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Cast Upon the Breakers
by Horatio Alger
January, 1995 [Etext #399]
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CAST UPON THE BREAKERS
by Horatio Alger, Jr.
CHAPTER I.
A FAITHLESS GUARDIAN.
"Well, good by, Rodney! I leave school tomorrow. I am going to learn a trade."
"I am sorry to part with you, David. Couldn't you stay another term?"
"No: my uncle says I must be earning my living, and I have a chance to learn the carpenter's trade."
"Where are you going?"
"To Duffield, some twenty miles away. I wish I were in your shoes. You have no money cares, and can go on quietly and complete your education."
"I don't know how I am situated, David. I only know that my guardian pays my expenses at this boarding school."
"Yes, you are a star boarder, and have the nicest room in the institution. I am only a poor day scholar. Still I feel thankful that I have been allowed to remain as long as I have. Who is your guardian?"
"A Mr. Benjamin Fielding, of New York."
"Is he a business man?"
"I believe so."
"Do you know how much you will inherit when you come of age?"
asked David, after a short pause.
"I haven't an idea."
"It seems to me your guardian ought to have told you."
"I scarcely know my guardian. Five years ago I spent a week at his home. I don't remember much about it except that he lives in a handsome house, and has plenty of servants. Since then, as you know, I have passed most of my time here, except that in the summer I was allowed to board at the Catkills or any country place I might select,"
"Yes, and I remember one year you took me with you and paid all my expenses. I shall never forget your kindness, and how much I enjoyed that summer."
Rodney Ropes smiled, and his smile made his usually grave face look very attractive.
"My dear David," he said, "it was all selfishness on my part. I knew I should enjoy myself much better with a companion."
"You may call that selfishness, Rodney, but it is a kind of selfishness that makes me your devoted friend. How long do you think you shall remain at school?"
"I don't know. My guardian has never told me his plans for me. I wish he would."
"I shall miss you, Rodney, but we will correspond, won't we?"
"Surely. You know I shall always feel interested in you and your welfare."
David was a plain boy of humble parentage, and would probably be a hard working mechanic. In fact he was looking for nothing better.
But Rodney Ropes looked to be of genteel blood, and had the air of one who had been brought up a gentleman. But different as they were in social position the two boys had always been devoted friends.
The boarding school of which Rodney was, as his friend expressed himself, a star pupil, was situated about fifty miles from the city of New York. It was under the charge of Dr. Sampson, a tall, thin man of fair scholarship, keenly alive to his own interest, who showed partiality for his richer pupils, and whenever he had occasion to censure bore most heavily upon boys like David Hull, who was poor.
Rodney occupied alone the finest room in the school. There was a great contrast between his comfortable quarters and the extremely plain dormitories occupied by less favored pupils.
In the case of some boys the favoritism of the teacher would have led them to put on airs, and made them unpopular with their school fellows. But Rodney had too noble a nature to be influenced by such considerations. He enjoyed his comfortable room, but treated his school fellows with a frank cordiality that made him a general favorite.
After David left his room Rodney sat down to prepare a lesson in Cicero, when he was interrupted by the entrance through the half open door of a younger boy.
"Rodney," he said, "the doctor would like to see you in his office."
"Very well, Brauner, I will go down at once."
He put aside his book and went down to the office of Dr. Sampson on the first floor.
The doctor was sitting at his desk. He turned slightly as Rodney entered.
"Take a seat, Ropes," he said curtly.
His tone was so different from his usual cordiality that Rodney was somewhat surprised.
"Am I in disgrace?" he asked himself. "Dr. Sampson doesn't seem as friendly as usual."
After a brief interval Dr. Sampson wheeled round in his office chair.
"I have a letter for you from your guardian, Ropes," he said. "Here it is. Do me the favor to read it here."
With some wonder Rodney took the letter and read as follows:
DEAR RODNEY--I have bad news to communicate. As you know, I was left by your father in charge of you and your fortune. I have never told you the amount, but I will say now that it was about fifty thousand dollars. Until two years since I kept it intact but then began a series of reverses in which my own fortune was swallowed up. In the hope of relieving myself I regret to say that I was tempted to use your money. That went also, and now of the whole sum there remains but enough to pay the balance of your school bills, leaving you penniless. How much I regret this I cannot tell you. I shall leave New York at once. I do not care at present to say where I shall go, but I shall try to make good the loss, and eventually restore to you your lost fortune. I may be successful or I may not. I shall do my best and I hope in time to have better news to communicate.
One thing I am glad to say. I have a casket containing your mother's jewels. These are intact. I shall send you the casket by express, knowing that you will wish to keep them out of regard for your mother's memory. In case you are reduced to the necessity of pawning or selling them, I am sure that your mother, could she be consulted, would advise you to do so. This would be better than to have you suffer from want.
There is nothing further for me to write except to repeat my regret, and renew my promise to make up your lost fortune if I shall ever to able to do so.
Your Guardian,
BENJAMIN FIELDING.
Rodney read this like one dazed. In an instant he was reduced from the position of a favorite of fortune to a needy boy, with his living to make.
He could not help recalling what had passed between his friend David and himself earlier in the day. Now he was as poor as David--poorer, in fact for David had a chance to learn a trade that would yield him a living, while he was utterly without resources, except in having an unusually good education.
"Well," said Dr. Sampson, "have you read your letter?"
"Yes, sir."
"Your guardian wrote to me also. This is his letter," and he placed the brief epistle in Rodney's hands.
DR. SAMPSON--I have written my ward, Rodney Ropes, an important letter which he will show you. The news which it contains will make it necessary for him to leave school. I inclose a check for one hundred and twenty five dollars. Keep whatever is due you, and give him the balance.
BENJAMIN FIELDING.
"I have read the letter, but I don't know what it means," said Dr. Sampson. "Can you throw any light upon it?"
"Here is my letter, doctor. You can read it for yourself."
Dr. Sampson's face changed as he read Rodney's letter. It changed and hardened, and his expression became quite different from that to which Rodney had been accustomed.
"This is a bad business, Ropes," said the doctor in a hard tone.
He had always said Rodney before.
"Yes, sir."
"That was a handsome fortune which your father left you."
"Yes, sir. I never knew before how much it amounted to."
"You only learn when you have lost it. Mr. Fielding has treated you shamefully."
"Yes, sir, I suppose he has, but he says he will try to make it up to me in the future."
"Pish! that is all humbug. Even if he is favored by fortune you will never get back a cent."
"I think I shall, sir."
"You are young. You do not know the iniquities of business men. I do."
"I prefer to hope for the best."
"Just as you please."
"Have you anything more to say to me?"
"Only that I will figure up your account and see how much money is to come to you out of the check your guardian has sent. You can stay here till Monday; then you will find it best to make new arrangements."
"Very well, sir."
Rodney left the room, realizing that Dr. Sampson's feelings had been changed by his pupil's reverse of fortune.
It was the way of the world, but it was not a pleasant way, and Rodney felt depressed.
CHAPTER II.
THE CASKET OF JEWELS.
It was not till the latter part of the afternoon that the casket arrived. Rodney was occupied with a recitation, and it was only in the evening that he got an opportunity to open it. There was a pearl necklace, very handsome, a pair of bracelets, two gold chains, some minor articles of jewelry and a gold ring.
A locket attracted Rodney's notice, and he opened it. It contained the pictures of his father and mother.
His father he could barely remember, his mother died before he was old enough to have her image impressed upon his memory. He examined the locket and his heart was saddened. He felt how different his life would have been had his parents lived.
He had never before realized the sorrow of being alone in the world. Misfortune had come upon him, and so far as he knew he had not a friend. Even Dr. Sampson, who had been paid so much money on his account, and who had always professed so great friendship for him, had turned cold.
As he was standing with the locket in his hand there was a knock at the door.
"Come in!" he called out.
The door opened and a stout, coarse looking boy, dressed in an expensive manner, entered.
"Good evening, John," said Rodney, but not cordially.
Next to himself, John Bundy, who was the son of a wealthy saloon keeper in the city of New York, had been a favorite with Dr. Sampson.
If there was anything Dr. Sampson bowed down to and respected it was wealth, and Mr. Bundy, senior, was reputed to be worth a considerable fortune.
In Rodney's mood John Bundy was about the last person whom he wanted to see.
"Ha!" said John, espying the open casket, "where did you get all that jewelry?"
"It contains my mother's jewels," said Rodney gravely.
"You never showed it to me before."
"I never had it before. It came to me by express this afternoon."
"It must be worth a good pile of money," said John, his eyes gleaming with cupidity.
"I suppose it is."
"Have you any idea what it is worth?"
"I have no thought about it."
"What are you going to do with it? It won't be of use to you, especially the diamond earrings," he added, with a coarse laugh.
"No," answered Rodney shortly.
"My eyes, wouldn't my mother like to own all this jewelry. She's fond of ornament, but pa won't buy them for her."
Rodney did not answer.
"I say, Ropes, I mustn't forget my errand. Will you do me a favor?"
"What is it?"
"Lend me five dollars till the first of next month. My allowance comes due then. Now I haven't but a quarter left."
"What makes you apply to me, Bundy?"
"Because you always have money. I don't suppose you are worth as much as my father, but you have more money for yourself than I have."
"I have had, perhaps, but I haven't now."
"Why, what's up? What has happened?"
"I have lost my fortune."
John whistled. This was his way of expressing amazement.
"Why, what have you been doing? How could you lose your fortune?"
"My guardian has lost it for me. That amount to the same thing."
"When did you hear that?"
"This morning."
"Is that true? Are you really a poor boy?"
"Yes."
John Bundy was astonished, but on the whole he was not saddened. In the estimation of the school Rodney had always ranked higher than he, and been looked upon as the star pupil in point of wealth.
Now that he was dethroned John himself would take his place. This would be gratifying, though just at present, and till the beginning of the next month, he would be distressed for ready money.
"Well, that's a stunner!" he said. "How do you feel about it? Shall you stay in school?"
"No; I can't afford it. I must get to work."
"Isn't there anything left--not a cent?"
"There may be a few dollars."
"And then," said Bundy with a sudden thought, "there is this casket of jewelry. You can sell it for a good deal of money."
"I don't mean to sell it."
"Then you're a fool; that's all I've got to say."
"I don't suppose you will understand my feeling in the matter, but these articles belonged to my mother. They are all I have to remind me of her. I do not mean to sell them unless it is absolutely necessary."
"I would sell them quicker'n a wink," said Bundy. "What's the good of keeping them?"
"We won't discuss the matter," said Rodney coldly.
"Do you mind my telling the other boys about your losing your money?"
"No; it will be known tomorrow at any rate; there is no advantage in concealing it."
A heavy step was heard outside. It stopped before the door.
"I must be getting," said Bundy, "or I'll get into trouble."
It was against the rule at the school for boys to make calls upon each other in the evening unless permission were given.
John Bundy opened the door suddenly, and to his dismay found himself facing the rigid figure of Dr. Sampson, the principal.
"How do you happen to be here, Bundy?" asked the doctor sternly.
"Please, sir, I was sympathizing with Ropes on his losing his money," said Bundy with ready wit.
"Very well! I will excuse you this time."
"I'm awful sorry for you, Ropes," said Bundy effusively.
"Thank you," responded Rodney.
"You can go now," said the principal. "I have a little business with Master Ropes."
"All right, sir. Good night."
"Good night."
"Won't you sit down, Dr. Sampson?" said Rodney politely, and he took the casket from the chair.
"Yes, I wish to have five minutes' conversation with you. So these are the jewels, are they?"
"Yes, sir."
"They seem to be quite valuable," went on the doctor, lifting the pearl necklace and poising it in his fingers. "It will be well for you to have them appraised by a jeweler."
"It would, sir, if I wished to sell them, but I mean to keep them as they are."
"I would hardly advise it. You will need the money. Probably you do not know how near penniless you are."
"No, sir; I don't know."
"Your guardian, as you are aware, sent me a check for one hundred and twenty five dollars. I have figured up how much of this sum is due to me, and I find it to be one hundred and thirteen dollars and thirty seven cents."
"Yes, sir," said Rodney indifferently.
"This leaves for you only eleven dollars and sixty three cents. You follow me, do you not?"
"Yes, sir."
"Have you any money saved up from your allowance?"
"A few dollars only, sir."
"Ahem! that is a pity. You will need all you can raise. But of course you did not anticipate what has occurred?"
"No, sir."
"I will throw off the thirty seven cents," said the principal magnanimously, "and give you back twelve dollars."
"I would rather pay you the whole amount of your bill," said Rodney.
"Ahem! Well perhaps that would be more business-like. So you don't wish to part with any of the jewelry, Ropes?"
"No, sir."
"I thought, perhaps, by way of helping you, I would take the earrings, and perhaps the necklace, off your hands and present them to Mrs. Sampson."
Rodney shuddered with aversion at the idea of these precious articles, which had once belonged to his mother, being transferred to the stout and coarse featured consort of the principal.
"I think I would rather keep them," he replied.
"Oh well, just as you please," said Dr. Sampson with a shade of disappointment for he had no idea of paying more than half what the articles were worth. "If the time comes when you wish to dispose of them let me know."
Rodney nodded, but did not answer in words.
"Of course, Ropes," went on the doctor in a perfunctory way, "I am very sorry for you. I shall miss you, and, if I could afford it, I would tell you to stay without charge. But I am a poor man."
"Yes," said Rodney hastily, "I understand. I thank you for your words but would not under any circumstances accept such a favor at your hands."
"I am afraid you are proud, Ropes. Pride is--ahem--a wrong feeling."
"Perhaps so, Dr. Sampson, but I wish to earn my own living without being indebted to any one."
"Perhaps you are right, Ropes. I dare say I should feel so myself. When do you propose leaving us?"
"Some time tomorrow, sir."
"I shall feel sad to have you go. You have been here so long that you seem to me like a son. But we must submit to the dispensations of Providence--" and Dr. Sampson blew a vigorous blast upon his red silk handkerchief. "I will give you the balance due in the morning."
"Very well, sir."
Rodney was glad to be left alone. He had no faith in Dr. Sampson's sympathy. The doctor had the reputation of being worth from thirty to forty thousand dollars, and his assumption of being a poor man Rodney knew to be a sham.
He went to bed early, for tomorrow was to be the beginning of a new life for him.
CHAPTER III.
A STRANGE DISAPPEARANCE.
When it was generally known in the school that Rodney was to leave because he had lost his property much sympathy was felt and expressed for him.
Though he had received more than ordinary attention from the principal on account of his pecuniary position and expectations, this had not impaired his popularity. He never put on any airs and was on as cordial relations with the poorest student as with the richest.
"I'm awfully sorry you're going, Rodney," said more than one. "Is it really true that you have lost your property?"
"Yes, it is true."
"Do you feel bad about it?"
"I feel sorry, but not discouraged."
"I say, Rodney," said Ernest Rayner, in a low voice, calling Rodney aside, "are you very short of money?"
"I haven't much left, Ernest."
"Because I received five dollars last week as a birthday present. I haven't spent any of it. You can have it as well as not."
Rodney was much moved. "My dear Ernest," he said, putting his arm caressingly around the neck of the smaller boy, "you are a true friend. I won't forget your generous offer, though I don't need to accept it."
"But are you sure you have money enough?" asked Ernest.
"Yes, I have enough for the present. By the time I need more I shall have earned it."
There was one boy, already introduced, John Bundy, who did not share in the general feeling of sympathy for Rodney. This was John Bundy.
He felt that Rodney's departure would leave him the star pupil and give him the chief social position in school. As to scholarship he was not ambitious to stand high in that.
"I say, Ropes," he said complacently, "I'm to have your room after you're gone."
"I congratulate you," returned Rodney. "It is an excellent room."
"Yes, I s'pose it'll make you feel bad. Where are you going?"
"I hope you will enjoy it as much as I have done."
"Oh yes, I guess there's no doubt of that. I'm going to get pa to send me some nice pictures to hang on the wall. When you come back here on a visit you'll see how nice it looks."
"I think it will be a good while before I come here on a visit."
"Yes. I s'pose it'll make you feel bad. Where are you going?"
"To the City of New York."
"You'll have to live in a small hall bedroom there."
"Why will I?"
"Because you are poor, and it costs a good deal of money to live in New York. It'll be a great come down."
"It will indeed, but if I can earn enough to support me in plain style I won't complain. I suppose you'll call and see me when you come to New York?"
"Perhaps so, if you don't live in a tenement house. Pa objects to my going to tenement houses. There's no knowing what disease there may be in them."
"It is well to be prudent" said Rodney, smiling.
It did not trouble him much to think he was not likely to receive a call from his quondan schoolmate.
"Here is the balance of your money, Ropes," said Dr. Sampson, drawing a small roll of bills from his pocket, later in the day. "I am quite willing to give you the odd thirty seven cents."
"Thank you, doctor, but I shan't need it."
"You are poorly provided. Now I would pay you a good sum for some of your mother's jewelry, as I told you last evening."
"Thank you," said Rodney hastily, "but I don't care to sell at present."
"Let me know when you are ready to dispose of the necklace."
Here the depot carriage appeared in the street outside and Rodney with his gripsack in one hand and the precious casket in the other, climbed to a seat beside the driver.
His trunk he left behind, promising to send for it when he had found a new boarding place.
There was a chorus of good byes. Rodney waved his handkerchief in general farewell, and the carriage started for the depot.
"Be you goin' for good?" asked Joel, the driver, who knew Rodney well and felt friendly to him.
"Yes, Joel."
"It's kind of sudden, isn't it?"
"Yes."
"What makes you go?"
"Bad news, Joel."
"Be any of your folks dead?"
"It is not death. I haven't any `folks.' I'm alone in the world.
It's because I've lost my property and am too poor to remain in school."
"That's too bad," said the driver in a tone of sympathy. "Where are you goin'?"
"To the city."
"Are you goin' to work?"
"Yes, I shall have to."
"If you was a little older you might get a chance to drive a street car, but I s'pose you're too young."
"Yes, I don't think they would take me."
"I've thought sometimes I should like such a chance myself," said Joel. "I've got tired of the country. I should like to live in the city where there's theaters, and shows, and such like. Do you know what the drivers on street cars get?"
"No, I never heard."
"I wish you'd find out and let me know. You can send the letter to Joel Phipps, Groveton. Then find out if it's easy to get such a chance."
"I will. I shall be glad to oblige you."
"You always was obligin', Rodney. I've asked Jack Bundy to do it--you know his folks live in the city--but he never would. He's a mighty disagreeable boy. He never liked you."
"Didn't he?"
"No, I surmise he was jealous of you. He used to say you put on so many airs it made him sick."
"I don't think any of the other boys would say that."
"No, but they could say it of him. Do you think his father is rich?"
"I have always heard that he was."
"I hope he's better about paying his debt than Jack. I lent him twenty five cents a year ago and I never could get it back."
The distance from the school to the station was a mile. Joel fetched the carriage round with a sweep and then jumped off, opened the door, and then helped the passengers to disembark, if that word is allowable.
"How soon does the train start, Joel?" asked Rodney.
"In about five minutes."
"Then I had better purchase my ticket without delay."
"Don't forget to ask about horse car drivers!"
"No, I won't. I should like to have you come to New York. I know no one there, and I should feel glad to see a familiar face."
The train came up in time, and Rodney was one of half a dozen passengers who entered the cars.
He obtained a place next to a stout man dressed in a pepper and salt suit.
"Is this seat engaged?" asked Rodney.
"Yes--to you," and his fellow passenger laughed.
Rodney laughed too, for he saw that the remark was meant to be jocose.
He put his gripsack on the floor at his feet, but held the casket in his lap. He did not like to run any risk with that.
"Are you a drummer?" asked the stout man, with a glance at the casket.
"No, sir."
"I thought you might be, and that THAT might contain your samples."
"No, sir. That is private property."
He had thought of telling what it contained, but checked himself. He knew nothing of his companion, and was not sure how far it might be safe to trust a stranger.
"I used to be a drummer myself--in the jewelry line--" continued his companion, "and I carried a box just like that."
"Ah, indeed! Then you are not in that business now?"
"No, I got tired of it. I deal in quite a different article now."
"Indeed?"
"Suburban lot."
"You don't happen to have any of them with you?"
The stout man roared with laughter, giving Rodney the impression that he had said a very witty thing.
"That's a good one," he remarked, "the best I've heard for a long time. No, I haven't any of the lots with me, but I've got a circular. Just cast your eye over that," and he drew a large and showy prospectus from his pocket.
"If you should be looking for a good investment," he continued, "you can't do any better than buy a lot at Morton Park. It is only eighteen miles from the city and is rapidly building up. You can buy lot on easy installments, and I will myself pick one out for you that is almost sure to double in value in a year or two."
"Thank you," said Rodney, "but I shall have to invest my money, if I get any, in a different way."
"As what for instance?"
"In board and lodging."
"Good. That is even more necessary than real estate."
"How long have you been in the business, sir?"
"About six months."
"And how does it pay?"
"Very well, if you know how to talk."
"I should think you might do well, then."
"Thank you. I appreciate the compliment. What business are you going into, that is, if you are going to the city?"
"I am going to the city, but I have no idea yet what I shall do."
"Perhaps you may like to become an agent for our lots. I shall be ready to employ you as sub agent if you feel disposed."
"Thank you, sir. If you will give me your card, I may call upon you."
The short man drew from his card case a business card. It bore the name
ADIN WOODS.
ROYAL BUILDING. NASSAU ST.
Morton Park Lots.
"Come to see me at any time," he said, "and we will talk the matter over."
Here the train boy came along and Rodney bought a copy of Puck, while the agent resumed the perusal of a copy of a magazine. For an hour the cars ran smoothly. Then there was a sudden shock causing all the passengers to start to their feet.
"We're off the track!" shouted an excitable person in front of Rodney.
The instinct of self preservation is perhaps stronger than any other. Rodney and his seat mate both jumped to their feet and hurried to the door of the car, not knowing what was in store for them.
But fortunately the train had not been going rapidly. It was approaching a station and was "slowing up." So, though it had really run off the track, there was not likely to be any injury to the passengers.
"We are safe," said Adin Woods. "The only harm done is the delay. I hope that won't be long. Suppose we go back to our seat." They returned to the seat which they had jointly occupied.
Then Rodney made an alarming discovery. "My casket!" he exclaimed. "Where is it?"
"What did you do with it?"
"Left it on the seat."
"It may have fallen to the floor."
Rodney searched for it in feverish excitement, but his search was vain. THE CASKET HAD DISAPPEARED!
CHAPTER IV.
IN PURSUIT OF A THIEF.
"Were the contents of the casket valuable?" asked the land agent.
"Yes; it contained my mother's jewels, all the more valuable because she is dead," replied Rodney.
"Were they of much intrinsic worth?"
"They must be worth several hundred dollars at least."
"Then they must be found," said Adin Woods energetically. "They have evidently been taken by some passenger during the five minutes we were away from our seat."
"Were you inquiring about the casket?" asked a lady sitting opposite.
"Yes, madam. Can you give any information about it?"
"Just after you left your seat the man that sat behind you rose and reaching over for it went to the rear end of the car and got out,"
"I wish you had stopped him, madam."
"He was so cool about it that I thought he might be a friend of the young gentleman."
"I didn't know him. He must have been a thief."
"What was his appearance, madam?" asked the lot agent.
"He was a thin, dark complexioned man, with side whiskers coming half way down his cheeks."
"And you say he got out of the rear end of the car?"
"Yes, sir."
"He won't get on the train again," said the agent turning to Rodney. "He thinks the casket valuable enough to pay him for the interruption of his journey."
"What shall I do then?" asked Rodney, feeling helpless and at a loss which way to turn.
"Follow him," said the agent briefly. "He will probably stop over in the village a day and resume his joumey tomorrow."
"Even if I found him I am afraid I shouldn't know how to deal with him."
"Then I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll stop over with you and help you make it hot for him. I've had a spite against thieves ever since I had a valuable overcoat stolen in one of my journeys."
"I shall feel very much obliged to you, Mr. Woods, but won't it interfere with your business?"
"Not materially. If we succeed in overhauling the rascal I shall feel sufficiently repaid for the small interruption. But come on, we can't afford to linger here while he is carrying off the plunder."
"I don't know how I can repay you, Mr. Woods," said Rodney gratefully.
"You can buy a lot of me when you get rich enough."
"I will certainly do so, though I am afraid it will be a long time first."
"You don't know what good fortune may be in store for you. Did you notice, madam, in which direction the thief went?"
"Yes, I was looking out of the window. He went over the road to the left."
"That leads to the village. You will see, Mr. Ropes, that I was right about his plans."
"Don't call me Mr. Ropes. Call me Rodney."
"I will. It don't seem natural to dub a boy Mr. Now, Rodney, follow me."
The two passengers set out on the road that led to the village. They could see the latter easily, for it was not more than a mile away.
"He will be surprised to think we have `struck his trail' so quick," said the agent.
"Where shall we go first?"
"To the hotel if there is one."
"The village seems small."
"Yes, there are only a few hundred inhabitant probably. It is not a place where a traveler would be likely to interrupt his journey unless he had a special object in doing so, like our dishonest friend. However, I think we shall be able to balk his little game."
Ten minutes' walk brought them to the village. Looking about they saw a small hotel just across the way from a neat white chapel.
"Follow me," said the agent.
They went into the public room in which there was a small office.
The book of arrivals was open, and Adin Woods went forward and examined it. Silently he pointed to a name evidently just written, for the ink was scarcely dry. This was the name: Louis Wheeler, Philadelphia.
"This may or may not be his real name," said Mr. Woods in a low voice.
"Do you wish to register, gentlemen?" asked the clerk.
"We will take dinner, and if we decide to stay will register later. By the way, I recognize this name, but it may not be the man I suppose."
"Yes, the gentleman just registered."
"Would you mind describing him?"
"He was a tall, dark man as near as I can remember."
"And he carried a small casket in his hand?"
"Yes, and a gripsack."
"Oh yes," said the agent his face lighting up with satisfaction. "It is the man I mean--where is he now?"
"In his room."
"Did he say how long he intended to stay?"
"No, sir. He said nothing about his plans."
"Did he seem specially careful about the casket?"
"Yes, sir. He carried that in his hands, but let the servant carry up the gripsack."
"My friend," said the agent in an impressive tone, "I am going to surprise you."
The country clerk looked all curiosity.
"Is it about Mr. Wheeler?" he asked.
"Yes, the man is a thief. He stole the casket, which contains valuable jewelry, from my young friend here. We are here to demand a return of the property or to arrest him. Is there a policeman within call?"
"I can summon a constable."
"Do so, but don't breathe a word of what I have told you."
The clerk called a boy in from the street and gave him instructions in a low voice. He went at once on his errand, and in ten minutes a stout broad shouldered man made his appearance.
"This gentleman sent for you, Mr. Barlow," said the clerk.
"What can I do for you?" asked the constable.
"Help me to recover stolen property."
"That I will do with pleasure if you will tell me what you want me to do."
Adin Woods held a brief conference with the constable, then he led the way up stairs, followed immediately by Rodney, while the constable kept a little behind.
"His room is No. 9," said the bell boy.
The agent paused before the door of No. 9, and knocked.
"Come in!" said a voice.
The agent opened the door, and entered, accompanied by Rodney. A glance showed that the occupant answered the description given by the lady in the car.
Louis Wheeler changed color, for he recognized both the agent and Rodney.
"What is your business?" he asked in a tone which he tried to make indifferent.
"That" answered Woods, pointing to the jewel casket on the bureau.
It looked to him as if Wheeler, if that was his name, had been trying to open it.
"I don't understand."
"Then I will try to make things clear to you. You have, doubtless by accident" he emphasized the last word, "taken from the car a casket belonging to my young friend here."
"You are mistaken, sir," said Wheeler with brazen hardihood. "That casket belongs to me."
"Indeed. What does it contain?"
"I fail to see how that is any of your business," returned Wheeler, determined, if possible, to bluff off his visitors.
"I admire your cheek, sir. I really do. But I am too old a traveler to be taken in by such tricks. I propose to have that casket."
"Well, sir, you are the most impudent thief and burglar I ever met. You break into a gentleman's room, and undertake to carry off his private property. Unless you go out at once, I will have you arrested."
"That you can do very readily, for I have an officer within call."
Louis Wheeler changed color. He began to see that the situation was getting serious.
"There is a great mistake here," he said.
"I agree with you."
The agent went to the door, and called "Constable Barlow."
The constable promptly presented himself.
"Do you want me, sir?" he asked.
"That depends on this gentleman here. If he will peacefully restore to my young friend here yonder jewel casket I am willing to let him go. Otherwise--" and he glanced at Wheeler significantly.
"Perhaps I have made a mistake," admitted the thief. "I had a casket exactly like this. Possibly I have taken the wrong one."
"I have the key to the casket here," said Rodney, "and I can tell you without opening it what it contains."
"What did yours contain?" asked the agent.
"Jewelry," answered Wheeler shortly.
"What articles?"
"Never mind. I am inclined to think this casket belongs to the boy."
"Rodney, you can take it and Mr. Wheeler will probably find his where he left it."
No objection was made, and the discomfited thief was left a prey to mortification and disappointment.
Rodney handed a dollar to the constable which that worthy official received with thanks, and he and the agent resumed their journey by an afternoon train. They saw nothing further of Louis Wheeler who sent for dinner to be served in his room.
CHAPTER V.
A YOUNG FINANCIAL WRECK.
"You have been very fortunate in recovering your jewels," said the agent.
"I owe it to you," replied Rodney gratefully.
"Well, perhaps so. If I have rendered you a service I am very glad."
"And I am very glad to have found so good a friend. I hope you will let me pay for your ticket to New York."
"It won't be necessary. The interruption of our journey won't invalidate the ticket we have."
An hour later they reached New York.
"What are your plans, Rodney?" asked Adin Woods, who by this time had become quite intimate with his young companion.
"I shall call on my guardian, and perhaps he may give me some advice as to what I do. Where would you advise me to go--to a hotel?"
"No; it will be too expensive. I know of a plain boarding house on West Fourteenth Street where you can be accommodated with lodging and two meals--breakfast and supper, or dinner as we call it here--for a dollar a day."
"I shall be glad to go there, for the present, at least. I haven't much money, and must find something to do as soon as possible."
"We will both go there, and if you don't object we will take a room together. That will give us a larger apartment. Mrs. Marcy is an old acquaintance of mine, and will give you a welcome."
Rodney was glad to accept his companion's proposal. They proceeded at once to the boarding house, and fortunately found a good room vacant on the third floor. Mr. Woods went out in the evening to make a call, but Rodney was glad to go to bed at nine o'clock.
The next morning after breakfast Rodney consulted his companion as to what he should do with the casket.
"Do you want to raise money on it?" asked the agent.
"No; I shall not do this unless I am obliged to."
"Have you any idea as to the value of the jewels?"
"No."
"Then I will take you first to a jeweler in Maiden Lane, a friend of mine, who will appraise them. Afterwards I advise you to deposit the casket at a storage warehouse, or get Tiffany to keep it for you."
"I will do as you suggest."
Maiden Lane is a street largely devoted to jewelers, wholesale and retail. Rodney followed Mr. Woods into a store about midway between Broadway and Nassau Street. A pleasant looking man of middle age greeted the agent cordially.
"What can I do for you?" he asked. "Do you wish to buy a diamond ring for the future Mrs. Woods?"
"Not much. I would like to have you appraise some jewelry belonging to my young friend here."
The casket was opened, and the jeweler examined the contents admiringly.
"This is choice jewelry," he said. "Does your friend wish to sell?"
"Not at present," answered Rodney.
"When you do give me a call. I will treat you fairly. You wish me to appraise these articles?"
"Yes, sir, if you will."
"It will take me perhaps fifteen minutes."
The jeweler retired to the back part of the store with the casket.
In about a quarter of an hour he returned.
"Of course I can't give exact figures," he said, "but I value the jewelry at about twelve hundred dollars."
Rodney looked surprised.
"I didn't think it so valuable," he said.
"I don't mean that you could sell it for so much, but if you wish to dispose of it I will venture to give you eleven hundred."
"Thank you. If I decide to sell I will certainly come to you."
"Now," said the agent, "I advise you on the whole to store the casket with Tiffany."
"Shall I have to pay storage in advance?" asked Rodney anxiously.
"I think not. The value of the jewels will be a sufficient guarantee that storage will be paid."
Rodney accompanied Adin Woods to the great jewelry store on the corner of Fifteenth Street and Union Square, and soon transacted his business.
"Now, you won't have any anxiety as to the safety of the casket," said the agent. "Your friend of the train will find it difficult to get hold of the jewels. Now I shall have to leave you, as I have some business to attend to. We will meet at supper."
Rodney decided to call at the office of his late guardian, Benjamin Fielding. It was in the lower part of the city.
On his way down town he purchased a copy of a morning paper. Almost the first article he glanced at proved to be of especial interest to him. It was headed
SKIPPED TO CANADA
Rumors have been rife for some time affecting the busines standing of Mr. Benjamin Fielding, the well known commission merchant. Yesterday it was discovered that he had left the city, but where he has gone is unknown. It is believed that he is very deeply involved, and seeing no way out of his embarrassment has skipped to Canada, or perhaps taken passage to Europe. Probably his creditors will appoint a committee to look into his affairs and report what can be done.
LATER--An open letter has been found in Mr. Fielding's desk, addressed to his creditors. It expresses regret for their losses, and promises, if his life is spared, and fortune favors him, to do all in his power to make them good. No one doubts Mr. Fielding's integrity, and regrets are expressed that he did not remain in the city and help unravel the tangle in which his affairs are involved. He is a man of ability, and as he is still in the prime of life, it may be that he will be able to redeem his promises and pay his debts in full, if sufficient time is given him.
"I can get no help or advice from Mr. Fielding," thought Rodney. "I am thrown upon my own resources, and must fight the battle of life as well as I can alone."
He got out in front of the Astor House. As he left the car he soiled his shoes with the mud so characteristic of New York streets.
"Shine your boots?" asked a young Arab, glancing with a business eye at Rodney's spattered shoes.
Rodney accepted his offer, not so much because he thought the blacking would last, as for the opportunity of questioning the free and independent young citizen who was doing, what he hoped to do, that is, making a living for himself.
"Is business good with you?" asked Rodney. "It ought to be with the street in this condition."
"Yes; me and de Street Commissioner is in league together. He makes business good for me."
"And do you pay him a commission?" asked Rodney smiling.
"I can't tell no official secrets. It might be bad for me."
"You are an original genius."
"Am I? I hope you ain't callin' me names."
"Oh no. I am only paying you a compliment. What is your name?"
"Mike Flynn."
"Were do you live, Mike?"
"At the Lodge."
"I suppose you mean at the Newsboys' `Lodge?'"
"Yes."
"How much do you have to pay there?"
"Six cents for lodgin', and six cents for supper and breakfast."
"That is, six cents for each."
"Yes; you ain't comin' to live there, are you?" asked Mike.
"I don't know--I may have to."
"You're jokin'."
"What makes you think I am joking?"
"Because you're a swell. Look at them clo'es!"
"I have a good suit of clothes, to be sure, but I haven't much money. You are better off than I am."
"How's that?" asked Mike incredulously.
"You've got work to do, and I am earning nothing."
"If you've got money enough to buy a box and brush, you can go in with me."
"I don't think I should like it, Mike. It would spoil my clothes, and I am afraid I wouldn't have money enough to buy others."
"I keep my dress suit at home--the one I wear to parties."
"Haven't you got any father or mother, Mike? How does it happen that you are living in New York alone?"
"My farder is dead, and me mudder, she married a man wot ain't no good. He'd bate me till I couldn't stand it. So I just run away."
"Where does your mother live?"
"In Albany."
"Some time when you earn money enough you can ask her to come here and live with you."
"They don't take women at the Lodge."
"No, I suppose not," said Rodney, smiling.
"Besides she's got two little girls by her new husband, and she wouldn't want to leave them."
By this time the shine was completed, and Rodney paid Mike.
"If I ever come to the Lodge, I'll ask for you," he said.
"Where do you live now?"
"I'm just staying at a place on Fourteenth Street, but I can't afford to stay there long, for they charge a dollar a day."
"Geewholliker, that would bust me, and make me a financial wreck as the papers say."
"How did you lose your fortune and get reduced to blacking boots?" asked Rodney jocosely.
"I got scooped out of it in Wall Street," answered Mike. "Jay Gould cleaned me out."
"And I suppose now he has added your fortune to his."
"You've hit it boss."
"Well, good day, Mike, I'll see you again some day----"
"All right! I'm in my office all de mornin'."
CHAPTER VI.
AN IMPUDENT ADVENTURER.
While Rodney was talking with Mike Flynn he was an object of attention to a man who stood near the corner of Barclay Street, and was ostensibly looking in at the window of the drug store. As Rodney turned away he recognized him at once as his enterprising fellow traveler who had taken possession of the casket of jewels.
He did not care to keep up an acquaintance with him, and started to cross the street. But the other came forward smiling, and with a nod said: "I believe you are the young man I met yesterday in the cars and afterwards at Kentville?"
"Yes, sir."
"I just wanted to tell you that I had got back my jewel box, the one for which I mistook yours."
"Indeed!" said Rodney, who did not believe a word the fellow said.
"Quite an amusing mistake, I made."
"It might have proved serious to me."
"Very true, as I shouldn't have known where to find you to restore your property."
"I don't think that would have troubled you much," thought Rodney. "Where did you find your box?" he asked.
"In the car. That is, the conductor picked it up and left it at the depot for me. Where are you staying here in the city? At the Astor House?"
"No, I have found a boarding house on West Fourteenth Street."
"If it is a good place, I should like to go there. What is the number?"
"I can't recall it, though I could find it," answered Rodney with reserve, for he had no wish to have his railroad acquaintance in the house.
"Is the gentleman who was traveling with you there also?"
"Yes, sir."
"He is a very pleasant gentleman, though he misjudged me. Ha, ha! my friends will be very much amused when I tell them that I was taken for a thief. Why, I venture to say that my box is more valuable than yours."
"Very likely," said Rodney coldly. "Good morning."
"Good morning. I hope we may meet again."
Rodney nodded, but he could not in sincerity echo the wish.
He was now confronted by a serious problem. He had less than ten dollars in his pocketbook, and this would soon be swallowed up by the necessary expenses of life in a large city. What would he do when that was gone?
It was clear that he must go to work as soon as possible. If his guardian had remained in the city, probably through his influence a situation might have been secured. Now nothing was to be looked for in that quarter.
He bought a morning paper and looked over the Want Column. He found two places within a short distance of the Astor House, and called at each. One was in a railroad office.
"My boy," said the manager, a pleasant looking man, "the place was taken hours since. You don't seem to get up very early in the morning."
"I could get up at any hour that was necessary," replied Rodney, "but I have only just made up my mind to apply for a position."
"You won't meet with any luck today. It is too late. Get up bright and early tomorrow morning, buy a paper, and make early application for any place that strikes you as desirable."
"Thank you, sir. I am sure your advice is good."
"If you had been the first to call here, I should have taken you. I like your appearance better than that of the boy I have selected."
"Thank you, sir."
"This boy may not prove satisfactory. Call in six days, just before his week expires, and if there is likely to be a vacancy I will let you know."
"Thank you, sir. You are very kind."
"I always sympathize with boys. I have two boys of my own."
This conversation quite encouraged Rodney. It seemed to promise success in the future. If he had probably impressed one man, he might be equally fortunate with another.
It was about half past twelve when he passed through Nassau Street.
All at once his arm was grasped, and a cheery voice said, "Where are you going, Rodney?"
"Mr. Woods!" he exclaimed, with pleased recognition.
"Yes, it's your old friend Woods."
"You are not the only railroad friend I have met this morning."
"Who was the other?"
"The gentleman who obligingly took care of my jewel box for a short time."
"You don't mean to say you have met him? Where did you come across him?"
"In front of the Astor House, almost two hours since."
"Did you speak to him?"
"He spoke to me. You will be glad to hear that he has recovered his own casket of jewels."
Adin Woods smiled.
"He must think you are easily imposed upon," he said, "to believe any such story. Anything more?"
"He said his friends would be very much surprised to hear that he had been suspected of theft."
"So he wanted to clear himself with you?"
"Yes; he asked where I was staying."
"I hope you didn't tell him."
"I only said I was at a boarding house on West Fourteenth Street, but didn't mention the number."
"He thinks you have the casket with you, and that he may get possession of it. It is well that you stored it at Tiffany's."
"I think so. Now I have no anxiety about it. Do you think he will find out where we live?"
"Probably, as you gave him a clew. But, Rodney, it is about lunch time, and I confess I have an appetite. Come and lunch with me."
"But I am afraid, Mr. Woods, I shall not be able to return the compliment."
"There is no occasion for it. I feel in good humor this morning. I have sold one lot, and have hopes of disposing of another. The one lot pays me a commission of twenty dollars."
"I wish I could make twenty dollars in a week."
"Sometimes I only sell one lot in a week. It isn't like a regular business. It is precarious. Still, take the year through and I make a pretty good income. Come in here. We can get a good lunch here," and he led the way into a modest restaurant, not far from the site of the old post office, which will be remembered by those whose residence in New York dates back twenty years or more.
"Now we will have a nice lunch," said the agent. "I hope you can do justice to it."
"I generally can," responded Rodney, smiling. "I am seldom troubled with a poor appetite."
"Ditto for me. Now what have you been doing this morning?"
"Looking for a place."
"With what success?"
"Pretty good if I had only been earlier."
Rodney told the story of his application to the manager of the railroad office.
"You will know better next time. I think you'll succeed. I did. When I came to New York at the age of twenty two I had only fifty dollars. That small sum had to last me twelve weeks. You can judge that I didn't live on the fat of the land during that time. I couldn't often eat at Delmonico's. Even Beefsteak John's would have been too expensive for me. However, those old days are over."
The next day and the two following Rodney went about the city making application for positions, but every place seemed full.
On the third day Mr. Woods said, "I shall have to leave you for a week or more, Rodney."
"Where are you going?"
"To Philadelphia. There's a man there who is a capitalist and likes land investments. I am going to visit him, and hope to sell him several lots. He once lived in this city, so he won't object to New York investments."
"I hope you will succeed, Mr. Woods. I think if you are going away I had better give up the room, and find cheaper accommodations. I am getting near the end of my money."
"You are right. It is best to be prudent."
That evening Rodney found a room which he could rent for two dollars a week. He estimated that by economy he could get along for fifty cents a day for his eating, and that would be a decided saving.
He was just leaving the house the next morning, gripsack in hand, when on the steps he met Louis Wheeler, his acquaintance of the train.
"Where are you going?" asked Wheeler.
"I am leaving this house. I have hired a room elsewhere."
Wheeler's countenance fell, and he looked dismayed.
"Why, I have just taken a room here for a week," he said.
"You will find it a good place."
"But--I wouldn't have come here if I hadn't thought I should have company."
"I ought to feel complimented."
Rodney was convinced that Wheeler had come in the hopes of stealing the casket of jewels a second time, and he felt amused at the fellow's discomfiture.
"You haven't got your jewel box with you?"
"No, I can take that another time."
"Then it's still in the house," thought Wheeler with satisfaction. "It won't be my fault if I don't get it in my hands. Well, good morning," he said. "Come around and call on me."
"Thank you!"
CHAPTER VII.
AT THE NEWSBOY'S LODGING HOUSE.
Within a week Rodney had spent all his money, with the exception of about fifty cents. He had made every effort to obtain a place, but without success.
Boys born and bred in New York have within my observation tried for months to secure a position in vain, so it is not surprising that Rodney who was a stranger proved equally unsuccessful.
Though naturally hopeful Rodney became despondent.
"There seems to be no place for me," he said to himself. "When I was at boarding school I had no idea how difficult it is for a boy to earn a living."
He had one resource. He could withdraw the box of jewels from Tiffany's, and sell some article that it contained. But this he had a great objection to doing. One thing was evident however, he must do something.
His friend, the lot agent, was out of town, and he hardly knew whom to advise with. At last Mike Flynn, the friendly bootblack, whose acquaintance he had made in front of the Astor House, occurred to him.
Mike, humble as he was, was better off than himself. Moreover he was a New York boy, and knew more about "hustling" than Rodney did. So he sought out Mike in his "office."
"Good morning, Mike," said Rodney, as the bootblack was brushing off a customer.
"Oh, its you, Rodney," said Mike smiling with evident pleasure. "How you're gettin' on?"
"Not at all."
"That's bad. Can I help you? Just say the word, and I'll draw a check for you on the Park Bank."
"Is that where you keep your money?"
"It's one of my banks. You don't think I'd put all my spondulics in one bank, do you?"
"I won't trouble you to draw a check this morning. I only want to ask some advice."
"I've got plenty of that."
"I haven't been able to get anything to do, and I have only fifty cents left. I can't go on like that."
"That's so."
"I've got to give up my room on Fourteenth Street. I can't pay for it any longer. Do you think I could get in at the Lodge?"
"Yes. I'll introduce you to Mr. O'Connor."
"When shall I meet you?"
"At five o'clock. We'll be in time for supper."
"All right."
At five o'clock Mike accompanied Rodney to the large Newsboys' Lodging House on New Chambers Street. Mr. O'Connor, the popular and efficient superintendent, now dead, looked in surprise at Mike's companion. He was a stout man with a kindly face, and Rodney felt that he would prove to be a friend.
"Mr. O'Connor, let me introduce me friend, Mr. Rodney Ropes," said Mike.
"Could you give me a lodging?" asked Rodney in an embarrassed tone.
"Yes; but I am surprised to see a boy of your appearance here."
"I am surprised to be here myself," admitted Rodney.
The superintendent fixed upon him a shrewd, but kindly glance.
"Have you run away from home?" he asked.
"No, sir. It is my home that has run away from me."
"Have you parents?"
"No, sir."
"Do you come from the country?"
"Yes, sir."
"Where have you been living?"
"At a boarding school a few hours from New York."
"Why did you leave it?"
"Because my guardian sent me word that he had lost my fortune, and could no longer pay my bills."
"You have been unfortunate truly. What do you propose to do now?"
"Earn my living if I can. I have been in the city for about two weeks, and have applied at a good many places but in vain."
"Then you were right in coming here. Supper is ready, and although it is not what you are used to, it will satisfy hunger. Mike, you can take Rodney with you."
Within five minutes Rodney was standing at a long table with a bowl of coffee and a segment of bread before him. It wouldn't have been attractive to one brought up to good living, as was the case with him, but he was hungry.
He had eaten nothing since morning except an apple which he had bought at a street stand for a penny, and his stomach urgently craved a fresh supply of food.
Mike stood next to him. The young bootblack, who was used to nothing better, ate his portion with zest, and glanced askance at Rodney to see how he relished his supper. He was surprised to see that his more aristocratic companion seemed to enjoy it quite as much as himself.
"I didn't think you'd like it" he said.
"Anything tastes good when you're hungry, Mike."
"That's so."
"And I haven't eaten anything except an apple, since morning."
"Is dat so? Why didn't you tell me? I'd have stood treat at de Boss Tweed eatin' house."
"I had money, but I didn't dare to spend it. I was afraid of having nothing left."
When Rodney had eaten his supper he felt that he could have eaten more, but the craving was satisfied and he felt relieved.
He looked around him with some curiosity, for he had never been in such a motley gathering before. There were perhaps one hundred and fifty boys recruited from the street, to about all of whom except himself the term street Arab might be applied.
The majority of them had the shrewd and good humored Celtic face. Many of them were fun loving and even mischievous, but scarcely any were really bad.
Naturally Rodney, with his good clothes, attracted attention. The boys felt that he was not one of them, and they had a suspicion that he felt above them.
"Get on to de dude!" remarked one boy, who was loosely attired in a ragged shirt and tattered trousers.
"He means me, Mike," said Rodney with a smile.
"I say, Patsy Glenn, what do you mean by callin' me friend Rodney a dude?" demanded Mike angrily.
"Coz he's got a dandy suit on."
"What if he has? Wouldn't you wear one like it if you could!"
"You bet!"
"Then just let him alone! He's just got back from de inauguration."
"Where'd you pick him up, Mike?"
"Never mind! He's one of us. How much money have you got in your pocket Rodney?"
"Thirty two cents."
"He can't put on no frills wid dat money."
"That's so. I take it all back," and Patsy offered a begrimed hand to Rodney, which the latter shook heartily with a pleasant smile.
That turned the tide in favor of Rodney, the boys gathered around him and he told his story in a few words.
"I used to be rich, boys," he said, "but my guardian spent all my money, and now I am as poor as any of you."
"You'd ought to have had me for your guardian, Rodney," observed Mike.
"I wish you had. You wouldn't have lost my money for me."
"True for you! I say so, boys, if we can find Rodney's guardian, what'll we do to him?"
"Give him de grand bounce," suggested Patsy.
"Drop him out of a high winder," said another.
"What's his name?"
"I don't care to tell you, boys. He's written me a letter, saying he will try to pay me back some day. I think he will. He isn't a bad man, but he has been unlucky."
Mike, at the request of Mr. O'Connor, showed Rodney a locker in which he could store such articles of clothing as he had with him. After that he felt more at home, and as if he were staying at a hotel though an humble one.
At eight o'clock some of the boys had already gone to bed, but Mike and Rodney were among those who remained up. Rodney noticed with what kindness yet fairness the superintendent managed his unruly flock. Unruly they might have been with a different man, but he had no trouble in keeping them within bounds.
It was at this time that two strangers were announced, one a New York merchant named Goodnow, the other a tall, slender man with sandy whiskers of the mutton chop pattern.
"Good evening, Mr. Goodnow," said the superintendent, who recognized the merchant as a friend of the society.
"Good evening, Mr. O'Connor. I have brought my friend and correspondent Mr. Mulgrave, of London, to see some of your young Arabs."
"I shall be glad to give him all the opportunity he desires."
The Englishman looked curiously at the faces of the boys who in turn were examining him with equal interest.
"They are not unlike our boys of a similar grade, but seem sharper and more intelligent" he said. "But surely," pointing to Rodney, "that boy is not one of the--Arabs. Why, he looks like a young gentleman."
"He is a new comer. He only appeared tonight."
"He must have a history. May I speak with him?"
"By all means. Rodney, this gentleman would like to talk with you."
Rodney came forward with the ease of a boy who was accustomed to good society, and said: "I shall be very happy to speak with him."
CHAPTER VIII.
RODNEY FINDS A PLACE.
"Surely," said the Englishman, "you were not brought up in the street?"
"Oh, no," answered Rodney, "I was more fortunate."
"Then how does it happen that I find you here--among the needy boys of the city?"
"Because I am needy, too."
"But you were not always poor?"
"No; I inherited a moderate fortune from my father. It was only within a short time that I learned from my guardian that it was lost. I left the boarding school where I was being educated, and came to the city to try to make a living."
"But surely your guardian would try to provide for you?"
"He is no longer in the city."
"Who was he?" asked Otis Goodnow.
"Mr. Benjamin Fielding."
"Is it possible? Why, I lost three thousand dollars by him. He has treated you shamefully."
"It was not intentional, I am sure," said Rodney. "He was probably drawn into using my money by the hope of retrieving himself. He wrote me that he hoped at some time to make restitution."
"You speak of him generously, my lad," said Mr. Mulgrave. "Yet he has brought you to absolute poverty."
"Yes, sir, and I won't pretend that it is not a hard trial to me, but if I can get a chance to earn my own living, I will not complain."
"Goodnow, a word with you," said the Englishman, and he drew his friend aside. "Can't you make room for this boy in your establishment?"
Otis Goodnow hesitated. "At present there is no vacancy," he said.
"Make room for him, and draw upon me for his wages for the first six months."
"I will do so, but before the end of that time I am sure he will justify my paying him out of my own pocket."
There was a little further conference, and then the two gentlemen came up to where Rodney was standing with Mr. O'Connor.
"My boy," said Mr. Mulgrave, "my friend here will give you a place at five dollars a week. Will that satisfy you?"
Rodney's face flushed with pleasure.
"It will make me very happy," he said.
"Come round to my warehouse--here is my business card--tomorrow morning," said the merchant. "Ask to see me."
"At what time shall I call, sir?"
"At half past nine o'clock. That is for the first morning. When you get to work you will have to be there at eight."
"There will be no trouble about that, sir."
"Now it is my turn," said the Englishman. "Here are five dollars to keep you till your first week's wages come due. I dare say you will find them useful."
"Thank you very much, sir. I was almost out of money."
After the two gentlemen left the Lodging House Rodney looked at the card and found that his new place of employment was situated on Reade Street not far from Broadway.
"It's you that's in luck, Rodney," said his friend Mike. "Who'd think that a gentleman would come to the Lodging House to give you a place?"
"Yes, I am in luck, Mike, and now I'm going to make you a proposal."
"What is it?"
"Why can't we take a room together? It will be better than living here."
"Sure you wouldn't room with a poor boy like me?"
"Why shouldn't I? You are a good friend, and I should like your company. Besides I mean to help you get an education. I suppose you're not a first class scholar, Mike?"
"About fourth class, I guess, Rodney."
"Then you shall study with me. Then when you know a little more you may get a chance to get out of your present business, and get into a store."
"That will be bully!" said Mike with pleasure.
"Now we'd better go to bed; I must be up bright and early in the morning. We'll engage a room before I go to work."
There was no difficulty about rising early. It is one of the rules of the Lodging House for the boys to rise at six o'clock, and after a frugal breakfast of coffee and rolls they are expected to go out to their business whatever it may be. Mike and Rodney dispensed with the regulation breakfast and went out to a restaurant on Park Row where they fared better.
"Now where shall we go for a room?" asked Rodney.
"There's a feller I know has a good room on Bleecker Street," said Mike.
"How far is that?"
"A little more'n a mile."
"All right! Let us go and see."
Bleecker Street once stood in better repute than at present. It is said that A. T. Stewart once made his home there. Now it is given over to shops and cheap lodging houses.
Finally the boys found a room decently fumished, about ten feet square, of which the rental was two dollars and a half per week. Mike succeeded in beating down the lodging house keeper to two dollars, and at that figure they engaged it.
"When will you come?" asked Mrs. McCarty.
"Right off," said Mike.
"I'll need a little time to put it in order."
"Me and my partner will be at our business till six o'clock," returned Mike.
"You can send in your trunks during the day if you like."
"My trunk is at the Windsor Hotel," said Mike. "I've lent it to a friend for a few days."
Mrs. McCarty looked at Mike with a puzzled expression. She was one of those women who are slow to comprehend a joke, and she could not quite make it seem natural that her new lodger, who was in rather neglige costume, should be a guest at a fashionable hotel.
"I will leave my valise," said Rodney, "and will send for my trunk. It is in the country."
Mike looked at him, not feeling quite certain whether he was in earnest, but Rodney was perfectly serious.
"You're better off than me," said Mike, when they reached the street. "If I had a trunk I wouldn't have anything to put into it."
"I'll see if I can't rig you out, Mike. I've got a good many clothes, bought when I was rich. You and I are about the same size. I'll give you a suit of clothes to wear on Sundays."
"Will you?" exclaimed Mike, his face showing pleasure. "I'd like to see how I look in good clo'es. I never wore any yet. It wouldn't do no good in my business."
"You won't want to wear them when at work. But wouldn't you like to change your business?"
"Yes."
"Have you ever tried?"
"What'd be the use of tryin'? They'd know I was a bootblack in these clo'es."
"When you wear a better suit you can go round and try your luck."
"I'd like to," said Mike wistfully. "I don't want you to tell at the store that you room with a bootblack."
"It isn't that I think of, Mike. I want you to do better. I'm going to make a man of you."
"I hope you are. Sometimes I've thought I'd have to be a bootblack always. When do you think you'll get the clo'es?"
"I shall write to the principal of the boarding school at once, asking him to forward my trunk by express. I want to economize a little this week, and shall have to pay the express charges."
"I'll pay up my part of the rent, Rodney, a quarter a day."
Rodney had advanced the whole sum, as Mike was not in funds.
"If you can't pay a dollar a week I will pay a little more than half."
"There ain't no need. I'll pay my half and be glad to have a nice room."
"I've got three or four pictures at the school, and some books. I'll send for them later on, and we'll fix up the room."
"Will you? We'll have a reg'lar bang up place. I tell you that'll be better than livin' at the Lodge."
"Still that seems a very neat place. It is lucky for poor boys that they can get lodging so cheap."
"But it isn't like havin' a room of your own, Rodney. I say, when we're all fixed I'll ask some of me friends to come in some evenin' and take a look at us. They'll be s'prised."
"Certainly, Mike. I shall be glad to see any of your friends."
It may seem strange that Rodney, carefully as he had been brought up, should have made a companion of Mike, but he recognized in the warm hearted Irish boy, illiterate as he was, sterling qualities, and he felt desirous of helping to educate him. He knew that he could always depend on his devoted friendship, and looked forward with pleasure to their more intimate companionship.
After selecting their room and making arrangements to take possession of it, the boys went down town. Rodney stepped into the reading room at the Astor House and wrote the following letter to Dr. Sampson:
DR. PLINY SAMPSON:
DEAR SIR--Will you be kind enough to send my trunk by express to No. 312 Bleecker Street? I have taken a room there, and that will be my home for the present. I have obtained a position in a wholesale house on Reade Street, and hope I may give satisfaction. Will you remember me with best wishes to all the boys? I don't expect to have so easy or pleasant a time as I had at school, but I hope to get on, and some time--perhaps in the summer--to make you a short visit.
Yours truly,
RODNEY ROPES.
CHAPTER IX.
THE FIRST DAY AT WORK.
A little before half past nine Rodney paused in front of a large five story building on Reade Street occupied by Otis Goodnow.
He entered and found the first floor occupied by quite a large number of clerks and salesmen, and well filled with goods.
"Well, young fellow, what can I do for you?" asked a dapper looking clerk.
"I would like to see Mr. Goodnow."
"He's reading his letters. He won't see you."
Rodney was provoked.
"Do you decide who is to see him?" he asked.
"You're impudent, young feller."
"Am I? Perhaps you will allow Mr. Goodnow to see me, as long as he told me to call here this morning."
"That's a different thing," returned the other in a different tone. "If you're sure about that you can go to the office in the back part of the room."
Rodney followed directions and found himself at the entrance of a room which had been partitioned off for the use of the head of the firm.
Mr. Goodnow was seated at a desk with his back to him, and was employed in opening letters. Without turning round he said, "Sit down and I will attend to you in a few minutes."
Rodney seated himself on a chair near the door. In about ten minutes Mr. Goodnow turned around.
"Who is it?" he asked.
"Perhaps you remember telling me to call at half past nine. You saw me at the Newsboys' Lodging House."
"Ah, yes, I remember. I promised my friend Mulgrave that I would give you a place. What can you do? Are you a good writer?"
"Shall I give you a specimen of my handwriting?"
"Yes; sit down at that desk."
It was a desk adjoining his own.
Rodney seated himself and wrote in a firm, clear, neat hand:
"I will endeavor to give satisfaction, if you are kind enough to give me a place in your establishment."
Then he passed over the paper to the merchant.
"Ah, very good!" said Mr. Goodnow approvingly. "You won't be expected to do any writing yet but I like to take into my store those who are qualified for promotion."
He rang a little bell on his desk.
A boy about two years older than Rodney answered the summons.
"Send Mr. James here," said the merchant.
Mr. James, a sandy complexioned man, partially bald, made his appearance.
"Mr. James," said the merchant, "I have taken this boy into my employ. I don't know if one is needed, but it is at the request of a friend. You can send him on errands, or employ him in any other way."
"Very well, sir. I can find something for him to do today at any rate, as young Johnson hasn't shown up."
"Very well. Whats your name, my lad?"
"Rodney Ropes."
"Make a note of his name, Mr. James, and enter it in the books. You may go with Mr. James, and put yourself at his disposal."
Rodney followed the subordinate, who was the head of one of the departments, to the second floor. Here Mr. James had a desk.
"Wait a minute," he said, "and I will give you a memorandum of places to call at."
In five minutes a memorandum containing a list of three places was given to Rodney, with brief instructions as to what he was to do at each. They were places not far away, and fortunately Rodney had a general idea as to where they were.
In his search for positions he had made a study of the lower part of the city which now stood him in good stead.
As he walked towards the door he attracted the attention of the young clerk with whom he had just spoken.
"Well, did you see Mr. Goodnow?" asked the young man, stroking a sickly looking mustache.
"Yes."
"Has he taken you into the firm?"
"Not yet, but he has given me a place."
The clerk whistled.
"So you are one of us?" he said.
"Yes," answered Rodney with a smile.
"Then you ought to know the rules of the house."
"You can tell me later on, but now I am going out on an errand."
In about an hour Rodney returned. He had been detained at two of the places where he called.
"Do you remember what I said?" asked the young clerk as he passed.
"Yes."
"The first rule of the establishment is for a new hand to treat ME on his first day."
"That's pretty good for you," said Rodney, laughing; "I shall have to wait till my pay is raised."
About the middle of the afternoon, as Rodney was helping to unpack a crate of goods, the older boy whom he had already seen in the office below, walked up to him and said, "Is your name Ropes?"
"Yes."
"You are wanted in Mr. Goodnow's office."
Rodney went down stairs, feeling a little nervous. Had he done wrong, and was he to be reprimanded?
He could think of nothing deserving censure. So far as he knew he had attended faithfully to all the duties required of him.
As he entered the office, he saw that Mr. Goodnow had a visitor, whose face looked familiar to him. He recalled it immediately as the face of the English gentleman who had visited the Lodging House the day previous with his employer.
"So I find you at work?" he said, offering his hand with a smile.
"Yes, sir," answered Rodney gratefully, "thanks to you."
"How do you think you will like it?"
"Very much, sir. It is so much better than going around the street with nothing to do."
"I hope you will try to give satisfaction to my friend, Mr. Goodnow."
"I shall try to do so, sir."
"You mustn't expect to rise to be head salesman in a year. Festina lente, as the Latin poet has it."
"I shall be satisfied with hastening slowly, sir."
"What! you understand Latin?"
"Pretty well, sir."
"Upon my word, I didn't expect to find a boy in the News boys' Lodging House with classical attainments. Perhaps you know something of Greek also!" he said doubtfully.
In reply Rodney repeated the first line of the Iliad.
"Astonishing!" exclaimed Mr. Mulgrave, putting up his eyeglass, and surveying Rodney as if he were a curious specimen. "You don't happen to know anything of Sanscrit, do you?"
"No, sir; I confess my ignorance."
"I apprehend you won't require it in my friend Goodnow's establishment."
"If I do, I will learn it," said Rodney, rather enjoying the joke.
"If I write a book about America, I shall certainly put in a paragraph about a learned office boy. I think you are entitled to something for your knowledge of Greek and Latin--say five dollars apiece," and Mr. Mulgrave drew from his pocket two gold pieces and handed them to Rodney.
"Thank you very much, sir," said Rodney. "I shall find this money very useful, as I have taken a room, and am setting up housekeeping."
"Then you have left the Lodging House?"
"Yes, sir; I only spent one night there."
"You are right. It is no doubt a great blessing to the needy street boys, but you belong to a different class."
"It is very fortunate I went there last evening, or I should not have met you and Mr. Goodnow."
"I am glad to have been the means of doing you a service," said the Englishman kindly, shaking hands with Rodney, who bowed and went back to his work.
"I am not sure but you are taking too much notice of that boy, Mulgrave," said the merchant.
"No fear! He is not a common boy. You won't regret employing him."
"I hope not."
Then they talked of other matters, for Mr. Mulgrave was to start on his return to England the following day.
At five o'clock Rodney's day was over, and he went back to Bleecker Street. He found Mike already there, working hard to get his hands clean, soiled as they were by the stains of blacking.
"Did you have a good day, Mike?" asked Rodney.
"Yes; I made a dollar and ten cents. Here's a quarter towards the rent."
"All right! I see you are prompt in money matters."
"I try to be. Do you know, Rodney, I worked better for feelin' that I had a room of my own to go to after I got through. I hope I'll soon be able to get into a different business."
"I hope so, too."
Two days later Rodney's trunk arrived. In the evening he opened it. He took out a dark mixed suit about half worn, and said, "Try that on, Mike."
Mike did so. It fitted as if it were made for him.
"You can have it, Mike," said Rodney.
"You don't mean it?" exclaimed Mike, delighted.
"Yes, I do. I have plenty of others."
Rodney supplemented his gift by a present of underclothing, and on the following Sunday the two boys went to Central Park in the afternoon, Mike so transformed that some of his street friends passed him without recognition, much to Mike's delight.
CHAPTER X.
MIKE PUTS ON A UNIFORM.
A wonderful change came over Mike Flynn. Until he met Rodney he seemed quite destitute of ambition. The ragged and dirty suit which he wore as bootblack were the best he had. His face and hands generally bore the marks of his business, and as long as he made enough to buy three meals a day, two taken at the Lodging House, with something over for lodging, and an occasional visit to a cheap theater, he was satisfied.
He was fifteen, and had never given a thought to what he would do when he was older. But after meeting Rodney, and especially after taking a room with him, he looked at life with different eyes. He began to understand that his business, though honorable because honest, was not a desirable one. He felt, too, that he ought to change it out of regard for Rodney, who was now his close companion.
"If I had ten dollars ahead," he said one day, "I'd give up blackin' boots."
"What else would you do?"
"I'd be a telegraph boy. That's more respectable than blackin' boots, and it 'ould be cleaner."
"That is true. Do you need money to join?"
"I would get paid once in two weeks, and I'd have to live till I got my first salary."
"I guess I can see you through, Mike."
"No; you need all your money, Rodney. I'll wait and see if I can't save it myself."
This, however, would have taken a long time, if Mike had not been favored by circumstances. He was standing near the ladies' entrance to the Astor House one day, when casting his eyes downward he espied a neat pocketbook of Russia leather. He picked it up, and from the feeling judged that it must be well filled.
Now I must admit that it did occur to Mike that he could divert to his own use the contents without detection, as no one had seen him pick it up. But Mike was by instinct an honest boy, and he decided that this would not be right. He thrust it into his pocket, however, as he had no objection to receiving a reward if one was offered.
While he was standing near the entrance, a tall lady, dressed in brown silk and wearing glasses, walked up from the direction of Broadway. She began to peer about like one who was looking for something.
"I guess its hers," thought Mike.
"Are you looking for anything, ma'am?" he asked.
She turned and glanced at Mike.
"I think I must have dropped my pocketbook," she said. "I had it in my hand when I left the hotel, but I had something on my mind and I think I must have dropped it without noticing. Won't you help me look for it, for I am short sighted?"
"Is this it?" asked Mike, producing the pocketbook.
"Oh yes!" exclaimed the lady joyfully. "Where did you find it?"
"Just here," answered Mike, indicating a place on the sidewalk.
"I suppose there is a good deal of money in it?" said Mike, with pardonable curiosity.
"Then you didn't open it?"
"No, ma'am, I didn't have a chance. I just found it."
"There may be forty or fifty dollars, but it isn't on that account I should have regretted losing it. It contained a receipt for a thousand dollars which I am to use in a law suit. That is very important for it will defeat a dishonest claim for money that I have already paid."
"Then I'm glad I found it."
"You are an honest boy. You seem to be a poor boy also."
"That's true, ma'am. If I was rich I wouldn't black boots for a livin'."
"Dear me, you are one of the young street Arabs I've read about," and the lady looked curiously at Mike through her glasses.
"I expect I am."
"And I suppose you haven't much money."
"My bank account is very low, ma'am."
"I've read a book about a boy named `Ragged Dick.' I think he was a bootblack, too. Do you know him?"
"He's my cousin, ma'am," answered Mike promptly.
It will be observed that I don't represent Mike as possessed of all the virtues.
"Dear me, how interesting. I bought the book for my little nephew. Now I can tell him I have seen `Ragged Dick's' cousin. Where is Dick now?"
"He's reformed, ma'am."
"Reformed?"
"Yes, from blackin' boots. He's in better business now."
"If I should give you some of the money in this pocketbook, you wouldn't spend it on drinking and gambling, would you?"
"No, ma'am. I'd reform like my cousin, Ragged Dick."
"You look like a good truthful boy. Here are ten dollars for you."
"Oh, thank you, ma'am! you're a gentleman," said Mike overjoyed. "No, I don't mean that but I hope you'll soon get a handsome husband."
"My young friend, I don't care to marry, though I appreciate your good wishes. I am an old maid from principle. I am an officer of the Female Suffrage Association."
"Is it a good payin' office, ma'am?" asked Mike, visibly impressed.
"No, but it is a position of responsibility. Please tell me your name that I may make a note of it."
"My name is Michael Flynn."
"I see. You are of Celtic extraction."
"I don't know, ma'am. I never heard that I was. It isn't anything bad, is it?"
"Not at all. I have some Celtic blood in my own veins. If you ever come to Boston you can inquire for Miss Pauline Peabody."
"Thank you, ma'am," said Mike, who thought the lady rather a "queer lot."
"Now I must call upon my lawyer, and leave the receipt which I came so near losing."
"Well, I'm in luck," thought Mike. "I'll go home and dress up, and apply for a position as telegraph boy."
When Rodney came home at supper time he found Mike, dressed in his Sunday suit.
"What's up now, Mike?" he asked. "Have you retired from business?"
"Yes, from the bootblack business. Tomorrow I shall be a telegraph boy."
"That is good. You haven't saved up ten dollars, have you?"
"I saved up two, and a lady gave me ten dollars for findin' her pocketbook."
"That's fine, Mike."
There chanced to be a special demand for telegraph boys at that time, and Mike, who was a sharp lad, on passing the necessary examination, was at once set to work.
He was immensely fond of his blue uniform when he first put it on, and felt that he had risen in the social scale. True, his earnings did not average as much, but he was content with smaller pay, since the duties were more agreeable.
In the evenings under Rodney's instruction he devoted an hour and sometimes two to the task of making up the deficiencies in his early education. These were extensive, but Mike was naturally a smart boy, and after a while began to improve rapidly.
So three months passed. Rodney stood well in with Mr. Goodnow, and was promoted to stock clerk. The discipline which he had revived as a student stood him in good stead, and enabled him to make more rapid advancement than some who had been longer in the employ of the firm. In particular he was promoted over the head of Jasper Redwood, a boy two years older than himself, who was the nephew of an old employee who had been for fifteen years in the house.
Jasper's jealousy was aroused, and he conceived a great dislike for Rodney, of which Rodney was only partially aware.
For this dislike there was really no cause. Rodney stood in his way only because Jasper neglected his duties, and failed to inspire confidence. He was a boy who liked to spend money and found his salary insufficient, though he lived with his uncle and paid but two dollars a week for his board.
"Uncle James," he said one day, "when do you think I will get a raise?"
"You might get one now if it were not for the new boy."
"You mean Ropes."
"Yes, he has just been promoted to a place which I hoped to get for you."
"It is mean," grumbled Jasper. "I have been here longer than he."
"True, but he seems to be Mr. Goodnow's pet. It was an unlucky day for you when he got a place in the establishment."
"Did you ask Mr. Goodnow to promote me?"
"Yes, but he said he had decided to give Archer's place to Ropes."
Archer was a young clerk who was obliged, on account of pulmonary weakness, to leave New York and go to Southern California.
"How much does Ropes get now?"
"Seven dollars a week."
"And I only get five, and I am two years older. They ought to have more regard for you, Uncle James, or I, as your nephew, would get promoted."
"I will see what we can do about it."
"I wish Ropes would get into some scrape and get discharged."
It was a new idea, but Jasper dwelt upon it, and out of it grew trouble for Rodney.
CHAPTER XI.
MISSING GOODS.
James Redwood was summoned one morning to the counting room of his employer.
"Mr. Redwood," said the merchant "I have reason to think that one of my clerks is dishonest."
"Who, sir?"
"That is what I want you to find out."
"What reason have you for suspecting any one?"
"Some ladies' cloaks and some dress patterns are missing."
"Are you sure they were not sold?"
"Yes: the record of sales has been examined, and they are not included."
"That is strange, Mr. Goodnow" said Redwood thoughtfully. "I hope I am not under suspicion."
"Oh, not at all."
"The losses seem to have taken place in my department."
"True, but that doesn't involve you."
"What do you want me to do?"
"Watch those under you. Let nothing in your manner, however, suggest that you are suspicious. I don't want you to put any one on his guard."
"All right, sir. I will be guided by your instructions. Have you any idea how long this has been going on?"
"Only a few weeks."
Mr. Redwood turned to go back to his room, but Mr. Goodnow called him back.
"I needn't suggest to you," he said, "that you keep this to yourself. Don't let any clerk into the secret."
"Very well, sir."
James Redwood, however, did not keep his promise. After supper he called back Jasper as he was about putting on his hat to go out, and said, "Jasper, I wish to speak with you for five minutes."
"Won't it do tomorrow morning? I have an engagement."
"Put it off, then. This is a matter of importance."
"Very well, sir," and Jasper, albeit reluctantly, laid down his hat and sat down.
"Jasper," said his uncle, "there's a thief in our establishment."
Jasper started, and his sallow complexion turned yellower than usual.
"What do you mean, uncle?" he asked nervously.
"What I say. Some articles are missing that have not been sold."
"Such as what?"
"Ladies' cloaks and dress patterns."
"Who told you?" asked Jasper in a low tone.
"Mr. Goodnow."
"What the boss?"
"Certainly."
"How should he know?"
"I didn't inquire, and if I had he probably wouldn't have told me. The main thing is that he does know."
"He may not be sure."
"He is not a man to speak unless he feels pretty sure."
"I don't see how any one could steal the articles without being detected."
"It seems they are detected."
"Did--did Mr. Goodnow mention any names?"
"No. He wants to watch and find out the thief. I wish you to help me, though I am acting against instructions. Mr. Goodnow asked me to take no one into my confidence. You will see, therefore, that it will be necessary for you to say nothing."
"I won't breathe a word," said Jasper, who seemed to feel more at ease.
"Now that I have told you so much, can you suggest any person who would be likely to commit the theft?"
Jasper remained silent for a moment, then with a smile of malicious satisfaction said, "Yes, I can suggest a person."
"Who is it?"
"The new boy, Rodney Ropes."
James Redwood shook his head.
"I can't believe that it is he. I am not in love with the young fellow, who seems to stand in the way of your advancement but he seems straight enough, and I don't think it at all likely that he should be the guilty person."
"Yes, Uncle James, he SEEMS straight but you know that still waters run deep."
"Have you seen anything that would indicate guilt on his part?"
"I have noticed this, that, he is very well dressed for a boy of his small salary, and seems always to have money to spend."
"That will count for something. Still he might have some outide means. Have you noticed anything else?"
Jasper hesitated.
"I noticed one evening when he left the store that he had a sizable parcel under his arm."
"And you think it might have contained some article stolen from the stock?"
"That's just what I think now. Nothing of the kind occurred to me at that time, for I didn't know any articles were missing."
"That seems important. When was it that you noticed this?"
"One day last week," answered Jasper hesitatingly.
"Can you remember the day?"
"No."
"Couldn't you fix it some way?"
"No. You see, I didn't attach any particular importance to it at the time, and probably it would not have occurred to me again, but for your mentioning that articles were missing."
"There may be something in what you say," said his uncle thoughtfully. "I will take special notice of young Ropes after this."
"So will I."
"Don't let him observe that he is watched. It would defeat our chances of detecting the thief."
"I'll be careful. Do you want to say anything more, uncle?"
"No. By the way, where were you going this evening?"
"I was going to meet a friend, and perhaps go to the theater. You couldn't lend me a dollar, could you, Uncle James?"
"Yes, I could, but you are not quite able to pay for your own pleasures. It costs all my salary to live, and its going to be worse next year, for I shall have to pay a higher rent."
"When I have my pay raised, I can get along better."
"If Ropes loses his place, you will probably step into it."
"Then I hope he'll go, and that soon."
When Jasper passed through the front door and stood on the sidewalk, he breathed a sigh of relief.
"So, they are on to us," he said to himself. "But how was it found out? That's what I'd like to know. I have been very careful. I must see Carton at once."
A short walk took him to a billiard room not far from Broadway. A young man of twenty five, with a slight mustache, and a thin, dark face, was selecting a cue.
"Ah, Jasper!" he said. "Come at last. Let us have a game of pool."
"Not just yet. Come outide. I want to speak to you."
Jasper looked serious, and Philip Carton, observing it, made no remonstrance, but taking his hat, followed him out.
"Well, what is it?" he asked.
"Something serious. It is discovered at the store that goods are missing."
"You don't mean it? Are we suspected?"
"No one is suspected--yet."
"But how do you know?"
"My uncle spoke to me about it this evening--just after supper."
"He doesn't think you are in it."
"No."
"How did he find out?"
"Through the boss. Goodnow spoke to him about it today."
"But how should Goodnow know anything about it?"
"That no one can tell but himself. He asked Uncle James to watch the clerks, and see if he could fasten the theft on any of them."
"That is pleasant for us. It is well we are informed so that we can be on our guard. I am afraid our game is up."
"For the present at any rate we must suspend operations. Now, have you some money for me?"
"Well, a little."
"A little? Why there are two cloaks and a silk dress pattern to be accounted for."
"True, but I have to be very careful. I have to submit to a big discount for the parties I sell to undoubtedly suspect that the articles are stolen."
"Wouldn't it be better to pawn them?"
"It would be more dangerous. Besides you know how liberal pawnbrokers are. I'll tell you what would be better. If I had a sufficient number of articles to warrant it, I could take them on to Boston or Philadelphia, and there would be less risk selling them there."
"That is true. I wish we had thought of that before. Now we shall have to give up the business for a time. How much money have you got for me?"
"Seven dollars."
"Seven dollars!" exclaimed Jasper in disgust. "Why, that is ridiculous. The articles must have been worth at retail a hundred dollars."
"Perhaps so, but I only got fourteen for them. If you think you can do any better you may sell them yourself next time."
"I thought I should assuredly get fifteen dollars out of it," said Jasper, looking deeply disappointed. "I had a use for the money too."
"Very likely. So had I."
"Well, I suppose I must make it do. Listen and I will tell you how I think I can turn this thing to my advantage."
"Go ahead!"
CHAPTER XII.
WHAT WAS FOUND IN RODNEY'S ROOM.
"There is a boy who stands between me and promotion," continued Jasper, speaking in a low tone.
"The boy you mentioned the other day?"
"Yes, Rodney Ropes. Mr. Goodnow got him from I don't know where, and has taken a ridiculous fancy to him. He has been put over my head and his pay raised, though I have been in the store longer than he. My idea is to connect him with the thefts and get him discharged."
"Do you mean that we are to make him a confederate?"
"No," answered Jasper impatiently. "He would be just the fellow to peach and get us all into trouble."
"Then what do you mean?"
"To direct suspicion towards him. We won't do it immediately, but within a week or two. It would do me good to have him turned out of the store."
Jasper proceeded to explain his idea more fully, and his companion pronounced it very clever.
Meanwhile Rodney, not suspecting the conspiracy to deprive him of his place and his good name, worked zealously, encouraged by his promotion, and resolved to make a place for himself which should insure him a permanent connection with the firm.
Ten days passed, and Mr. Redwood again received a summons from the office.
Entering, he found Mr. Goodnow with a letter in his hand.
"Well, Mr. Redwood," he began, "have you got any clew to the party who has stolen our goods?"
"No, sir."
"Has any thing been taken since I spoke with you on the subject?"
"Not that I am aware of."
"Has any one of the clerks attracted your attention by suspicious conduct?"
"No, sir," answered Redwood, puzzled.
"Humph! Cast your eye over this letter."
James Redwood took the letter, which was written in a fine hand, and read as follow:
MR. GOODNOW:
DEAR SIR,--I don't know whether you are aware that articles have been taken from your stock, say, ladies' cloaks and silk dress patterns, and disposed of outside. I will not tell you how it has come to my knowledge, for I do not want to get any one's ill will, but I will say, to begin with, that they were taken by one of your employees, and the one, perhaps, that you would least suspect, for I am told that he is a favorite of yours. I may as well say that it is Rodney Ropes. I live near him, and last evening I saw him carry a bundle to his room when he went back from the store. I think if you would send round today when he is out, you would find in his room one or more of the stolen articles. I don't want to get him into trouble, but I don't like to see you robbed, and so I tell you what I know.
A FRIEND.
Mr. Redwood read this letter attentively, arching his brows, perhaps to indicate his surprise. Then he read it again carefully.
"What do you think of it?" asked the merchant.
"I don't know," answered Redwood slowly.
"Have you ever seen anything suspicious in the conduct of young Ropes?"
"I can't say I have. On the contrary, he seems to be a very diligent and industrious clerk."
"But about his honesty."
"I fancied him the soul of honesty."
"So did I, but of course we are liable to be deceived. It wouldn't be the first case where seeming honesty has been a cover for flagrant dishonesty."
"What do you wish me to do, Mr. Goodnow? Shall I send Ropes down to you?"
"No; it would only give him a chance, if guilty, to cover up his dishonesty."
"I am ready to follow your instructions."
"Do you know where he lodges?"
"Yes, sir."
"Then I will ask you to go around there, and by some means gain admission to his room. If he has any of our goods secreted take possession of them and report to me."
"Very well, sir." Half an hour later Mrs. McCarty, Rodney's landlady, in response to a ring admitted Mr. James Redwood.
"Does a young man named Ropes lodge here?" he asked.
"Yes, sir."
"I come from the house where he is employed. He has inadvertently left in his room a parcel belonging to us, and I should be glad if you would allow me to go up to his room and take it."
"You see, sir," said Mrs. McCarty in a tone of hesitation, "while you look like a perfect gentleman, I don't know you, and I am not sure whether, in justice to Mr. Ropes, I ought to admit you to his room."
"You are quite right my good lady; I am sure. It is just what I should wish my own landlady to do. I will therefore ask you to go up to the room with me to see that all is right."
"That seems all right, sir. In that case I don't object. Follow me, if you please."
As they entered Rodney's room Mr. Redwood looked about him inquisitively. One article at once fixed his attention. It was a parcel wrapped in brown paper lying on the bed.
"This is the parcel, I think," he said. "If you will allow me I will open it, to make sure."
Mrs. McCarty looked undecided, but as she said nothing in opposition Mr. Redwood unfastened the strings and unrolled the bundle. His eyes lighted up with satisfaction as he disclosed the contents--a lady's cloak.
Mrs. McCarty looked surprised.
"Why, it's a lady's cloak," she said, "and a very handsome one. What would Mr. Ropes want of such a thing as that?"
"Perhaps he intended to make you a present of it."
"No, he can't afford to make such present."
"The explanation is simple. It belongs to the store. Perhaps Mr. Ropes left it here inadvertently."
"But he hasn't been here since morning."
"He has a pass key to the front door?"
"Yes, sir."
"Then he may have been here. Would you object to my taking it?"
"Yes, sir, you see I don't know you."
"Your objection is a proper one. Then I will trouble you to take a look at the cloak, so that you would know it again."
"Certainly, sir. I shall remember it!"
"That is all, Mrs. ----?"
"McCarty, sir."
"Mrs. McCarty, I won't take up any more of your time," and Mr. Redwood started to go down stairs.
"Who shall I tell Mr. Ropes called to see him."
"You needn't say. I will mention the matter to him myself. I am employed in the same store."
"All right sir. Where is the store? I never thought to ask Mr. Ropes."
"Reade Street, near Broadway. You know where Reade Street is?"
"Yes, sir. My husband used to work in Chambers Street. That is the first street south."
"Precisely. Well, I can't stay longer, so I will leave, apologizing for having taken up so much of your time."
"Oh, it's of no consequence, sir."
"He is a perfect gentleman," she said to herself, as Mr. Redwood closed the front door, and went out on the street. "I wonder whether he's a widower."
Being a widow this was quite a natural thought for Mrs. McCarty to indulge in, particularly as Mr. Redwood looked to be a substantial man with a snug income.
Mr. Redwood went back to the store, and went at once to the office.
"Well, Redwood," said Mr. Goodnow, "did you learn anything?"
"Yes, sir."
"Go on."
"I went to the lodging of young Ropes, and was admitted to his room."
"Well?"
"And there, wrapped in a brown paper, I found one of our missing cloaks lying on his bed."
"Is it possible?"
"I am afraid he is not what we supposed him to be, Mr. Goodnow."
"It looks like it. I am surprised and sorry. Do you think he took the other articles that are missing?"
"Of course I can't say, sir, but it is fair to presume that he did."
"I am exceedingly sorry. I don't mind saying, Redwood, that I took an especial interest in that boy. I have already told you the circumstances of my meeting him, and the fancy taken to him by my friend Mulgrave."
"Yes, sir, I have heard you say that."
"I don't think I am easily taken in, and that boy impressed me as thoroughly honest. But of course I don't pretend to be infallible and it appears that I have been mistaken in him."
The merchant looked troubled, for he had come to feel a sincere regard for Rodney. He confessed to himself that he would rather have found any of the other clerks dishonest.
"You may send Ropes to me," he said, "Mr. Redwood, and you will please come with him. We will investigate this matter at once."
"Very well, sir."
CHAPTER XIII.
CHARGED WITH THEFT.
Rodney entered Mr. Goodnow's office without a suspicion of the serious accusation which had been made against him. The first hint that there was anything wrong came to him when he saw the stern look in the merchants eyes.
"Perhaps," said Mr. Goodnow, as he leaned back in his chair and fixed his gaze on the young clerk, "you may have an idea why I have sent for you."
"No, sir," answered Rodney, looking puzzled.
"You can't think of any reason I may have for wishing to see you?"
"No, sir," and Rodney returned Mr. Goodnow's gaze with honest unfaltering eyes.
"Possibly you are not aware that within a few weeks some articles have been missed from our stock."
"I have not heard of it. What kind of articles?"
"The boy is more artful than I thought!" soliloquized the merchant.
"All the articles missed," he proceeded, "have been from the room in charge of Mr. Redwood, the room in which you, among others, are employed."
Something in Mr. Goodnow's tone gave Rodney the hint of the truth. If he had been guilty he would have flushed and showed signs of confusion. As it was, he only wished to learn the truth and he in turn became the questioner.
"Is it supposed," he asked, "that any one in your employ is responsible for these thefts?"
"It is."
"Is any one in particular suspected?"
"Yes."
"Will you tell me who, that is if you think I ought to know?"
"Certainly you ought to know, for it is you who are suspected."
Then Rodney became indignant.
"I can only deny the charge in the most emphatic terms," he said. "If any one has brought such a charge against me, it is a lie."
"You can say that to Mr. Redwood, for it is he who accuses you."
"What does this mean, Mr. Redwood?" demanded Rodney quickly. "What have you seen in me that leads you to accuse me of theft."
"To tell the truth, Ropes, you are about the last clerk in my room whom I would have suspected. But early this morning this letter was received," and he placed in Rodney's hands the letter given in a preceding chapter.
Rodney read it through and handed it back scornfully.
"I should like to see the person who wrote this letter," he said. "It is a base lie from beginning to end."
"I thought it might be when Mr. Goodnow showed it to me," said Redwood in an even tone, "but Mr. Goodnow and I agreed that it would be well to investigate. Therefore I went to your room."
"When, sir?"
"This morning."
"Then it is all right, for I am sure you found nothing."
"On the contrary, Ropes, I found that the statement made in the letter was true. On your bed was a bundle containing one of the cloaks taken from our stock."
Rodney's face was the picture of amazement.
"Is this true?" he said.
"It certainly is. I hope you don't doubt my word."
"Did you bring it back with you?"
"No; your worthy landlady was not quite sure whether I was what I represented, and I left the parcel there. However I opened it in her presence so that she can testify what I found."
"This is very strange," said Rodney, looking at his accuser with puzzled eyes. "I know nothing whatever of the cloak and can't imagine how it got into my room."
"Perhaps it walked there," said Mr. Goodnow satirically.
Rodney colored, for he understood that his employer did not believe him.
"May I go to my room," he asked, "and bring back the bundle with me?"
Observing that Mr. Goodnow hesitated he added, "You can send Some one with me to see that I don't spirit away the parcel, and come back with it."
"On these conditions you may go. Redwood, send some one with Ropes."
Rodney followed the chief of his department back to the cloak room, and the latter, after a moments thought, summoned Jasper.
"Jasper," he said, "Ropes is going to his room to get a parcel which belongs to the store. You may go with him."
There was a flash of satisfaction in Jasper's eyes as he answered with seeming indifference, "All right! I will go. I shall be glad to have a walk."
As the two boys passed out of the store, Jasper asked, "What does it mean, Ropes?"
"I don't know myself. I only know that there is said to be a parcel containing a cloak in my room. This cloak came from the store, and I am suspected of having stolen it."
"Whew! that's a serious matter. Of course it is all a mistake?"
"Yes, it is all a mistake."
"But how could it get to your room unless you carried it there?"
Rodney gave Jasper a sharp look.
"Some one must have taken it there," he said.
"How on earth did Uncle James find out?"
"An anonymous letter was sent to Mr. Goodnow charging me with theft. Did you hear that articles have been missed for some time from the stock?"
"Never heard a word of it" said Jasper with ready falsehood.
"It seems the articles are missing from our room, and some one in the room is suspected of being the thief."
"Good gracious! I hope no one will suspect me," said Jasper in pretended alarm.
"It seems I am suspected. I hope no other innocent person will have a like misfortune."
Presently they reached Rodney's lodgings. Mrs. McCarty was coming up the basement stairs as they entered.
"La, Mr. Ropes!" she said, "what brings you here in the middle of the day?"
"I hear there is a parcel in my room."
"Yes; it contains such a lovely cloak. The gentleman from your store who called a little while ago thought you might have meant it as a present for me."
"I am afraid it will be some time before I can afford to make such present. Do you know if any one called and left the cloak here?"
"No; I didn't let in no one at the door."
"Was the parcel there when you made the bed?"
"Well, no, it wasn't. That is curious."
"It shows that the parcel has been left here since. Now I certainly couldn't have left it, for I have been at work all the morning. Come up stairs, Jasper."
The two boys went up the stairs, and, entering Rodney's room, found the parcel, still on the bed.
Rodney opened it and identified the cloak as exactly like those which they carried in stock.
He examined the paper in which it was inclosed, but it seemed to differ from the wrapping paper used at the store. He called Jasper's attention to this.
"I have nothing to say," remarked Jasper, shrugging his shoulders. "I don't understand the matter at all. I suppose you are expected to carry the cloak back to the store."
"Yes, that is the only thing to do."
"I say, Ropes, it looks pretty bad for you."
Jasper said this, but Rodney observed that his words were not accompanied by any expressions of sympathy, or any words that indicated his disbelief of Rodney's guilt.
"Do you think I took this cloak from the store?" he demanded, facing round upon Jasper.
"Really, I don't know. It looks bad, finding it in your room."
"I needn't ask any further. I can see what you think."
"You wouldn't have me tell a lie, would you, Ropes? Of course such things have been done before, and your salary is small."
"You insult me by your words," said Rodney, flaming up.
"Then I had better not speak, but you asked me, you know."
"Yes, I did. Things may look against me, but I am absolutely innocent."
"If you can make Mr. Goodnow think so," said Jasper with provoking coolness, "it will be all right. Perhaps he will forgive you."
"I don't want his forgiveness. I want him to think me honest."
"Well, I hope you are, I am sure, but it won't do any good our discussing it, and it doesn't make any difference what I think any way."
By this time they had reached the store.
CHAPTER XIV.
RODNEY IS DISCHARGED.
Rodney reported his return to Mr. Redwood, and in his company went down stairs to the office, with the package under his arm.
"Well?" said Mr. Goodnow inquiringly.
"This is the package, sir."
"And it was found in your room?"
"Yes, sir, I found it on my bed."
"Can't you account for it being there?" asked the merchant searchingly.
"No, sir."
"You must admit that its presence in your room looks bad for you."
"I admit it sir; but I had nothing to do with it being there."
"Have you any theory to account for it?"
"Only this, that some one must have carried it to my room and placed it where it was found."
"Did you question your landlady as to whether she had admitted any one during the morning?"
"Yes, sir. She had not."
"This is very unfavorable to you."
"In what way, sir?"
"It makes it probable that you carried in the parcel yourself."
"That I deny," said Rodney boldly.
"I expected you to deny it" said the merchant coldly. "If this cloak were the only one that had been taken I would drop the matter. But this is by no means the case. Mr. Redwood, can you give any idea of the extent to which we have been robbed?"
"So far as I can estimate we have lost a dozen cloaks and about half a dozen dress patterns."
"This is a serious loss, Ropes," said Mr. Goodnow. "I should think it would foot up several hundred dollars. If you can throw any light upon the thefts, or give me information by which I can get back the goods even at considerable expense, I will be as considerate with you as I can."
"Mr. Goodnow," returned Rodney hotly, "I know no more about the matter than you do. I hope you will investigate, and if you can prove that I took any of the missing articles I want no consideration. I shall expect you to have me arrested, and, if convicted, punished."
"These are brave words, Ropes," said Mr. Goodnow coldly, "but they are only words. The parcel found in your room affords strong ground for suspicion that you are responsible for at least a part of the thefts. Under the circumstances there is only one thing for me to do, and that is to discharge you."
"Very well, sir."
"You may go to the cashier and he will pay you to the end of the week, but your connection with the store will end at once."
"I don't care to be paid to the end of the week, sir. If you will give me an order for payment up to tonight, that will be sufficient."
"It shall be as you say."
Mr. Goodnow wrote a few words on a slip of paper and handed it to Rodney.
"I will leave my address, sir, and if I change it I will notify you. If you