardrobe. He had that day arrived in New York by a
+boat from Hartford, and meant to stay in the city if he could make a
+living.
+
+Next to him sat a man of thirty-five, shabbily dressed, who clearly was
+not a member of any temperance society, if an inflamed countenance and
+red nose may be trusted. Frank Kavanagh's display of money attracted his
+attention, for, small as was the boy's capital, it was greater than his
+own.
+
+"Been long in the city, Johnny?" he inquired.
+
+"I only arrived to-day," answered Frank. "My name isn't Johnny, though."
+
+"It's immaterial. Johnny is a generic term," said the stranger. "I
+suppose you have come here to make your fortune."
+
+"I shall be satisfied with a living to begin with," said Frank.
+
+"Where did you come from?"
+
+"A few miles from Hartford."
+
+"Got any relations there?"
+
+"Yes,--an uncle and aunt."
+
+"I suppose you were sorry to leave them."
+
+"Not much. Uncle is a pretty good man, but he's fond of money, and aunt
+is about as mean as they make 'em. They got tired of supporting me, and
+gave me money enough to get to New York."
+
+"I suppose you have some left," said the stranger, persuasively.
+
+"Twenty-five cents," answered Frank, laughing. "That isn't a very big
+capital to start on, is it?"
+
+"Is that all you've got?" asked the shabbily dressed stranger, in a tone
+of disappointment.
+
+"Every cent."
+
+"I wish I had ten dollars to give you," said the stranger, thoughtfully.
+
+"Thank you, sir; I wish you had," said Frank, his eyes resting on the
+dilapidated attire of his benevolent companion. Judging from that, he
+was not surprised that ten dollars exceeded the charitable fund of the
+philanthropist.
+
+"My operations in Wall street have not been fortunate of late," resumed
+the stranger; "and I am in consequence hard up."
+
+"Do you do business in Wall street?" asked Frank, rather surprised.
+
+"Sometimes," was the reply. "I have lost heavily of late in Erie and
+Pacific Mail, but it is only temporary. I shall soon be on my feet
+again."
+
+"I hope so, sir," said Frank, politely.
+
+"My career has been a chequered one," continued the stranger. "I, too,
+as a mere boy, came up from the country to make my fortune. I embarked
+in trade, and was for a time successful. I resigned to get time to write
+a play,--a comedy in five acts."
+
+Frank regarded his companion with heightened respect. He was a boy of
+good education, and the author of a play in his eyes was a man of
+genius.
+
+"Was it played?" he inquired.
+
+"No; Wallack said it had too many difficult characters for his company,
+and the rest of the managers kept putting me off, while they were
+producing inferior plays. The American public will never know what they
+have lost. But, enough of this. Sometime I will read you the
+'Mother-in-law,' if you like. Have you had dinner?"
+
+"No," answered Frank. "Do you know where I can dine cheap?" he
+inquired.
+
+"Yes," answered the stranger. "Once I boarded at the Astor House, but
+now I am forced, by dire necessity, to frequent cheap restaurants.
+Follow me."
+
+"What is your name, sir?" asked Frank, as he rose from the bench.
+
+"Montagu Percy," was the reply. "Sorry I haven't my card-case with me,
+or I would hand you my address. I think you said your name was not
+Johnny."
+
+"My name is Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"A very good name. 'What's in a name?' as Shakespeare says."
+
+As the oddly assorted pair crossed the street, and walked down Nassau
+street, they attracted the attention of some of the Arabs who were
+lounging about Printing-House square.
+
+"I say, country, is that your long-lost uncle?" asked a boot-black.
+
+"No, it isn't," answered Frank, shortly.
+
+Though he was willing to avail himself of Mr. Percy's guidance, he was
+not ambitious of being regarded as his nephew.
+
+"Heed not their ribald scoffs," said Montagu Percy, loftily. "Their
+words pass by me 'like the idle wind,' which I regard not."
+
+"Who painted your nose, mister?" asked another boy, of course addressing
+Frank's companion.
+
+"I will hand you over to the next policeman," exclaimed Percy, angrily.
+
+"Look out he don't haul you in, instead," retorted the boy.
+
+Montagu Percy made a motion to pursue his tormentors, but desisted.
+
+"They are beneath contempt," he said. "It is ever the lot of genius to
+be railed at by the ignorant and ignoble. They referred to my nose being
+red, but mistook the cause. It is a cutaneous eruption,--the result of
+erysipelas."
+
+"Is it?" asked Frank, rather mystified.
+
+"I am not a drinking man--that is, I indulge myself but rarely. But here
+we are."
+
+So saying he plunged down some steps into a basement, Frank following
+him. Our hero found himself in a dirty apartment, provided with a bar,
+over which was a placard, inscribed:--
+
+"FREE LUNCH."
+
+"How much money have you got, Frank?" inquired Montagu Percy.
+
+"Twenty-five cents."
+
+"Lunch at this establishment is free," said Montagu; "but you are
+expected to order some drink. What will you have?"
+
+"I don't care for any drink except a glass of water."
+
+"All right; I will order for you, as the rules of the establishment
+require it; but I will drink your glass myself. Eat whatever you like."
+
+Frank took a sandwich from a plate on the counter and ate it with
+relish, for he was hungry. Meanwhile his companion emptied the two
+glasses, and ordered another.
+
+"Can you pay for these drinks?" asked the bar-tender, suspiciously.
+
+"Sir, I never order what I cannot pay for."
+
+"I don't know about that. You've been in here and taken lunch more than
+once without drinking anything."
+
+"It may be so. I will make up for it now. Another glass, please."
+
+"First pay for what you have already drunk."
+
+"Frank, hand me your money," said Montagu.
+
+Frank incautiously handed him his small stock of money, which he saw
+instantly transferred to the bar-tender.
+
+"That is right, I believe," said Montagu Percy.
+
+The bar-keeper nodded, and Percy, transferring his attention to the free
+lunch, stowed away a large amount.
+
+Frank observed with some uneasiness the transfer of his entire cash
+capital to the bar-tender; but concluded that Mr. Percy would refund a
+part after they went out. As they reached the street he broached the
+subject.
+
+"I didn't agree to pay for both dinners," he said, uneasily.
+
+"Of course not. It will be my treat next time. That will be fair, won't
+it?"
+
+"But I would rather you would give me back a part of my money. I may not
+see you again."
+
+"I will be in the Park to-morrow at one o'clock."
+
+"Give me back ten cents, then," said Frank, uneasily. "That was all the
+money I had."
+
+"I am really sorry, but I haven't a penny about me. I'll make it right
+to-morrow. Good-day, my young friend. Be virtuous and you will be
+happy."
+
+Frank looked after the shabby figure ruefully. He felt that he had been
+taken in and done for. His small capital had vanished, and he was adrift
+in the streets of a strange city without a penny.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+DICK RAFFERTY.
+
+
+"I've been a fool," said Frank to himself, in genuine mortification, as
+he realized how easily he had permitted himself to be duped. "I ought to
+have stayed in the country."
+
+Even a small sum of money imparts to its possessor a feeling of
+independence, but one who is quite penniless feels helpless and
+apprehensive. Frank was unable even to purchase an apple from the snuffy
+old apple-woman who presided over the stand near by.
+
+"What am I going to do?" he asked himself, soberly.
+
+"What has become of your uncle?" asked a boot-black.
+
+Looking up, Frank recognized one of those who had saluted Percy and
+himself on their way to the restaurant.
+
+"He isn't my uncle," he replied, rather resentfully.
+
+"You never saw him before, did you?" continued the boy.
+
+"No, I didn't."
+
+"That's what I thought."
+
+There was something significant in the young Arab's tone, which led
+Frank to inquire, "Do you know him?"
+
+"Yes, he's a dead-beat."
+
+"A what?"
+
+"A dead-beat. Don't you understand English?"
+
+"He told me that he did business on Wall street."
+
+The boot-black shrieked with laughter.
+
+"He do business on Wall street!" he repeated. "You're jolly green, you
+are!"
+
+Frank was inclined to be angry, but he had the good sense to see that
+his new friend was right. So he said good-humoredly, "I suppose I am.
+You see I am not used to the city."
+
+"It's just such fellows as you he gets hold of," continued the
+boot-black. "Didn't he make you treat?"
+
+"I may as well confess it," thought Frank. "This boy may help me with
+advice."
+
+"Yes," he said aloud. "I hadn't but twenty-five cents, and he made me
+spend it all. I haven't a cent left."
+
+"Whew!" ejaculated the other boy. "You're beginnin' business on a small
+capital."
+
+"That's so," said Frank. "Do you know any way I can earn money?"
+
+Dick Rafferty was a good-natured boy, although rough, and now that Frank
+had appealed to him for advice he felt willing to help him, if he could.
+
+"What can you do?" he asked, in a business-like tone. "Have you ever
+worked?"
+
+"Yes," answered Frank.
+
+"What can you do?"
+
+"I can milk cows, hoe corn and potatoes, ride horse to plough, and--"
+
+"Hold up!" said Dick. "All them things aint goin' to do you no good in
+New York. People don't keep cows as a reg'lar thing here."
+
+"Of course I know that."
+
+"And there aint much room for plantin' corn and potatoes. Maybe you
+could get a job over in Jersey."
+
+"I'd rather stay in New York. I can do something here."
+
+"Can you black boots, or sell papers?"
+
+"I can learn."
+
+"You need money to set up in either of them lines," said Dick Rafferty.
+
+"Would twenty-five cents have been enough?" asked Frank.
+
+"You could have bought some evening papers with that."
+
+"I wish somebody would lend me some money," said Frank; "I'd pay it back
+as soon as I'd sold my papers. I was a fool to let that fellow swindle
+me."
+
+"That's so," assented Dick; "but it's no good thinkin' of that now. I'd
+lend you the money myself, if I had it; but I've run out my account at
+the Park Bank, and can't spare the money just at present."
+
+"How long have you been in business?" asked Frank.
+
+"Ever since I was eight years old; and I'm goin' on fifteen now."
+
+"You went to work early."
+
+"Yes, I had to. Father and mother both died, and I was left to take care
+of myself."
+
+"You took care of yourself when you were only eight years old?" asked
+Frank, in surprise.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then I ought to make a living, for I am fifteen,--a year older than you
+are now."
+
+"Oh, you'll get along when you get started," said Dick, encouragingly.
+"There's lots of things to do."
+
+"Is there anything to do that doesn't require any capital?" inquired
+Frank, anxiously.
+
+"Yes, you can smash baggage."
+
+"Will people pay for that?" asked Frank, with a smile.
+
+"Of course they will. You jest hang round the ferries and steamboat
+landin's, and when a chap comes by with a valise or carpet-bag, you jest
+offer to carry it, that's all."
+
+"Is that what you call smashing baggage?"
+
+"Of course. What did you think it was?"
+
+Frank evaded answering, not caring to display his country ignorance.
+
+"Do you think I can get a chance to do that?" he asked.
+
+"You can try it and see."
+
+"I came in by the Hartford boat myself, to-day," said Frank. "If I'd
+thought of it, I would have begun at once."
+
+"Only you wouldn't have knowed the way anywhere, and if a gentleman
+asked you to carry his valise to any hotel you'd have had to ask where
+it was."
+
+"So I should," Frank admitted.
+
+"I'll show you round a little, if you want me to," said Dick. "I shan't
+have anything to do for an hour or two."
+
+"I wish you would."
+
+So the two boys walked about in the lower part of the city, Dick
+pointing out hotels, public buildings, and prominent streets. Frank had
+a retentive memory, and stored away the information carefully. Penniless
+as he was, he was excited and exhilarated by the scene of activity in
+which he was moving, and was glad he was going to live in it, or to
+attempt doing so.
+
+"When I am used to it I shall like it much better than the country," he
+said to Dick. "Don't you?"
+
+"I don't know about that," was the reply. "Sometimes I think I'll go
+West;--a lot of boys that I know have gone there."
+
+"Won't it take a good deal of money to go?" asked Frank.
+
+"Oh, there's a society that pays boys' expenses, and finds 'em nice
+homes with the farmers. Tom Harrison, one of my friends, went out six
+weeks ago, and he writes me that it's bully. He's gone to some town in
+Kansas."
+
+"That's a good way off."
+
+"I wouldn't mind that. I'd like ridin' in the cars."
+
+"It would be something new to you; but I've lived in the country all my
+life, I'd rather stay here awhile."
+
+"It's just the way a feller feels," said Dick philosophically. "I've
+bummed around so much I'd like a good, stiddy home, with three square
+meals a day and a good bed to sleep on."
+
+"Can't you get that here?" asked Frank.
+
+"Not stiddy. Sometimes I don't get but one square meal a day."
+
+Frank became thoughtful. Life in the city seemed more precarious and
+less desirable than he anticipated.
+
+"Well, I must go to work again," said Dick, after a while.
+
+"Where are you going to sleep to-night?" asked Frank.
+
+"I don't know whether I'd better sleep at the Astor House or Fifth
+avenue," said Dick.
+
+Frank looked perplexed.
+
+"You don't mean that, do you?" he asked.
+
+"Of course I don't. You're too fresh. Don't get mad," he continued
+good-naturedly, seeing the flush on Frank's cheek. "You'll know as much
+about the city as I do before long. I shall go to the Newsboys' Lodgin'
+House, where I can sleep for six cents."
+
+"I wish I had six cents," said Frank. "If I could only get work I'd soon
+earn it. You can't think of anything for me to do, can you?"
+
+Dick's face lighted up.
+
+"Yes," he said, "I can get you a job, though it aint a very good one. I
+wonder I didn't think of it before."
+
+"What is it?" asked Frank, anxiously.
+
+"It's to go round with a blind man, solicitin' contributions."
+
+"You mean begging?"
+
+"Yes; you lead him into stores and countin' rooms, and he asks for
+money."
+
+"I don't like it much," said Frank, slowly, "but I must do something.
+After all, it'll be he that's begging, not I."
+
+"I'll take you right round where he lives," said Dick. "Maybe he'll go
+out this evenin'. His other boy give him the slip, and he hasn' got a
+new one yet."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+FRANK FINDS AN EMPLOYER.
+
+
+A stone's throw from Centre street stands a tall tenement-house,
+sheltering anywhere from forty to fifty families in squalid
+wretchedness. The rent which each family pays would procure a neat house
+in a country town, with perhaps a little land beside; but the city has a
+mysterious fascination for the poorer classes, and year after year many
+who might make the change herd together in contracted and noisome
+quarters, when they might have their share of light and space in country
+neighborhoods.
+
+It was in front of this tenement-house that Dick halted, and plunged
+into a dark entrance, admonishing Frank to follow. Up creaking and
+dilapidated staircases to the fourth floor the boys went.
+
+"Here we are," said Dick, panting a little from the rapidity of his
+ascent, and began a vigorous tattoo on a door to the left.
+
+"Is this where the blind gentleman lives?" asked Frank, looking around
+him dubiously.
+
+"He isn't much of a gentleman to look at," said Dick, laughing. "Do you
+hear him?"
+
+Frank heard a hoarse growl from the inside, which might have been "Come
+in." At any rate, Dick chose so to interpret it, and opened the door.
+
+The boys found themselves in a scantily furnished room, with a close,
+disagreeable smell pervading the atmosphere. In the corner was a low
+bedstead, on which lay a tall man, with a long, gray beard, and a
+disagreeable, almost repulsive, countenance. He turned his eyes, which,
+contrary to Frank's expectations, were wide open, full upon his
+visitors.
+
+"What do you want?" he asked querulously. "I was asleep, and you have
+waked me up."
+
+"Sorry to disturb you, Mr. Mills," said Dick; "but I come on business."
+
+"What business can you have with me?" demanded the blind man. "Who are
+you?"
+
+"I am Dick Rafferty. I black boots in the Park," replied Dick.
+
+"Well, I haven't got any money to pay for blacking boots."
+
+"I didn't expect you had. I hear your boy has left you."
+
+"Yes, the young rascal! He's given me the slip. I expect he's robbed me
+too; but I can't tell, for I'm blind."
+
+"Do you want a new boy?"
+
+"Yes; but I can't pay much. I'm very poor. I don't think the place will
+suit you."
+
+"Nor I either," said Dick, frankly. "I'd rather make a living outside.
+But I've got a boy with me who has just come to the city, and is out of
+business. I guess he'll engage with you."
+
+"What's his name? Let him speak for himself."
+
+"My name is Frank Kavanagh," said our hero, in a clear, distinct voice.
+
+"How old are you?"
+
+"Fifteen."
+
+"Do you know what your duties will be?"
+
+"Yes; Dick has told me."
+
+"I told him you'd want him to go round on a collecting tour with you
+every day," said Dick.
+
+"That isn't all. You'll have to buy my groceries and all I need."
+
+"I can do that," said Frank, cheerfully, reflecting that this would be
+much more agreeable than accompanying the old man round the streets.
+
+"Are you honest?" queried the blind man, sharply.
+
+Frank answered, with an indignant flush, "I never stole a cent in my
+life."
+
+"I supposed you'd say that," retorted the blind man, with a sneer. "They
+all do; but a good many will steal for all that."
+
+"If you're afraid I will, you needn't hire me," said Frank,
+independently.
+
+"Of course I needn't," said Mills, sharply; "but I am not afraid. If you
+take any of my money I shall be sure to find it out, if I am blind."
+
+"Don't mind him, Frank," said Dick, in a low voice.
+
+"What's that?" asked the blind man, suspiciously. "What are you two
+whispering about?"
+
+"I told Frank not to mind the way you spoke," said Dick.
+
+"Your friend will lend you some, then."
+
+"Not much," answered Dick, laughing. "I'm dead-broke. Haven't you got
+any money, Mr. Mills?"
+
+"I have a little," grumbled the blind man; "but this boy may take it,
+and never come back."
+
+"If you think so," said Frank, proudly, "you'd better engage some other
+boy."
+
+"No use; you're all alike. Wait a minute, and I'll give you some money."
+
+He drew from his pocket a roll of scrip, and handed one to Frank.
+
+"I don't think that will be enough," said Frank. "It's only five cents."
+
+"Are you sure it isn't a quarter?" grumbled Mills.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"What do you say,--you, Dick?"
+
+"It's only five cents, sir."
+
+"Is that twenty-five?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then take it, and mind you don't loiter."
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"And be sure to bring back the change."
+
+"Of course I will," said Frank indignantly, resenting his employer's
+suspicion.
+
+"What do you think of him, Frank?" asked Dick, as they descended the
+stairs.
+
+"I don't like him at all, Dick," said Frank, decidedly. "I wish I could
+get something else to do."
+
+"You can, after a while. As you have no capital you must take what you
+can get now."
+
+"So I suppose; but I didn't come to the city for this."
+
+"If you don't like it you can leave in a few days."
+
+This Frank fully resolved to do at the first favorable opportunity.
+
+Dick showed him where he could buy the articles he was commissioned to
+purchase; and Frank, after obtaining them, went back to the
+tenement-house.
+
+Mills scrupulously demanded the change, and put it back into his pocket.
+Then he made Frank pour out the ale into a glass. This he drank with
+apparent zest, but offered none to Frank.
+
+"Ale isn't good for boys," he said. "You can cut the bread, and eat two
+slices. Don't cut them too thick."
+
+The blind man ate some of the bread himself, and then requested Frank to
+help him on with his coat and vest.
+
+"I haven't taken any money to-day," he said "I must try to collect some,
+or I shall starve. It's a sad thing to be blind," he continued, his
+voice changing to a whine.
+
+"You don't look blind," said Frank, thoughtfully. "Your eyes are open."
+
+"What if they are?" said Mills, testily. "I cannot see. When I go out I
+close them, because the light hurts them."
+
+Led by Frank, the blind man descended the stairs, and emerged into the
+street.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+"PITY THE BLIND."
+
+
+"Where shall I lead you?" asked Frank.
+
+"To Broadway first. Do you know Broadway?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Be careful when we cross the street, or you will have me run over."
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+"If any one asks you about me, say I am your uncle."
+
+"But you are not."
+
+"What difference does that make, you little fool?" said the blind man,
+roughly. "Are you ashamed to own me as your uncle?"
+
+Frank felt obliged, out of politeness, to say "No;" but in his own mind
+he was not quite sure whether he would be willing to acknowledge any
+relationship to the disagreeable old man whom he was leading.
+
+They reached Broadway, and entered a store devoted to gentlemen's
+furnishing goods.
+
+"Charity for a poor blind man!" whined Mills, in the tone of a
+professional beggar.
+
+"Look here, old fellow, you come in here too often," said a young
+salesman. "I gave you five cents yesterday."
+
+"I didn't know it," said Mills. "I am a poor blind man. All places are
+alike to me."
+
+"Then your boy should know better. Nothing for you to-day."
+
+Frank and his companion left the store.
+
+In the next they were more fortunate. A nickel was bestowed upon the
+blind mendicant.
+
+"How much is it?" asked Mills, when they were on the sidewalk.
+
+"Five cents, sir."
+
+"That's better than nothing, but we ought to do better. It takes a good
+many five-cent pieces to make a dollar. When you see a well-dressed lady
+coming along, tell me."
+
+Frank felt almost as much ashamed as if he were himself begging, but he
+must do what was expected of him. Accordingly he very soon notified the
+blind man that a lady was close at hand.
+
+"Lead me up to her, and say, Can you spare something for my poor, blind
+uncle?"
+
+Frank complied in part, but instead of "poor, blind uncle" he said
+"poor, blind man." Mills scowled, as he found himself disobeyed.
+
+"How long has he been blind?" asked the lady, sympathetically.
+
+"For many years," whined Mills.
+
+"Is this your boy?"
+
+"Yes, ma'am; he is my young nephew, from the country."
+
+"You are fortunate in having him to go about with you."
+
+"Yes, ma'am; I don't know what I should do without him."
+
+"Here is something for you, my good man," said the lady, and passed on.
+
+"Thank you, ma'am. May Heaven bless you!"
+
+"How much is it?" he asked quickly, when the lady was out of hearing.
+
+"Two cents," answered Frank, suppressing with difficulty an inclination
+to laugh.
+
+"The mean jade! I should like to wring her neck!" muttered Mills. "I
+thought it was a quarter, at least."
+
+In the next store they did not meet a cordial reception.
+
+"Clear out, you old humbug!" shouted the proprietor, who was in
+ill-humor. "You ought to be put in the penitentiary for begging about
+the streets."
+
+"I pray to God that you may become blind yourself," said Mills,
+passionately.
+
+"Out of my store, or I'll have you arrested, both of you!" said the
+angry tradesman. "Here, you boy, don't you bring that old fraud in this
+store again, if you know what's best for yourself."
+
+There was nothing to do but to comply with this peremptory order.
+
+"He's a beast!" snarled Mills; "I'd like to put his eyes out myself."
+
+"You haven't got a very amiable temper," thought Frank. "I wouldn't
+like to be blind; but even if I were, I would try to be pleasanter."
+
+Two young girls, passing by, noticed the blind man. They were
+soft-hearted, and stopped to inquire how long he had been blind.
+
+"Before you were born, my pretty maid," said Mills, sighing.
+
+"I have an aunt who is blind," said one of the girls; "but she is not
+poor, like you."
+
+"I am very poor," whined Mills; "I have not money enough to pay my rent,
+and I may be turned out into the street."
+
+"How sad!" said the young girl, in a tone of deep sympathy. "I have not
+much money, but I will give you all I have."
+
+"May God bless you, and spare your eyes!" said Mills, as he closed his
+hand upon the money.
+
+"How much is it?" he asked as before, when they had passed on.
+
+"Twenty-five cents," said Frank.
+
+"That is better," said Mills, in a tone of satisfaction.
+
+For some time afterwards all applications were refused; in some cases,
+roughly.
+
+"Why don't you work?" asked one man, bluntly.
+
+"What can I do?" asked Mills.
+
+"That's your lookout. Some blind men work. I suppose you would rather
+get your living by begging."
+
+"I would work my fingers to the bone if I could only see," whined Mills.
+
+"So you say; but I don't believe it. At any rate, that boy of yours can
+see. Why don't you set him to work?"
+
+"He has to take care of me."
+
+"I would work if I could get anything to do," said Frank.
+
+As he spoke, he felt his hand pressed forcibly by his companion, who did
+not relish his answer.
+
+"I cannot spare him," he whined. "He has to do everything for me."
+
+When they were again in the street, Mills demanded, roughly, "What did
+you mean by saying that?"
+
+"What, sir?"
+
+"That you wanted to go to work."
+
+"Because it is true."
+
+"You are at work; you are working for me," said Mills.
+
+"I would rather work in a store, or an office, or sell papers."
+
+"That wouldn't do me any good. Don't speak in that way again."
+
+The two were out about a couple of hours, and very tiresome Frank found
+it. Then Mills indicated a desire to go home, and they went back to the
+room in the old tenement-house. Mills threw himself down on the bed in
+the corner, and heaved a sigh of relief.
+
+"Now, boy, count the money we have collected," he said.
+
+"There's ninety-three cents," Frank announced.
+
+"If I had known it was so near a dollar we would have stayed a little
+longer. Now, get me my pipe."
+
+"Where is it, sir?"
+
+"In the cupboard. Fill it with tobacco, and light it."
+
+"Are you not afraid of setting the bedding on fire, sir?"
+
+"Mind your own business. If I choose to set it on fire, I will," snarled
+Mills.
+
+"Very well, sir; I thought I'd mention it."
+
+"You have mentioned it, and you needn't do it again."
+
+"What a sweet temper you've got!" thought Frank.
+
+He sat down on a broken chair, and, having nothing else to do, watched
+his employer. "He looks very much as if he could see," thought Frank;
+for Mills now had his eyes wide open.
+
+"What are you staring at me for, boy?" demanded his employer, rather
+unexpectedly.
+
+"What makes you think I am staring at you, sir?" was Frank's natural
+question. "I thought you couldn't see."
+
+"No more I can, but I can tell when one is staring at me. It makes me
+creep all over."
+
+"Then I'll look somewhere else."
+
+"Would you like to do some work, as you said?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then take twenty-five cents, and buy some evening papers and sell them;
+but mind you bring the money to me."
+
+"Yes, sir," said Frank, with alacrity.
+
+Anything he thought would be better than sitting in that dull room with
+so disagreeable a companion.
+
+"Mind you don't run off with the money," said the blind man, sharply.
+"If you do I'll have you put in the Tombs."
+
+"I don't mean to run away with the money," retorted Frank, indignantly.
+
+"And when you've sold the papers, come home."
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+With a feeling of relief, Frank descended the stairs and directed his
+steps to the Park, meaning to ask Dick Rafferty's advice about the
+proper way to start in business as a newsboy.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+FRANK THROWS UP HIS SITUATION.
+
+
+Frank found his friend on Park Row, and made known his errand.
+
+"So old Mills wants you to sell papers for his benefit, does he?"
+
+"Yes, but I'd rather do it than to stay with him."
+
+"How much has he agreed to pay you?"
+
+"That isn't settled yet."
+
+"You'd better bring him to the point, or he won't pay you anything
+except board and lodging, and mighty mean both of them will be."
+
+"I won't say anything about it the first day," said Frank. "What papers
+shall I buy?"
+
+"It's rather late. You'd better try for Telegrams."
+
+Frank did so, and succeeded in selling half a dozen, yielding a profit
+of six cents. It was not a brilliant beginning, but he was late in the
+field, and most had purchased their evening papers. His papers sold,
+Frank went home and announced the result.
+
+"Umph!" muttered the blind man. "Give me the money."
+
+"Here it is, sir."
+
+"Have you given me all?" sharply demanded Mills.
+
+"Of course I have," said Frank, indignantly.
+
+"Don't you be impudent, or I will give you a flogging," said the blind
+man, roughly.
+
+"I am not used to be talked to in that way," said Frank, independently.
+
+"You've always had your own way, I suppose," snarled Mills.
+
+"No, I haven't; but I have been treated kindly."
+
+"You are only a boy, and I won't allow you to talk back to me. Do you
+hear?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then take care to remember."
+
+"You've got a sweet disposition," thought Frank. "I won't stay with you
+any longer than I am obliged to."
+
+Several days passed without bringing any incidents worth recording.
+Frank took a daily walk with the blind man, sometimes in the morning,
+sometimes in the afternoon. These walks were very distasteful to him.
+The companion of a beggar, he felt as if he himself were begging. He
+liked better the time he spent in selling papers, though he reaped no
+benefit himself. In fact, his wages were poor enough. Thus far his fare
+had consisted of dry bread with an occasional bun. He was a healthy,
+vigorous boy, and he felt the need of meat, or some other hearty food,
+and ventured to intimate as much to his employer.
+
+"So you want meat, do you?" snarled Mills.
+
+"Yes, sir; I haven't tasted any for a week."
+
+"Perhaps you'd like to take your meals at Delmonico's?" sneered the
+blind man.
+
+Frank was so new to the city that this well-known name did not convey
+any special idea to him, and he answered "Yes."
+
+"That's what I thought!" exclaimed Mills, angrily. "You want to eat me
+out of house and home."
+
+"No, I don't; I only want enough food to keep up my strength."
+
+"Well, you are getting it. I give you all I can afford."
+
+Frank was inclined to doubt this. He estimated that what he ate did not
+cost his employer over six or eight cents a day, and he generally earned
+for him twenty to thirty cents on the sale of papers, besides helping
+him to collect about a dollar daily from those who pitied his blindness.
+
+He mentioned his grievance to his friend, Dick Rafferty.
+
+"I'll tell you what to do," said Dick.
+
+"I wish you would."
+
+"Keep some of the money you make by selling papers, and buy a square
+meal at an eatin' house."
+
+"I don't like to do that; it wouldn't be honest."
+
+"Why wouldn't it?"
+
+"I am carrying on the business for Mr. Mills. He supplies the capital."
+
+"Then you'd better carry it on for yourself."
+
+"I wish I could."
+
+"Why don't you?"
+
+"I haven't any money."
+
+"Has he paid you any wages?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Then make him."
+
+Frank thought this a good suggestion. He had been with Mills a week, and
+it seemed fair enough that he should receive some pay besides a wretched
+bed and a little dry bread. Accordingly, returning to the room, he
+broached the subject.
+
+"What do you want wages for?" demanded Mills, displeased.
+
+"I think I earn them," said Frank, boldly.
+
+"You get board and lodging. You are better off than a good many boys."
+
+"I shall want some clothes, some time," said Frank.
+
+"Perhaps you'd like to have me pay you a dollar a day," said Mills.
+
+"I know you can't afford to pay me that. I will be satisfied if you will
+pay me ten cents a day," replied Frank.
+
+Frank reflected that, though this was a very small sum, in ten days it
+would give him a dollar, and then he would feel justified in setting up
+a business on his own account, as a newsboy. He anxiously awaited an
+answer.
+
+"I will think of it," said the blind man evasively, and Frank did not
+venture to say more.
+
+The next day, when Mills, led by Frank, was on his round, the two
+entered a cigar-store. Frank was much surprised when the cigar-vender
+handed him a fifty-cent currency note. He thought there was some
+mistake.
+
+"Thank you, sir," he said; "but did you mean to give me fifty cents?"
+
+"Yes," said the cigar-vender, laughing; "but I wouldn't have done it, if
+it had been good."
+
+"Isn't it good?"
+
+"No, it's a counterfeit, and a pretty bad one. I might pass it, but it
+would cost me too much time and trouble."
+
+Frank was confounded. He mechanically handed the money to Mills, but did
+not again thank the giver. When they returned to the tenement-house,
+Mills requested Frank to go to the baker's for a loaf of bread.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Here is the money."
+
+"But that is the counterfeit note," said Frank, scrutinizing the bill
+given him.
+
+"What if it is?" demanded Mills, sharply.
+
+"It won't pass."
+
+"Yes, it will, if you are sharp."
+
+"Do you want me to pass counterfeit money, Mr. Mills?"
+
+"Yes, I do; I took it, and I mean to get rid of it."
+
+"But you didn't give anything for it."
+
+"That's neither here nor there. Take it, and offer it to the baker. If
+he won't take it, go to another baker with it."
+
+"I would rather not do it," said Frank, firmly.
+
+"Rather not!" exclaimed Mills, angrily. "Do you pretend to dictate to
+me?"
+
+"No, I don't, but I don't mean to pass any counterfeit money for you or
+any other man," said Frank, with spirit.
+
+Mills half rose, with a threatening gesture, but thought better of it.
+
+"You're a fool," said he. "I suppose you are afraid of being arrested;
+but you have only to say that I gave it to you, and that I am blind, and
+couldn't tell it from good money."
+
+"But you know that it is bad money, Mr. Mills."
+
+"What if I do? No one can prove it. Take the money, and come back as
+quick as you can."
+
+"You must excuse me," said Frank, quietly, but firmly.
+
+"Do you refuse to do as I bid you?" demanded Mills, furiously.
+
+"I refuse to pass counterfeit money."
+
+"Then, by Heaven, I'll flog you!"
+
+Mills rose and advanced directly towards Frank, with his eyes wide open.
+Fortunately our hero was near the door, and, quickly opening it, darted
+from the room, pursued by Mills, his face flaming with wrath. It
+flashed upon Frank that no blind man could have done this. He decided
+that the man was a humbug, and could see a little, at all events. His
+blindness was no doubt assumed to enable him to appeal more effectively
+to the sympathizing public. This revelation disgusted Frank. He could
+not respect a man who lived by fraud. Counterfeit or no counterfeit, he
+decided to withdraw at once and forever from the service of Mr. Mills.
+
+His employer gave up the pursuit before he reached the street. Frank
+found himself on the sidewalk, free and emancipated, no richer than when
+he entered the service of the blind man, except in experience.
+
+"I haven't got a cent," he said to himself, "but I'll get along
+somehow."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+FRANK GETS A JOB.
+
+
+Though Frank was penniless he was not cast down. He was tolerably
+familiar with the lower part of the city, and had greater reliance on
+himself than he had a week ago. If he had only had capital to the extent
+of fifty cents he would have felt quite at ease, for this would have set
+him up as a newsboy.
+
+"I wonder if I could borrow fifty cents of Dick Rafferty," considered
+Frank. "I'll try, at any rate."
+
+He ran across Dick in City-Hall Park. That young gentleman was engaged
+in pitching pennies with a brother professional.
+
+"I say, Dick, I want to speak to you a minute," said Frank.
+
+"All right! Go ahead!"
+
+"I've lost my place."
+
+Dick whistled.
+
+"Got sacked, have you?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; but I might have stayed."
+
+"Why didn't you?"
+
+"Mills wanted me to pass a counterfeit note, and I wouldn't."
+
+"Was it a bad-looking one?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then you're right. You might have got nabbed."
+
+"That wasn't the reason I refused. If I had been sure there'd have been
+no trouble I wouldn't have done it."
+
+"Why not?" asked Dick, who did not understand our hero's scruples.
+
+"Because it's wrong."
+
+Dick shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I guess you belong to the church," he said.
+
+"No, I don't; what makes you think so?"
+
+"Oh, 'cause you're so mighty particular. I wouldn't mind passing it if I
+was sure I wouldn't be cotched."
+
+"I think it's almost as bad as stealing to buy bread, or anything else,
+and give what isn't worth anything for it. You might as well give a
+piece of newspaper."
+
+Though Frank was unquestionably right he did not succeed in making a
+convert of Dick Rafferty. Dick was a pretty good boy, considering the
+sort of training he had had; but passing bad money did not seem to him
+objectionable, unless "a fellow was cotched," as he expressed it.
+
+"Well, what are you going to do now?" asked Dick, after a pause.
+
+"I guess I can get a living by selling papers."
+
+"You can get as good a livin' as old Mills gave you. You'll get a better
+bed at the lodgin'-house than that heap of rags you laid on up there."
+
+"But there's one trouble," continued Frank, "I haven't any money to
+start on. Can you lend me fifty cents?"
+
+"Fifty cents!" repeated Dick. "What do you take me for? If I was
+connected with Vanderbuilt or Astor I might set you up in business, but
+now I can't."
+
+"Twenty-five cents will do," said Frank.
+
+"Look here, Frank," said Dick, plunging his hands into his pocket, and
+drawing therefrom three pennies and a nickel, "do you see them?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Well, it's all the money I've got."
+
+"I am afraid you have been extravagant, Dick," said Frank, in
+disappointment.
+
+"Last night I went to Tony Pastor's, and when I got through I went into
+a saloon and got an ice-cream and a cigar. You couldn't expect a feller
+to be very rich after that. I say, I'll lend you five cents if you want
+it."
+
+"No, thank you, Dick. I'll wait till you are richer."
+
+"I tell you what, Frank, I'll save up my money, and by day after
+to-morrow I guess I can set you up."
+
+"Thank you, Dick. If I don't have the money by that time myself I'll
+accept your offer."
+
+There was no other boy with whom Frank felt sufficiently well acquainted
+to request a loan, and he walked away, feeling rather disappointed. It
+was certainly provoking to think that nothing but the lack of a small
+sum stood between him and remunerative employment. Once started he
+determined not to spend quite all his earnings, but to improve upon his
+friend Dick's practice, and, if possible, get a little ahead.
+
+When guiding the blind man he often walked up Broadway, and mechanically
+he took the same direction, walking slowly along, occasionally stopping
+to look in at a shop-window.
+
+As he was sauntering along he found himself behind two gentlemen,--one
+an old man, who wore gold spectacles; the other, a stout,
+pleasant-looking man, of middle age. Frank would not have noticed them
+particularly but for a sudden start and exclamation from the elder of
+the two gentlemen.
+
+"I declare, Thompson," he said, "I've left my umbrella down-town."
+
+"Where do you think you left it?"
+
+"In Peckham's office; that is, I think I left it there."
+
+"Oh, well, he'll save it for you."
+
+"I don't know about that. Some visitor may carry it away."
+
+"Never mind, Mr. Bowen. You are rich enough to afford a new one."
+
+"It isn't the value of the article, Thompson," said his friend, in some
+emotion. "That umbrella was brought me from Paris by my son John, who
+died. It is as a souvenir of him that I regard and value it. I would not
+lose it for a hundred dollars, nay, five hundred."
+
+"If you value it so much, sir, suppose we turn round and go back for
+it."
+
+Frank had listened to this conversation, and an idea struck him.
+Pressing forward, he said respectfully, "Let me go for it, sir. I will
+get it, and bring it to your house."
+
+The two gentlemen fixed their eyes upon the bright, eager face of the
+petitioner.
+
+"Who are you, my boy?" asked Mr. Thompson.
+
+"I am a poor boy, in want of work," answered our hero promptly.
+
+"What is your name?"
+
+"Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"Where do you live?"
+
+"I am trying to live in the city, sir."
+
+"What have you been doing?"
+
+"Leading a blind man, sir."
+
+"Not a very pleasant employment, I should judge," said Thompson,
+shrugging his shoulders. "Well, have you lost that job?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"So the blind man turned you off, did he?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Your services were unsatisfactory, I suppose?"
+
+"He wanted me to pass counterfeit money for him, and I refused."
+
+"If that is true, it is to your credit."
+
+"It is true, sir," said Frank, quietly.
+
+"Come, Mr. Bowen, what do you say,--shall we accept this boy's services?
+It will save you time and trouble."
+
+"If I were sure he could be trusted," said Bowen, hesitating. "He might
+pawn the umbrella. It is a valuable one."
+
+"I hope, sir, you won't think so badly of me as that," said Frank, with
+feeling. "If I were willing to steal anything, it would not be a gift
+from your dead son."
+
+"I'll trust you, my boy," said the old gentleman quickly. "Your tone
+convinces me that you may be relied upon."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+The old gentleman drew a card from his pocket, containing his name and
+address, and on the reverse side wrote the name of the friend at whose
+office he felt sure the umbrella had been left, with a brief note
+directing that it be handed to the bearer.
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+"Stop a moment, my boy. Have you got money to ride?"
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"Here, take this, and go down at once in the next stage. The sooner you
+get there the better."
+
+Frank followed directions. He stopped the next stage, and got on board.
+As he passed the City-Hall Park, Dick Rafferty espied him. Frank nodded
+to him.
+
+"How did he get money enough to ride in a 'bus?" Dick asked himself in
+much wonderment. "A few minutes ago he wanted to borrow some money of
+me, and now he's spending ten cents for a ride. Maybe he's found a
+pocket-book."
+
+Frank kept on his way, and got out at Wall street. He found Mr.
+Peckham's office, and on presenting the card, much to his delight, the
+umbrella was handed him.
+
+"Mr. Bowen was afraid to trust me with it over night," said Mr. Peckham,
+with a smile.
+
+"He thought some visitor might carry it off," said Frank.
+
+"Not unlikely. Umbrellas are considered common property."
+
+Frank hailed another stage, and started on his way up-town. There was no
+elevated railway then, and this was the readiest conveyance, as Mr.
+Bowen lived on Madison avenue.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+AN INVITATION TO DINNER.
+
+
+"Mr. Bowen must be a rich man," thought Frank, as he paused on the steps
+of a fine brown-stone mansion, corresponding to the number on his card.
+
+He rang the bell, and asked, "Is Mr. Bowen at home?"
+
+"Yes, but he is in his chamber. I don't think he will see you."
+
+"I think he will," said Frank, who thought the servant was taking too
+much upon herself, "as I come by his appointment."
+
+"I suppose you can come into the hall," said the servant, reluctantly.
+"Is your business important?"
+
+"You may tell him that the boy he sent for his umbrella has brought it.
+He was afraid he had lost it."
+
+"He sets great store by that umbrella," said the girl, in a different
+tone. "I'll go and tell him."
+
+Mr. Bowen came downstairs almost immediately. There was a look of
+extreme gratification upon his face.
+
+"Bless my soul, how quick you were!" he exclaimed. "Why, I've only been
+home a few minutes. Did you find the umbrella at Mr. Peckham's office?"
+
+"Yes, sir; it had been found, and taken care of."
+
+"Did Peckham say anything?"
+
+"He said you were probably afraid to trust it with him over night, but
+he smiled when he said it."
+
+"Peckham will have his joke, but he is an excellent man. My boy, I am
+much indebted to you."
+
+"I was very glad to do the errand, sir," said Frank.
+
+"I think you said you were poor," said the old man, thoughtfully.
+
+"Yes, sir. When I met you I hadn't a cent in the world."
+
+"Haven't you any way to make a living?"
+
+"Yes, sir. I could sell papers if I had enough money to set me up in
+business."
+
+"Does it require a large capital?"
+
+"Oh, no, sir," said Frank, smiling, "unless you consider fifty cents a
+large sum."
+
+"Fifty cents!" repeated the old gentleman, in surprise. "You don't mean
+to say that this small sum would set you up in business?"
+
+"Yes, sir; I could buy a small stock of papers, and buy more with what I
+received for them."
+
+"To be sure. I didn't think of that."
+
+Mr. Bowen was not a man of business. He had an ample income, and his
+tastes were literary and artistic. He knew more of books than of men,
+and more of his study than of the world.
+
+"Well, my boy," he said after a pause, "how much do I owe you for doing
+this errand?"
+
+"I leave that to you, sir. Whatever you think right will satisfy me."
+
+"Let me see, you want fifty cents to buy papers, and you will require
+something to pay for your bed."
+
+"Fifty cents in all will be enough, sir."
+
+"I think I had better give you a dollar," said the old gentleman,
+opening his pocket-book.
+
+Frank's eyes sparkled. A dollar would do him a great deal of good; with
+a dollar he would feel quite independent.
+
+"Thank you, sir," he said. "It is more than I earned, but it will be
+very acceptable."
+
+He put on his hat, and was about to leave the house, when Mr. Bowen
+suddenly said, "Oh, I think you'd better stay to dinner. It will be on
+the table directly. My niece is away, and if you don't stay I shall be
+alone."
+
+Frank did not know what to say. He was rather abashed by the invitation,
+but, as the old gentleman was to be alone, it did not seem so
+formidable.
+
+"I am afraid I don't look fit," he said.
+
+"You can go upstairs and wash your face and hands. You'll find a
+clothes-brush there also. I'll ring for Susan to show you the way."
+
+He rang the bell, and the girl who had admitted Frank made her
+appearance.
+
+"Susan," said her master, "you may show this young gentlemen into the
+back chamber on the third floor, and see that he is supplied with towels
+and all he needs. And you may lay an extra plate; he will dine with me."
+
+Susan stared first at Mr. Bowen, and then at Frank, but did not venture
+to make any remark.
+
+"This way, young man," she said, and ascended the front stairs, Frank
+following her closely.
+
+She led the way into a handsomely furnished chamber, ejaculating, "Well,
+I never!"
+
+"I hope you'll find things to your satisfaction, sir," she said, dryly.
+"If we'd known you were coming, we'd have made particular preparations
+for you."
+
+"Oh, I think this will do," said Frank, smiling for he thought it a good
+joke.
+
+"I am glad you think it'll do," continued Susan. "Things mayn't be as
+nice as you're accustomed to at home."
+
+"Not quite," said Frank, good-humoredly; "but I shan't complain."
+
+"That's very kind and considerate of you, I'm sure," said Susan, tossing
+her head. "Well, I never did!"
+
+"Nor I either, Susan," said Frank, laughing. "I am a poor boy, and I am
+not used to this way of living; so if you'll be kind enough to give me
+any hints, so I may behave properly at the table, I'll be very much
+obliged to you."
+
+This frank acknowledgment quite appeased Susan, and she readily complied
+with our hero's request.
+
+"But I must be going downstairs, or dinner will be late," she said,
+hurriedly. "You can come down when you hear the bell ring."
+
+Frank had been well brought up, though not in the city, and he was aware
+that perfect neatness was one of the first characteristics of a
+gentleman. He therefore scrubbed his face and hands till they fairly
+shone, and brushed his clothes with great care. Even then they certainly
+did look rather shabby, and there was a small hole in the elbow of his
+coat; but, on the whole, he looked quite passable when he entered the
+dining-room.
+
+"Take that seat, my boy," said his host.
+
+Frank sat down and tried to look as if he was used to it.
+
+"Take this soup to Mr. Kavanagh," said Mr. Bowen, in a dignified tone.
+
+Frank started and smiled slightly, feeling more and more that it was an
+excellent joke.
+
+"I wonder what Dick Rafferty would say if he could see me now," passed
+through his mind.
+
+He acquitted himself very creditably, however, and certainly displayed
+an excellent appetite, much to the satisfaction of his hospitable host.
+
+After dinner was over, Mr. Bowen detained him and began to talk of his
+dead son, telling anecdotes of his boyhood, to which Frank listened with
+respectful attention, for the father's devotion was touching.
+
+"I think my boy looked a little like you," said the old gentleman. "What
+do you think, Susan?"
+
+"Not a mite, sir," answered Susan, promptly.
+
+"When he was a boy, I mean."
+
+"I didn't know him when he was a boy, Mr. Bowen."
+
+"No, to be sure not."
+
+"But Mr. John was dark-complected, and this boy is light, and Mr. John's
+hair was black, and his is brown."
+
+"I suppose I am mistaken," sighed the old man; "but there was something
+in the boy's face that reminded me of John."
+
+"A little more, and he'll want to adopt him," thought Susan. "That
+wouldn't do nohow, though he does really seem like a decent sort of a
+boy."
+
+At eight o'clock Frank rose, and wished Mr. Bowen good-night.
+
+"Come and see me again, my boy," said the old gentleman, kindly. "You
+have been a good deal of company for me to-night."
+
+"I am glad of it, sir."
+
+"I think you might find something better to do than selling papers."
+
+"I wish I could, sir."
+
+"Come and dine with me again this day week, and I may have something to
+tell you."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+Feeling in his pocket to see that his dollar was safe, Frank set out to
+walk down-town, repairing to the lodging-house, where he met Dick, and
+astonished that young man by the recital of his adventures.
+
+"It takes you to get round, Frank," he said. "I wonder I don't get
+invited to dine on Madison avenue."
+
+"I give it up," said Frank.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+A NEWSBOY'S EXPERIENCES.
+
+
+Frank slept that night at the lodging-house, and found a much better bed
+than he had been provided with by his late employer. He was up bright
+and early the next morning, and purchased a stock of morning papers.
+These he succeeded in selling during the forenoon, netting a profit of
+thirty cents. It was not much, but he was satisfied. At any rate he was
+a good deal better off than when in the employ of Mr. Mills. Of course
+he had to economize strictly, but the excellent arrangements of the
+lodging-house helped him to do this. Twelve cents provided him with
+lodging and breakfast. At noon, in company with his friend Dick, he went
+to a cheap restaurant, then to be found in Ann street, near Park row,
+and for fifteen cents enjoyed a dinner of two courses. The first
+consisted of a plate of beef, with a potato and a wedge of bread,
+costing ten cents, and the second, a piece of apple-pie.
+
+"That's a good square meal," said Dick, in a tone of satisfaction. "I
+oughter get one every day, but sometimes I don't have the money."
+
+"I should think you could raise fifteen cents a day for that purpose,
+Dick."
+
+"Well, so I could; but then you see I save my money sometimes to go to
+the Old Bowery, or Tony Pastor's, in the evenin'."
+
+"I would like to go, too, but I wouldn't give up my dinner. A boy that's
+growing needs enough to eat."
+
+"I guess you're right," said Dick. "We'll go to dinner together every
+day, if you say so."
+
+"All right, Dick; I should like your company."
+
+About two o'clock in the afternoon, as Frank was resting on a bench in
+the City-Hall Park, a girl of ten approached him. Frank recognized her
+as an inmate of the tenement-house where Mills, his late employer,
+lived.
+
+"Do you want to see me?" asked Frank, observing that she was looking
+towards him.
+
+"You're the boy that went round with the blind man, aint you?" she
+asked.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"He wants you to come back."
+
+Frank was rather surprised, but concluded that Mills had difficulty in
+obtaining a boy to succeed him. This was not very remarkable,
+considering the niggardly pay attached to the office.
+
+"Did he send you to find me?" asked our hero.
+
+"Yes; he says you needn't pass that money if you'll come back."
+
+"Tell him that I don't want to come back," said Frank, promptly. "I can
+do better working for myself."
+
+"He wants to know what you are doing," continued the girl.
+
+"Does he? You can tell him that I am a newsboy."
+
+"He says if you don't come back he'll have you arrested for stealing
+money from him. You mustn't be mad with me. That's what he told me to
+say."
+
+"I don't blame you," said Frank, hotly; "but you can tell him that he is
+a liar."
+
+"Oh, I wouldn't dare to tell him that; he would beat me."
+
+"How can he do that, when he can't see where you are?"
+
+"I don't know how it is, but he can go right up to where you are just as
+well as if he could see."
+
+"So he can. He's a humbug and a fraud. His eyes may not be very good,
+but he can see for all that. He pretends to be blind so as to make
+money."
+
+"That's what mother and I think," said the girl. "So you won't come
+back?"
+
+"Not much. He can hire some other boy, and starve him. He won't get me."
+
+"Aint you afraid he'll have you arrested for stealing?" asked the girl.
+
+"If he tries that I'll expose him for wanting me to pass a counterfeit
+note. I never took a cent from him."
+
+"He'll be awful mad," said the little girl.
+
+"Let him. If he had treated me decently I would have stayed with him.
+Now I'm glad I left him."
+
+Mills was indeed furious when, by degrees, he had drawn from his young
+messenger what Frank had said. He was sorry to lose him, for he was the
+most truthful and satisfactory guide he had ever employed, and he now
+regretted that he had driven him away by his unreasonable exactions. He
+considered whether it would be worth while to have Frank arrested on a
+false charge of theft, but was restrained by the fear that he would
+himself be implicated in passing counterfeit money, that is, in
+intention. He succeeded in engaging another boy, who really stole from
+him, and finally secured a girl, for whose services, however, he was
+obliged to pay her mother twenty cents every time she went out with him.
+Mean and miserly as he was, he agreed to this with reluctance, and only
+as a measure of necessity.
+
+As he became more accustomed to his new occupation Frank succeeded
+better. He was a boy of considerable energy, and was on the alert for
+customers. It was not long before his earnings exceeded those of Dick
+Rafferty, who was inclined to take things easily.
+
+One evening Dick was lamenting that he could not go to the Old Bowery.
+
+"There's a bully play, Frank," he said. "There's a lot of fightin' in
+it."
+
+"What is it called, Dick?"
+
+"'The Scalpers of the Plains.' There's five men murdered in the first
+act. Oh, it's elegant!"
+
+"Why don't you go, then, Dick?"
+
+"Cause I'm dead-broke--busted. That's why. I aint had much luck this
+week, and it took all my money to pay for my lodgin's and grub."
+
+"Do you want very much to go to the theatre, Dick?"
+
+"Of course I do; but it aint no use. My credit aint good, and I haint no
+money in the bank."
+
+"How much does it cost?"
+
+"Fifteen cents, in the top gallery."
+
+"Can you see there?"
+
+"Yes, it's rather high up; but a feller with good eyes can see all he
+wants to there."
+
+"I'll tell you what I'll do, Dick. You have been a good friend to me,
+and I'll take you at my expense."
+
+"You will? To-night?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"You're a reg'lar trump. We'll have a stavin' time. Sometime, when I'm
+flush, I'll return the compliment."
+
+So the two boys went. They were at the doors early, and secured a front
+seat in the gallery. The performance was well adapted to please the
+taste of a boy, and they enjoyed it exceedingly. Dick was uproarious in
+his applause whenever a man was killed.
+
+"Seems to me you like to see men killed, Dick," said his friend.
+
+"Yes, it's kinder excitin'."
+
+"I don't like that part so well as some others," said Frank.
+
+"It's' a stavin' play, aint it?" asked Dick, greatly delighted.
+
+Frank assented.
+
+"I'll tell you what, Frank," said Dick; "I'd like to be a hunter and
+roam round the plains, killin' bears and Injuns."
+
+"Suppose they should kill you? That wouldn't suit you so well, would
+it?"
+
+"No, I guess not. But I'd like to be a hunter, wouldn't you?"
+
+"No, I would rather live in New York. I would like to make a journey to
+the West if I had money enough; but I would leave the hunting to other
+men."
+
+Dick, however, did not agree with his more sensible companion. Many boys
+like him are charmed with the idea of a wild life in the forest, and
+some have been foolish enough to leave good homes, and, providing
+themselves with what they considered necessary, have set out on a
+journey in quest of the romantic adventures which in stories had fired
+their imaginations. If their wishes could be realized it would not be
+long before the romance would fade out, and they would long for the good
+homes, which they had never before fully appreciated.
+
+When the week was over, Frank found that he had lived within his means,
+as he had resolved to do; but he had not done much more. He began with
+a dollar which he had received from Mr. Bowen, and now he had a dollar
+and a quarter. There was a gain of twenty-five cents. There would have
+been a little more if he had not gone to the theatre with Dick; but this
+he did not regret. He felt that he needed some amusement, and he wished
+to show his gratitude to his friend for various kind services. The time
+had come to accept Mr. Bowen's second dinner invitation. As Frank looked
+at his shabby clothes he wished there were a good pretext for declining,
+but he reflected that this would not be polite, and that the old
+gentleman would make allowances for his wardrobe. He brushed up his
+clothes as well as he could, and obtained a "_boss shine_" from Dick.
+Then he started for the house on Madison avenue.
+
+"I'll lend you my clo'es if you want 'em," said Dick.
+
+"There are too many spots of blacking on them, Dick. As I'm a newsboy,
+it wouldn't look appropriate. I shall have to make mine answer."
+
+"I'll shine up the blackin' spots if you want me to."
+
+"Never mind, Dick. I'll wait till next time for your suit."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+VICTOR DUPONT.
+
+
+As Frank was walking on Madison avenue, a little before reaching the
+house of Mr. Bowen he met a boy of his own age, whom he recognized.
+Victor Dupont had spent the previous summer at the hotel in the country
+village where Frank had lived until he came to the city. Victor was
+proud of his social position, but time hung so heavily upon his hands in
+the country that he was glad to keep company with the village boys.
+Frank and he had frequently gone fishing together, and had been
+associated in other amusements, so that they were for the time quite
+intimate. The memories of home and past pleasures thronged upon our hero
+as he met Victor, and his face flushed with pleasure.
+
+"Why, Victor," he said, eagerly, extending his hand, "how glad I am to
+see you!"
+
+Frank forgot that intimacy in the country does not necessarily lead to
+intimacy in the city, and he was considerably surprised when Victor, not
+appearing to notice his offered hand, said coldly, "I don't think I
+remember you."
+
+"Don't remember me!" exclaimed Frank, amazed. "Why, I am Frank Kavanagh!
+Don't you remember how much we were together last summer, and what good
+times we had fishing and swimming together?"
+
+"Yes, I believe I do remember you now," drawled Victor, still not
+offering his hand, or expressing any pleasure at the meeting. "When did
+you come to the city?"
+
+"I have been here two or three weeks," replied Frank.
+
+"Oh, indeed! Are you going to remain?"
+
+"Yes, if I can earn a living."
+
+Victor scanned Frank's clothes with a critical, and evidently rather
+contemptuous, glance.
+
+"What are you doing?" he asked. "Are you in a store?"
+
+"No; I am selling papers."
+
+"A newsboy!" said Victor, with a curve of the lip.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, his pleasure quite chilled by Victor's manner.
+
+"Are you doing well?" asked Victor, more from curiosity than interest.
+
+"I am making my expenses."
+
+"How do you happen to be in this neighborhood? I suppose you sell papers
+down-town."
+
+"Yes, but I am invited to dinner."
+
+"Not here--on the avenue!" ejaculated Victor.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, enjoying the other's surprise.
+
+"Where?"
+
+Frank mentioned the number.
+
+"Why, that is next to my house. Mr. Bowen lives there."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Perhaps you know some of the servants," suggested Victor.
+
+"I know one," said Frank, smiling, for he read Victor's thoughts; "but
+my invitation comes from Mr. Bowen."
+
+"Did you ever dine there before?" asked Victor, puzzled.
+
+"Yes, last week."
+
+"You must excuse my mentioning it, but I should hardly think you would
+like to sit down at a gentleman's table in that shabby suit."
+
+"I don't," answered Frank; "but I have no better."
+
+"Then you ought to decline the invitation."
+
+"I would, but for appearing impolite."
+
+"It seems very strange that Mr. Bowen should invite a newsboy to
+dinner."
+
+"Perhaps if you'd mention what you think of it," said Frank, somewhat
+nettled, "he would recall the invitation."
+
+"Oh, it's nothing to me," said Victor; "but I thought I'd mention it, as
+I know more of etiquette than you do."
+
+"You are very considerate," said Frank, with a slight tinge of sarcasm
+in his tone.
+
+By this time he had reached the house of Mr. Bowen, and the two boys
+parted.
+
+Frank could not help thinking a little about what Victor had said. His
+suit, as he looked down at it, seemed shabbier than ever. Again it
+occurred to him that perhaps Mr. Bowen had forgotten the invitation, and
+this would make it very awkward for him. As he waited for the door to
+open he decided that, if it should appear that he was not expected, he
+would give some excuse, and go away.
+
+Susan opened the door.
+
+"Mr. Bowen invited me to come here to dinner to-night," began Frank,
+rather nervously.
+
+"Yes, you are expected," said Susan, very much to his relief. "Wipe your
+feet, and come right in."
+
+Frank obeyed.
+
+"You are to go upstairs and get ready for dinner," said Susan, and she
+led the way to the same chamber into which our hero had been ushered the
+week before.
+
+"There won't be much getting ready," thought Frank. "However, I can stay
+there till I hear the bell ring."
+
+As he entered the room he saw a suit of clothes and some underclothing
+lying on the bed.
+
+"They are for you," said Susan, laconically.
+
+"For me!" exclaimed Frank, in surprise.
+
+"Yes, put them on, and when you come down to dinner Mr. Bowen will see
+how they fit."
+
+"Is it a present from him?" asked Frank, overwhelmed with surprise and
+gratitude, for he could see that the clothes were very handsome.
+
+"Well, they aint from me," said Susan, "so it's likely they come from
+him. Don't be too long, for Mr. Bowen doesn't like to have any one late
+to dinner."
+
+Susan had been in the service of her present mistress fifteen years, and
+was a privileged character. She liked to have her own way; but had
+sterling qualities, being neat, faithful, and industrious.
+
+"I wonder whether I am awake or dreaming," thought Frank, when he was
+left alone. "I shouldn't like to wake up and find it was all a dream."
+
+He began at once to change his shabby clothes for the new ones. He
+found that the articles provided were a complete outfit, including
+shirt, collar, cuffs, stockings; in fact, everything that was needful.
+The coat, pants, and vest were a neat gray, and proved to be an
+excellent fit. In the bosom of the shirt were neat studs, and the cuffs
+were supplied with sleeve-buttons to correspond. When Frank stood before
+the glass, completely attired, he hardly knew himself. He was as well
+dressed as his aristocratic acquaintance, Victor Dupont, and looked more
+like a city boy than a boy bred in the country.
+
+"I never looked so well in my life," thought our young hero,
+complacently. "How kind Mr. Bowen is!"
+
+Frank did not know it; but he was indebted for this gift to Susan's
+suggestion. When her master told her in the morning that Frank was
+coming to dinner, she said, "It's a pity the boy hadn't some better
+clothes."
+
+"I didn't notice his clothes," said Mr. Bowen. "Are they shabby?"
+
+"Yes; and they are almost worn out. They don't look fit for one who is
+going to sit at your table."
+
+"Bless my soul! I never thought of that. You think he needs some new
+clothes."
+
+"He needs them badly."
+
+"I will call at Baldwin's, and order some ready-made; but I don't know
+his size."
+
+"He's about two inches shorter than you, Mr. Bowen. Tell 'em that, and
+they will know. He ought to have shirts and stockings, too."
+
+"So he shall," said the old man, quite interested. "He shall have a full
+rig-out from top to toe. Where shall I go for the shirts and things?"
+
+Susan had a nephew about Frank's age, and she was prepared to give the
+necessary information. The old gentleman, who had no business to attend
+to, was delighted to have something to fill up his time. He went out
+directly after breakfast, or as soon as he had read the morning paper,
+and made choice of the articles already described, giving strict
+injunctions that they should be sent home immediately.
+
+This was the way Frank got his new outfit.
+
+When our hero came downstairs Mr. Bowen was waiting eagerly to see the
+transformation. The result delighted him.
+
+"Why, I shouldn't have known you!" he exclaimed, lifting both hands. "I
+had no idea new clothes would change you so much."
+
+"I don't know how to thank you, sir," said Frank, gratefully.
+
+"I never should have thought of it if it hadn't been for Susan."
+
+"Then I thank you, Susan," said Frank, offering his hand to the girl, as
+she entered the room.
+
+Susan was pleased. She liked to be appreciated; and she noted with
+satisfaction the great improvement in Frank's appearance.
+
+"You are quite welcome," she said; "but it was master's money that paid
+for the clothes."
+
+"It was your kindness that made him think of it," said Frank.
+
+From that moment Susan became Frank's fast friend. We generally like
+those whom we have benefited, if our services are suitably
+acknowledged.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+A NEW PROSPECT.
+
+
+"Well, Frank, and how is your business?" asked the old gentleman, when
+they were sitting at the dinner-table.
+
+"Pretty good, sir."
+
+"Are you making your expenses?"
+
+"Yes, sir; just about."
+
+"That is well. Mind you never run into debt. That is a bad plan."
+
+"I shan't have to now, sir. If I had had to buy clothes for myself, I
+might have had to."
+
+"Do you find the shirts and stockings fit you?"
+
+"Yes, sir; they are just right."
+
+"I bought half a dozen of each. Susan will give you the bundle when you
+are ready to go. If they had not been right, they could have been
+exchanged."
+
+"Thank you, sir. I shall feel rich with so many clothes."
+
+"Where do you sleep, Frank?"
+
+"At the Newsboy's Lodging-House."
+
+"Is there any place there where you can keep your clothes?"
+
+"Yes, sir. Each boy has a locker to himself."
+
+"That is a good plan. It would be better if you had a room to yourself."
+
+"I can't afford it yet, sir. The lodging-house costs me only forty-two
+cents a week for a bed, and I could not get a room for that."
+
+"Bless my soul! That is very cheap. Really, I think I could save money
+by giving up my house, and going there to sleep."
+
+"I don't think you would like it, sir," said Frank, smiling.
+
+"Probably not. Now, Frank, I am going to mention a plan I have for you.
+You don't want to be a newsboy all your life."
+
+"No, sir; I think I should get tired of it by the time I was fifty."
+
+"My friend Thompson, the gentleman who was walking with me when we
+first saw you, is an officer of the American District Telegraph Company.
+They employ a large number of boys at their various offices to run
+errands; and, in fact, to do anything that is required of them. Probably
+you have seen some of the boys going about the city."
+
+"Yes, sir; they have a blue uniform."
+
+"Precisely. How would you like to get a situation of that kind?"
+
+"Very much, sir," said Frank, promptly.
+
+"Would you like it better than being a newsboy?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"My friend Thompson, to whom I spoke on the subject, says he will take
+you on in a few weeks, provided you will qualify yourself for the post."
+
+"I will do that, sir, if you will tell me how."
+
+"You must be well acquainted with the city in all its parts, know the
+locations of different hotels, prominent buildings, have a fair
+education, and be willing to make yourself generally useful. You will
+have to satisfy the superintendent that you are fitted for the
+position."
+
+"I think my education will be sufficient," said Frank, "for I always
+went to school till just before I came to the city. I know something
+about the lower part of the city, but I will go about every day during
+the hours when I am not selling papers till I am familiar with all parts
+of it."
+
+"Do so, and when there is a vacancy I will let you know."
+
+"How much pay shall I get, sir, if they accept me?"
+
+"About three dollars a week at first, and more when you get familiar
+with your duties. No doubt money will also be given you by some who
+employ you, though you will not be allowed to ask for any fees. Very
+likely you will get nearly as much in this way as from your salary."
+
+Frank's face expressed satisfaction.
+
+"That will be bully," he said.
+
+"I beg pardon," said the old gentleman, politely. "What did you
+remark?"
+
+"That will be excellent," said Frank, blushing.
+
+"I thought you spoke of a bully."
+
+"It was a word I learned from Dick Rafferty," said Frank, feeling rather
+embarrassed.
+
+"And who is Dick Rafferty?"
+
+"One of my friends at the Lodging-House."
+
+"Unless his education is better than yours I would not advise you to
+learn any of his words."
+
+"I beg your pardon, sir."
+
+"You must excuse my offering you advice. It is the privilege of the old
+to advise the young."
+
+"I shall always be glad to follow your advice, Mr. Bowen," said Frank.
+
+"Good boy, good boy," said the old gentleman, approvingly. "I wish all
+boys were like you. Some think they know more than their grandfathers.
+There's one of that kind who lives next door."
+
+"His name is Victor Dupont, isn't it, sir?"
+
+Mr. Bowen looked surprised. "How is it that you know his name?" he
+asked.
+
+"We were together a good deal last summer. His family boarded at the
+hotel in the country village where I used to live. He and I went
+bathing and fishing together."
+
+"Indeed! Have you seen him since you came to the city?"
+
+"I met him as I was on my way here this afternoon."
+
+"Did he speak to you?"
+
+"Yes, sir; though at first he pretended he didn't remember me."
+
+"Just like him. He is a very proud and conceited boy. Did you tell him
+you were coming to dine with me?"
+
+"Yes, sir. He seemed very much surprised, as I had just told him I was a
+newsboy. He said he was surprised that you should invite a newsboy to
+dine with you."
+
+"I would much rather have you dine with me than him. What more did he
+say?"
+
+"He said he shouldn't think I would like to go out to dinner with such a
+shabby suit."
+
+"We have removed that objection," said Mr. Bowen, smiling.
+
+"Yes, sir," said Frank; "I think Victor will treat me more respectfully
+now when he meets me."
+
+"The respect of such a boy is of very little importance. He judges only
+by the outside."
+
+At an early hour Frank took his leave, promising to call again before
+long.
+
+"Where can I send to you if you are wanted for a telegraph boy?" asked
+Mr. Bowen.
+
+"A letter to me addressed to the care of Mr. O'Connor at the
+lodging-house will reach me," said Frank.
+
+"Write it down for me," said the old gentleman. "You will find writing
+materials on yonder desk."
+
+When Frank made his appearance at the lodging-house in his new suit,
+with two bundles, one containing his old clothes, and the other his
+extra supply of underclothing, his arrival made quite a sensation.
+
+"Have you come into a fortun'?" asked one boy.
+
+"Did you draw a prize in the Havana lottery?" asked another.
+
+"Have you been playing policy?" asked a third.
+
+"You're all wrong," said Dick Rafferty. "Frank's been adopted by a rich
+man upon Madison avenue. Aint that so, Frank?"
+
+"Something like it," said Frank. "There's a gentleman up there who has
+been very kind to me."
+
+"If he wants to adopt another chap, spake a good word for me," said
+Patsy Reagan.
+
+"Whisht, Patsy, he don't want no Irish bog-trotter," said Phil Donovan.
+
+"You're Irish yourself, Phil, now, and you can't deny it."
+
+"What if I am? I aint no bog-trotter--I'm the son of an Irish count. You
+can see by my looks that I belong to the gintry."
+
+"Then the gintry must have red hair and freckles, Phil. There aint no
+chance for you."
+
+"Tell us all about it, Frank," said Dick. "Shure I'm your best friend,
+and you might mention my name to the ould gintleman if he's got any more
+good clothes to give away."
+
+"I will with pleasure, Dick, if I think it will do any good."
+
+"You won't put on no airs because you're better dressed than the likes
+of us?"
+
+"I shall wear my old clothes to-morrow, Dick. I can't afford to wear my
+best clothes every day."
+
+"I can," said Dick, dryly, which was quite true, as his best clothes
+were the only ones he had.
+
+Bright and early the next morning Frank was about his work, without
+betraying in any way the proud consciousness of being the owner of two
+suits. He followed Mr. Bowen's advice, and spent his leisure hours in
+exploring the city in its various parts, so that in the course of a
+month he knew more about it than boys who had lived in it all their
+lives. He told Dick his object in taking these long walks, and urged him
+to join him in the hope of winning a similar position; but Dick decided
+that it was too hard work. He preferred to spend his leisure time in
+playing marbles or pitching pennies.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+
+Six weeks later Frank Kavanagh, through the influence of his patron,
+found himself in the uniform of a District Telegraph Messenger. The blue
+suit, and badge upon the cap, are familiar to every city resident. The
+uniform is provided by the company, but must be paid for by weekly
+instalments, which are deducted from the wages of the wearers. This
+would have seriously embarrassed Frank but for an opportune gift of ten
+dollars from Mr. Bowen, which nearly paid the expense of his suit.
+
+[Illustration: FRANK, THE TELEGRAPH BOY.]
+
+Frank was employed in one of the up-town offices of the company. For the
+information of such of my young readers as live in the country it may be
+explained that large numbers of houses and offices in the city are
+connected with the offices of the District Telegraph by machines,
+through which, at any time in the day or night, a messenger may be
+summoned for any purpose. It is only necessary to raise a knob in the
+box provided, and a bell is rung in the office of the company. Of course
+there is more or less transient business besides that of the regular
+subscribers.
+
+Boys, on arriving at the office, seat themselves, and are called upon in
+order. A boy just returned from an errand hangs up his hat, and takes
+his place at the foot of the line. He will not be called upon again till
+all who are ahead of him have been despatched in one direction or
+another.
+
+Frank was curious to know what would be his first duty, and waited
+eagerly for his turn to come.
+
+At length it came.
+
+"Go to No. -- Madison avenue," said the superintendent.
+
+A few minutes later Frank was ascending the steps of a handsome
+brown-stone residence.
+
+"Oh, you're the telegraph boy," said a colored servant. "You're to go
+upstairs into missus's sitting-room."
+
+Upon entering, Frank found himself in the presence of a rather stout
+lady, who was reclining on a sofa.
+
+He bowed politely, and waited for his instructions.
+
+"I hope you are a trustworthy boy," said the stout lady.
+
+"I hope so, ma'am."
+
+"Come here, Fido," said the lady.
+
+A little mass of hair, with two red eyes peeping out, rose from the
+carpet and waddled towards the lady, for Fido was about as stout as his
+mistress.
+
+"Do you like dogs?" asked Mrs. Leroy, for this was the lady's name.
+
+"Yes, ma'am," answered Frank, wondering what that had to do with his
+errand.
+
+"I sent for you to take my sweet darling out for an airing. His health
+requires that he should go out every day. I generally take him myself,
+but this morning I have a severe headache, and do not feel equal to the
+task. My dear little pet, will you go out with this nice boy?"
+
+Fido looked gravely at Frank and sneezed.
+
+"I hope the darling hasn't got cold," said Mrs. Leroy, with solicitude.
+"My lad, what is your name?"
+
+"Frank Kavanagh, ma'am."
+
+"Will you take great care of my little pet, Frank?"
+
+"I will try to, madam. Where do you want him to go?"
+
+"To Madison Park. He always likes the park, because it is so gay. When
+you get there you may sit down on one of the benches and give him time
+to rest."
+
+"Yes, ma'am. How long would you like me to stay out with him?"
+
+"About an hour and a half. Have you a watch?"
+
+"No; but I can tell the time by the clock in front of the Fifth-avenue
+Hotel."
+
+"To be sure. I was going to lend you my watch."
+
+"Shall I start now?"
+
+"Yes. Here is the string. Don't make Fido go too fast. He is stout, and
+cannot walk fast. You will be sure to take great care of him?"
+
+"Yes, madam."
+
+"And you keep watch that no bad man carries off my Fido. I used to send
+him out by one of the girls, till I found that she ill-treated the poor
+thing. Of course I couldn't stand that, so I sent her packing, I can
+tell you."
+
+"I will try to follow your directions," said Frank, who wanted to laugh
+at the lady's ridiculous devotion to her ugly little favorite.
+
+"That is right. You look like a good boy. I will give you something for
+yourself when you come back."
+
+"Thank you, ma'am," said Frank, who was better pleased with this remark
+than any the lady had previously made.
+
+Mrs. Leroy kissed Fido tenderly, and consigned him to the care of our
+hero.
+
+"I suppose," said Frank to himself, "that I am the dog's nurse. It is
+rather a queer office; but as long as I am well paid for it I don't
+mind."
+
+When Fido found himself on the sidewalk he seemed disinclined to move;
+but after a while, by dint of coaxing, he condescended to waddle along
+at Frank's heels.
+
+After a while they reached Madison Park, and Frank, according to his
+instructions, took a seat, allowing Fido to curl up at his side.
+
+"This isn't very hard work," thought Frank. "I wish I had a book or
+paper to read, to while away the time."
+
+While he was sitting there Victor Dupont came sauntering along.
+
+"Halloa!" he exclaimed, in surprise, as he recognized Frank, "is that
+you?"
+
+"I believe it is," answered Frank, with a smile.
+
+"Are you a telegraph boy?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I thought you were a newsboy?"
+
+"So I was; but I have changed my business."
+
+"What are you doing here?"
+
+"Taking care of a dog," said Frank, laughing.
+
+"Is that the dog?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"It's a beastly little brute. What's its name?"
+
+"Fido."
+
+"Who does it belong to?"
+
+Frank answered.
+
+"I know," said Victor; "it's a fat lady living on the avenue. I have
+seen her out often with little pug. How do you feel, Fido?" and Victor
+began to pull the hair of the lady's favorite.
+
+"Don't do that, Victor," remonstrated Frank.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Mrs. Leroy wouldn't like it."
+
+"Mrs. Leroy isn't here."
+
+"I am," said Frank, emphatically, "and that is the same thing."
+
+Victor, by way of reply, pinched Fido's ear, and the little animal
+squeaked his disapproval.
+
+"Look here, Victor," said Frank, decidedly, "you must stop that."
+
+"Must I?" sneered Victor, contemptuously. "'Suppose I don't?"
+
+"Then I shall punch you," said Frank, quietly.
+
+"You are impertinent," said Victor, haughtily. "You needn't put on such
+airs because you are nurse to a puppy."
+
+"That is better than being a puppy myself," retorted Frank.
+
+"Do you mean to insult me?" demanded Victor, quickly.
+
+"No, unless you choose to think the remark fits you."
+
+"I have a great mind to give you a thrashing," said Victor, furiously.
+
+"Of course I should sit still and let you do it," said Frank, calmly.
+"Fido is under my care, and I can't have him teased. That is right,
+isn't it?"
+
+"I did wrong to notice you," said Victor. "You are only a dog's nurse."
+
+Frank laughed.
+
+"You are right," he said. "It is new business for me, and though it is
+easy enough I can't say I like it. However, I am in the service of the
+Telegraph Company, and must do whatever is required."
+
+Victor walked away, rather annoyed because he could not tease Frank.
+
+"The boy has no pride," he said to himself, "or he wouldn't live out to
+take care of dogs. But, then, it is suitable enough for him."
+
+"Is that dawg yours?" asked a rough-looking man, taking his seat on the
+bench near Frank.
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"How old is it?"
+
+"I don't know."
+
+"Looks like a dawg I used to own. Let me take him."
+
+"I would rather not," said Frank, coldly. "It belongs to a lady who is
+very particular."
+
+"Oh, you won't, won't you?" said the man, roughly. "Danged if I don't
+think it is my dawg, after all;" and the man seized Fido, and was about
+to carry him away.
+
+But Frank seized him by the arm, and called for help.
+
+"What's the matter?" asked a park policeman who, unobserved by either,
+had come up behind.
+
+"This man is trying to steal my dog," said Frank.
+
+"The dog is mine," said the thief, boldly.
+
+"Drop him!" said the officer, authoritatively. "I have seen that dog
+before. He belongs to neither of you."
+
+"That is true," said Frank. "It belongs to Mrs. Leroy, of Madison
+avenue, and I am employed to take it out for an airing."
+
+"It's a lie!" said the man, sullenly.
+
+"If you are seen again in this neighborhood," said the policeman, "I
+shall arrest you. Now clear out!"
+
+The would-be thief slunk away, and Frank thanked the officer.
+
+"That man is a dog-stealer," said the policeman. "His business is to
+steal dogs, and wait till a reward is offered. Look out for him!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+A WAYWARD SON.
+
+
+When Frank carried Fido back to his mistress, he thought it his duty to
+tell Mrs. Leroy of the attempt to abduct the favorite.
+
+Mrs. Leroy turned pale.
+
+"Did the man actually take my little pet?" she asked.
+
+"Yes, ma'am. He said it was his dog."
+
+"The horrid brute! How could I have lived without my darling?" and the
+lady caressed her favorite tenderly. "How did you prevent him?"
+
+"I seized him by the arm, and held him till a policeman came up."
+
+"You are a brave boy," said Mrs. Leroy, admiringly. "But for you, Fido
+would have been stolen."
+
+"The policeman said the man was a professional dog-stealer. He steals
+dogs for the reward which is offered."
+
+"I was sure I could trust you with my pet," said Mrs. Leroy. "You
+deserve a reward yourself."
+
+"I was only doing my duty, ma'am," said Frank, modestly.
+
+"It isn't everybody that does that."
+
+Mrs. Leroy rose, and, going to her bureau, drew an ivory portemonnaie
+from a small upper drawer; from this she extracted a two-dollar bill,
+and gave it to Frank.
+
+"This is too much," said Frank, surprised at the size of the gift.
+
+"Too much for rescuing my little pet? No, no, I am the best judge of
+that. I wouldn't have lost him for fifty times two dollars."
+
+"You are very liberal, and I am very much obliged to you," said Frank.
+
+"If I send again for a boy to take out Fido, I want you to come."
+
+"I will if I can, ma'am."
+
+For several days, though Frank was employed on errands daily, there was
+nothing of an unusual character. About eleven o'clock one evening (for
+Frank had to take his turn at night work) he was sent to a house on
+West Thirty-eighth street. On arriving, he was ushered into the presence
+of a lady of middle age, whose anxious face betrayed the anxiety that
+she felt.
+
+"I have a son rather larger and older than you," she said, "who, to my
+great sorrow, has been led away by evil companions, who have induced him
+to drink and play cards for money. I will not admit them into my house,
+but I cannot keep him from seeking them out. He is no doubt with them
+to-night."
+
+Frank listened with respectful sympathy, and waited to hear what he was
+desired to do in the matter.
+
+"The boy's father is dead," continued Mrs. Vivian, with emotion, "and I
+cannot fill his place. Fred is unwilling to obey his mother. His
+companions have persuaded him that it is unmanly."
+
+"I would gladly obey my mother if I could have her back," said Frank.
+
+"Is your mother dead, then?" inquired Mrs. Vivian, with quick sympathy.
+
+"I have neither father nor mother," Frank answered gravely.
+
+"Poor boy! And yet you do not fall into temptation."
+
+"I have no time for that, ma'am; I have to earn my living."
+
+"If I could get Fred to take a position it might be a benefit to him,"
+said Mrs. Vivian, thoughtfully. "But the question now is, how I may be
+able to find him."
+
+"When did you see him last?" asked Frank.
+
+"About three o'clock this afternoon I gave him seventy-five dollars, and
+sent him to pay a bill. I was perhaps imprudent to trust him with such a
+sum of money; but for a few days past he has been more steady than
+usual, and I thought it would show my confidence in him if I employed
+him in such a matter."
+
+"I should think it would, ma'am."
+
+"But I am afraid Fred fell in with some of his evil companions, and let
+them know that he was well provided with money. That would be enough to
+excite their cupidity."
+
+"Who are the companions you speak of?" asked Frank.
+
+"Boys, or rather young men, for they are all older than Fred, of lower
+social rank than himself. I don't attach any special importance to that,
+nor do I object to them on that ground; but they are, I have reason to
+think, ill-bred and disreputable. They know Fred to be richer than
+themselves, and induce him to drink and play, in the hope of getting
+some of his money. I have sent for you to go in search of my son. If you
+find him you must do your best to bring him home."
+
+"I will," said Frank. "Can you give me any idea where he may be found?"
+
+Mrs. Vivian wrote on a card two places,--one a billiard saloon, which
+she had reason to suspect that her son frequented.
+
+"Now," said Frank, "will you be kind enough to describe your son to me,
+so that I may know him when I see him?"
+
+"I will show you his photograph," said Mrs. Vivian.
+
+She opened an album, and showed the picture of a boy of seventeen, with
+a pleasant face, fair complexion, and hair somewhat curly. His forehead
+was high, and he looked gentlemanly and refined.
+
+"Is he not good-looking?" said the mother.
+
+"He looks like a gentleman," said Frank.
+
+"He would be one if he could throw off his evil associates. Do you think
+you will know him from the picture?"
+
+"Yes, I think so. Is he tall?"
+
+"Two or three inches taller than you are. You had better take the
+picture with you. I have an extra one, which you can put in your pocket
+to help you identify him. By the way, it will be as well that you should
+be supplied with money in case it is necessary to bring him home in a
+cab."
+
+Frank understood what the mother found it difficult to explain. She
+feared that her boy might be the worse for drink.
+
+She handed our hero a five-dollar bill.
+
+"I will use it prudently, madam," said he, "and account to you for all I
+do not use."
+
+"I trust you wholly," said the lady. "Now go as quickly as possible."
+
+Frank looked at the two addresses he had on the card. The
+billiard-saloon was on the east side of the city, in an unfashionable
+locality.
+
+"I'll go there first," he decided.
+
+Crossing to Third avenue he hailed a car, and rode down-town. His
+knowledge of the city, gained from the walks he took when a newsboy,
+made it easy for him to find the place of which he was in search. Though
+it was nearly midnight, the saloon was lighted up, and two tables were
+in use. On the left-hand side, as he entered, was a bar, behind which
+stood a man in his shirt-sleeves, who answered the frequent calls for
+drinks. He looked rather suspiciously at Frank's uniform when he
+entered.
+
+"What do you want?" he asked. "Have you any message for me?"
+
+"No," said Frank, carelessly. "Let me have a glass of lemonade."
+
+The bar-keeper's face cleared instantly, and he set about preparing the
+beverage required.
+
+"Won't you have something in it?" he asked.
+
+"No, sir," said Frank.
+
+"You boys are kept out pretty late," said the bar-keeper, socially.
+
+"Not every night," said Frank. "We take turns."
+
+Frank paid ten cents for his lemonade, and, passing into the
+billiard-saloon, sat down and watched a game. He looked around him, but
+could not see anything of Fred. In fact, all the players were men.
+
+Sitting next to him was a young fellow, who was watching the game.
+
+"Suppose we try a game," he said to Frank.
+
+"Not to-night. I came in here to look for a friend, but I guess he isn't
+here."
+
+"I've been here two hours. What does your friend look like?"
+
+"That's his picture," said Frank, displaying the photograph.
+
+"Oh, yes," said his new acquaintance, "he is here now. His name is Fred,
+isn't it?"
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, eagerly; "I don't see him. Where is he?"
+
+"He's playing cards upstairs, but I don't believe he can tell one card
+from the other."
+
+"Been drinking, I suppose," said Frank, betraying no surprise.
+
+"I should say so. Do you know the fellows he's with?"
+
+"I am not sure about that. How long has Fred been upstairs?"
+
+"About an hour. He was playing billiards till he couldn't stand
+straight, and then they went upstairs."
+
+"Would you mind telling him that there is a friend downstairs who wishes
+to see him, that is, if you know the way?"
+
+"Oh, yes, I live here. Won't you come up with me?"
+
+"Perhaps I had better," said Frank, and followed his companion through a
+door in the rear, and up a dark and narrow staircase to the street
+floor.
+
+"It'll be a hard job to get him away," thought Frank; "but, for his
+mother's sake, I will do my best."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+A TIMELY RESCUE.
+
+
+As Frank entered the room he hastily took in the scene before him. Round
+a table sat three young men, of not far from twenty, the fourth side
+being occupied by Fred Vivian. They were playing cards, and sipping
+drinks as they played. Fred Vivian's handsome face was flushed, and he
+was nervously excited. His hands trembled as he lifted the glass, and
+his wandering, uncertain glances showed that he was not himself.
+
+"It's your play, Fred," said his partner.
+
+Fred picked up a card without looking at it, and threw it down on the
+table.
+
+"That settles it," said another. "Fred, old boy, you've lost the game.
+You're another five dollars out."
+
+Fred fumbled in his pocket for a bill, and it was quickly taken from his
+hand before he could well see of what value it was. Frank, however,
+quickly as it was put away, saw that it was a ten. It was clear that
+Fred was being cheated in the most barefaced manner.
+
+Frank's entrance was evidently unwelcome to most of the company.
+
+"What are you bringing in that boy for, John?" demanded a low-browed
+fellow, with a face like a bull-dog.
+
+"He is a friend of Fred," answered John.
+
+"He's a telegraph boy. He comes here a spy. Fred don't know him. Clear
+out, boy!"
+
+Frank took no notice of this hostile remark, but walked up to Fred
+Vivian.
+
+"Fred," said he, thinking it best to speak as if he knew him, "it is
+getting late, and your mother is anxious about you. Won't you come home
+with me?"
+
+"Who are you?" asked Fred, with drunken gravity. "You aint my mother."
+
+"I come from your mother. Don't you know me? I am Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"How do, Frank? Glad to see you, ol' feller. Take a drink. Here, you
+boy, bring a drink for my frien', Frank Kavanagh."
+
+The three others looked on disconcerted. They were not ready to part
+with Fred yet, having secured only a part of his money.
+
+"You don't know him, Fred," said the one who had appropriated the
+ten-dollar bill. "He's only a telegraph boy."
+
+"I tell you he's my frien', Frank Kav'nagh," persisted Fred, with an
+obstinacy not unusual in one in his condition.
+
+"Well, if he is, let him sit down, and have a glass of something hot."
+
+"No, I thank you," said Frank, coldly. "Fred and I are going home."
+
+"No, you're not," exclaimed the other, bringing his fist heavily down
+upon the table. "We won't allow our friend Fred to be kidnapped by a boy
+of your size,--not much we won't, will we, boys?"
+
+"No! no!" chimed in the other two.
+
+Fred Vivian looked at them undecided.
+
+"I guess I'd better go," he stammered "There's something the matter with
+my head."
+
+"You need another drink to brace you up. Here, John, bring up another
+punch for Fred."
+
+Frank saw that unless he got Fred away before drinking any more, he
+would not be in a condition to go at all. It was a critical position,
+but he saw that he must be bold and resolute.
+
+"You needn't bring Fred anything more," he said. "He has had enough
+already."
+
+"I have had enough already," muttered Fred, mechanically.
+
+"Boys, are we going to stand this?" said the low-browed young man. "Are
+we going to let this telegraph boy interfere with a social party of
+young gentlemen? I move that we throw him downstairs."
+
+He half rose as he spoke, but Frank stood his ground.
+
+"You'd better not try it," he said quietly, "unless you want to pass the
+night in the station-house."
+
+"What do you mean, you young jackanapes?" said the other angrily. "What
+charge can you trump up against us?"
+
+"You have been cheating Fred out of his money," said Frank, firmly.
+
+"It's a lie! We've been having a friendly game, and he lost. If we'd
+lost, we would have paid."
+
+"How much did he lose?"
+
+"Five dollars."
+
+"And you took ten from him."
+
+"It's a lie!" repeated the other; but he looked disconcerted.
+
+"It is true, for I noticed the bill as you took it from him. But it's
+not much worse than playing for money with him when he is in no
+condition to understand the game. You'd better give him back that
+ten-dollar bill."
+
+"I've a great mind to fling you downstairs, you young scamp!"
+
+"You are strong enough to do it," said Frank, exhibiting no trace of
+fear, "but I think you would be sorry for it afterwards. Come, Fred."
+
+Though Frank was so much younger and smaller, there was something in his
+calm, self-possessed manner that gave him an ascendency over the weak,
+vacillating Fred. The latter rose, and, taking our hero's arm, turned to
+leave the room.
+
+"Let him go," said the leader, who had been made uneasy by Frank's
+threat, and saw that it was politic to postpone his further designs upon
+his intended victim. "If he chooses to obey a small telegraph boy, he
+can."
+
+"Don't mind him, Fred," said Frank. "You know I'm your friend."
+
+"My friend, Frank Kavanagh!" repeated Fred, drowsily. "I'm awful sleepy,
+Frank. I want to go to bed."
+
+"You shall go to bed as soon as you get home, Fred."
+
+"I say, boy," said the leader, uneasily, "that was all a lie about the
+ten-dollar bill. You didn't see straight. Did he, Bates?"
+
+"Of course he didn't."
+
+"One lies and the other swears to it," thought Frank.
+
+"Nothing will be done about it," he said, "if you will let Fred alone
+hereafter. The money you have won from him belongs to his mother, and,
+unless you keep away from him, she will order your arrest."
+
+"You're altogether too smart for a boy of your size," sneered the other.
+"Take your friend away. We don't care to associate with a milksop, who
+allows himself to be ordered around by women and children."
+
+Fortunately Fred was too drowsy to pay heed to what was being said; in
+fact he was very sleepy, and was anxious to go to bed. Frank got him
+into a cab, and in twenty minutes they safely reached his mother's house
+in Thirty-eighth street.
+
+Mrs. Vivian was anxiously awaiting the return of the prodigal.
+
+"O Fred," she said, "how could you stay away so, when you know how
+worried I get? You have been drinking, too."
+
+"This is my friend, Frank Kavanagh," hiccoughed Fred.
+
+"Shall I go up and help put him to bed?" asked Frank.
+
+"Does he require help?" asked Mrs. Vivian, sorrowfully.
+
+"He has been drinking a good deal."
+
+"Yes, you may go up. I will lead the way to his chamber. Afterwards I
+want to speak to you."
+
+"All right."
+
+"Where did you find him?" asked Mrs. Vivian, when Frank with some
+difficulty had prepared his charge for bed.
+
+"In the billiard-saloon to which you directed me. He was upstairs
+playing cards for money. They were cheating him in the most outrageous
+manner."
+
+"I suppose they got all his money."
+
+"Not all; but they would soon have done so. Here is his pocket-book,
+which I just took from his pocket."
+
+"There are twenty dollars left," said 'Mrs. Vivian, after an
+examination. "They must have secured the rest. O my poor boy! Would that
+I could shield you from these dangerous companions!"
+
+"I don't think they will trouble him again, Mrs. Vivian."
+
+"Why not? You do not know them."
+
+"I told them that, if they came near him, hereafter, you would have them
+arrested for swindling your son out of money belonging to you."
+
+"Will that have any effect upon them?"
+
+"Yes, because they know that I am ready to appear as a witness against
+them."
+
+"Did Fred show any unwillingness to come with you?"
+
+"No; I made him think I was an old acquaintance of his. Besides, he was
+feeling sleepy."
+
+"You have acted with great judgment for so young a lad," said Mrs.
+Vivian. "I wish Fred had a companion like you to influence him for good.
+Where do you live?"
+
+"At the Newsboys Lodging-House. I cannot afford to hire a room."
+
+Mrs. Vivian looked thoughtful.
+
+"Give me your name and address," she said.
+
+These she noted down.
+
+"I won't keep you any longer to-night," she said, "for you must be
+tired. You will hear from me again."
+
+"Oh," said Frank, "I nearly forgot. Here is the balance of the money you
+handed me for expenses."
+
+"Keep it for yourself," said Mrs. Vivian, "and accept my thanks
+besides."
+
+Though Frank had paid for the cab, there was a balance of nearly two
+dollars in his hands which he was very glad to keep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+FRANK MAKES AN EVENING CALL.
+
+
+The next day Frank chanced to meet Mrs. Vivian in the street. She
+recognized him at once.
+
+"I see you are kept busy," she said, pleasantly.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank. "Our business is pretty good just now. How is
+your son?"
+
+"He slept well, and woke much refreshed this morning. He is a good boy
+naturally, but unable to withstand temptation. I have decided to send
+him to the country for a few weeks, to visit a cousin of about his own
+age. There he will be secure from temptation, and will have a chance to
+ride. I would have sent him away before, but that it would leave me
+alone in the house. You told me last evening that you had no
+boarding-place."
+
+"My only home is at the lodging-house," said Frank.
+
+"How would you like to occupy a room at my house while my son is away?"
+
+"Very much," said Frank, promptly.
+
+"I shall find it convenient to have you in the house, and shall feel
+safer."
+
+"I am afraid I shouldn't be a match for an able-bodied burglar," said
+Frank, smiling.
+
+"Perhaps not; but you could summon a policeman. When can you come and
+see me about this arrangement?"
+
+"I am off duty to-night."
+
+"Very well; I will expect you. Fred will not go away till to-morrow, and
+you will have a chance to see him under more favorable circumstances
+than last evening."
+
+"Thank you very much for your kind invitation," said Frank, politely.
+
+Mrs. Vivian bade him good-morning, very favorably impressed with his
+manners and deportment.
+
+Frank looked upon the proposal made him by Mrs. Vivian as a piece of
+great good-fortune. In his new position, excellent as were the beds at
+the lodging-house, he found it inconvenient to go there to sleep. Once
+or twice, on account of the late hour at which he was released from
+duty, he was unable to secure admittance, and had to pay fifty cents for
+a bed at a hotel on the European system. He had for some time been
+thinking seriously of hiring a room; but the probable expense deterred
+him. At Mrs. Vivian's he would have nothing to pay.
+
+In the evening he changed his uniform for the neat suit given him by Mr.
+Bowen, and about eight o'clock rang the bell of the house in
+Thirty-eighth street.
+
+He was at once ushered into the presence of Mrs. Vivian and her son.
+
+"I am glad to see you, my young friend," said Mrs. Vivian, glancing with
+approval at the neat appearance of her young visitor. "Fred, this is the
+young man who brought you home last night."
+
+"I am much obliged to you," said Fred Vivian, offering his hand to
+Frank. "I am ashamed of having been found in such a place."
+
+"I don't think the young men with you were very much your friends," said
+Frank; "I detected one in cheating you."
+
+"You mean at cards?"
+
+"I don't mean that, though I presume they did; but you handed a
+ten-dollar bill to one of them, and he took it as a five."
+
+"Are you sure of that?" asked Fred, his face flushing with indignation.
+
+"Yes, I saw the number of the bill, though he put it away very quickly."
+
+"And I had been treating that fellow all the afternoon! I gave him a
+good dinner, too."
+
+"Are you surprised at such treatment from such a person?" asked his
+mother. "I should have expected it."
+
+"I will never notice the fellow again as long as I live," said Fred, who
+seemed a good deal impressed by his companion's treachery. "Why, it's
+nothing better than robbery."
+
+"You have given it the right name, Fred," said his mother, quietly.
+
+"He ought to give the money back," said Fred.
+
+"Let it go, my son. I am willing to lose it, if it severs all
+acquaintance between you and your unworthy companions."
+
+"Have I ever met you before?" asked Fred, turning to Frank.
+
+"Not before last evening."
+
+"I thought you spoke of yourself as an old acquaintance."
+
+"That was to induce you to come with me," explained Frank. "I hope you
+will excuse the deception."
+
+"Certainly I will. I had been drinking so much that it was quite
+necessary to treat me as a child; but I don't mean to be caught in such
+a scrape again."
+
+"May you keep that resolution, Fred!" said his mother, earnestly.
+
+"I will try to, mother."
+
+"My mother tells me that you are going to take my place while I am in
+the country," said Fred, turning to Frank.
+
+"I shall be very glad to do so," said our hero. "I never had such a good
+home before."
+
+"You are a telegraph boy, are you not?" asked Fred.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank.
+
+"Tell me about it. Is it hard work?"
+
+"Not hard, but sometimes when I have been kept pretty busy, I get tired
+towards night."
+
+"I should think it would be rather good fun," said Fred.
+
+"Do you think you would like it?" asked his mother, with a smile.
+
+"I might like it for about half a day, but all day would be too much for
+me. However, I am too old for such a position."
+
+Fred had no false pride, and though he knew that Frank was in a social
+position considerably below his own, he treated him as an equal. Those
+who are secure of their own position are much more likely to avoid
+"putting on airs" than those who have recently been elevated in the
+social scale. Frank was destined that same evening to see the contrast
+between true and false gentility.
+
+It so happened that Victor Dupont, already mentioned, was an
+acquaintance and former school-fellow of Fred Vivian. It also chanced
+that he selected this evening for a call, as the Vivians stood very high
+socially, being an old family. Victor was rather proud of his
+acquaintance with them, and took occasion to call frequently.
+
+As he was ushered into the room he did not at first recognize Frank in
+his new clothes.
+
+"Victor, this is a friend of mine, Frank Kavanagh," said Fred,
+introducing his two visitors. "Frank, let me introduce my old
+school-fellow Victor Dupont."
+
+"We are already acquainted," said Frank. "Good-evening, Victor."
+
+Victor stared in amusing astonishment at Frank.
+
+"How do you happen to be here?" asked Victor, brusquely.
+
+"By Mrs. Vivian's kind invitation," said Frank, quite at ease.
+
+"How do you two happen to know each other?" asked Fred.
+
+"We met in the country last summer," said Frank, finding Victor did not
+answer.
+
+"I suppose you had a very good time together," said Mrs. Vivian.
+
+"Our acquaintance was very slight," said Victor superciliously.
+
+"We must have gone fishing together at least a dozen times," said Frank,
+quietly.
+
+"How in the world did the fellow thrust himself in here?" said Victor to
+himself. "They can't know his low position."
+
+In the amiable desire of enlightening the Vivians Victor took an early
+opportunity to draw Fred aside.
+
+"Have you known Frank Kavanagh long?" he asked.
+
+"Not very long."
+
+"Do you know that he is a telegraph boy?"
+
+"Oh, yes," answered Fred, smiling.
+
+"He used to be a newsboy, and sell papers in the lower part of the
+city."
+
+"I didn't know that," said Fred indifferently.
+
+"I must say that I am rather surprised to see him here."
+
+"Why?" asked Fred, with provoking calmness.
+
+"Oh, you know, he is much below us in a social point of view."
+
+"I know that he is a poor boy; but some of our most prominent men were
+once poor boys."
+
+"I don't believe in mixing up different ranks."
+
+"You didn't think so in the country last summer."
+
+"Oh, well, a fellow must have some company, and there was no better to
+be had."
+
+"You will probably be surprised to hear that your old acquaintance is to
+live here while I am in the country. I am going away to-morrow to spend
+a few weeks with my cousin."
+
+"Is it possible!" exclaimed Victor, in surprise and annoyance. "Perhaps
+he is to be here as an errand boy?" he suggested, evidently relieved by
+the idea.
+
+"Oh, no; he will be treated in all respects as one of the family."
+
+"Hadn't you better tell your mother that he was once a newsboy? She
+might recall the invitation."
+
+"It would make no difference with her. It seems to me, Victor, you are
+prejudiced against Frank."
+
+"No, I am not; but I like to see newsboys and telegraph messengers keep
+their place."
+
+"So do I. I hope Frank will keep his place till he can find a better
+one."
+
+"That isn't what I meant. How can you associate with such a boy on an
+equality?"
+
+"Because he seems well-bred and gentlemanly."
+
+"I don't believe he gets more than three or four dollars a week," said
+Victor, contemptuously.
+
+"Then I really hope his wages will soon be increased."
+
+Victor saw that he could do Frank no harm, and was forced, out of
+policy, to treat our hero with more politeness than he wished.
+
+When Frank rose to go, Mrs. Vivian desired him to send round his trunk,
+and take possession of his room the next day.
+
+"She doesn't suspect that I never owned a trunk," thought Frank. "I will
+buy one to-morrow, though I haven't got much to put in it."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+AT WALLACK'S THEATRE.
+
+
+The next day Frank devoted what small leisure he had to the purchase of
+a trunk, in which he stored his small supply of clothing, leaving out,
+however, the clothes in which he made his first appearance in the city.
+These he gave to his friend, Dick Rafferty, to whom they were a welcome
+gift, being considerably better than those he usually wore. Dick might,
+out of his earnings, have dressed better, but when he had any extra
+money it went for some kind of amusement. He was one of the steadiest
+patrons of the Old Bowery, and was often to be seen in the gallery of
+other places of amusement. He was surprised to hear of Frank's intended
+removal from the lodging-house.
+
+"I say, Frank," he said, "you're gettin' on fast. Here you are, goin' to
+live in a tip-top house up-town. You'll be a reg'lar swell."
+
+"I hope not, Dick. I don't like swells very much."
+
+"You won't notice your old friends bimeby."
+
+"That shows you don't know me, Dick. I shall be glad to notice you
+whenever we meet."
+
+"I don't see why I can't be in luck too," said Dick. "I wish I could
+find some rich lady to give me a room in her house."
+
+"You'll have to get some new clothes first, Dick."
+
+"I know I aint got a genteel look," said Dick, surveying his well-worn
+clothes, soiled and ragged; "but it wouldn't be no use if I was to dress
+in velvet."
+
+"Unless you kept your face clean," suggested Frank.
+
+"A feller can't be washin' his face all the time," said Dick.
+
+"It's the fashion to have a clean face in good society," said Frank,
+smiling.
+
+"It must be a good deal of trouble," said Dick. "Is my face very dirty?"
+
+"Not very. There's a black spot on each cheek, and one on the side of
+your nose, and your chin looks a little shady."
+
+"A feller can't keep very clean in my business."
+
+"I suppose it is rather hard," Frank admitted; "but you won't be a
+boot-black always, I hope."
+
+"I'd just as lieves give it up for bankin', or cashier of a
+savings-bank," said Dick. "Them's light, genteel kinds of business, and
+don't dirty the hands."
+
+"Well, Dick, if I hear of an opening in either line I'll let you know.
+Now I must go and buy a trunk."
+
+"I never expect to get as far as a trunk," said Dick. "I shall feel like
+a gentleman when I can set up one. It wouldn't be no use to me now. I'd
+have to stuff it with rocks to make a show."
+
+"Poor Dick!" thought Frank as he left his friend. "He takes the world
+too easy. He hasn't any ambition, or he wouldn't be content to keep on
+blacking boots when there are so many better ways of making a living. If
+I ever get a chance to give him a lift I will. He aint much to look at,
+but he's a good-hearted boy, and would put himself to a good deal of
+trouble to do me a favor."
+
+It was not much trouble to pack his trunk. Indeed, he had scarcely
+enough clothing to fill it one-third full.
+
+"I may have to adopt Dick's plan, and fill it with rocks," said Frank to
+himself. "Some day I shall be better supplied. I can't expect to get on
+too fast."
+
+The room assigned to Frank was a small one; but it was neatly furnished,
+and provided with a closet. The bed, with its clean white spread, looked
+very tempting, and Frank enjoyed the prospect of the privacy he would
+have in a room devoted to his sole use. At the lodging-house, though his
+bed was comfortable, there were sixty to eighty boys who slept in the
+same room, and of course he had no more rights than any other.
+
+"I hope you like your room, Frank," said Mrs. Vivian.
+
+"It is the best I ever had," he replied.
+
+"How early are you obliged to be on duty?" she asked.
+
+"At eight o'clock."
+
+"I do not breakfast till that hour; but I will direct the cook to have a
+cup of coffee and some breakfast ready for you at seven."
+
+"Am I to take my meals here?" asked Frank, in surprise.
+
+"Certainly. Did you think I was going to send you out to a restaurant?"
+inquired Mrs. Vivian, smiling.
+
+"I am very much obliged to you; but I am afraid it will inconvenience
+the cook to get me an early breakfast."
+
+"I am glad to see you so considerate of others. I can answer for Mary,
+however, who is very obliging. You can get lunch outside, as I suppose
+it will be inconvenient for you to leave your duties to come so far as
+Thirty-eighth street."
+
+"You are very kind to me, Mrs. Vivian," said Frank, gratefully.
+
+"I shall claim an occasional service of you in return," said Mrs.
+Vivian.
+
+"I hope you will," said Frank, promptly.
+
+Two days after he had taken up his residence in his new quarters Frank
+was called upon to render a very agreeable service.
+
+"I have two tickets for Wallack's theatre for this evening," said Mrs.
+Vivian. "Will it be agreeable for you to accompany me?"
+
+"I should like it very much."
+
+"Then you shall be my escort. When Fred is at home he goes with me; but
+now I must depend on you. Have you a pair of kid gloves?"
+
+Frank was obliged to confess that he had not. In fact he had never owned
+a pair in his life.
+
+"I will give you a pair of mine. Probably there is little difference in
+the size of our hands."
+
+This proved to be true.
+
+Somehow Frank in his new life seemed always running across Victor
+Dupont. That young gentleman and his sister sat in the row behind Mrs.
+Vivian and her youthful escort, but did not immediately become aware of
+it.
+
+"Why, Victor," said his sister, who had been looking about her, "there
+is Mrs. Vivian in the next row. Who is that nice-looking boy with her?
+It can't be Fred, for he is larger."
+
+Victor turned his glance in the direction of Mrs. Vivian. His surprise
+and disgust were about equal when he saw the country-boy he had looked
+down upon, faultlessly attired, with neat-fitting gloves, and a rose in
+his button-hole and looking like a gentleman.
+
+"I never saw such cheek!" he exclaimed, in disgust.
+
+"What do you mean, Victor?" asked his sister, looking puzzled.
+
+"Do you want to know who that boy is with Mrs. Vivian?"
+
+"Yes; he is very nice-looking."
+
+"Then you can marry him if you like. That boy is a telegraph messenger.
+I used to know him in the country. A few weeks ago he was selling papers
+in front of the Astor House."
+
+"You don't say so!" ejaculated Flora Dupont, "Aren't you mistaken?"
+
+"I guess not. I know him as well as I know you."
+
+"He is a good-looking boy, at any rate," said Flora, who was less
+snobbish than her brother.
+
+"I can't see it," said Victor, annoyed. "He looks to me very common and
+vulgar. I don't see how Mrs. Vivian can be willing to appear with him at
+a fashionable theatre like this."
+
+"It's a pity he is a telegraph boy, he is so nice-looking."
+
+Just then Frank, turning, recognized Victor and bowed. Victor could not
+afford not to recognize Mrs. Vivian's escort, and bowed in return.
+
+But Victor was not the only one of Frank's acquaintances who recognized
+him that evening. In the upper gallery sat Dick Rafferty and Micky Shea,
+late fellow-boarders at the lodging-house. It was not often that these
+young gentlemen patronized Wallack's, for even a gallery ticket there
+was high-priced; but both wanted to see the popular play of "Ours," and
+had managed to scrape together fifty cents each.
+
+"Dick," said Micky, suddenly, "there's Frank Kavanagh down near the
+stage, in an orchestra seat."
+
+"So he is," said Dick. "Aint he dressed splendid though, wid kid gloves
+on and a flower in his button-hole, and an elegant lady beside him? See,
+she's whisperin' to him now. Who'd think he used to kape company wid the
+likes of us?"
+
+"Frank's up in the world. He's a reg'lar swell now."
+
+"And it's I that am glad of it. He's a good fellow, Frank is, and he
+won't turn his back on us."
+
+This was proved later in the evening, for, as Frank left the theatre
+with Mrs. Vivian, he espied his two old friends standing outside, and
+bowed with a pleasant smile, much to the gratification of the two street
+boys, who were disposed to look upon their old friend as one of the
+aristocracy.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+FRANK AS A DETECTIVE.
+
+
+Of course Frank's daily duties were far the most part of a commonplace
+character. They were more varied, to be sure, than those of an
+errand-boy, or shop-boy, but even a telegraph messenger does not have an
+adventure every day. Twice in the next three weeks our hero was summoned
+by Mrs. Leroy to give her pet dog an airing. It was not hard work, but
+Frank did not fancy it, though he never failed to receive a handsome fee
+from the mistress of Fido.
+
+One day Frank was summoned to a fashionable boarding-house in a side
+street above the Fifth-avenue hotel. On presenting himself, the servant
+said, "It's one of the boarders wants you. Stay here, and I'll let him
+know you've come."
+
+"All right!" said Frank.
+
+"Come right up," said the girl, directly after, speaking from the upper
+landing.
+
+Frank ascended the stairs, and entered a room on the second floor. A
+gentleman, partially bald, with a rim of red hair around the bare
+central spot, sat in a chair by the window, reading a morning paper.
+
+"So you're the telegraph boy, are you?" he said.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"You are honest, eh?"
+
+"I hope so, sir."
+
+"Because I am going to trust you with a considerable sum of money."
+
+"It will be safe, sir."
+
+"I want you to do some shopping for me. Are you ever employed in that
+way?"
+
+"I was once, sir."
+
+"Let me see,--I want some linen handkerchiefs and some collars. Are you
+a judge of those articles?"
+
+"Not particularly."
+
+"However, I suppose you know a collar from a pair of cuffs, and a
+handkerchief from a towel," said the stranger, petulantly.
+
+"I rather think I can tell them apart," said Frank.
+
+"Now let me see how many I want," said the stranger, reflectively. "I
+think half-a-dozen handkerchiefs will do."
+
+"How high shall I go?" asked Frank.
+
+"You ought to get them for fifty cents apiece, I should think."
+
+"Yes, sir, I can get them for that."
+
+"And the collars--well, half-a-dozen will do. Get them of good quality,
+size 15, and pay whatever is asked."
+
+"Yes, sir; do you want anything more?"
+
+"I think not, this morning. I have a headache, or I would go out
+myself," explained the stranger. "I live up the Hudson, and I must go
+home this afternoon by the boat."
+
+"Do you want me to buy the articles at any particular store?" inquired
+Frank.
+
+"No; I leave that to your judgment. A large store is likely to have a
+better assortment, I suppose."
+
+"Very well, sir."
+
+"Come back as soon as you can, that's all."
+
+"You haven't given me the money yet, sir," said Frank.
+
+"Oh, I beg pardon! That is an important omission."
+
+The stranger drew out a pocket-book, which appeared to be well filled,
+and extracted two bills of twenty dollars each, which he passed to
+Frank.
+
+"This is too much, sir," said the telegraph boy. "One of these bills
+will be much more than sufficient."
+
+"Never mind. I should like to have them both changed. You can buy the
+articles at different places, as this will give you a chance to get
+change for both."
+
+"I can get them changed at a bank, sir."
+
+"No," said the stranger, hastily, "I would rather you would pay them for
+goods. Shopkeepers are bound to change bills for a customer."
+
+"I don't see what difference it makes to you as long as they are
+changed," thought Frank. However it was not his business to question his
+employer's decision.
+
+Sixth avenue was not far distant, and as Frank was left to his own
+choice he betook himself hither on his shopping tour. Entering a large
+retail store, he inquired for gentleman's linen handkerchiefs.
+
+"Large or small?" asked the girl in attendance.
+
+"Large, I should think."
+
+He was shown some of good quality, at fifty cents.
+
+"I think they will do," said Frank, after examination. "I will take
+half-a-dozen."
+
+So saying he drew out one of the twenty-dollar bills.
+
+"Cash!" called the saleswoman, tapping on the counter with her pencil.
+
+Several small boys were flitting about the store in the service of
+customers. One of them made his appearance.
+
+"Have you nothing smaller?" asked the girl, noticing the denomination of
+the bill.
+
+"No," answered Frank.
+
+She put the bill between the leaves of a small blank book, and handed
+both that and the goods to the boy.
+
+Frank sat down on a stool by the counter to wait.
+
+Presently the cash-boy came back, and the proprietor of the store with
+him. He was a portly man, with a loud voice and an air of authority. To
+him the cash-boy pointed out Frank.
+
+"Are you the purchaser of these handkerchiefs?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Frank, rather surprised at the question.
+
+"And did you offer this twenty-dollar bill in payment?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Where did you get it? Think well," said the trader, sternly.
+
+"What is the matter? Isn't the bill a good one?" asked Frank.
+
+"You have not answered my question. However, I will answer yours. The
+bill is a counterfeit."
+
+Frank looked surprised, and he understood at a flash why he had been
+trusted with two of these bills when one would answer.
+
+"I have nothing to do with that," said the telegraph boy. "I was sent
+out to buy some articles, and this money was given me to pay for them."
+
+"Have you got any other money of this description?" asked the trader,
+suspiciously.
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, readily. "I have another twenty."
+
+"Let me see it."
+
+"Certainly. I should like to know whether that is bad too."
+
+The other twenty proved to be a fac-simile of the first.
+
+"I must know where you got this money," said the merchant. "You may be
+in the service of counterfeiters."
+
+"You might know, from my uniform, that I am not," said Frank,
+indignantly. "I once lost a place because I would not pass counterfeit
+money."
+
+"I have a detective here. You must lead him to the man who supplied you
+with the money."
+
+"I am quite willing to do it," said our hero. "He wanted to make a tool
+of me. If I can put him into the hands of the law, I will."
+
+"That boy is all right," said a gentleman standing by. "The rogue was
+quite ingenious in trying to work off his bad money through a telegraph
+messenger."
+
+"What is the appearance of this man?" asked the detective as they walked
+along.
+
+"Rather a reddish face, and partly bald."
+
+"What is the color of the hair he has?"
+
+"Red."
+
+"Very good. It ought to be easy to know him by that description."
+
+"I should know him at once," said Frank, promptly.
+
+"If he has not changed his appearance. It is easy to do that, and these
+fellows understand it well."
+
+Reaching the house, Frank rang the bell, the detective sauntering along
+on the opposite side of the street.
+
+"Is Mr. Stanley at home?" asked Frank.
+
+"I will see."
+
+The girl came down directly, with the information that Mr. Stanley had
+gone out.
+
+"That is queer," said Frank. "He told me to come right back. He said he
+had a headache, too, and did not want to go out."
+
+As he spoke, his glance rested on a man who was lounging at the corner.
+This man had black hair, and a full black beard. By chance, Frank's eye
+fell upon his right hand, and with a start he recognized a large ring
+with a sparkling diamond, real or imitation. This ring he had last seen
+on Mr. Stanley's hand. He crossed the street in a quiet, indifferent
+manner, and imparted his suspicions to the detective.
+
+"Good!" said the latter; "you are a smart boy."
+
+He approached the man alluded to, who, confident in his disguise, did
+not budge, and, placing his hand on his shoulder, said, "Mr. Stanley, I
+believe."
+
+"You are mistaken," said the man, shrugging his shoulders in a
+nonchalant way, with a foreign accent, "I am M. Lavalette. I do not know
+your M. Stanley."
+
+"I am afraid you are forgetful, monsieur. I beg pardon, but do you wear
+a wig?" and with a quick movement he removed the stranger's hat, and,
+dislodging his black wig, displayed the rim of red hair.
+
+"This is an outrage!" said the rogue, angrily; "I will have you
+arrested, monsieur."
+
+"I will give you a chance, for here is an officer," said the detective.
+
+"I give this man in charge for passing counterfeit money," said the
+detective. "The next time, Mr. Stanley, don't select so smart a
+telegraph boy. He recognized you, in spite of your disguise, by the ring
+upon your finger."
+
+The rogue angrily drew the ring from his finger, and threw it on the
+sidewalk.
+
+"Curse the ring!" he said. "It has betrayed me."
+
+It only remains to add that Stanley was convicted through Frank's
+testimony. He proved to be an old offender, and the chief of a gang of
+counterfeiters.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+FRANK MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE.
+
+
+Frank was more fortunate than the generality of the telegraph boys in
+obtaining fees from those who employed him. He was not allowed to
+solicit gifts, but was at liberty to accept them when offered. In one
+way or another he found his weekly receipts came to about seven dollars.
+Out of this sum he would have been able to save money, even if he had
+been obliged to pay all his expenses, that is by the exercise of strict
+economy. But, as we know, he was at no expense for room or board, with
+the exception of a light lunch in the middle of the day. Making a little
+calculation, he found that he could save about four dollars a week. As
+it had only been proposed to him to stay at Mrs. Vivian's while Fred was
+in the country, it seemed prudent to Frank to "make hay while the sun
+shone," and save up a little fund from which he could hereafter draw, in
+case it were necessary.
+
+So when he had saved ten dollars he presented himself at the counter of
+the Dime Savings-Bank, then located in Canal street, and deposited it,
+receiving a bank-book, which he regarded with great pride.
+
+"I begin to feel like a capitalist," he said to himself. "I am rather
+better off now than I was when I led round old Mills, the blind man. I
+wonder how he is getting along."
+
+As Frank entered Broadway from Canal street, by a strange coincidence he
+caught sight of the man of whom he had been thinking. Mills, with the
+same querulous, irritable expression he knew well, was making his way up
+Broadway, led by a boy younger than Frank.
+
+"Pity a poor blind man!" he muttered from time to time in a whining
+voice.
+
+"Look out, you young rascal, or you will have me off the sidewalk,"
+Frank heard the blind man say; "I'll have a reckoning with you when I
+get home."
+
+The boy, who was pale and slight, looked frightened.
+
+"I couldn't help it, Mr. Mills," he said. "It was the crowd."
+
+"You are getting careless, that's what's the matter," said Mills,
+harshly. "You are looking in at the shop windows, and neglect me."
+
+"No, I am not," said the boy, in meek remonstrance.
+
+"Don't you contradict me!" exclaimed the blind man, grasping his stick
+significantly. "Pity a poor blind man!"
+
+"What an old brute he is!" thought Frank; "I will speak to him."
+
+"How do you do, Mr. Mills?" he said, halting before the blind man.
+
+"Who are you?" demanded Mills, quickly.
+
+"You ought to know me; I am Frank Kavanagh, who used to go round with
+you."
+
+"I have had so many boys--most of them good for nothing--that I don't
+remember you."
+
+"I am the boy who wouldn't pass counterfeit money for you."
+
+"Hush!" said the blind man apprehensively, lest some one should hear
+Frank. "There was some mistake about that. I remember you now. Do you
+want to come back? This boy doesn't attend to his business."
+
+Frank laughed. Situated as he was now, the proposal seemed to him an
+excellent joke, and he was disposed to treat it as such.
+
+"Why, the fact is, Mr. Mills, you fed me on such rich food that I
+shouldn't dare to go back for fear of dyspepsia."
+
+"Or starvation," he added to himself.
+
+"I live better now," said Mills. "I haven't had any boy since, that
+suited me as well as you."
+
+"Thank you; but I am afraid it would be a long time before I got rich on
+the wages you would give me."
+
+"I'll give you fifty cents a week," said Mills, "and more if I do well.
+You can come to-day, if you like."
+
+"You are very kind, but I am doing better than that," said Frank.
+
+"What are you doing,--selling papers?"
+
+"No; I have given that up. I am a telegraph boy."
+
+"How much do you make?"
+
+"Seven dollars last week."
+
+"Why, you will be rich," said the blind man, enviously. "I don't think I
+get as much as that myself, and I have to pay a boy out of it."
+
+His poor guide did not have the appearance of being very liberally paid.
+
+"Then you won't come back?" said Mills, querulously.
+
+"No, I guess not."
+
+"Come along, boy!" said Mills, roughly, to his little guide. "Are you
+going to keep me here all day?"
+
+"I thought you wanted to speak to this boy."
+
+"Well, I have got through. He has deserted me. It is the way of the
+world. There's nobody to pity the poor, blind man."
+
+"Here's five cents for old acquaintance' sake. Mr. Mills," said Frank,
+dropping a nickel into the hand of the boy who was guiding him.
+
+"Thank you! May you never know what it is to be blind!" said Mills, in
+his professional tone.
+
+"If I am, I hope I can see as well as you," thought Frank. "What a
+precious old humbug he is, and how I pity that poor boy! If I had a
+chance I would give him something to save him from starvation."
+
+Frank walked on, quite elated at the change in his circumstances which
+allowed him to give money in charity to the person who had once been his
+employer. He would have given it more cheerfully if in his estimation
+the man had been more worthy.
+
+Frank's errand took him up Broadway. He had two or three stops to make,
+which made it inconvenient for him to ride. A little way in front of him
+he saw a boy of fourteen, whom he recognized as an errand-boy, and a
+former fellow-lodger at the Newsboy's Lodging-House. He was about to
+hurry forward and join John Riley,--for this was the boy's name,--when
+his attention was attracted, and his suspicions aroused, by a man who
+accosted John. He was a man of about thirty, rather showily dressed,
+with a gold chain dangling from his vest.
+
+"Johnny," he said, addressing the errand-boy "do you want to earn ten
+cents?"
+
+"I should like to," answered the boy, "but I am going on an errand, and
+can't spare the time."
+
+"It won't take five minutes," said the young man. "It is only to take
+this note up to Mr. Conant's room, on the fourth floor of this
+building."
+
+They were standing in front of a high building occupied as offices.
+
+The boy hesitated.
+
+"Is there an answer?" he asked.
+
+"No; you can come right down as soon as the letter is delivered."
+
+"I suppose I could spare the time for that," said John Riley.
+
+"Of course you can. It won't take you two minutes. Here is the ten
+cents. I'll hold your bundle for you while you run up."
+
+"All right!" said the errand-boy, and, suspecting nothing, he
+surrendered his parcel, and taking the note and the dime, ran upstairs.
+
+No sooner was he out of sight than the young man began to walk off
+rapidly with the bundle. It was an old trick, that has been many times
+played upon unsuspecting boys, and will continue to be played as long as
+there are knavish adventurers who prefer dishonest methods of getting a
+living to honest industry.
+
+In this case, however, the rogue was destined to disappointment. It may
+be stated that he had been present in the dry-goods store from which the
+parcel came, and, knowing that the contents were valuable, had followed
+the boy.
+
+No sooner did Frank understand the fellow's purpose than he pursued him,
+and seized him by the arm.
+
+"What do you want of me?" demanded the rogue, roughly. "I am in a hurry
+and can't be detained."
+
+"I want you to give me that bundle which you are trying to steal from my
+friend, John Riley."
+
+The rogue's countenance changed.
+
+"What do you mean?" he demanded, to gain time.
+
+"I mean that I heard your conversation with him, and I know your game.
+Come back, or I will call a policeman."
+
+The young man was sharp enough to see that he must give up his purpose.
+
+"There, take the bundle," he said, tossing it into Frank's arms. "I was
+only going for a cigar; I should have brought it back."
+
+When John Riley came downstairs, with the letter in his hand,--for he
+had been unable to find any man named Conant in the building,--he found
+Frank waiting with the parcel.
+
+"Holloa, Frank! Where's that man that sent me upstairs? I can't find Mr.
+Conant."
+
+"Of course you can't. There's no such man in the building. That man was
+a thief; but for me he would have carried off your bundle."
+
+"What a fool I was!" said the errand-boy. "I won't let myself be fooled
+again."
+
+"Don't give up a bundle to a stranger again," said Frank. "I'm only a
+country boy, but I don't allow myself to be swindled as easily as you."
+
+"I wish that chap would come here again," said Johnny, indignantly. "But
+I've come out best, after all," he added, brightening up. "I've made ten
+cents out of him."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+A RICH WOMAN'S SORROW.
+
+
+One day Frank was summoned to a handsome residence on Madison avenue.
+
+"Sit down in the parlor," said the servant "and I will call Mrs.
+Graham."
+
+As Frank looked around him, and noted the evidences of wealth in the
+elegant furniture and rich ornaments profusely scattered about, he
+thought, "How rich Mrs. Graham must be! I suppose she is very happy. I
+should be if I could buy everything I wanted."
+
+It was a boy's thought, and betrayed our hero's inexperience. Even
+unlimited means are not sure to produce happiness, nor do handsome
+surroundings prove wealth.
+
+Five minutes later an elderly lady entered the room. She was richly
+dressed, but her face wore a look of care and sorrow.
+
+As she entered, Frank rose with instinctive politeness, and bowed.
+
+"You are the telegraph boy," said the lady, inquiringly.
+
+"Yes, ma'am."
+
+Mrs. Graham looked at him earnestly, as if to read his character.
+
+"I have sent for you," she said, at length, "to help me in a matter of
+some delicacy, and shall expect you not to speak of it, even to your
+employers."
+
+"They never question me," said Frank, promptly. "You may rely upon my
+secrecy."
+
+Frank's statement was correct. The business entrusted to telegraph
+messengers is understood to be of a confidential nature, and they are
+instructed to guard the secrets of those who make use of their services.
+
+"I find it necessary to raise some money," continued the lady,
+apparently satisfied, "and am not at liberty, for special reasons, to
+call upon my husband for it. I have a diamond ring of considerable
+value, which I should like to have you carry, either to a jeweller or a
+pawnbroker, and secure what advance you can upon it."
+
+"And I believed she had plenty of money," thought Frank, wondering.
+
+"I will do the best I can for you, madam," said our hero.
+
+Mrs. Graham drew from her pocket a small box, containing a diamond ring,
+which sparkled brilliantly in the sunshine.
+
+"It is beautiful," said Frank, admiringly.
+
+"Yes, it cost originally eight hundred dollars," said the lady.
+
+"Eight hundred dollars!" echoed Frank, in wonder. He had heard of
+diamond rings, and knew they were valuable, but had no idea they were so
+valuable as that.
+
+"How much do you expect to get on it?" he asked.
+
+"Nothing near its value, of course, nor is that necessary. Two hundred
+dollars will be as much as I care to use, and at that rate I shall be
+able the sooner to redeem it. I believe I will tell you why I want the
+money."
+
+"Not unless you think it best," said Frank.
+
+"It is best, for I shall again require your services in disposing of the
+money."
+
+The lady sat down on the sofa beside Frank, and told him the story which
+follows:--
+
+"I have two children," she said, "a daughter and a son. The son has
+recently graduated from college, and is now travelling in Europe. My
+daughter is now twenty-six years of age. She was beautiful, and our
+social position was such that my husband, who is a proud man,
+confidently anticipated that she would make a brilliant match. But at
+the age of nineteen Ellen fell in love with a clerk in my husband's
+employ. He was a young man of good appearance and character, and nothing
+could be said against him except that he was poor. This, however, was
+more than enough in Mr. Graham's eyes. When Lawrence Brent asked for the
+hand of our daughter, my husband drove him from the house with insult,
+and immediately discharged him from his employ. Ellen was high-spirited,
+and resented this treatment of the man she loved. He soon obtained a
+place quite as good as the one he had lost, and one day Ellen left the
+house and married him. She wrote to us, excusing her action, and I would
+gladly have forgiven her; but her father was obdurate. He forbade my
+mentioning her name to him, and from that day to this he has never
+referred to her.
+
+"I am now coming to the business in which you are to help me. For years
+my son-in-law was able to support his wife comfortably, and also the two
+children which in time came to them. But, a year since, he became sick,
+and his sickness lasted till he had spent all his savings. Now he and
+his poor family are living in wretched lodgings, and are in need of the
+common necessaries of life. It is for them I intend the money which I
+can secure upon this ring."
+
+Frank could not listen without having his sympathies aroused.
+
+"I shall be still more glad to help you," he said, "now that I know how
+the money is to be used."
+
+"Thank you," said the lady. "You are a good boy, and I see that I can
+trust you implicitly."
+
+She handed Frank the box, enjoining upon him to be careful not to lose
+it.
+
+"It is so small that it might easily slip from your pocket," she said.
+
+"I shall take the best care of it," said Frank. "Where would you advise
+me to go first?"
+
+"I hardly know. If I wished to sell it I would carry it to Tiffany; but
+it was purchased there, and it might in that case come to my husband's
+ears. There is a pawnbroker, named Simpson, who, I hear, is one of the
+best of his class. You may go there first."
+
+"How much shall I say you want on it?" asked Frank.
+
+"Don't mention my name at all," said the lady, hastily.
+
+"I suppose I shall have to give some name," said Frank, "in order that
+the ticket may be made out."
+
+"What is your own name?"
+
+"Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"Have you a mother living?"
+
+"No," said Frank, gravely.
+
+"Then let the ticket be made out in your name."
+
+"If you wish it."
+
+"Shall I bring the money to you, Mrs. Graham?"
+
+"No; my husband might be at home, and it would arouse his suspicions. At
+twelve o'clock I will meet you at Madison Park, at the corner opposite
+the Union League Club House. You can then report to me your success."
+
+"Very well," said Frank.
+
+He went at once to the pawnbroker mentioned by Mrs. Graham. But for his
+uniform he would have been questioned closely as to how he came by the
+ring; but telegraph boys are so often employed on similar errands that
+the pawnbroker showed no surprise. After a careful examination he agreed
+to advance two hundred dollars, and gave Frank the money and the ticket.
+When Frank gave his own name, he said, "That is your name, is it not?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"But the ring does not belong to you?"
+
+"No; it belongs to a lady who does not wish her name known."
+
+"It is all the same to us."
+
+"That was easily done," thought Frank. "Now I must go and meet Mrs.
+Graham."
+
+"Have you got the money?" asked Mrs. Graham, anxiously, as Frank made
+his appearance.
+
+"Yes," replied Frank.
+
+"How much?"
+
+"The amount you asked for."
+
+"That is well. Now I shall be able to relieve my poor daughter. I cannot
+bear to think of her and her poor children suffering for the lack of
+bread, while I am living in luxury. I wish Mr. Graham was not so
+unforgiving."
+
+"Will you take the money now?" asked Frank.
+
+"I wish you to take fifty dollars to my daughter."
+
+"I will do so with pleasure. What is her address?"
+
+Mrs. Graham drew out a card, on which she had pencilled her daughter's
+address. It proved to be a tenement-house on the east side of the city,
+not far from Fourteenth street.
+
+"I wish I could go myself," said Mrs. Graham, sadly; "but I do not dare
+to do so at present. Give Ellen this money, with my best love; and say
+to her that a month hence I will again send her the same sum. Tell her
+to keep up good courage. Brighter days may be in store."
+
+"I will be sure to remember," said Frank, in a tone of sympathy.
+
+The errand was to his taste; for he was about to carry help and comfort
+to those who needed both.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+A MESSENGER OF GOOD TIDINGS.
+
+
+There stands a large tenement-house on East Fourteenth street, five
+stories in height, and with several entrances. Scores of barefooted and
+scantily attired children play in the halls or on the sidewalk in front,
+and the great building is a human hive, holding scores of families. Some
+of them, unaccustomed to live better, are tolerably content with their
+squalid and contracted accommodations; but a few, reduced by gradual
+steps from respectability and comfort, find their positions very hard to
+bear.
+
+On the third floor three small rooms were occupied by Mr. and Mrs.
+Robert Morgan, and their two children. She was the daughter of Mrs.
+Graham, and had been reared in affluence. How she had incurred her
+father's displeasure has already been told. He had been taken sick some
+months before, his little stock of money had melted away, and now he was
+unable even to pay the small expenses of life in a tenement-house.
+
+Just before Frank made his appearance there was sadness in the little
+household.
+
+"How much money is there left, Ellen?" asked Robert Morgan.
+
+"Seventy-five cents," she answered, in a tone which she tried to make
+cheerful.
+
+"And our week's rent will become due to-morrow."
+
+"I may hear from mother," suggested Mrs. Morgan.
+
+"If you don't, I don't know what will become of us all. We shall be
+thrust into the street. Even this squalid home will be taken from us."
+
+"Don't get discouraged, Robert."
+
+"Isn't there enough to make me despondent, Ellen? I can see now that I
+did very wrong to marry you."
+
+"Do you regret our marriage, then, Robert?" asked his wife.
+
+"Only because it has brought you poverty and discomfort."
+
+"I have not yet regretted it."
+
+"How different a position you would have occupied if I had not dragged
+you down! You would still be living in luxury."
+
+"I should not have you and these dear children."
+
+"And will they compensate you for what has come upon you?"
+
+"Yes," she answered, emphatically.
+
+"You have more philosophy than I have, Ellen."
+
+"More trust, perhaps. Do you know, Robert, I think we are on the eve of
+good fortune?"
+
+"I hope so, but I see no prospects of it."
+
+Just then there was a knock at the door.
+
+Thinking that it might be some humble neighbor, on a borrowing
+expedition, Mrs. Morgan opened the door. Before her stood our hero in
+his uniform.
+
+"Is this Mrs. Robert Morgan?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes," she answered.
+
+"I come from your mother."
+
+"From my mother? Robert, do you hear that?" said the poor woman, in a
+voice of gladness. "Here is a messenger from my mother. Didn't I tell
+you there was good luck in store for us?"
+
+Mr. Morgan did not answer. He waited anxiously to hear what Frank had to
+communicate.
+
+"Your mother sends you her love, and fifty dollars," continued Frank.
+"She hopes to call soon herself."
+
+"Fifty dollars!" exclaimed Ellen Morgan, in delight. "It is a fortune."
+
+"Thank Heaven!" ejaculated her husband, in great relief.
+
+"A month hence you may expect a similar sum," said Frank. "I suppose I
+shall bring it. Shall I find you here?"
+
+Ellen Morgan looked at her husband.
+
+"No," said he. "Let us get out of this neighborhood as soon as possible.
+Can't you find a respectable place to-day?"
+
+"Yes," said his wife. "I shall be glad to move. I saw some neat rooms on
+West Twentieth street on Monday. They will cost us but little more, and
+will suit us better."
+
+"I will send my mother my new address," she said to Frank.
+
+"Then you may send it under cover to me, and I will see that she gets it
+privately," said Frank, who had received instructions to that effect
+from Mrs. Graham.
+
+When Frank had left the room the little household seemed quite
+transformed. Hope had entered, and all looked more cheerful.
+
+"We are provided for, for two months, Robert," said his wife. "Is not
+that a piece of good luck?"
+
+"Yes, indeed it is," he answered heartily. "Before that time I can get
+to work again, and with health and employment I shall not need to ask
+favors of any one."
+
+"I wish father were as forgiving as mother," said Ellen Morgan.
+
+"Your father is a hard man. He will never forgive you for marrying a
+poor man. He would punish you by starvation."
+
+"He is very proud," said Mrs. Morgan. "I was an only daughter, you know,
+and he had set his heart upon my making a brilliant marriage."
+
+"As you might have done."
+
+"As I did not care to do. I preferred to make a happy marriage with the
+man of my choice."
+
+"You are a good wife, Ellen."
+
+"I hope you will always find me so, Robert."
+
+"I should have sunk utterly if you had been like some women."
+
+In the afternoon Mrs. Morgan went out, taking one of her children with
+her. She went to the rooms on West Twentieth street, and, finding them
+still vacant, secured them, paying a month's rent in advance, as her
+mother's timely gift enabled her to do. Before the next evening they
+were installed in their new home, and Mrs. Morgan sent a note to her
+mother, under cover to Frank, apprising her of the removal.
+
+Two days later Frank received a summons to the house on Madison avenue.
+He obeyed, thinking he should probably be sent with some message to Mrs.
+Morgan.
+
+He found Mrs. Graham in a state of nervous excitement.
+
+"My husband has been stricken with paralysis," she said. "It is terribly
+sudden. He went out yesterday, apparently in vigorous health. He was
+brought home pale and helpless."
+
+"Can I do anything for him or you?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes; you can go at once to my daughter, and summon her to her father's
+bedside."
+
+Frank was surprised, remembering how obdurate Mrs. Graham had described
+her husband to be.
+
+"You look surprised," she said; "but sickness often produces a great
+change in us. My husband's pride has given way. His affection has
+returned; and it is at his request that I send for Ellen."
+
+Frank had come to feel a personal interest in the family, and he gladly
+set out for the modest home in West Twentieth street. He felt that it
+was pleasant to be a messenger of reconciliation.
+
+Mrs. Morgan recognized him at once, and received him cordially.
+
+"Do you come from my mother?" she asked.
+
+"Yes. She wishes you to come home at once."
+
+"But--my father."
+
+"Your father is very sick; and he joins in the request."
+
+"It has come at last,--the time I have looked forward to for so long,"
+said Ellen Morgan, clasping her hands. "Robert, do you feel equal to
+looking after the children while I am gone?"
+
+"Yes, Ellen. Go at once. God grant that your father's heart may be
+softened, for your sake. For myself I am content to live in poverty; but
+I don't like to see you suffer."
+
+"What is the matter with father? Did my mother tell you?"
+
+Frank explained, and thus gave her fresh cause for anxiety.
+
+On reaching her father's chamber she was shocked by his changed
+appearance; but her heart was gladdened by the wan smile that lighted
+up his face, assuring her that she was welcome. From the doctor she
+received the assurance that her father was in no immediate danger.
+Indeed, he expressed a confident hope that Mr. Graham would rally from
+his present attack, and be able to go about his business again, though
+caution would be required against undue excitement or fatigue.
+
+The doctor's prediction was verified. Mr. Graham recovered; but his old
+pride and obduracy did not come back. He became reconciled to his
+son-in-law, and provided him a well-paid position in his own mercantile
+establishment, and provided rooms in the Madison-avenue mansion for the
+little family whom Frank had first visited in the squalid tenement-house
+in Fourteenth street, and the glad voices of children made the house no
+longer lonely.
+
+"You must call and see us often," said Ellen Morgan to our hero. "I
+shall always remember you as the messenger who brought us good tidings
+at the darkest hour in our fortunes. We shall always welcome you as a
+friend."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A NEW JOB, AND A LETTER FROM HOME.
+
+
+One morning an elderly gentleman entered the office in which Frank was
+employed, and sought an interview with the superintendent.
+
+"I want a smart boy for detective work," he said. "Have you one you can
+recommend?"
+
+The superintendent cast his eyes over the line of boys, and called
+Frank. Our hero's recognition of the disguised counterfeiter by his ring
+had given him a reputation for shrewdness.
+
+"I think this boy will suit you," he said. "Do you wish him to go with
+you now?"
+
+"Yes; I may want him a week."
+
+"Very well."
+
+Frank accompanied the gentleman into the street.
+
+"Have you no other clothes except this uniform?" asked Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then go and put them on. Then report to me at No. -- Broadway."
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+"It is fortunate I have a good suit," thought Frank.
+
+He was not long in exchanging his uniform for the neat suit given him by
+Mr. Bowen. Thus attired, he presented himself in Mr. Hartley's
+counting-room. The merchant surveyed him with approval.
+
+[Illustration: THE MERCHANT SURVEYED WITH APPROVAL.]
+
+"You will enter my service as errand-boy," he said. "You will be sent to
+the post-office, the bank, and on similar errands, in order not to
+excite suspicion of the real object of your presence. Keep your eyes
+open, and I will take an opportunity of explaining to you later what I
+wish you to do."
+
+Frank bowed.
+
+"Mr. Haynes," said the merchant, calling a thin, sallow young man, "I
+have engaged this boy as an errand-boy. Has any one been to the
+post-office this morning?"
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"Then he will go."
+
+Haynes regarded Frank with disfavor.
+
+"I have a nephew who would have liked the position," he said.
+
+"Too late now," said the merchant, curtly.
+
+"What is your name, boy?" asked Haynes, coldly..
+
+"Frank Kavanagh."
+
+"How did Mr. Hartley happen to engage you?" asked the subordinate.
+
+"A gentleman recommended me," Frank answered.
+
+"I had already mentioned my nephew to him. I am surprised he said
+nothing to me about engaging a boy."
+
+Frank said nothing, feeling no particular interest in the matter. As he
+was only filling temporarily the position of errand boy, it made little
+difference to him whether he was acceptable to Mr. Haynes or not.
+
+In the course of the day Mr. Hartley handed Frank a card, containing the
+street and number of his residence, with a pencilled invitation to call
+that evening.
+
+Of course Frank did so.
+
+Seated alone with the merchant in his back parlor, the latter said, "I
+have invited you here because I could not speak with you freely at the
+store. How do you like Mr. Haynes?"
+
+Frank was surprised at the abruptness of the question.
+
+"I don't like him," he answered, candidly.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"There is no good reason that I know of," said Frank; "but I think his
+manner is disagreeable."
+
+"Our instincts are often to be trusted," said the merchant,
+thoughtfully. "I confess that I myself don't like Haynes, nor do I feel
+implicit confidence in him, though he has been eight years in the
+service of our house. He is outwardly very circumspect, and apparently
+very faithful, but there is something in his eye which I don't like."
+
+Frank had noticed this, but Mr. Hartley's remark called fresh attention
+to its furtive, crafty expression.
+
+Frank's curiosity was aroused, naturally enough. He wondered what Mr.
+Haynes had to do with his mission. He did not have long to wait for
+information.
+
+"I will come to the point," said Mr. Hartley, after a pause. "I am an
+importing merchant, and deal, among other articles, in silks. During the
+last year I have discovered that some one is systematically robbing me,
+and that parts of my stock have been spirited away. The loss I have
+sustained is already considerable, and unless the leakage is put a stop
+to, I may as well give up business. You can now guess why I have engaged
+you. No one will suspect an errand boy of being a detective, while a man
+would very probably excite distrust, and put the rogue on his guard."
+
+Frank listened attentively to his employer.
+
+"Do you suspect any one in particular, Mr. Hartley?" he asked.
+
+"It must be some one in my employ," he said. "The man who, more than any
+other, has facilities for robbing me is the man of whom I have spoken to
+you."
+
+"Mr. Haynes?"
+
+"Yes, Mr. Haynes. He holds an important position, and enjoys special
+privileges. On the other hand, so far as I can learn, he lives in a
+sober, inexpensive way, quite within his salary, which is liberal. He is
+prominently connected with an up-town church, and it seems very
+improbable that he would be guilty of robbery, or breach of trust; yet
+there have been such cases before. At any rate, I cannot wholly divest
+myself of suspicion."
+
+"What do you wish me to do?" asked Frank.
+
+"To watch Mr. Haynes carefully, both in and out of the store, to
+ascertain whether he has any unexplained expenses, or any questionable
+companions. I want to know how he spends his time out of the office. It
+may be that the result of my investigation will be to his credit. It may
+be that he is all that he seems,--a reputable member of the church and
+of society, with nothing against him but an unpleasant manner. Should
+this be the case, I shall be glad to correct my suspicions, and give him
+back my confidence. In that case, we must look elsewhere for the rogue
+who is robbing me."
+
+"Have you any particular instructions to give me?" asked Frank.
+
+"No, only to follow Haynes, and find out all you can about him. Use
+great care in doing it, not to arouse his or any one else's suspicion. I
+will find an opportunity for you to make your reports."
+
+"Very well, sir."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+When Frank got home, he found a letter awaiting him from his country
+home. It was in answer to one which he had written to his uncle, Deacon
+Pelatiah Kavanagh, in reference to a trunk which had belonged to his
+father.
+
+This is the letter:--
+
+     MY DEAR NEPHEW,--I am glad to learn that you are making a living in
+     the city. It is much better that you should earn your own living
+     than to be a burden upon me, though of course I would not see you
+     suffer. But a man's duty is to his own household, and my income
+     from the farm is very small, and Hannah and I agreed that we had
+     little to spare for others.
+
+     There is an old trunk, belonging to your deceased father, in the
+     attic. It contains some old clothes, which may be made over for
+     you, and so save you expense. I would use them myself, and allow
+     you for them, but your father was a much smaller man than I, and
+     his clothes would not fit me. I will send the trunk by express to
+     the address which you gave me. Of course I shall expect you to pay
+     the express, as I have no interest in it, or its contents.
+
+     Your cousin Jonathan has left school, and is working on the farm. I
+     feel _so_ glad that he has no extravagant tastes, but inherits the
+     careful and economical habits of his mother and myself. I am sure
+     he will never waste or squander the little property which I hope to
+     leave him.
+
+"I don't believe he will," thought Frank, "for he is about as mean as
+his mother, and that is saying a good deal."
+
+     Your aunt and I hope that you will steer clear of the temptations
+     of the city. Do not seek after vain amusements, but live a sober
+     life, never spending a cent unnecessarily, and you will in time
+     become a prosperous man. I would invite you to come and stop with
+     us over Sunday, but for the railroad fare, which is high. It will
+     be better to save your money, and put off the visit till you can
+     afford it.
+
+     Your uncle,
+     PELATIAH KAVANAGH.
+
+Reading this letter, it would hardly be supposed that the writer owned
+ten thousand dollars in stocks, bonds, and mortgages, over and above an
+excellent farm. Such, however, was the worldly position of the man who
+sent Frank to the city in quest of a living, because he could not afford
+to provide for him. With some men prudence is a virtue; with Deacon
+Pelatiah Kavanagh it was carried so far as to be a positive defect.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+FRANK'S FIRST DISCOVERY.
+
+
+So far as Frank could observe, Mr. Haynes was an active, energetic
+salesman. He appeared to understand his duties thoroughly, and to go
+about them in a straightforward manner. So far as his personal habits
+were concerned, they seemed irreproachable. He was neatly but plainly
+dressed, wore no jewelry, and carried a plain silver watch, which, when
+new, probably did not cost over twenty dollars.
+
+Frank had no difficulty in ascertaining where he lived. It was in a
+brick house, on Waverley place, very unpretentious and certainly not
+fashionable. In order to find out how much he paid for his
+accommodations Frank visited the house on pretence of being in search of
+board.
+
+"We have a hall bed-room on the third floor, at five dollars a week,
+including board," said the landlady. "How would that suit you?"
+
+"I may have a friend board with me," said Frank. "In that case we should
+need a large room. Have you any vacant?"
+
+"There is the front room on the third floor. We would let it to two
+gentlemen at eleven dollars for the two."
+
+"Isn't the back room cheaper?" inquired our hero.
+
+"Yes; but it is occupied by a business gentleman."
+
+"Can you tell me his name? I may be acquainted with him."
+
+"His name is Haynes."
+
+"How much does he pay?"
+
+"He pays eight dollars a week, and has the room alone."
+
+"I suppose his room is not likely to become vacant soon?"
+
+"Oh, dear, no. He has been with us for several years. We should be sorry
+to lose him. Last Christmas he gave my daughter a present of a nice
+silk-dress pattern."
+
+Frank was struck by this information.
+
+"I don't believe he paid anything for the silk," thought he. "I wish I
+could find out."
+
+He had learned all he cared for, and left, saying he might call again.
+
+"His expenses seem very moderate for a man in his position," thought
+Frank. "I wonder if he makes any investments."
+
+Fortune favored our hero in the prosecution of his inquiry. Keeping
+Haynes in sight, as was his custom, he observed that the latter, in
+pulling out a handkerchief from the breast-pocket of his coat, had
+brought with it a letter also. Frank, quickly and unobserved, picked it
+up, and when he was alone looked at the address. It was directed to
+James Haynes, at his residence in Waverley place. On the envelope was
+the printed address of a real-estate broker in Brooklyn.
+
+Frank knew that there was at that time considerable speculation in
+Brooklyn real estate, and he examined the letter. It ran thus:--
+
+     We have found a corner lot, with several lots adjoining, near
+     Prospect Park, which may be obtained for five thousand dollars,
+     half cash. We have no hesitation in recommending the purchase,
+     being convinced, from the tendencies of the market, that the buyer
+     will double his money in a comparatively short time. If you are
+     engaged at other times, come over on Sunday afternoon, and we will
+     show you the property. The house you purchased of us last year is
+     worth fully a thousand dollars more than the price you gave.
+
+"I wonder how much he gave," said Frank to himself.
+
+The letter was signed "Henderson & Co., No. -- Fulton street."
+
+Our hero was elated by the discovery he had made, and he sought an
+interview with Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Have you discovered anything?" asked the merchant, noticing the eager
+look of his young detective.
+
+Without attaching especial importance to the fact, Frank answered, "I
+have found out that Mr. Haynes owns a house in Brooklyn."
+
+"Indeed!" said Hartley, quickly. "But," he continued more slowly, "he
+might buy one with the money saved from his salary."
+
+"He is also thinking of buying some lots near Prospect Park."
+
+"How did you learn this?" asked the merchant, surprised.
+
+"I would rather not tell you," said Frank, who was not quite sure
+whether Mr. Hartley would sanction his examination of a private letter.
+"You may be sure that it is true."
+
+"Very well; I will rest contented with that assurance. I will leave you
+to work in your own way. Your information is important, for it seems to
+show that Mr. Haynes has made investments beyond his ability, if he were
+dependent upon his savings alone."
+
+"That is what I thought," said Frank. "I must try to find out where he
+gets this extra money."
+
+"If you do that, and prove my suspicions correct, I will make you a
+handsome present, besides paying the company regular rates for your
+services."
+
+"Thank you, sir. I will try to earn your gifts."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+FOLLOWING UP A CLUE.
+
+
+This is not a detective story, and I shall not, therefore, detail the
+steps by which our young hero succeeded in tracing out the agency of
+Haynes in defrauding the firm by which he was employed. It required not
+one week, but three, to follow out his clues, and qualify himself to
+make a clear and intelligible report to Mr. Hartley. He had expressly
+requested the merchant not to require any partial report, as it might
+interfere with his working unobserved. Towards the end of the third week
+he asked an interview with Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Well, Frank," said the merchant, familiarly, "who is the rogue?"
+
+"Mr. Haynes," answered our hero.
+
+"You speak confidently," said his employer; "but surmise will not do. I
+want proof, or I cannot act."
+
+"I will tell you what I have discovered," said Frank; "and I leave you
+to judge for yourself."
+
+"Have you a customer in Hartford named Davis?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; and a very good customer. He is frequent in his orders, and makes
+prompt payments. I wish I had more like him."
+
+"If you had more like him you would soon be bankrupt," said Frank,
+quietly.
+
+"What do you mean?" asked Mr. Hartley, in genuine surprise. "How can a
+customer who buys largely, and pays promptly, be undesirable?"
+
+"Did you know that Mr. Davis is a brother-in-law of Mr. Haynes?"
+
+"No; but even if he is I have to thank Mr. Haynes for securing me so
+excellent a customer."
+
+Hartley spoke confidently, evidently believing that Frank was on the
+wrong tack.
+
+"I have noticed," said Frank, "that when goods are packed to go to Mr.
+Davis, Mr. Haynes personally superintends the packing, and employs one
+particular man to pack."
+
+"What then?"
+
+"I think he has something to conceal."
+
+"I don't understand what he can have to conceal. If Davis is his
+brother-in-law, it is natural that he should feel a special interest in
+filling his orders."
+
+"I shouldn't wonder if Mr. Haynes were a partner as well as a
+brother-in-law of Mr. Davis."
+
+Mr. Hartley looked surprised.
+
+"That may be true; though I don't know why you should conjecture it.
+Admitting that you are right, I don't know that I have any right to
+object. I should like it better, however, if I were frankly told by Mr.
+Haynes of this circumstance."
+
+"I will tell you what I think I have discovered," continued Frank. "The
+cases that are shipped to Mr. Davis not only contain the goods he has
+ordered, but valuable silks that he has not ordered, and does not
+propose to pay for."
+
+"I see, I see," exclaimed Mr. Hartley, a light dawning upon him for the
+first time. "I was stupid not to comprehend your meaning earlier. What
+warrant have you for suspecting this?"
+
+"First, your steady losses of goods; next, the ease with which Mr.
+Haynes, in his position of trust, could carry out this plan. Why should
+he superintend the packing of Mr. Davis's goods, alone of all your
+customers?"
+
+"There is weight in what you say, Frank. You are certainly an
+extraordinary boy. You have shown so much shrewdness that I now ask your
+advice. What steps shall I take to ascertain whether Mr. Haynes is
+really guilty of what we suspect him?"
+
+"There is an order now being filled for Mr. Davis," answered Frank.
+"When the order is filled, can't you open the case, and find out whether
+the contents correspond exactly to the bill?"
+
+"The very thing. To facilitate matters I will send Mr. Haynes to
+Brooklyn on a confidential errand. Fortunately there is a matter that
+will give me a good excuse for doing so. Go back to your post, and when
+Mr. Haynes appears to be at liberty send him to me."
+
+Half an hour later Mr. Haynes entered the counting room of his
+employer.
+
+"You sent for me, sir?" he said, a little uneasily; for, when conscience
+accuses, the mind is always apprehensive.
+
+"Yes, Mr. Haynes," said the merchant, in his usual tone. "Have you any
+objection to go to Brooklyn for me, on a confidential errand?"
+
+"None in the world, sir," said Haynes, relieved. "I shall be glad to
+take the trip this fine morning. It is almost too pleasant to remain
+in-doors."
+
+"Thank you; I will give you your instructions, and shall be glad to have
+you go at once."
+
+It is not necessary to our story that we should know the nature of the
+errand on which Haynes was sent. It served the purpose of getting him
+out of the way.
+
+When the suspected clerk was fairly on his way Mr. Hartley went to the
+packing-room, and looked about him till he discovered the case addressed
+to
+
+    H. L. DAVIS & CO.,
+    HARTFORD, CONN.
+
+"Open this case," said he to one of the workmen. "There was a mistake
+recently in sending some goods to Davis, and I wish to compare these
+with the bill."
+
+"I think they are all right, sir," said the man addressed. "Mr. Haynes
+saw them packed."
+
+"Mr. Haynes will not be responsible for any mistake," said Mr. Hartley.
+"I would rather see for myself."
+
+The case was opened, and the merchant discovered about two hundred
+dollars' worth of silk, which was not included in the bill.
+
+"Go and call Mr. Hunting," said Mr. Hartley, quietly.
+
+Mr. Hunting filled one of the most important positions in the
+establishment. To him his employer explained the nature of his
+discovery.
+
+"Mr. Hunting," he said, "I wish you to see and attest the fraud that has
+been attempted upon me. This case was packed under the special charge of
+Mr. Haynes."
+
+"Is it possible that Mr. Haynes knew of this?" exclaimed his
+fellow-clerk.
+
+"Davis is his brother-in-law," said Mr. Hartley, significantly.
+
+"Has this been going on long, do you think, sir?"
+
+"For several years, I suspect. Mr. Haynes has, no doubt, found it very
+profitable."
+
+"Shall I close up the case again, sir?" asked the workman.
+
+"Yes, but it is not to go. You may await my further orders."
+
+The silk was taken out, and replaced in the silk department.
+
+"So much has been saved, at least," said the merchant.
+
+"When Mr. Haynes comes back," he said to the usher, "send him to me."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+BROUGHT TO BAY.
+
+
+Mr. Haynes had a private reason for accepting readily the commission to
+visit Brooklyn. It occurred to him at once that it would give him an
+excellent chance to call on his real-estate agent, and confer with him
+upon future investments. For James Haynes had the comfortable
+consciousness that he was a prosperous man. Month by month, and year by
+year, he was adding largely to his gains, and while he was still a young
+man he would be rich, _if all went well_.
+
+Of course this meant if his peculations remained undiscovered. Why
+should they not be? He plumed himself on the skill with which he managed
+to rob his employer. He was no vulgar bungler to break into the store,
+or enter into an alliance with burglars. Not he! The property he took
+was carried off openly before Mr. Hartley's very eyes, and he knew
+nothing of it. He did not even suspect that he was being robbed. This is
+what Mr. Haynes thought; but, as we know, he was mistaken. Even now he
+was in a net; but did not know it.
+
+After attending to Mr. Hartley's commission Haynes went to see his
+broker. The conversation he had with the broker was of a very
+encouraging character. He was congratulated upon his investments, and
+assured that they would pay him handsomely.
+
+James Haynes returned from Brooklyn in a very pleasant mood.
+
+"A year or two more of life as a clerk, and I will throw off the yoke,"
+he said to himself. "I must be worth at least fifteen thousand dollars
+now, apart from any rise in the value of my investments. When I reach
+twenty-five thousand I will resign my position, and go to Europe. I
+shall than possess an income adequate to my simple wants."
+
+"Is Mr. Hartley in the counting-room?" he asked, as he reentered the
+store.
+
+"Yes, sir, and he wishes to see you."
+
+"Of course he wants to see me,--to hear my report."
+
+The merchant looked up as Haynes entered the counting-room.
+
+"So you are back?" he said, gravely.
+
+"Yes, sir; I was detained a little, but I fulfilled my commission."
+
+"That is well."
+
+Here Haynes made his report. Mr. Hartley listened with an abstracted
+air, for his thoughts were upon the defalcation of the man before him.
+
+Finishing his statement, James Haynes turned to leave the office, but
+his employer called him back.
+
+"Wait a minute, Mr. Haynes," he said, gravely. "I wish to ask you one or
+two questions."
+
+"Certainly, sir."
+
+"I believe we have transactions with a party in Hartford, with the
+firm-name of H. L. Davis & Co.?"
+
+"Yes, sir," said Haynes, starting and flushing a little.
+
+"Is Mr. Davis a relative of yours?"
+
+"Yes, sir. I wonder where he heard that?" Haynes asked himself. "Is
+there any trouble? Is he behind in his payments?" inquired the clerk.
+
+"No; he has always settled his bills with commendable promptness."
+
+"I insisted on that," said Haynes, in a satisfied tone. "I didn't want
+you to lose by any connection of mine."
+
+"And you are quite sure that I have lost nothing by Mr. Davis?" demanded
+the merchant, regarding Haynes intently.
+
+The latter changed color.
+
+"How is that possible," he inquired, "since he has met his payments
+promptly?"
+
+"You have personally seen to the packing of Mr. Davis's goods, I
+believe, Mr. Haynes?"
+
+"Well--generally," stammered the rather disconcerted clerk.
+
+"At all events, you did so this morning?"
+
+"Ye-es."
+
+"After you started for Brooklyn, I had the case opened, and found some
+patterns of silk not included in the bill."
+
+"I suppose there was a mistake," said Haynes, turning pale.
+
+"You think this has not happened before?"
+
+"I am sure of it."
+
+"Mr. Haynes," said his employer, sternly, "you may as well drop the mask
+of innocence. I have been robbed systematically for the last three
+years, and I now understand how it was done. You and Davis, between you,
+have plundered me in an exceedingly ingenious manner. It will go hard
+with you before a jury."
+
+"You won't have me arrested!" exclaimed Haynes, his pallor indicating
+his dismay.
+
+"Why should I not?"
+
+"You could prove nothing."
+
+"I will take my chance of that. Have you nothing more to say?"
+
+"I--though I do not admit that your charge is correct--I am willing to
+make over to you the greater part of my property, to avoid the scandal
+of a trial."
+
+"That will not do, Mr. Haynes. Were I to accept this upon such a ground,
+you could rightfully bring against me a charge of blackmail."
+
+"What, then, are your terms?" asked Haynes, sullenly.
+
+"You must write out a confession of your guilt, which I shall put among
+my private papers, and not make public unless necessary, and in addition
+you must make over to me property to the amount of ten thousand dollars.
+It will not make up my losses, but I will accept it as restitution in
+full."
+
+Against this James Haynes most strongly protested, alleging that the sum
+demanded was far beyond the amount of his purloinings; but finally he
+yielded, being privately resolved to make his brother-in-law pay
+one-half of the forfeiture.
+
+"You will leave my service at the end of the week, Mr. Haynes," said his
+employer, "and during next week you must attend to the transfer."
+
+"How did he find out?" said Haynes to himself, as with grave face he
+went about the duties of the place he was so soon to leave. "If I could
+find out, I would have my revenge."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+AN OPEN ENEMY.
+
+
+Frank remained with Mr. Hartley till the guilty clerk left the
+establishment. This was at the special request of the merchant, who did
+not care to let Mr. Haynes suspect who had been instrumental in bringing
+his guilt to light.
+
+"I suppose you have no further use for me, now, Mr. Hartley?" said the
+telegraph boy.
+
+"Not at present, Frank," said his employer, kindly.
+
+"Then I will report for duty at the telegraph office."
+
+"Wait a moment. You have done me a great service."
+
+"I am glad of that sir," answered Frank, modestly.
+
+"You have shown uncommon shrewdness and intelligence."
+
+Frank looked gratified, and expressed his thanks for the compliment.
+
+"I want to make you a present, in addition to the wages which you
+receive from the office," said Mr. Hartley.
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+Mr. Hartley drew from his desk a five-twenty government bond, of one
+hundred dollars, and handed it to our hero.
+
+"Do you mean all this for me?" asked Frank, quite overwhelmed by the
+magnitude of the gift.
+
+"It is not more than you deserve. I might have given you the money value
+of the bond; but I give it to you in this shape, because I hope you will
+keep it as an investment. It will yield you six dollars interest
+annually in gold. I hope the time will come when you will have more
+interest in the same way."
+
+"I hope I shall, sir. I shall feel quite rich now."
+
+"You are richer in the qualities which have won you this acknowledgment.
+How do you like the telegraph service?"
+
+"Very well, sir, for the present. It is much better than being a
+newsboy."
+
+"Exactly; but there are positions you would prefer?"
+
+"Yes, sir; I would like to be in some mercantile business, where I might
+work my way up. In a few years I shall be too old for a telegraph boy,
+and then I shall be out of place."
+
+"I will relieve your fears on that score. In six months I shall make
+some changes in the list of employees. When that time comes I will find
+a place for you."
+
+"There is nothing I should like better, sir," said Frank, his face
+flushing with pleasure.
+
+"I am satisfied that you will make a useful and intelligent clerk. Until
+I want you, remain where you are. The discipline of your present office
+will do you no harm, but will help qualify you for usefulness and
+success in the mercantile career."
+
+"Thank you, sir. Now I have something to look forward to I shall work
+much more cheerfully."
+
+Frank went back to the office, and resumed his ordinary duties. One day
+he was riding down Broadway in a stage, when he became sensible that he
+had attracted the attention of a gentleman sitting opposite. This led
+him to scan the face of the man who was observing him. He at once
+recognized Mr. Haynes.
+
+The stage was not full, and the latter came over, and took a seat next
+to the telegraph boy.
+
+"Isn't your name Frank Kavanagh?" he asked, abruptly.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Were you not for a short time in the employ of Mr. Hartley?"
+
+"Yes," answered Frank, feeling embarrassed, for he knew that he was
+suspected.
+
+"I infer from your uniform that you have left Mr. Hartley."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Why did you leave him?" asked Haynes, sharply.
+
+"Because he had no further occasion for my services. Why did _you_
+leave him?" asked Frank, in turn.
+
+James Haynes colored, and looked angry. However, he answered the
+question.
+
+"I have other business views," he said, briefly.
+
+"So have I."
+
+The next question was also of an embarrassing character.
+
+"Were you a telegraph boy before you entered Mr. Hartley's employ?"
+
+"I was," answered Frank.
+
+"Were you detailed for duty there?"
+
+Our hero thought that he had answered questions enough by this time, and
+signified as much to his questioner.
+
+"If I had been," he said, "I shouldn't be permitted to inform a
+stranger."
+
+"I have particular reasons for asking the question," said Haynes.
+
+"Then you can ask Mr. Hartley, or the superintendent of my office.
+Good-morning, sir, I get out here."
+
+Frank pulled the strap, and got out. But he was not rid of his
+questioner. Haynes got out too, and walked beside our hero.
+
+"I believe," he said, sternly, "that you were sent for to act as a spy
+on me."
+
+"What makes you think so?" asked the telegraph boy, looking him in the
+eye.
+
+"There was a difficulty between Mr. Hartley and myself, occasioned by a
+base and groundless charge, concocted by some enemy. I believe that you
+had something to do with this."
+
+"I have brought no groundless charge against any one," said Frank.
+
+"Did you make any report to Mr. Hartley in regard to me?"
+
+"I must refer you to Mr. Hartley for information," said Frank. "I have
+an errand in here;" and he entered a store in the lower part of
+Broadway.
+
+"There is no doubt about it," thought Haynes.
+
+"That boy was a spy upon me. I have learned all I cared to. I owe you a
+debt of gratitude for this, Frank Kavanagh, and mean to pay the debt."
+
+When Frank came out he thought it possible that Haynes might be waiting
+for him; but the disgraced clerk was gone.
+
+"I suppose he would injure me if he had a chance," thought the telegraph
+boy. "I won't give him the chance if I can help it."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+WHAT THE OLD TRUNK CONTAINED.
+
+
+Mention has been made of an old trunk belonging to Frank's father,
+which, had been forwarded to him from the country by his Uncle Pelatiah.
+It may be mentioned here that our hero's father had been agent of a
+woollen mill in a large manufacturing town. For a considerable number of
+years he had been in receipt of a handsome salary, and had lived in good
+style, but still within his income. He was naturally supposed to possess
+a comfortable property.
+
+His death was sudden. He was thrown from a carriage, and, striking his
+head upon the curbstone, was picked up senseless, and died unconscious.
+Upon examining into his affairs his administrator was unable to find any
+property beyond what was needed to pay the few debts he left behind him.
+So it came about that Frank was left a penniless orphan. His Uncle
+Pelatiah was his nearest relative, and to him he was sent. Pelatiah
+Kavanagh was not a bad man, nor was he intentionally unkind; but he was
+very close. All his life he had denied himself, to save money; and in
+this he had been ably assisted by his wife, who was even closer and
+meaner than her husband. It may readily be supposed that it was very
+disagreeable to both husband and wife to have a penniless nephew thrown
+upon their care and protection.
+
+"How could your brother be so thoughtless and inconsiderate as to use up
+all his money, and leave his son destitute? Didn't he have a handsome
+income?"
+
+"Yes," said Pelatiah. "He got two thousand dollars a year, and maybe
+more."
+
+"You don't say so!" ejaculated his wife. "He'd ought to have saved
+two-thirds of it. I declare it's scandalous for a man to waste his
+substance in that way."
+
+"My brother was allus free with his money. He wasn't so keerful as you
+and I be."
+
+"I should think not, indeed. We don't begin to spend half as much as he
+did, and now he comes upon us to support his child."
+
+"It don't seem right," said Pelatiah.
+
+"Right? It's outrageous!" exclaimed Mrs. Kavanagh, energetically. "I
+declare I have no patience with such a man. It would only be right to
+send this boy Frank to the poor-house."
+
+"The neighbors would talk," protested Pelatiah, who was half inclined to
+accept his wife's view, but was more sensitive to the criticism of the
+community in which he lived.
+
+"Let 'em talk!" said his more independent helpmate. "It isn't right that
+this boy should use up the property that we have scraped together for
+his cousin Jonathan."
+
+"We must keep him for a while, Hannah; but I'll get rid of him as soon I
+can consistently."
+
+With this Mrs. Kavanagh had to be satisfied; but, during her nephew's
+stay of two months in the farm-house, she contrived to make him
+uncomfortable by harsh criticisms of his dead father, whom he had
+tenderly loved.
+
+"You must have lived very extravagant," she said, "or your father would
+have left a handsome property."
+
+"I don't think we did, Aunt Hannah."
+
+"You father kept a carriage,--didn't he?"
+
+"Yes; he had considerable riding to do."
+
+"How much help did he keep?"
+
+"Only one servant in the kitchen, and a stable-boy."
+
+"There was no need of a boy. You could have done the work in the
+stable."
+
+"I was kept at school."
+
+"Oh, of course!" sneered his aunt. "You must be brought up as a young
+gentleman. Our Jonathan never had any such chances, and now you're
+livin' on him, or about the same. I suppose you kept an extravagant
+table too. What did you generally have for breakfast?"
+
+So Aunt Hannah continued her catechising, much to Frank's discomfort.
+She commented severely upon the wastefulness of always having pastry for
+dinner.
+
+"We can't afford it," she said, emphatically; "but then again we don't
+mean to have our Jonathan beholden to anybody in case your uncle and I
+are cast off sudden. What did you have for dinner on Sunday?"
+
+"Meat and pudding and ice-cream,--that is, in warm weather."
+
+"Ice-cream!" ejaculated Aunt Hannah, holding up both hands. "No wonder
+your father didn't leave nothin'. Why, we don't have ice-cream more'n
+once a year, and now we can't afford to have it at all, since we've got
+another mouth to feed."
+
+"I am sorry that you have to stint yourself on my account," replied
+Frank, feeling rather uncomfortable.
+
+"I suppose it's our cross," said Mrs. Kavanagh, gloomily; "but it does
+seem hard that we can't profit by our prudence because of your father's
+wasteful extravagance."
+
+Such remarks were very disagreeable to our young hero, and it was hard
+for him to hear his father so criticised. He supposed they must have
+lived extravagantly, since it was so constantly charged by those about
+him, and he felt puzzled to account for his father's leaving nothing.
+When, after two months, his uncle and aunt, who had deliberated upon
+what was best to be done, proposed to him to go to New York and try to
+earn his own living, he caught at the idea. He knew that he might suffer
+hardships in the new life that awaited him, but if he could support
+himself in any way he would escape from the cruel taunts to which he was
+now forced to listen every day. How he reached the city, and how he
+succeeded, my readers know. We now come to the trunk, which, some time
+after its reception, Frank set about examining.
+
+He found it was filled with clothing belonging to his father. Though a
+part were in good condition it seemed doubtful whether they would be of
+much service to him. It occurred to him to examine the pockets of the
+coats. In one he found a common yellow envelope, bearing his father's
+name. Opening it, he found, to his great astonishment, that it was a
+certificate of railroad stock, setting forth his father's ownership of
+one hundred shares of the capital stock of the said railway.
+
+Our hero was greatly excited by his discovery. This, then, was the form
+in which his father had invested his savings. What the shares were worth
+he had no idea; but he rejoiced chiefly because now he could defend his
+father from the charge of recklessly spending his entire income, and
+saving nothing. He resolved, as soon as he could find time, to visit a
+Wall-street broker, by whom he had occasionally been employed, and
+inquire the value of the stock. Two days afterwards the opportunity
+came, and he availed himself of it at once.
+
+"Can you tell me the value of these shares, Mr. Glynn?" he asked.
+
+"They are quoted to-day at one hundred and ten," answered the broker,
+referring to a list of the day's stock quotations.
+
+"Do you mean that each share is worth a hundred and ten dollars?" asked
+Frank, in excitement.
+
+"Certainly."
+
+"Then the whole are worth five thousand five hundred dollars?"
+
+"Rather more; for the last semi-annual dividend has not been collected.
+To whom do they belong?"
+
+"They did belong to my father. Now I suppose they are mine."
+
+"Has your father's estate been administered upon?"
+
+"Yes; but these shares had not then been found."
+
+"Then some legal steps will be necessary before you can take possession,
+and dispose of them. I will give you the address of a good lawyer, and
+advise you to consult him at once."
+
+Frank did so, and the lawyer wrote to Uncle Pelatiah to acquaint him
+with the discovery. The news created great excitement at the farm.
+
+"Why, Frank's a rich boy!" ejaculated Aunt Hannah.
+
+"And my brother wasn't so foolishly extravagant as we supposed."
+
+"That may be; but with his salary we could have saved more."
+
+"Perhaps we might; but these shares are worth almost six thousand
+dollars. That's a good deal of money, Hannah."
+
+"So it is, Pelatiah. I'll tell you what we'd better do."
+
+"What?"
+
+"Invite Frank to come back and board with us. He can afford to pay
+handsome board, and it seems better that the money should go to us than
+a stranger."
+
+"Just so, Hannah. He could board with us, and go to school."
+
+"You'd better write and invite him to come. I allus liked the boy, and
+if we could have afforded it, I'd have been in favor of keepin' him for
+nothing."
+
+"So would I," said his uncle; and he probably believed it, though after
+what had happened it will be rather difficult for the reader to credit
+it.
+
+The letter was written, but Frank had no desire to return to the old
+farm, and the society of his uncle's family.
+
+"I have got used to the city," he wrote, "and have made a good many
+friends here. I don't know yet whether I shall take a business position,
+or go to school; but, if the latter, the schools here are better than in
+the country. I hope to come and see you before long; but, I would prefer
+to live in New York."
+
+"He's gettin' uppish," said Aunt Hannah, who was considerably
+disappointed, for she had made up her mind just how much they could
+venture to charge for board, and how this would increase their annual
+savings.
+
+"I suppose it's natural for a boy to prefer the city," said his uncle.
+
+"If the boy has a chance to handle his money there won't be much of it
+left by the time he's twenty-one," said Aunt Hannah. "You ought to be
+his guardian."
+
+"He has the right to choose his own guardian," said Uncle Pelatiah.
+"He'll take some city man likely."
+
+Frank did, in fact, select the lawyer, having learned that he was a man
+of high reputation for integrity. He offered it to Mr. Bowen; but that
+gentleman, while congratulating his young friend upon his greatly
+improved prospects, said that he was a man of books rather than of
+business, and would prefer that some other person be selected.
+
+The next thing was to resign his place as telegraph boy.
+
+"We are sorry to lose you," said the superintendent. "Your are one of
+our best boys. Do you wish to go at once?"
+
+"No, sir; I will stay till the end of the month."
+
+"Very well. We shall be glad to have you."
+
+Three weeks yet remained till the close of the month. It was not long,
+but before the time had passed Frank found himself in a very unpleasant
+predicament, from no fault of his own, but in consequence of the enmity
+of the clerk whom he had been instrumental in displacing.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+A TRAP, AND WHO FELL INTO IT.
+
+
+No one rejoiced more sincerely at Frank's good luck than Mrs. Vivian.
+Her interest in our hero had increased, and while at first she regarded
+herself as his patroness she had come now to look upon him as a member
+of the family. Fred had already returned, and Frank, bearing in mind
+that he had only been invited to remain during his absence, proposed to
+find another home, but Mrs. Vivian would not hear of it.
+
+"No," she said, "Fred needs a young companion, and I prefer you to any
+one I know of."
+
+As Fred was of his mother's opinion, Frank readily agreed to stay. He
+occupied a room adjoining the one assigned to Fred, and during his hours
+of leisure the two were constantly together.
+
+"I shall be glad when you leave the telegraph office," said Fred. "Then
+we can be together more."
+
+"You may get tired of me."
+
+"If I do I will let you know."
+
+Two days afterwards Frank was riding down town in a Sixth-avenue car.
+Until he had taken his seat he was not aware that James Haynes was a
+passenger. When a lady who sat between them got out, Haynes moved up, so
+as to sit next to our hero.
+
+"I see you are still in the telegraph service," he said.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Frank, briefly.
+
+"I wonder Mr. Hartley didn't offer you a permanent position in his
+employ," said Haynes, with a sneer. "Spies are useful sometimes."
+
+"He may give me a position sometime," said Frank, not regarding the
+sneer.
+
+"You earned it," said Haynes, unpleasantly.
+
+"Thank you," said Frank, knowing that Haynes would be provoked by his
+appearing to accept the compliment in good faith.
+
+Haynes scowled, but said no more. He drew a morning paper from his
+pocket, and appeared to be absorbed in reading it.
+
+At Canal street Frank rose to leave the car. He had not yet reached the
+door, when Haynes sprang to his feet, followed him quickly, and,
+grasping him by the arm, said, "Not so fast young man! Give me back my
+pocket-book."
+
+Frank was struck with amazement.
+
+"What do you mean?" he asked, indignantly.
+
+"I mean that you have relieved me of my pocket-book. Gentlemen," turning
+to his fellow-passengers, "I demand that this boy be searched."
+
+"You can search me if you like," said Frank. "You know very well that
+your accusation is false."
+
+"I shall be satisfied if you produce what is in your pockets."
+
+"That's fair," said a passenger.
+
+Our hero thrust his hand into his pocket. To his dismay he drew out a
+Russia-leather pocket-book, of which he knew nothing.
+
+"That is my pocket-book, gentlemen," said Haynes, triumphantly. "I can
+tell you exactly what is in it. You will find two five-dollar bills, a
+two and a one. Be kind enough to examine it, sir."
+
+The pocket-book was examined, and, of course, Haynes was correct.
+
+Suspicious glances were directed at poor Frank. Innocent as he was, he
+was so overwhelmed by the suddenness of the charge, and the apparent
+proof of it, that he looked confused and embarrassed.
+
+"You are beginning early, my boy," said a tall gentleman, in a white
+cravat,--a clergyman. "It is well that you are checked in the beginning
+of a guilty career."
+
+"Sir," said Frank, "I am as innocent as you are. This man is my enemy,
+and he must have put the pocket-book in my pocket. He threatened some
+time since to get me into a scrape."
+
+"That story is rather too thin," said Haynes, looking around him with a
+sneer. "You won't find any one here quite verdant enough to believe
+it."
+
+"There you are mistaken," said a gentleman who was seated directly
+opposite to Haynes and Frank. "_I_ believe it."
+
+Haynes scowled at him malignantly.
+
+"I really don't think it very important what you believe, sir. The boy
+is evidently a professional thief, and you may belong to the same gang
+for aught I know. I propose to give him in charge to the next policeman
+we meet."
+
+"Do so," said the stranger, coolly. "I shall be present at his trial,
+and offer some important testimony."
+
+"Indeed!" said Haynes, uneasily. "May I ask what it is?"
+
+"Certainly. _I saw you thrust the wallet into the boy's pocket!_ Of that
+I am willing to make oath."
+
+James Haynes turned pale. There was a sudden change in public opinion.
+It was he who now had become an object of suspicion.
+
+"Young man," said the clergyman, solemnly, "what could have induced you
+to enter into such a wicked conspiracy against the poor boy?"
+
+"Mind your own business!" said Haynes, rudely. "It is a lie."
+
+"It is the truth," said the volunteer witness, calmly.
+
+Here a policeman became visible from the car-window, leisurely walking
+his beat on the western sidewalk.
+
+"There's a policeman," said Frank's new friend. "Call him, and have the
+boy arrested."
+
+"He would be cleared by false testimony," said Haynes, sullenly. "I have
+my money back, and will let him go."
+
+"Then," said the stranger, rising, and displaying the badge of a
+detective, "I shall arrest you on a charge of conspiracy."
+
+Haynes was fairly caught in his own trap.
+
+"This is a put-up job, gentlemen," he said. "Am I to be robbed first,
+and arrested afterwards for exposing the thief?"
+
+He looked about him appealingly; but in vain. Public sentiment was
+wholly against him now.
+
+"O you ould villain!" said a stout Irish woman, "to try to ruin the
+poor b'ye. Hangin's too good for you."
+
+This was rather an extreme sentiment; but Haynes saw that he was in
+peril. He gave an unexpected spring, and, reaching the platform, sprang
+out, running up a side street.
+
+"Do you know him?" asked the detective of Frank.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"How do you account for his hostility to you?"
+
+Frank briefly recounted the story already known to the reader.
+
+"He can easily be found then."
+
+"I hope you will not arrest him, sir," said Frank. "He has been pretty
+well punished already, and I don't think he will trouble me again."
+
+"If he does, send for me," and the detective handed Frank his card and
+address.
+
+"It is fortunate for me," said the telegraph boy, "that you saw him put
+the money in my pocket."
+
+"You would have experienced some inconvenience; but the story you have
+told me would have cleared you with the jury."
+
+"My young friend," said the clergyman, "I owe you an apology. I too
+hastily assumed that you were guilty."
+
+"It looked like it, sir. You were quite justified in what you said. Mr.
+Haynes did not appear to relish your remarks to him," added Frank,
+laughing.
+
+"His crime was greater and meaner than the one charged upon you. To
+steal is certainly a grave offence,--yet sometimes it is prompted by
+necessity; but a deliberate attempt to fasten a false charge upon a
+fellow-creature is vastly more atrocious."
+
+"So it is, sir," said the old Irish woman, nodding assent vigorously. "I
+quite agree wid your honor. It is owtracious."
+
+The passengers smiled at the old woman's mistake; but it was clear that
+they agreed with her in sentiment.
+
+Meanwhile the car had been speeding along, and was near its terminus.
+Frank bethought himself that he had been carried considerably beyond
+his destination.
+
+He pulled the bell, and, as he got out, he said, "Thank you all for
+taking my part."
+
+"We don't quite deserve that," said one of the passengers, after Frank
+had left the car. "I was at first of opinion that the boy was guilty."
+
+"We have been saved from doing a great injustice," said the clergyman.
+"It should be a lesson to all of us not to be too hasty in our
+judgments."
+
+James Haynes in his hurried exit from the car fully believed that he
+would be pursued and arrested. He was relieved to find his fears
+groundless. But he was disappointed at the failure of his scheme. He had
+carefully prepared it, and for several days he had been in readiness to
+carry it into execution whenever he should meet Frank. This morning had
+brought the opportunity; but it had miscarried.
+
+"But for that cursed detective I would have carried the thing through,"
+he muttered. "He spoiled all. I _hate_ that boy!"
+
+But, though revengeful, Haynes was prudent. He gave up the thought of
+injuring Frank because he saw that it would be dangerous to himself. He
+did not remain long in New York, but soon joined his confederate in
+Hartford.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+FRANK BECOMES A GOOD SAMARITAN.
+
+
+The close of the month came, and Frank laid aside his uniform. He was a
+telegraph boy no more.
+
+The superintendent shook hands with him cordially, and bade him good-by.
+
+"Come and see us sometimes," he said. "I wish you all success. Your
+services have been very satisfactory, and you have gained an excellent
+reputation."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Frank. "I have tried to do my duty. Good-by,
+boys!"
+
+He shook hands with all his young comrades, with whom he was very
+popular. They knew of his good fortune, and were disposed to regard him
+as very rich. Six thousand dollars in a boy's eyes is a fortune.
+
+"Now you're rich, Frank, I suppose you won't notice the likes of us,"
+said Johnny O'Connor.
+
+"I hope you don't think as badly of me as that, Johnny," said Frank,
+earnestly. "I am not rich; but, even if I were, I should always be glad
+to meet any of you. If I am ever able to do a favor to any of you I
+will."
+
+"I believe you, Frank," said Johnny. "You was always a good feller."
+
+"Where's Tom Brady?" asked Frank, looking about him. "Is he out on an
+errand?"
+
+"Tom's sick," said the superintendent. "He's got a fever."
+
+"It's bad for him," said Johnny, "for his mother and sister depended on
+Tom's wages. Poor Tom felt bad because he had to give up work."
+
+"Where does he live?" asked Frank, with quick sympathy.
+
+"No. -- East Fourteenth street," answered Johnny. "I know, because I
+live in the same block."
+
+"I'll go and see him."
+
+Frank's heart was not hardened by his own prosperity. He knew what it
+was to be poor, and could enter into the feelings of the unfortunate
+telegraph boy.
+
+Half an hour found him in front of a large tenement-house, in front of
+which were playing children of all ages, most of them showing in their
+faces that unhealthy pallor which so generally marks a tenement-house
+population.
+
+"Do you know where Mrs. Brady lives?" asked Frank of a girl of twelve.
+
+"Which Brady is it?" asked the girl. "There's three lives here."
+
+"It's Tom Brady's mother," answered our hero.
+
+"Is it Tom, the telegraph boy?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I'll show you then. Tom's been sick for some time."
+
+"I know it. I have come to see him."
+
+"Do you know Tom?" asked the girl, in some surprise; for Frank, having
+laid aside his uniform, was handsomely dressed, and looked like the son
+of a rich man.
+
+"Yes, Tom is a friend of mine. I am sorry he's sick."
+
+Up two flights of rickety stairs Frank followed the girl, who halted
+before a door.
+
+"That's the place," said his young guide, and disappeared down the
+stairs, sliding down the banisters. Young ladies in the best society do
+not often indulge in this amusement, but Mary Murphy knew little of
+etiquette or conventionality.
+
+In answer to Frank's knock, the door was opened by Mrs. Brady, a poorly
+clad and care-worn woman.
+
+"What is your wish, young gentleman?" she said.
+
+"I've come to see Tom. How is he?"
+
+"Do you know my Tom?" asked Mrs. Brady, in surprise.
+
+"Yes; is he very sick?"
+
+"The poor boy has got a fever."
+
+"Can I see him?"
+
+"If you'll come into such a poor place, sir. We're very poor, and now
+that Tom's wages is stopped I don't know how we'll get along at all."
+
+"Better than you think, perhaps, Mrs. Brady," said Frank, cheerfully.
+"Why, Tom, what made you get sick?"
+
+He had entered the room, and reached the bed on which the sick boy was
+lying.
+
+Tom looked up in surprise and pleasure.
+
+"Is it you, Frank?" he said. "I'm glad you've come to see me. But how
+did you find me out?"
+
+"Johnny O'Connor told me where you lived. How long have you been sick?"
+
+"Three days. It's rough on a poor boy like me. I ought to be earning
+money for my mother."
+
+"We'll miss Tom's wages badly," said Mrs. Brady; "I can't earn much
+myself, and there's three of us to feed, let alone the rint."
+
+"How did you get off, Frank?" asked Tom.
+
+"I've left the office."
+
+"Was this young gentleman a telegraph boy?" asked Mrs. Brady, in
+surprise.
+
+"Yes," said Tom; "but he's come into a fortune, and now he won't have to
+work."
+
+"I'm sure I'm glad of his good luck, and it's a great condescension for
+a rich young gentleman to come and see my Tom."
+
+"I have come into some money, but not a fortune, Mrs. Brady," said
+Frank; "but it does not make me any better than when I was a poor
+telegraph boy."
+
+Evidently Mrs. Brady was not of this opinion, for she carefully dusted
+with her apron the best chair in the room, and insisted on Frank's
+seating himself in it.
+
+"Have you had a doctor, Mrs. Brady?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"What does he say?"
+
+"He says that Tom will be sick for three or four weeks, and I don't know
+what we'll do without his wages all that time."
+
+"That's what troubles me," said Tom. "I wouldn't mind it so much if I'd
+get my pay reg'lar while I'm sick."
+
+"Then you needn't be troubled, Tom," said Frank, promptly, "for you
+shall get it regularly."
+
+"They won't give it to me," said Tom, incredulously.
+
+"They won't, but I will."
+
+"Do you mean it, Frank?"
+
+"Certainly I do. I will give you a week's pay this morning, and I will
+call every week, and pay you the same."
+
+"Do you hear that, mother?" said Tom, joyfully.
+
+"God bless you, young gentleman, for your kindness to us!" said Mrs.
+Brady, gratefully.
+
+"Oh, it isn't much," said Frank; "I can spare it well enough. I have had
+such good luck myself that I ought to do something for those who need
+it."
+
+"You're a good feller, Frank," said Tom, warmly. "I'll get well quick
+now. If you ever want anybody to fight for you, just call on Tom Brady."
+
+"I generally do my own fighting, Tom," said Frank, laughing, "but I'll
+remember your offer. When you are well, you must come and spend an
+evening with me."
+
+"I'm sure he'll be proud to do the same," said Mrs. Brady.
+
+"I must bid you good-by, now, Tom. Keep a 'stiff upper lip,' and don't
+be down-hearted. We must all be sick sometimes, you know, and you'll
+soon be well."
+
+"I won't be down-hearted now," said Tom, "with my wages comin' in
+reg'lar. Remember me to the boys, Frank."
+
+"I will, Tom."
+
+When Frank reached home he found a large, overgrown boy, with big red
+hands, and clothes of rural cut, who apparently did not know what to do
+with his legs and arms, waiting to see him.
+
+It was his cousin Jonathan.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+A COUNTRY COUSIN.
+
+
+Jonathan was a loose-jointed, heavily built, and awkward boy of
+seventeen, bearing not the slightest resemblance to his cousin Frank.
+Still he was a relation, and our hero was glad to see him.
+
+"How are you, Jonathan?" said Frank, cordially. "I wasn't expecting to
+see you. Are all well at home?"
+
+"They're pooty smart," answered Jonathan. "I thought I'd come down and
+look round a little."
+
+"I shall be glad to show you round. Where would you like to go?--to
+Central Park?"
+
+"I don't care much about it," said the country cousin. "It's only a big
+pasture, dad says. I'd rather go round the streets. Is there any place
+where I can buy a few doughnuts? I feel kinder empty."
+
+"Do you prefer doughnuts to anything else?" asked Frank, with a smile.
+
+"I hear they're cheap,--only a cent apiece," answered Jonathan, "and I
+calc'late five or six will be enough to fill me up."
+
+"You needn't mind the expense, cousin; I shall pay for your dinner."
+
+Jonathan's heavy face lighted up with satisfaction.
+
+"I don't care if you do," he said. "I hear you've got a lot of money
+now, Frank."
+
+"I shall have enough, to make me comfortable, and start me in business."
+
+"I wish I had as much money as you," said Jonathan, longingly.
+
+"You are all right. Some time you will have more than I."
+
+"I don't know about that. Dad keeps me awful close."
+
+"You have all you want, don't you?"
+
+"I've got some money in the bank," said Jonathan, "but I'd like to put
+in more. I never thought you'd have more money than I."
+
+"You used to tell me I ought to go to the poor-house," said Frank,
+smiling.
+
+"That's because you was livin' on dad, you know," explained Jonathan.
+"It wasn't fair to me, because he wouldn't have so much to leave me."
+
+In the country Frank had not found much satisfaction in the company of
+his cousin, who inherited the combined meanness of both parents, and
+appeared to grudge poor Frank every mouthful he ate; but in the sunshine
+of his present prosperity he was disposed to forgive and forget.
+
+Frank led the way to a restaurant not far away, where he allowed his
+cousin to order an ample dinner, which he did without scruple, since he
+was not to pay for it.
+
+"It costs a sight to live in the city," he said, as he looked over the
+bill of fare.
+
+"It costs something in the country, too, Jonathan."
+
+"I wish you'd come and board with dad. He'd take you for five dollars a
+week, and it will cost you more in New York."
+
+"Yes, it will cost me more here."
+
+"Then you'll come, won't you? You'll be company for me."
+
+Frank doubted whether Jonathan would be much company for him.
+
+"You didn't use to think so, Jonathan."
+
+"You couldn't pay your board then."
+
+"Now that I can I prefer to remain in the city. I mean to go to school,
+and get a good education."
+
+"How much do you have to pay for board here?"
+
+"I can't tell what I shall have to pay. At present I am staying with
+friends, and pay nothing."
+
+"Do you think they'd take me for a week the same way?" asked Jonathan,
+eagerly. "I'd like to stay a week first-rate if it didn't cost nothing."
+
+"I shouldn't like to ask them; but some time I will invite you to come
+and pay me a visit of a week; it shall not cost you anything."
+
+"You're a real good feller, Frank," said Jonathan, highly pleased by the
+invitation. "I'll come any time you send for me. It's pretty high
+payin' on the railroad, but I guess I can come."
+
+Frank understood the hint, but did not feel called upon to pay his
+cousin's railway fare in addition to his week's board.
+
+"What do you think of that?" asked Jonathan, presently, displaying a
+huge ring on one of his red fingers.
+
+"Is that something you have bought in the city?" asked Frank.
+
+"Yes," answered his cousin, complacently. "I got it at a bargain."
+
+"Did you buy it in a jewelry store?"
+
+"No; I'll tell you how it was. I was goin' along the street, when I saw
+a well-dressed feller, who looked kinder anxious. He come up to me, and
+he said, 'Do you know any one who wants to buy a splendid gold ring
+cheap?' Then he told me he needed some money right off to buy vittles
+for his family, bein' out of work for a month. He said the ring cost him
+fifteen dollars, and he'd sell it for three. I wasn't goin' to pay no
+such price, and I finally beat him down to a dollar," said Jonathan,
+chuckling. "I guess that's doing pretty well for one day. He said any
+jeweller would pay me six or seven dollars for it."
+
+"Then why didn't he sell it to a jeweller him self, instead of giving it
+to you for a dollar?"
+
+"I never thought of that," said Jonathan, looking puzzled.
+
+"I am afraid it is not so good a bargain as you supposed," said Frank.
+
+Great drops of perspiration came out on Jonathan's brow.
+
+"You don't think it's brass, do you?" he gasped.
+
+"Here is a jewelry store. We can go in and inquire."
+
+They entered the store, and Frank, calling attention to the ring,
+inquired its probable value.
+
+"It might be worth about three cents," said the jeweller, laughing. "I
+hope you didn't give much more for it."
+
+"I gave a dollar," said Jonathan, in a voice which betrayed his
+anguish.
+
+"Of whom did you buy it?"
+
+"Of a man in the street."
+
+"Served you right, then. You should have gone to a regular jewelry
+store."
+
+"The man said it cost him fifteen dollars," said Jonathan, sadly.
+
+"I dare say. He was a professional swindler, no doubt."
+
+"I'd like to give him a lickin'," said Jonathan, wrathfully, as they
+left the store.
+
+"What would you do if you was me?" he asked of his cousin.
+
+"Throw it away."
+
+"I wouldn't do that. Maybe I can sell it up in the country," he said,
+his face brightening up.
+
+"For how much?"
+
+"For what I gave."
+
+"But that would be swindling."
+
+"No, it wouldn't. I have a right to ask as much as I gave. It's real
+handsome if it is brass."
+
+"I don't think that would be quite honest, Jonathan."
+
+"You wouldn't have me lose the dollar, would you? That would be smart."
+
+"I would rather be honest than be smart."
+
+Jonathan dropped the subject, but eventually he sold the ring at home
+for a dollar and a quarter.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+CONCLUSION.
+
+
+After he had accompanied his cousin to the depot, where he took the cars
+for home, Frank met Victor Dupont, on Madison avenue.
+
+"Where's your uniform?" he asked.
+
+"I have taken it off."
+
+"Aint you a telegraph boy any longer?"
+
+"No, I have left the office."
+
+"They turned you off, I suppose," said Victor, with a sneer.
+
+"They would like to have had me stay longer," said Frank, with a smile.
+
+Victor shrugged his shoulders incredulously.
+
+"Are you going back to your old business of selling papers?" he asked.
+
+"I think not."
+
+"What are you going to do for a living?"
+
+"I am much obliged to you for your interest in my affairs, Victor; I
+don't mean to go to work at all at present,--I am going to school."
+
+"How are you going to pay your expenses, then?" asked Victor, in
+surprise.
+
+"I have had some money left me."
+
+"Is that so? How much?"
+
+"Some thousands of dollars,--enough to support me while I am getting an
+education."
+
+"Who left it to you?"
+
+"My father left it, but I have only just received it."
+
+"You are awfully lucky," said Victor, evidently annoyed. "Are you going
+to live with the Vivians?"
+
+"I don't know."
+
+"I shouldn't think you would. It would be imposing upon them."
+
+"Thank you for your kind advice. Won't you take me to board at your
+house?"
+
+"We don't take boarders," said Victor, haughtily.
+
+It so happened that Frank entered himself as a scholar at the school
+where Victor was a student, and was put in the same class. Frank at
+once took a higher place, and in time graduated with the highest honors,
+while Victor came out nearly at the foot.
+
+Frank did remain with the Vivians; they would not hear of his leaving
+them, nor would they permit him to pay any board.
+
+"You are a companion for Fred," said Mrs. Vivian, "and you exert a good
+influence over him. Having your company, he does not wish to seek
+society outside. You must let me look upon you as one of my boys, and
+accept a home with us."
+
+Against this, Frank could urge no objection. He was offered a home far
+more attractive than a boarding-house, which his presence made more
+social and attractive. Having no board to provide for, the income of his
+little property was abundant to supply his other wants, and, when he
+left school, it was unimpaired.
+
+It was a serious question with our hero whether he would continue his
+studies through a collegiate course. He finally decided in the negative,
+and accepted a good position in the mercantile establishment of Mr.
+Hartley. Here he displayed such intelligence and aptitude for business
+that he rose rapidly, and in time acquired an interest in the firm, and
+will in time obtain a junior partnership. It must not be supposed that
+all this came without hard work. It had always been Frank's custom to
+discharge to the utmost of his ability the duties of any position in
+which he was placed. To this special trait of our hero, most of his
+success was owing.
+
+Our hero had the satisfaction of giving a place to his companion in the
+telegraph office, Tom Brady, who was in time able to earn such a salary
+as raised his mother and sister above want. Frank did not forget his old
+street comrade, Dick Rafferty, but gave him a position as porter, Dick's
+education not being sufficient to qualify him for a clerkship. He even
+sought out old Mills, the blind man, to whom he had small reason to feel
+grateful; but found that the old man had suddenly died, leaving behind
+him, to the surprise of every one who knew him, several hundred dollars
+in gold and silver, which were claimed by a sister of the deceased, to
+whom they were most acceptable.
+
+Here end the experiences of the Telegraph Boy. He has been favored above
+most of his class; but the qualities which helped him achieve success
+are within the reach of all. Among the busy little messengers who flit
+about the city, in all directions, there are some, no doubt, who will in
+years to come command a success and prosperity as great as our hero has
+attained. In a republic like our own, the boy who begins at the bottom
+of the ladder may in time reach the highest round.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+HORATIO ALGER, JR.
+
+
+The enormous sales of the books of Horatio Alger, Jr., show the
+greatness of his popularity among the boys, and prove that he is one of
+their most favored writers. I am told that more than half a million
+copies altogether have been sold, and that all the large circulating
+libraries in the country have several complete sets, of which only two
+or three volumes are ever on the shelves at one time. If this is true,
+what thousands and thousands of boys have read and are reading Mr.
+Alger's books! His peculiar style of stories, often imitated but never
+equaled, have taken a hold upon the young people, and, despite their
+similarity, are eagerly read as soon as they appear.
+
+Mr. Alger became famous with the publication of that undying book,
+"Ragged Dick, or Street Life in New York." It was his first book for
+young people, and its success was so great that he immediately devoted
+himself to that kind of writing. It was a new and fertile field for a
+writer then, and Mr. Alger's treatment of it at once caught the fancy of
+the boys. "Ragged Dick" first appeared in 1868, and ever since then it
+has been selling steadily, until now it is estimated that about 200,000
+copies of the series have been sold.--"Pleasant Hours for Boys and
+Girls."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+A writer for boys should have an abundant sympathy with them. He should
+be able to enter into their plans, hopes, and aspirations. He should
+learn to look upon life as they do. Boys object to be written down to. A
+boy's heart opens to the man or writer who understands him.--From
+"Writing Stories for Boys," by Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS ALGER BOOKS.
+
+
+RAGGED DICK SERIES.
+
+    RAGGED DICK.
+    FAME AND FORTUNE.
+    MARK THE MATCH BOY.
+    ROUGH AND READY.
+    BEN THE LUGGAGE BOY.
+    RUFUS AND ROSE.
+
+
+TATTERED TOM SERIES.
+
+    TATTERED TOM.
+    PAUL THE PEDDLER.
+    PHIL THE FIDDLER.
+    SLOW AND SURE.
+
+
+TATTERED TOM SERIES. SECOND SERIES.
+
+    JULIUS.
+    THE YOUNG OUTLAW.
+    SAM'S CHANCE.
+    THE TELEGRAPH BOY.
+
+
+CAMPAIGN SERIES.
+
+    FRANK'S CAMPAIGN.
+    PAUL PRESCOTT'S CHARGE.
+    CHARLIE CODMAN'S CRUISE.
+
+
+LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES. FIRST SERIES.
+
+    LUCK AND PLUCK.
+    SINK OR SWIM.
+    STRONG AND STEADY.
+    STRIVE AND SUCCEED.
+
+
+LUCK AND PLUCK SERIES. SECOND SERIES.
+
+    TRY AND TRUST.
+    BOUND TO RISE.
+    RISEN FROM THE RANKS.
+    HERBERT CARTER'S LEGACY.
+
+
+BRAVE AND BOLD SERIES.
+
+    BRAVE AND BOLD.
+    JACK'S WARD.
+    SHIFTING FOR HIMSELF.
+    WAIT AND HOPE.
+
+
+PACIFIC SERIES.
+
+    THE YOUNG ADVENTURER.
+    THE YOUNG MINER.
+    THE YOUNG EXPLORERS.
+    BEN'S NUGGET.
+
+
+ATLANTIC SERIES.
+
+    THE YOUNG CIRCUS RIDER.
+    DO AND DARE.
+    HECTOR'S INHERITANCE.
+    HELPING HIMSELF.
+
+
+WAY TO SUCCESS SERIES.
+
+    BOB BURTON.
+    THE STORE BOY.
+    LUKE WALTON.
+    STRUGGLING UPWARD.
+
+
+NEW WORLD SERIES.
+
+    DIGGING FOR GOLD.
+    FACING THE WORLD.
+    IN A NEW WORLD.
+
+
+VICTORY SERIES.
+
+    ONLY AN IRISH BOY.
+    ADRIFT IN THE CITY.
+    VICTOR VANE, OR THE YOUNG SECRETARY.
+
+
+FRANK AND FEARLESS SERIES.
+
+    FRANK HUNTER'S PERIL.
+    FRANK AND FEARLESS.
+    THE YOUNG SALESMAN.
+
+
+GOOD FORTUNE LIBRARY.
+
+    WALTER SHERWOOD'S PROBATION.
+    A BOY'S FORTUNE.
+    THE YOUNG BANK MESSENGER.
+
+
+HOW TO RISE LIBRARY.
+
+    JED, THE POORHOUSE BOY.
+    RUPERT'S AMBITION.
+    LESTER'S LUCK.
+
+
+
+
+THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.'S POPULAR JUVENILES: HARRY CASTLEMON BOOKS
+
+
+HOW I CAME TO WRITE MY FIRST BOOK.
+
+When I was sixteen years old I belonged to a composition class. It was
+our custom to go on the recitation seat every day with clean slates, and
+we were allowed ten minutes to write seventy words on any subject the
+teacher thought suited to our capacity. One day he gave out "What a Man
+Would See if He Went to Greenland." My heart was in the matter, and
+before the ten minutes were up I had one side of my slate filled. The
+teacher listened to the reading of our compositions, and when they were
+all over he simply said: "Some of you will make your living by writing
+one of these days." That gave me something to ponder upon. I did not say
+so out loud, but I knew that my composition was as good as the best of
+them. By the way, there was another thing that came in my way just then.
+I was reading at that time one of Mayne Reid's works which I had drawn
+from the library, and I pondered upon it as much as I did upon what the
+teacher said to me. In introducing Swartboy to his readers he made use
+of this expression: "No visible change was observable in Swartboy's
+countenance." Now, it occurred to me that if a man of his education
+could make such a blunder as that and still write a book, I ought to be
+able to do it, too. I went home that very day and began a story, "The
+Old Guide's Narrative," which was sent to the _New York Weekly_, and
+came back, respectfully declined. It was written on both sides of the
+sheets but I didn't know that this was against the rules. Nothing
+abashed, I began another, and receiving some instruction, from a friend
+of mine who was a clerk in a book store, I wrote it on only one side of
+the paper. But mind you, he didn't know what I was doing. Nobody knew
+it; but one day, after a hard Saturday's work--the other boys had been
+out skating on the brick-pond--I shyly broached the subject to my
+mother. I felt the need of some sympathy. She listened in amazement, and
+then said: "Why, do you think you could write a book like that?" That
+settled the matter, and from that day no one knew what I was up to until
+I sent the first four volumes of Gunboat Series to my father. Was it
+work? Well, yes; it was hard work, but each week I had the satisfaction
+of seeing the manuscript grow until the "Young Naturalist" was all
+complete.--_Harry Castlemon in the Writer._
+
+
+GUNBOAT SERIES.
+
+    Frank the Young Naturalist.
+    Frank on a Gunboat.
+    Frank in the Woods.
+    Frank before Vicksburg.
+    Frank on the Lower Mississippi.
+    Frank on the Prairie.
+
+
+ROCKY MOUNTAIN SERIES.
+
+    Frank Among the Rancheros.
+    Frank in the Mountains.
+    Frank at Don Carlos' Rancho.
+
+
+SPORTSMAN'S CLUB SERIES.
+
+    The Sportsman's Club in the Saddle.
+    The Sportsman's Club
+    Among the Trappers.
+    The Sportsman's Club Afloat.
+
+
+FRANK NELSON SERIES.
+
+    Snowed up.
+    Frank in the Forecastle.
+    The Boy Traders.
+
+
+ROUGHING IT SERIES.
+
+    George in Camp.
+    George at the Fort.
+    George at the Wheel.
+
+
+ROD AND GUN SERIES.
+
+    Don Gordon's Shooting Box.
+    The Young Wild Fowlers.
+    Rod and Gun Club.
+
+
+GO-AHEAD SERIES.
+
+    Tom Newcombe.
+    Go-Ahead.
+    No Moss.
+
+
+WAR SERIES.
+
+    True to His Colors.
+    Rodney the Partisan.
+    Rodney the Overseer.
+    Marcy the Blockade-Runner.
+    Marcy the Refugee.
+    Sailor Jack the Trader.
+
+
+HOUSEBOAT SERIES.
+
+    The Houseboat Boys.
+    The Mystery of Lost River Canon.
+    The Young Game Warden.
+
+
+AFLOAT AND ASHORE SERIES.
+
+    Rebellion in Dixie.
+    A Sailor in Spite of Himself.
+    The Ten-Ton Cutter.
+
+
+
+
+THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.'S POPULAR JUVENILES: J. T. TROWBRIDGE.
+
+
+Neither as a writer does he stand apart from the great currents of life
+and select some exceptional phase or odd combination of circumstances.
+He stands on the common level and appeals to the universal heart, and
+all that he suggests or achieves is on the plane and in the line of
+march of the great body of humanity.
+
+The Jack Hazard series of stories, published in the late _Our Young
+Folks_, and continued in the first volume of _St. Nicholas_, under the
+title of "Fast Friends," is no doubt destined to hold a high place in
+this class of literature. The delight of the boys in them (and of their
+seniors, too) is well founded. They go to the right spot every time.
+Trowbridge knows the heart of a boy like a book, and the heart of a man,
+too, and he has laid them both open in these books in a most successful
+manner. Apart from the qualities that render the series so attractive to
+all young readers, they have great value on account of their
+portraitures of American country life and character. The drawing is
+wonderfully accurate, and as spirited as it is true. The constable,
+Sellick, is an original character, and as minor figures where will we
+find anything better than Miss Wansey, and Mr. P. Pipkin, Esq. The
+picture of Mr. Dink's school, too, is capital, and where else in fiction
+is there a better nick-name than that the boys gave to poor little
+Stephen Treadwell, "Step Hen," as he himself pronounced his name in an
+unfortunate moment when he saw it in print for the first time in his
+lesson in school.
+
+On the whole, these books are very satisfactory, and afford the critical
+reader the rare pleasure of the works that are just adequate, that
+easily fulfill themselves and accomplish all they set out to
+do.--_Scribner's Monthly_.
+
+
+JACK HAZARD SERIES.
+
+    Jack Hazard and His Fortunes.
+    The Young Surveyor.
+    Fast Friends.
+    Doing His Best.
+    A Chance for Himself.
+    Lawrence's Adventures.
+
+
+
+CHARLES ASBURY STEPHENS.
+
+This author wrote his "Camping Out Series" at the very height of his
+mental and physical powers.
+
+     "We do not wonder at the popularity of these books; there is a
+     freshness and variety about them, and an enthusiasm in the
+     description of sport and adventure, which even the older folk can
+     hardly fail to share."--_Worcester Spy._
+
+     "The author of the Camping Out Series is entitled to rank as
+     decidedly at the head of what may be called boys'
+     literature."--_Buffalo Courier._
+
+
+CAMPING OUT SERIES.
+
+
+CAMPING OUT. As Recorded by "Kit."
+
+     "This book is bright, breezy, wholesome, instructive, and stands
+     above the ordinary boys' books of the day by a whole head and
+     shoulders."--_The Christian Register, Boston_.
+
+
+LEFT ON LABRADOR; OR, THE CRUISE OF THE SCHOONER YACHT "CURLEW." As
+Recorded by "Wash."
+
+     "The perils of the voyagers, the narrow escapes, their strange
+     expedients, and the fun and jollity when danger had passed, will
+     make boys even unconscious of hunger."--_New Bedford Mercury._
+
+
+OFF TO THE GEYSERS; OR THE YOUNG YACHTERS IN ICELAND. AS RECORDED BY
+"WADE."
+
+     "It is difficult to believe that Wade and Raed and Kit and Wash
+     were not live boys, sailing up Hudson Straits, and reigning
+     temporarily over an Esquimaux tribe."--_The Independent, New York._
+
+
+LYNX HUNTING: From Notes by the Author of "Camping Out."
+
+     "Of first quality as a boys' book, and fit to take its place beside
+     the best."--_Richmond Enquirer._
+
+
+FOX HUNTING. As Recorded by "Raed."
+
+     "The most spirited and entertaining book that has as yet appeared.
+     It overflows with incident, and is characterized by dash and
+     brilliancy throughout."--_Boston Gazette._
+
+
+ON THE AMAZON; OR, THE CRUISE OF THE "RAMBLER." As Recorded by "Wash."
+
+     "Gives vivid pictures of Brazilian adventure and
+     scenery."--_Buffalo Courier._
+
+
+
+
+FAMOUS STANDARD JUVENILES FOR GIRLS
+
+
+A GOOD GIRL'S BOOK IS HARD TO FIND!
+
+One often hears the above quoted. _These_ books have stood the tests of
+time and careful mothers, and will be of the greatest interest to girls
+of all ages. Free from any unhealthy sensationalism, yet full of
+incident and romance, they are the cream of the best girls' books
+published.
+
+
+WAYS AND MEANS LIBRARY. By Margaret Vandegrift.
+
+    Queen's Body Guard.
+    Rose Raymond's Wards.
+    Doris and Theodora.
+    Ways and Means.
+
+
+STORIES FOR GIRLS.
+
+    Dr. Gilbert's Daughters.
+    Marion Berkley.
+    Hartwell Farm.
+
+
+HONEST ENDEAVOR LIBRARY. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+
+    The Family Dilemma.
+    Allison's Adventures.
+    Ruth Endicott's Way.
+
+
+MILBROOK LIBRARY. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+
+    Helen Glenn.
+    The Squire's Daughter.
+    Esther's Fortune.
+    For Honor's Sake.
+
+
+RECENT SUCCESSES
+
+The following, though of recent date, have at once reached such a height
+of popularity that they can already be classified as standards.
+
+    Lady Green Satin. By Baroness Deschesney.
+    Marion Berkley. By Elizabeth B. Comins.
+    Lenny, the Orphan. By Margaret Hosmer.
+    Family Dilemma. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+    Question of Honor. By Lynde Palmer
+    Girl's Ordeal, A. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+    Elinor Belden; or The Step Brothers. By Lucy C. Lillie.
+    Where Honor Leads. By Lynde Palmer.
+    Under the Holly. By Margaret Hosmer.
+    Two Bequests. The; or, Heavenward Led. By Jane R. Sommere.
+    The Thistles of Mount Cedar. By Ursula Tannenforst.
+
+
+
+
+HURLBUT'S STORY OF THE BIBLE told for YOUNG AND OLD
+
+by Rev. Jesse Lyman Hurlbut, D.D.
+
+A Veritable "Arabian Nights" of Entertainment Containing 168 Complete
+Illustrated Stories
+
+
+THE BIBLE MADE FASCINATING TO CHILDREN.--The heroes and the noble men
+and women of the Bible are made to appear as living, acting people. The
+book is an original work, and in no sense an imitation. It has been in
+preparation for a number of years.
+
+THE DISTINGUISHED AUTHOR.--Dr. Hurlbut has long been associated with,
+and director of, the Sunday School work of one of the largest
+denominations, and he has been more closely associated with the detail
+work of the Chautauqua movement than has any other man. He is also well
+known as a writer.
+
+REMARKABLE FOR THE BEAUTY AND NUMBER OF ITS ILLUSTRATIONS.--There are
+sixteen pictures in color prepared for this work by the distinguished
+artist, W. H. Margetson, and reproduced with the beauty and
+attractiveness of the artist's original work. There are also nearly 300
+half-tone engravings in this remarkable book, which is as original in
+the selection of its illustrations as it is in its stories.
+
+WHAT OTHERS THINK OF IT
+
+     "It is a needed and original work. Not an imitation."--_Christian
+     Advocate_, New York.
+
+     "Written in such a style as to fascinate and hold the interest of
+     child or man."--REV. F. E. CLARK, Pres. Society of Christian
+     Endeavor.
+
+     "It is a beautiful book. I hope every family in the land will
+     secure 'Hurlbut's Story of the Bible,'"--GENERAL O. O. HOWARD.
+
+     "The best book of its kind, and that kind the most important."--REV.
+     JAMES A. WORDEN, Presbyterian B'd of Pub. and S. S. Work.
+
+     "I like very much the vocabulary you have used, and I can see how
+     careful you have been in choosing understandable words."--MR.
+     PHILIP E. HOWARD, _Sunday-School Times_, Philadelphia.
+
+     "It is the completest and best thing of the kind I have seen. The
+     book is splendidly illustrated." MARIAN LAWRANCE, General Secretary
+     International Sunday-School Association.
+
+     "Many will be drawn to the Bible who otherwise might look upon it
+     as only adapted for older people."--HON. DAVID J. BREWER, Justice
+     of the Supreme Court of the United States.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Telegraph Boy, by Horatio Alger, Jr.
+
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