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diff --git a/21632-h/21632-h.htm b/21632-h/21632-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..13903a3 --- /dev/null +++ b/21632-h/21632-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,7402 @@ +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=iso-8859-1" /> + <title> + The Project Gutenberg eBook of Fame and Fortune, by Horatio Alger, Jr. + </title> + <style type="text/css"> +/*<![CDATA[ XML blockout */ +<!-- + p { margin-top: .75em; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; + } + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { + text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ + clear: both; + } + hr { width: 33%; + margin-top: 2em; + margin-bottom: 2em; + margin-left: auto; + margin-right: auto; + clear: both; + } + + table {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} + + body{margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + } + + .pagenum { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */ + /* visibility: hidden; */ + position: absolute; + left: 92%; + font-size: smaller; + text-align: right; + } /* page numbers */ + + .linenum {position: absolute; top: auto; left: 4%;} /* poetry number */ + .blockquot{margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 10%;} + .sidenote {width: 20%; padding-bottom: .5em; padding-top: .5em; + padding-left: .5em; padding-right: .5em; margin-left: 1em; + float: right; clear: right; margin-top: 1em; + font-size: smaller; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: dashed 1px;} + + .bb {border-bottom: solid 2px;} + .bl {border-left: solid 2px;} + .bt {border-top: solid 2px;} + .br {border-right: solid 2px;} + .bbox {border: solid 2px;} + + .center {text-align: center;} + .smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} + .u {text-decoration: underline;} + + .caption {font-weight: bold;} + + .figcenter {margin: auto; text-align: center;} + + .figleft {float: left; clear: left; margin-left: 0; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: + 1em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 0; text-align: center;} + + .figright {float: right; clear: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; + margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0; padding: 0; text-align: center;} + + .footnotes {border: dashed 1px;} + .footnote {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;} + .footnote .label {position: absolute; right: 84%; text-align: right;} + .fnanchor {vertical-align: super; font-size: .8em; text-decoration: none;} + + .poem {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; text-align: left;} + .poem br {display: none;} + .poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} + .poem span.i0 {display: block; margin-left: 0em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + .poem span.i2 {display: block; margin-left: 2em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + .poem span.i4 {display: block; margin-left: 4em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + // --> + /* XML end ]]>*/ + </style> + </head> +<body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Fame and Fortune, by Horatio Alger, Jr. + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Fame and Fortune + or, The Progress of Richard Hunter + +Author: Horatio Alger, Jr. + +Release Date: May 28, 2007 [EBook #21632] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAME AND FORTUNE *** + + + + +Produced by Sigal Alon, Fox in the Stars, Mary Meehan and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +https://www.pgdp.net + + + + + + +</pre> + + + +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> +<div class="figcenter"> +<a href="images/il003.jpg"><img src="images/il003.jpg" alt=""/></a> +</div> +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> + + + + +<h2>RAGGED DICK SERIES</h2> + + + + +<h2>FAME AND FORTUNE;</h2> +<h3>OR,</h3> +<h2>THE PROGRESS OF RICHARD HUNTER.</h2> + +<h3>BY HORATIO ALGER, Jr.</h3> + +<h4>AUTHOR OF "RAGGED DICK," "FRANK'S CAMPAIGN," "PAUL PRESCOTT'S +CHARGE," "CHARLIE CODMAN'S CRUISE," ETC.</h4> + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h4>LORING, Publisher.<br /> +<span class="smcap">Cor. Bromfield and Washington Streets.</span><br /> +BOSTON.</h4> + +<h4>Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1868, by +A. K. LORING, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court for the +District of Massachusetts.</h4> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + +<h4>To<br /> +MY FATHER,<br /> +FROM WHOM I HAVE NEVER FAILED TO RECEIVE<br /> +LITERARY SYMPATHY AND ENCOURAGEMENT,<br /> +This Volume<br /> +IS DEDICATED.</h4> + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> + +<h2>CONTENTS</h2> + +<!-- Autogenerated TOC. Modify or delete as required. --> +<p> +<a href="#PREFACE">PREFACE</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I. A BOARDING-HOUSE IN BLEECKER STREET.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II. INTRODUCTION TO MERCANTILE LIFE.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III. AT THE POST-OFFICE.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV. LIFE AT THE BOARDING-HOUSE.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V. DICK RECEIVES TWO VALUABLE PRESENTS.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI. MR. GILBERT IS ASTONISHED.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII. A FINANCIAL DISCUSSION.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII. NEW PLANS.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX. ROSWELL CRAWFORD AT HOME.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X. A STORE ON SIXTH AVENUE.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI. A NEW ALLIANCE.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII. DICK FALLS INTO A TRAP.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII. DICK IN THE STATION-HOUSE.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV. MICKY MAGUIRE'S DISAPPOINTMENT.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV. THE FRANKLIN STREET STATION-HOUSE.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI. ROSWELL CRAWFORD RETIRES FROM BUSINESS.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII. DICK'S ACQUITTAL.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII. THE CUP AND THE LIP.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX. ANOTHER ARREST.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX. BEFORE THE PARTY.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI. IDA GREYSON'S PARTY.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII. MICKY MAGUIRE RETURNS FROM THE ISLAND.</a><br /> +<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII. FAME AND FORTUNE.</a><br /><br /> +<a href="#OTHER_BOOKS_BY_HORATIO_ALGER_JR.">OTHER BOOKS BY HORATIO ALGER, Jr.</a> +</p> +<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. --> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="PREFACE" id="PREFACE"></a>PREFACE.</h2> + + +<p>"<span class="smcap">Fame and Fortune</span>," like its predecessor, "Ragged Dick," was +contributed as a serial story to the "Schoolmate," a popular juvenile +magazine published in Boston. The generous commendations of the first +volume by the Press, and by private correspondents whose position makes +their approval of value, have confirmed the author in his purpose to +write a series of stories intended to illustrate the life and experiences +of the friendless and vagrant children to be found in all our cities, +numbering in New York alone over twelve thousand.</p> + +<p>In the preparation of the different volumes, the requisite information +will be gathered from personal observation mainly, supplemented, +however, by facts communicated by those who have been brought into +practical relations with the class of children whose lives are +portrayed.</p> + +<p>The volumes might readily be made more matter-of-fact, but the author +has sought to depict the inner life and represent the feelings and +emotions of these little waifs of city life, and hopes thus to excite a +deeper and more widespread sympathy in the public mind, as well as to +exert a salutary influence upon the class of whom he is writing, by +setting before them inspiring examples of what energy, ambition, and an +honest purpose may achieve, even in their case.</p> + +<p>In order to reach as large a number of these boys as possible, the +publisher is authorized, on application, to send a gratuitous copy of +the two volumes of the "Ragged Dick Series" already issued, to any +regularly organized Newsboys' Lodge within the United States.</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">New York</span>, <i>December</i>, 1868.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2>FAME AND FORTUNE;<br /> +OR,<br /> +THE PROGRESS OF RICHARD HUNTER.</h2> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2> + +<h3>A BOARDING-HOUSE IN BLEECKER STREET.</h3> + + +<p>"Well, Fosdick, this is a little better than our old room in Mott +Street," said Richard Hunter, looking complacently about him.</p> + +<p>"You're right, Dick," said his friend. "This carpet's rather nicer than +the ragged one Mrs. Mooney supplied us with. The beds are neat and +comfortable, and I feel better satisfied, even if we do have to pay +twice as much for it."</p> + +<p>The room which yielded so much satisfaction to the two boys was on the +fourth floor of a boarding-house in Bleecker Street. No doubt many of my +young readers, who are accustomed to elegant homes, would think it very +plain; but neither Richard nor his friend had been used to anything as +good. They had been thrown upon their own exertions at an early age, and +had a hard battle to fight with poverty and ignorance. Those of my +readers who are familiar with Richard Hunter's experiences when he was +"Ragged Dick," will easily understand what a great rise in the world it +was for him to have a really respectable home. For years he had led a +vagabond life about the streets, as a boot-black, sleeping in old +wagons, or boxes, or wherever he could find a lodging gratis. It was +only twelve months since a chance meeting with an intelligent boy caused +him to form the resolution to grow up respectable. By diligent evening +study with Henry Fosdick, whose advantages had been much greater than +his own, assisted by a natural quickness and an unusual aptitude for +learning, he had, in a year, learned to read and write well, and had, +besides, made considerable progress in arithmetic. Still he would have +found it difficult to obtain a situation if he had not been the means of +saving from drowning the young child of Mr. James Rockwell, a wealthy +merchant in business on Pearl Street, who at once, out of gratitude for +the service rendered, engaged our hero in his employ at the unusual +compensation, for a beginner, of ten dollars a week. His friend, Henry +Fosdick, was in a hat store on Broadway, but thus far only received six +dollars a week.</p> + +<p>Feeling that it was time to change their quarters to a more respectable +portion of the city, they one morning rang the bell of Mrs. Browning's +boarding-house, on Bleecker Street.</p> + +<p>They were shown into the parlor, and soon a tall lady, with flaxen +ringlets and a thin face, came in.</p> + +<p>"Well, young gentleman, what can I do for you?" she said, regarding them +attentively.</p> + +<p>"My friend and I are looking for a boarding-place," said Henry Fosdick. +"Have you any rooms vacant?"</p> + +<p>"What sort of a room would you like?" asked Mrs. Browning.</p> + +<p>"We cannot afford to pay a high price. We should be satisfied with a +small room."</p> + +<p>"You will room together, I suppose?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, ma'am."</p> + +<p>"I have a room vacant on the third floor, quite a good-sized one, for +which I should charge you seven dollars apiece. There is a room on the +fourth floor, not so large, which you can have for five dollars each."</p> + +<p>"I think we'll look at that," said Richard Hunter.</p> + +<p>"Very well, then follow me."</p> + +<p>Mrs. Browning preceded the boys to the fourth floor, where she opened +the door of a neat room, provided with two single beds, a good-sized +mirror, a bureau, a warm woollen carpet, a washstand, and an empty +bookcase for books. There was a closet also, the door of which she +opened, showing a row of pegs for clothing.</p> + +<p>"How do you like it?" asked Fosdick, in a low voice, turning to his +companion.</p> + +<p>"It's bully," said Dick, in admiring accents.</p> + +<p>I may as well say here, what the reader will find out as we proceed, +that our hero, in spite of his advance in learning, had not got entirely +rid of some street phrases, which he had caught from the companions with +whom he had for years associated.</p> + +<p>"Five dollars is rather a steep price," said Fosdick, in a low voice. +"You know I don't get but six in all."</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you what, Fosdick," said Dick; "it'll be ten dollars for the +two of us. I'll pay six, and you shall pay four. That'll be fair,—won't +it?"</p> + +<p>"No, Dick, I ought to pay my half."</p> + +<p>"You can make it up by helpin' me when I run against a snag, in my +studies."</p> + +<p>"You know as much as I do now, Dick."</p> + +<p>"No, I don't. I haven't any more ideas of grammar than a broomstick. You +know I called 'cat' a conjunction the other day. Now, you shall help me +in grammar, for I'm blessed if I know whether I'm a noun or an +adjective, and I'll pay a dollar towards your board."</p> + +<p>"But, Dick, I'm willing to help you for nothing. It isn't fair to charge +you a dollar a week for my help."</p> + +<p>"Why isn't it? Aint I to get ten dollars a week, and shan't I have four +dollars over, while you will only have two? I think I ought to give you +one more, and then we'd be even."</p> + +<p>"No, Dick; I wouldn't agree to that. If you insist upon it, we'll do as +you propose; but, if ever I am able, I will make it up to you."</p> + +<p>"Well, young gentleman, what have you decided?" asked Mrs. Browning.</p> + +<p>"We'll take the room," said Dick, promptly.</p> + +<p>"When do you wish to commence?"</p> + +<p>"To-day. We'll come this evening."</p> + +<p>"Very well. I suppose you can furnish me with references. You're in +business, I suppose?"</p> + +<p>"I am in Henderson's hat and cap store, No. —— Broadway," said Henry +Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"And I am going into Rockwell & Cooper's, on Pearl Street, next Monday," +said Dick, with a sense of importance. He felt that this was very +different from saying, "I black boots in Chatham Square."</p> + +<p>"You look like good boys," said Mrs. Browning, "and I've no doubt you're +honest; but I'm a widow, dependent on my boarders, and I have to be +particular. Only last week a young man went off, owing me four weeks' +board, and I don't suppose he'll ever show his face again. He got a good +salary, too; but he spent most of it on cigars and billiards. Now, how +can I be sure you will pay me your board regular?"</p> + +<p>"We'll pay it every week in advance," said Dick, promptly. "Them's our +best references," and he produced his bank-book, showing a deposit of +over one hundred dollars to his credit in the savings bank, motioning at +the same time to Fosdick to show his.</p> + +<p>"You don't mean to say you've saved all that from your earnings?" said +Mrs. Browning, surprised.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, "and I might have saved more if I'd begun sooner."</p> + +<p>"How long has it taken you to save it up?"</p> + +<p>"About nine months. My friend hasn't saved so much, because his salary +has been smaller."</p> + +<p>"I won't require you to pay in advance," said Mrs. Browning, graciously. +"I am sure I can trust you. Boys who have formed so good a habit of +saving can be depended upon. I will get the room ready for you, and you +may bring your trunks when you please. My hours are, breakfast at seven, +lunch at half-past twelve, and dinner at six."</p> + +<p>"We shan't be able to come to lunch," said Fosdick. "Our stores are too +far off."</p> + +<p>"Then I will make half a dollar difference with each of you, making nine +dollars a week instead of ten."</p> + +<p>The boys went downstairs, well pleased with the arrangement they had +made. Dick insisted upon paying five dollars and a half of the joint +weekly expense, leaving three and a half to Fosdick. This would leave +the latter two dollars and a half out of his salary, while Dick would +have left four and a half. With economy, both thought they could +continue to lay up something.</p> + +<p>There was one little embarrassment which suggested itself to the boys. +Neither of them had a trunk, having been able to stow away all their +wardrobe without difficulty in the drawers of the bureau with which +their room in Mott Street was provided.</p> + +<p>"Why are you like an elephant, Fosdick?" asked Dick, jocosely, as they +emerged into the street.</p> + +<p>"I don't know, I'm sure."</p> + +<p>"Because you haven't got any trunk except what you carry round with +you."</p> + +<p>"We'll have to get trunks, or perhaps carpet-bags would do."</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, decisively, "it aint 'spectable to be without a trunk, +and we're going to be 'spectable now."</p> + +<p>"<i>Re</i>spectable, Dick."</p> + +<p>"All right,—respectable, then. Let's go and buy each a trunk."</p> + +<p>This advice seemed reasonable, and Fosdick made no objection. The boys +succeeded in getting two decent trunks at three dollars apiece, and +ordered them sent to their room in Mott Street. It must be remembered by +my readers, who may regard the prices given as too low, that the events +here recorded took place several years before the war, when one dollar +was equal to two at the present day.</p> + +<p>At the close of the afternoon Fosdick got away from the store an hour +earlier, and the boys, preceded by an expressman bearing their trunks, +went to their new home. They had just time to wash and comb their hair, +when the bell rang for dinner, and they went down to the dining-room.</p> + +<p>Nearly all the boarders were assembled, and were sitting around a long +table spread with a variety of dishes. Mrs. Browning was a good manager, +and was wise enough to set a table to which her boarders could not +object.</p> + +<p>"This way, if you please, young gentlemen," she said, pointing to two +adjoining seats on the opposite side of the table.</p> + +<p>Our hero, it must be confessed, felt a little awkward, not being used to +the formality of a boarding-house, and feeling that the eyes of twenty +boarders were upon him. His confusion was increased, when, after taking +his seat, he saw sitting opposite him, a young man whose boots he +remembered to have blacked only a week before. Observing Dick's look, +Mrs. Browning proceeded to introduce him to the other.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Clifton," she said, "let me introduce Mr. Hunter and his friend, +Mr. Fosdick,—two new members of our family."</p> + +<p>Dick bowed rather awkwardly, and the young man said, "Glad to make your +acquaintance, Mr. Hunter. Your face looks quite familiar. I think I must +have seen you before."</p> + +<p>"I think I've seen <i>you</i> before," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"It's strange I can't think where," said the young man, who had not the +least idea that the well-dressed boy before him was the boot-black who +had brushed his boots near the Park railings the Monday previous. Dick +did not think proper to enlighten him. He was not ashamed of his past +occupation; but it was past, and he wanted to be valued for what he +might become, not for what he had been.</p> + +<p>"Are you in business, Mr. Hunter?" inquired Mr. Clifton.</p> + +<p>It sounded strange to our hero to be called Mr. Hunter; but he rather +liked it. He felt that it sounded respectable.</p> + +<p>"I am at Rockwell & Cooper's, on Pearl Street," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"I know the place. It is a large firm."</p> + +<p>Dick was glad to hear it, but did not say that he knew nothing about it.</p> + +<p>The dinner was a good one, much better than the two boys were accustomed +to get at the eating-houses which in times past they had frequented. +Dick noticed carefully how the others did, and acquitted himself quite +creditably, so that no one probably suspected that he had not always +been used to as good a table.</p> + +<p>When the boys rose from the table, Mrs. Browning said, "Won't you walk +into the parlor, young gentlemen? We generally have a little music after +dinner. Some of the young ladies are musical. Do either of you play?"</p> + +<p>Dick said he sometimes played marbles; at which a young lady laughed, +and Dick, catching the infection, laughed too.</p> + +<p>"Miss Peyton, Mr. Hunter," introduced Mrs. Browning.</p> + +<p>Miss Peyton made a sweeping courtesy, to which Dick responded by a bow, +turning red with embarrassment.</p> + +<p>"Don't you sing, Mr. Hunter?" asked the young lady.</p> + +<p>"I aint much on warblin'," said Dick, forgetting for the moment where he +was.</p> + +<p>This droll answer, which Miss Peyton supposed to be intentionally funny, +convulsed the young lady with merriment.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps your friend sings?" she said.</p> + +<p>Thereupon Fosdick was also introduced. To Dick's astonishment, he +answered that he did a little. It was accordingly proposed that they +should enter the next room, where there was a piano. The young lady +played some well-known melodies, and Fosdick accompanied her with his +voice, which proved to be quite sweet and melodious.</p> + +<p>"You are quite an acquisition to our circle," said Miss Peyton, +graciously. "Have you boarded in this neighborhood before?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Fosdick; "at another part of the city."</p> + +<p>He was afraid she would ask him in what street, but fortunately she +forbore.</p> + +<p>In about half an hour the boys went up to their own room, where they +lighted the gas, and, opening their trunks, placed the contents in the +bureau-drawers.</p> + +<p>"Blessed if it don't seem strange," said Dick, "for a feller brought up +as I have been to live in this style. I wonder what Miss Peyton would +have said if she had known what I had been."</p> + +<p>"You haven't any cause to be ashamed of it, Dick. It wasn't a very +desirable business, but it was honest. Now you can do something better. +You must adapt yourself to your new circumstances."</p> + +<p>"So I mean to," said Dick. "I'm going in for respectability. When I get +to be sixty years old, I'm goin' to wear gold spectacles and walk round +this way, like the old gentlemen I see most every day on Wall Street."</p> + +<p>Dick threw his head back, and began to walk round the room with a +pompous step and an air of great importance.</p> + +<p>"I hope we'll both rise, Dick; we've got well started now, and there've +been other boys, worse off than we are, who have worked hard, and risen +to <span class="smcap">Fame and Fortune</span>."</p> + +<p>"We can try," said Dick. "Now let us go out and have a walk."</p> + +<p>"All right," said Fosdick.</p> + +<p>They went downstairs, and out into the street. Accustomed to the lower +part of the city, there was a novelty in the evening aspect of Broadway, +with its shops and theatres glittering with light. They sauntered +carelessly along, looking in at the shop-windows, feeling more and more +pleased with their change of location. All at once Dick's attention was +drawn to a gentleman accompanied by a boy of about his own size, who was +walking a little in advance.</p> + +<p>"Stop a minute," he said to Fosdick, and hurrying forward placed his +hand on the boy's arm.</p> + +<p>"How are you, Frank?" he said.</p> + +<p>Frank Whitney, for it was he, turned in some surprise and looked at +Dick, but did not at first recognize in the neat, well-dressed boy of +fifteen the ragged boot-black he had encountered a year before.</p> + +<p>"I don't think I remember you," he said, surveying Dick with a puzzled +expression.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you'd remember me better if I had on my Washington coat and +Napoleon pants," said our hero, with a smile. He felt rather pleased to +find he was not recognized, since it was a compliment to his improved +appearance.</p> + +<p>"What!" exclaimed Frank, his face lighting up with pleasure, "is it +possible that you are—"</p> + +<p>"Richard Hunter, at your service," said our hero; "but when you knew me +I was Ragged Dick."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2> + +<h3>INTRODUCTION TO MERCANTILE LIFE.</h3> + + +<p>Frank Whitney was indeed surprised to find the ragged boot-black of a +year before so wonderfully changed. He grasped Dick's hand, and shook it +heartily.</p> + +<p>"Uncle," he said, "this is Dick. Isn't he changed?"</p> + +<p>"It is a change I am glad to see," said Mr. Whitney, also extending his +hand; "for it appears to be a change for the better. And who is this +other young man?"</p> + +<p>"This is my private tutor," said Dick, presenting Fosdick,—"Professor +Fosdick. He's been teachin' me every evenin' for most a year. His terms +is very reasonable. If it hadn't been for him, I never should have +reached my present high position in literature and science."</p> + +<p>"I am glad to make your acquaintance, <i>Professor</i> Fosdick," said Frank, +laughing. "May I inquire whether my friend Dick owes his elegant system +of pronunciation to your instructions?"</p> + +<p>"Dick can speak more correctly when he pleases," said Fosdick; "but +sometimes he falls back into his old way. He understands the common +English branches very well."</p> + +<p>"Then he must have worked hard; for when I first met him a year ago, he +was—"</p> + +<p>"As ignorant as a horse," interrupted Dick. "It was you that first made +me ambitious, Frank. I wanted to be like you, and grow up 'spectable."</p> + +<p>"<i>Re</i>spectable, Dick," suggested Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"Yes, that's what I mean. I didn't always want to be a boot-black, so I +worked hard, and with the help of Professor Fosdick, I've got up a +little way. But I'm goin' to climb higher."</p> + +<p>"I am very glad to hear it, my young friend," said Mr. Whitney. "It is +always pleasant to see a young man fighting his way upward. In this free +country there is every inducement for effort, however unpromising may be +the early circumstances in which one is placed. But, young gentlemen, as +my nephew would be glad to speak further with you, I propose that we +adjourn from the sidewalk to the St. Nicholas Hotel, where I am at +present stopping."</p> + +<p>"Yes, Dick," said Frank, "you and Professor Fosdick must spend the +evening with me. I was intending to visit some place of amusement, but +would much prefer a visit from you."</p> + +<p>Dick and Fosdick readily accepted this invitation, and turned in the +direction of the St. Nicholas, which is situated on Broadway, below +Bleecker Street.</p> + +<p>"By the way, Dick, where are your Washington coat and Napoleon pants +now?"</p> + +<p>"They were stolen from my room," said Dick, "by somebody that wanted to +appear on Broadway dressed in tip-top style, and hadn't got money enough +to pay for a suit."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps it was some agent of Barnum who desired to secure the valuable +relics," suggested Frank.</p> + +<p>"By gracious!" said Dick, suddenly, "there they are now. It's the first +time I've seen 'em since they was stolen."</p> + +<p>He pointed to a boy, of about his own size, who was coming up Broadway. +He was attired in the well-remembered coat and pants; but, alas! time +had not spared them. The solitary remaining coat-tail was torn in many +places; of one sleeve but a fragment remained; grease and dirt nearly +obliterated the original color; and it was a melancholy vestige of what +it had been once. As for the pantaloons, they were a complete wreck. +When Dick had possessed them they were well ventilated; but they were +now ventilated so much more thoroughly that, as Dick said afterwards, "a +feller would be warmer without any."</p> + +<p>"That's Micky Maguire," said Dick; "a partic'lar friend of mine, that +had such a great 'fection for me that he stole my clothes to remember me +by."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps," said Fosdick, "it was on account of his great respect for +General Washington and the Emperor Napoleon."</p> + +<p>"What would the great Washington say if he could see his coat now?" said +Frank.</p> + +<p>"When I wore it," said Dick, "I was sorry he was so great, 'cause it +prevented his clothes fitting me."</p> + +<p>It may be necessary to explain to those who are unacquainted with Dick's +earlier adventures, that the clothes in which he was originally +introduced were jocosely referred to by him as gifts from the +illustrious personages whose names have been mentioned.</p> + +<p>Micky Maguire did not at first recognize Dick. When he did so, he +suddenly shambled down Prince Street, fearful, perhaps, that the stolen +clothes would be reclaimed.</p> + +<p>They had now reached the St. Nicholas, and entered. Mr. Whitney led the +way up to his apartment, and then, having a business engagement with a +gentleman below, he descended to the reading-room, leaving the boys +alone. Left to themselves, they talked freely. Dick related fully the +different steps in his education, with which some of our readers are +already familiar, and received hearty congratulations from Frank, and +earnest encouragement to persevere.</p> + +<p>"I wish you were going to be in the city, Frank," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"So I shall be soon," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Dick's face lighted up with pleasure.</p> + +<p>"That's bully," said he, enthusiastically. "How soon are you comin'?"</p> + +<p>"I am hoping to enter Columbia College next commencement. I suppose my +time will be a good deal taken up with study, but I shall always find +time for you and Fosdick. I hope you both will call upon me."</p> + +<p>Both boys readily accepted the invitation in advance, and Dick promised +to write to Frank at his boarding-school in Connecticut. At about half +past ten, the two boys left the St. Nicholas, and went back to their +boarding-house.</p> + +<p>After a comfortable night's sleep, they got up punctually to the seven +o'clock breakfast. It consisted of beefsteak, hot biscuit, potatoes, and +very good coffee. Dick and Fosdick did justice to the separate viands, +and congratulated themselves upon the superiority of their present fare +to that which they had been accustomed to obtain at the restaurants.</p> + +<p>Breakfast over, Fosdick set out for the hat and cap store in which he +was employed, and Dick for Rockwell & Cooper's on Pearl Street. It must +be confessed that he felt a little bashful as he stood in front of the +large warehouse, and surveyed the sign. He began to feel some +apprehensions that he would not be found competent for his post. It +seemed such a rise from the streets to be employed in such an imposing +building. But Dick did not long permit timidity to stand in his way. He +entered the large apartment on the first floor, which he found chiefly +used for storing large boxes and cases of goods. There was a +counting-room and office, occupying one corner, partitioned off from the +rest of the department. Dick could see a young man through the glass +partition sitting at a desk; and, opening the door, he entered. He +wished it had been Mr. Rockwell, for it would have saved him from +introducing himself; but of course it was too early for that gentleman +to appear.</p> + +<p>"What is your business?" inquired the book-keeper, for it was he.</p> + +<p>"I've come to work," said Dick, shortly, for somehow he did not take +much of a fancy to the book-keeper, whose tone was rather supercilious.</p> + +<p>"Oh, you've come to work, have you?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I have," said Dick, independently.</p> + +<p>"I don't think we shall need your valuable services," said the +book-keeper, with something of a sneer. The truth was, that Mr. Rockwell +had neglected to mention that he had engaged Dick.</p> + +<p>Dick, though a little inclined to be bashful when he entered, had quite +got over that feeling now. He didn't intend to be intimidated or driven +away by the man before him. There was only one doubt in his mind. This +might be Mr. Cooper, the second member of the firm, although he did not +think it at all probable. So he ventured this question, "Is Mr. Rockwell +or Mr. Cooper in?"</p> + +<p>"They're never here at this hour."</p> + +<p>"So I supposed," said Dick, coolly.</p> + +<p>He sat down in an arm-chair, and took up the morning paper.</p> + +<p>The book-keeper was decidedly provoked by his coolness. He felt that he +had not impressed Dick with his dignity or authority, and this made him +angry.</p> + +<p>"Bring that paper to me, young man," he said; "I want to consult it."</p> + +<p>"Very good," said Dick; "you can come and get it."</p> + +<p>"I can't compliment you on your good manners," said the other.</p> + +<p>"Good manners don't seem to be fashionable here," said Dick, composedly.</p> + +<p>Apparently the book-keeper did not want the paper very particularly, as +he did not take the trouble to get up for it. Dick therefore resumed his +reading, and the other dug his pen spitefully into the paper, wishing, +but not quite daring, to order Dick out of the counting-room, as it +might be possible that he had come by appointment.</p> + +<p>"Did you come to see Mr. Rockwell?" he asked, at length, looking up from +his writing.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Did he tell you to come?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"What was that you said about coming to work?"</p> + +<p>"I said I had come here to work."</p> + +<p>"Who engaged you?"</p> + +<p>"Mr. Rockwell."</p> + +<p>"Oh, indeed! And how much are you to receive for your valuable +services?"</p> + +<p>"You are very polite to call my services valuable," said Dick. "I hope +they will be."</p> + +<p>"You haven't answered my question."</p> + +<p>"I have no objection, I'm sure. I'm to get ten dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"Ten dollars a week!" echoed the book-keeper, with a scornful laugh. "Do +you expect you will earn that?"</p> + +<p>"No, I don't," said Dick, frankly.</p> + +<p>"You don't!" returned the other, doubtfully. "Well, you're more modest +than I thought for. Then why are you to get so much?"</p> + +<p>"Perhaps Mr. Rockwell will tell you," said Dick, "if you tell him you're +very particular to know, and will lose a night's rest if you don't find +out."</p> + +<p>"I wouldn't give you a dollar a week."</p> + +<p>"Then I'm glad I aint goin' to work for you."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe your story at all. I don't think Mr. Rockwell would be +such a fool as to overpay you so much."</p> + +<p>"P'r'aps I shouldn't be the only one in the establishment that is +overpaid," observed Dick.</p> + +<p>"Do you mean me, you young rascal?" demanded the book-keeper, now very +angry.</p> + +<p>"Don't call names. It isn't polite."</p> + +<p>"I demand an answer. Do you mean to say that I am overpaid?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Dick, deliberately, "if you're paid anything for bein' +polite, I should think you was overpaid considerable."</p> + +<p>There is no knowing how long this skirmishing would have continued, if +Mr. Rockwell himself had not just then entered the counting-room. Dick +rose respectfully at his entrance, and the merchant, recognizing him at +once, advanced smiling and gave him a cordial welcome.</p> + +<p>"I am glad to see you, my boy," he said. "So you didn't forget the +appointment. How long have you been here?"</p> + +<p>"Half an hour, sir."</p> + +<p>"I am here unusually early this morning. I came purposely to see you, +and introduce you to those with whom you will labor. Mr. Gilbert, this +is a young man who is going to enter our establishment. His name is +Richard Hunter. Mr. Gilbert, Richard, is our book-keeper."</p> + +<p>Mr. Gilbert nodded slightly, not a little surprised at his employer's +cordiality to the new boy.</p> + +<p>"So the fellow was right, after all," he thought. "But it can't be +possible he is to receive ten dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"Come out into the ware-room, and I will show you about," continued Mr. +Rockwell. "How do you think you shall like business, Richard?"</p> + +<p>Dick was on the point of saying "Bully," but checked himself just in +time, and said instead, "Very much indeed, sir."</p> + +<p>"I hope you will. If you do well you may depend upon promotion. I shall +not forget under what a heavy obligation I am to you, my brave boy."</p> + +<p>What would the book-keeper have said, if he had heard this?</p> + +<p>"How is the little boy, sir?" asked Dick.</p> + +<p>"Very well, indeed. He does not appear even to have taken cold, as might +have been expected from his exposure, and remaining in wet clothes for +some time."</p> + +<p>"I am glad to hear that he is well, sir."</p> + +<p>"You must come up and see him for yourself, Richard," said Mr. Rockwell, +in a friendly manner. "I have no doubt you will become good friends very +soon. Besides, my wife is anxious to see and thank the preserver of her +boy."</p> + +<p>"I shall be very glad indeed to come, sir."</p> + +<p>"I live at No. —— Madison Avenue. Come to-morrow evening, if you have +no engagement."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir."</p> + +<p>Mr. Rockwell now introduced Dick to his head clerk with a few words, +stating that he was a lad in whose welfare he took a deep interest, and +he would be glad to have him induct him into his duties, and regard with +indulgence any mistakes which he might at first make through ignorance.</p> + +<p>The head clerk was a pleasant-looking man, of middle age, named Murdock; +very different in his manners and bearing from Mr. Gilbert, the +book-keeper.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," he said, "I will take the young man under my charge; he +looks bright and sharp enough, and I hope we may make a business man of +him in course of time."</p> + +<p>That was what Dick liked. His heart always opened to kindness, but +harshness always made him defiant.</p> + +<p>"I'll try to make you as little trouble as possible, sir," he said. "I +may make mistakes at first, but I'm willin' to work, and I want to work +my way up."</p> + +<p>"That's right, my boy," said Mr. Murdock. "Let that be your +determination, and I am sure you will succeed."</p> + +<p>"Before Mr. Murdock begins to instruct you in your duties," said Mr. +Rockwell, "you may go to the post-office, and see if there are any +letters for us. Our box is No. 5,670."</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Dick; and he took his hat at once and started.</p> + +<p>He reached Chatham Square, turned into Printing House Square, and just +at the corner of Spruce and Nassau Streets, close by the Tribune Office, +he saw the familiar face and figure of Johnny Nolan, one of his old +associates when he was a boot-black.</p> + +<p>"How are you, Johnny?" he said.</p> + +<p>"Is that you, Dick?" asked Johnny, turning round. "Where's your box and +brush?"</p> + +<p>"At home."</p> + +<p>"You haven't give up business,—have you?"</p> + +<p>"I've just gone into business, Johnny."</p> + +<p>"I mean you aint give up blackin' boots,—have you?"</p> + +<p>"All except my own, Johnny. Aint that a good shine?" and Dick displayed +his boot with something of his old professional pride.</p> + +<p>"What you up to now, Dick? You're dressed like a swell."</p> + +<p>"Oh," said Dick, "I've retired from shines on a fortun', and embarked my +capital in mercantile pursuits. I'm in a store on Pearl Street."</p> + +<p>"What store?"</p> + +<p>"Rockwell & Cooper's."</p> + +<p>"How'd you get there?"</p> + +<p>"They wanted a partner with a large capital, and so they took me," said +Dick. "We're goin' to do a smashin' business. We mean to send off a ship +to Europe every day, besides what we send to other places, and expect to +make no end of stamps."</p> + +<p>"What's the use of gassin', Dick? Tell a feller now."</p> + +<p>"Honor bright, then, Johnny, I've got a place at ten dollars a week, and +I'm goin' to be 'spectable. Why don't you turn over a new leaf, and try +to get up in the world?"</p> + +<p>"I aint lucky, Dick. I don't half the time make enough to live on. If it +wasn't for the Newsboys' Lodgin' House, I don't know what I'd do. I need +a new brush and box of blacking, but I aint got money enough to buy +one."</p> + +<p>"Then, Johnny, I'll help you this once. Here's fifty cents; I'll give it +to you. Now, if you're smart you can make a dollar a day easy, and save +up part of it. You ought to be more enterprisin', Johnny. There's a +gentleman wants a shine now."</p> + +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> +<div class="figcenter"> +<a href="images/il044.jpg"><img src="images/il044.jpg" alt=""/></a> +</div> +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> + +<p>Johnny hitched up his trousers, put the fifty cents in his mouth, having +no pocket unprovided with holes, and proffered his services to the +gentleman indicated, with success. Dick left him at work, and kept on +his way down Nassau Street.</p> + +<p>"A year ago," he thought, "I was just like Johnny, dressed in rags, and +livin' as I could. If it hadn't been for my meetin' with Frank, I'd been +just the same to day, most likely. Now I've got a good place, and some +money in the bank, besides 'ristocratic friends who invite me to come +and see them. Blessed if I aint afraid I'm dreamin' it all, like the man +that dreamed he was in a palace, and woke up to find himself in a +pigpen."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2> + +<h3>AT THE POST-OFFICE.</h3> + + +<p>The New York Post-Office is built of brick, and was formerly a church. +It is a shabby building, and quite unworthy of so large and important a +city. Of course Dick was quite familiar with its general appearance; but +as his correspondence had been very limited, he had never had occasion +to ask for letters.</p> + +<p>There were several letters in Box 5,670. Dick secured these, and, +turning round to go out, his attention was drawn to a young gentleman of +about his own age, who, from his consequential air, appeared to feel his +own importance in no slight degree. He recognized him at once as Roswell +Crawford, a boy who had applied unsuccessfully for the place which +Fosdick obtained in Henderson's hat and cap store.</p> + +<p>Roswell recognized Dick at the same time, and perceiving that our hero +was well-dressed, concluded to speak to him, though he regarded Dick as +infinitely beneath himself in the social scale, on account of his former +employment. He might not have been so condescending, but he was curious +to learn what Dick was about.</p> + +<p>"I haven't seen you for some time," he said, in a patronizing tone.</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, "and I haven't seen you for some time either, which is +a very curious coincidence."</p> + +<p>"How's boot-blacking, now?" inquired Roswell, with something of a sneer.</p> + +<p>"Tip-top," said Dick, not at all disturbed by Roswell's manner. "I do it +wholesale now, and have been obliged to hire a large building on Pearl +Street to transact my business in. You see them letters? They're all +from wholesale customers."</p> + +<p>"I congratulate you on your success," said Roswell, in the same +disagreeable manner. "Of course that's all humbug. I suppose you've got +a place."</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Who are you with?"</p> + +<p>"Rockwell & Cooper, on Pearl Street."</p> + +<p>"How did you get it?" asked Roswell, appearing surprised. "Did they know +you had been a boot-black?"</p> + +<p>"Of course they did."</p> + +<p>"I shouldn't think that they would have taken you."</p> + +<p>"Why not?"</p> + +<p>"There are not many firms that would hire a boot-black, when they could +get plenty of boys from nice families."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps they might have secured your services if they had applied," +said Dick, good-humoredly.</p> + +<p>"I've got a place," said Roswell, in rather an important manner. "I'm +very glad I didn't go into Henderson's hat and cap store. I've got a +better situation."</p> + +<p>"Have you?" said Dick. "I'm glad to hear it. I'm always happy to hear +that my friends are risin' in the world."</p> + +<p>"You needn't class me among your friends," said Roswell, superciliously.</p> + +<p>"No, I won't," said Dick. "I'm goin' to be particular about my +associates, now that I'm gettin' up in the world."</p> + +<p>"Do you mean to insult me?" demanded Roswell, haughtily.</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick. "I wouldn't on any account. I should be afraid you'd +want me to fight a duel, and that wouldn't be convenient, for I haven't +made my will, and I'm afraid my heirs would quarrel over my extensive +property."</p> + +<p>"How much do you get a week?" asked Roswell, thinking it best to change +the subject.</p> + +<p>"Ten dollars," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Ten dollars!" ejaculated Roswell. "That's a pretty large story."</p> + +<p>"You needn't believe it if you don't want to," said Dick. "That won't +make any difference to me as long as they pay me reg'lar."</p> + +<p>"Ten dollars! Why, I never heard of such a thing," exclaimed Roswell, +who only received four dollars a week himself, and thought he was doing +well.</p> + +<p>"Do you think I'd give up a loocrative business for less?" asked Dick. +"How much do you get?"</p> + +<p>"That's my business," said Roswell, who, for reasons that may be +guessed, didn't care to mention the price for which he was working. +Judging Dick by himself, he thought it would give him a chance to exult +over him.</p> + +<p>"I suppose it is," said Dick; "but as you was so partic'lar to find out +how much I got, I thought I'd inquire."</p> + +<p>"You're trying to deceive me; I don't believe you get more than three +dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"Don't you? Is that what you get?"</p> + +<p>"I get a great deal more."</p> + +<p>"I'm happy to hear it."</p> + +<p>"I can find out how much you get, if I want to."</p> + +<p>"You've found out already."</p> + +<p>"I know what you say, but I've got a cousin in Rockwell & Cooper's."</p> + +<p>"Have you?" asked Dick, a little surprised. "Who is it?"</p> + +<p>"It is the book-keeper."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Gilbert?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; he has been there five years. I'll ask him about it."</p> + +<p>"You'd better, as you're so anxious to find out. Mr. Gilbert is a friend +of mine. He spoke only this morning of my valooable services."</p> + +<p>Roswell looked incredulous. In fact he did not understand Dick at all; +nor could he comprehend his imperturbable good-humor. There were several +things that he had said which would have offended most boys; but Dick +met them with a careless good-humor, and an evident indifference to +Roswell's good opinion, which piqued and provoked that young man.</p> + +<p>It must not be supposed that while this conversation was going on the +boys were standing in the post-office. Dick understood his duty to his +employers too well to delay unnecessarily while on an errand, especially +when he was sent to get letters, some of which might be of an important +and urgent nature.</p> + +<p>The two boys had been walking up Nassau Street together, and they had +now reached Printing House Square.</p> + +<p>"There are some of your old friends," said Roswell, pointing to a group +of ragged boot-blacks, who were on the alert for customers, crying to +each passer, "Shine yer boots?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, "I know them all."</p> + +<p>"No doubt," sneered Roswell. "They're friends to be proud of."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad you think so," said Dick. "They're a rough set," he continued, +more earnestly; "but there's one of them, at least, that's ten times +better than you or I."</p> + +<p>"Speak for yourself, if you please," said Roswell, haughtily.</p> + +<p>"I'm speakin' for both of us," said Dick. "There's one boy there, only +twelve years old, that's supported his sick mother and sister for more'n +a year, and that's more good than ever you or I did.—How are you, Tom?" +he said, nodding to the boy of whom he had spoken.</p> + +<p>"Tip-top, Dick," said a bright-looking boy, who kept as clean as his +avocation would permit. "Have you given up business?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, Tom. I'll tell you about it some other time. I must get back to +Pearl Street with these letters. How's your mother?"</p> + +<p>"She aint much better, Dick."</p> + +<p>"Buy her some oranges. They'll do her good," and Dick slipped half a +dollar into Tom's hand.</p> + +<p>"Thank you, Dick. She'll like them, I know, but you oughtn't to give so +much."</p> + +<p>"What's half a dollar to a man of my fortune?" said Dick. "Take care of +yourself, Tom. I must hurry back to the store."</p> + +<p>Roswell was already gone. His pride would not permit him to stand by +while Dick was conversing with a boot-black. He felt that his position +would be compromised. As for Dick, he was so well dressed that nobody +would know that he had ever been in that business. The fact is, Roswell, +like a great many other people, was troubled with a large share of +pride, though it might have puzzled himself to explain what he had to be +proud of. Had Dick been at all like him he would have shunned all his +former acquaintances, and taken every precaution against having it +discovered that he had ever occupied a similar position. But Dick was +above such meanness. He could see that Tom, for instance, was far +superior in all that constituted manliness to Roswell Crawford, and, +boot-black though he was, he prepared to recognize him as a friend.</p> + +<p>When Dick reached the store, he did not immediately see Mr. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>He accordingly entered the counting-room where Gilbert, the book-keeper, +was seated at a desk.</p> + +<p>"Here are the letters, Mr. Gilbert," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Lay them down," said the book-keeper, sourly. "You've been gone long +enough. How many did you drop on the way?"</p> + +<p>"I didn't know I was expected to drop any," said Dick. "If I had been +told to do so, I would have obeyed orders cheerfully."</p> + +<p>Mr. Gilbert was about to remark that Dick was an impudent young rascal, +when the sudden entrance of Mr. Rockwell compelled him to suppress the +observation, and he was obliged to be content with muttering it to +himself.</p> + +<p>"Back already, Richard?" said his employer, pleasantly. "Where are the +letters?"</p> + +<p>"Here, sir," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Very well, you may go to Mr. Murdock, and see what he can find for you +to do."</p> + +<p>Mr. Rockwell sat down to read his letters, and Dick went as directed to +the head clerk.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Rockwell sent me to you, Mr. Murdock," he said. "He says you will +find something for me to do."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes, we'll keep you busy," said the head clerk, with a manner very +different from that of the book-keeper. "At present, however, your +duties will be of rather a miscellaneous character. We shall want you +partly for an entry clerk, and partly to run to the post-office, bank, +and so forth."</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Dick. "I'm ready to do anything that is required +of me. I want to make myself useful."</p> + +<p>"That's the right way to feel, my young friend. Some boys are so +big-feeling and put on so many airs, that you'd think they were partners +in the business, instead of beginning at the lowest round of the ladder. +A while ago Mr. Gilbert brought round a cousin of his, about your age, +that he wanted to get in here; but the young gentleman was altogether +too lofty to suit me, so we didn't take him."</p> + +<p>"Was the boy's name Roswell Crawford?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; do you know him?"</p> + +<p>"Not much. He thinks I'm too far beneath him for him to associate with, +but he was kind enough to walk up Nassau Street with me this morning, +just to encourage me a little."</p> + +<p>"That was kind in him, certainly," said the head clerk, smiling. "Unless +I am very much mistaken, you will be able to get along without his +patronage."</p> + +<p>"I hope so," said Dick.</p> + +<p>The rest of the day Dick was kept busy in various ways. He took hold +with a will, and showed himself so efficient that he made a favorable +impression upon every one in the establishment, except the book-keeper. +For some reason or other Mr. Gilbert did not like Dick, and was +determined to oust him from his situation if an opportunity should +offer.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2> + +<h3>LIFE AT THE BOARDING-HOUSE.</h3> + + +<p>Dick found his new quarters in Bleecker Street very comfortable. His +room was kept in neat order, which was more than could be said of his +former home in Mott Street. There once a fortnight was thought +sufficient to change the sheets, while both boys were expected to use +the same towel, and make that last a week. Indeed, Mrs. Mooney would +have considered the boys "mighty particular" if they had objected to +such an arrangement. Mrs. Browning, fortunately, was very different, and +Dick found nothing to complain of either in his chamber or in the board +which was furnished.</p> + +<p>Dick had felt rather awkward on his first appearance at the table, but +he was beginning to feel more at his ease. It was rather remarkable, +considering his past life, how readily he adapted himself to an +experience so different. He left the store at five o'clock, and got to +his boarding-house in time to get ready for dinner. Dick had now got to +be quite particular about his appearance. He washed his face and hands +thoroughly, and brushed his hair carefully, before appearing at the +table.</p> + +<p>Miss Peyton, the lively young lady who has already been mentioned in the +first chapter, sat near the boys, and evidently was quite prepossessed +in their favor. Both had bright and attractive faces, though Dick would +undoubtedly be considered the handsomest. He had a fresh color which +spoke of good health, and was well-formed and strong. Henry Fosdick was +more delicate in appearance; his face was thinner, and rather pale. It +was clear that he was not as well able to fight his way through life as +Dick. But there was something pleasant and attractive in his quiet +sedateness, as well as in the frank honesty and humor that could be read +in the glance of our friend Dick.</p> + +<p>"Won't you and your friend stop a little while and sing?" asked Miss +Peyton, addressing Henry Fosdick on the evening of the second day of +Dick's business career.</p> + +<p>Fosdick hesitated.</p> + +<p>"My friend has an engagement this evening," he said.</p> + +<p>"I suppose I may not ask where," said she.</p> + +<p>"I am invited to spend the evening with some friends on Madison Avenue," +said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Indeed?" said Miss Peyton, surprised. "I wasn't aware you had such +fashionable friends, or I couldn't have expected to retain you."</p> + +<p>"All my friends are not as fashionable," said Dick, wondering what the +young lady would say if she could see his late fellow-lodgers at Mrs. +Mooney's, on Mott Street.</p> + +<p>"If I can't hope to keep you this evening, you must promise to stay +awhile to-morrow evening. I hope to have the pleasure of hearing you +sing, Mr. Hunter."</p> + +<p>"When I give a concert," said Dick, "I'll be sure to let you in +gratooitous."</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Miss Peyton. "I shall remind you of it. I hope that +time will come very soon."</p> + +<p>"Just as soon as I can engage the Academy of Music on reasonable terms."</p> + +<p>"You'd better try first in the parlor here. We'll take up a +contribution, to pay you for your exertions."</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick. "You're very kind, as the man said to the judge +when he asked him when it would be perfectly agreeable for him to be +hung."</p> + +<p>Miss Peyton laughed at this remark, and Dick went upstairs to get ready +for his visit to Madison Avenue.</p> + +<p>Our hero felt a little bashful about this visit. He was afraid that he +would do or say something that was improper, or that something would +slip out which would betray his vagabond life of the streets.</p> + +<p>"I wish you was going with me, Fosdick," he said.</p> + +<p>"You'll get along well enough alone, Dick. Don't be afraid."</p> + +<p>"You see I aint used to society, Fosdick."</p> + +<p>"Nor I either."</p> + +<p>"But it seems to come natural to you. I'm always makin' some blunder."</p> + +<p>"You'll get over that in time, Dick. It's because you have so much fun +in you. I am more sober. Miss Peyton seems very much amused by your odd +remarks."</p> + +<p>"I have to talk so; I can't think of anything else to say."</p> + +<p>"There's one thing, Dick, we mustn't give up at any rate."</p> + +<p>"What's that?"</p> + +<p>"Studying. We don't either of us know as much as we ought to."</p> + +<p>"That's so."</p> + +<p>"You can see how much good studying has done for you so far. If it +hadn't been for that, you wouldn't have been able to go into Mr. +Rockwell's employment."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough, Fosdick. I'm afraid I don't know enough now."</p> + +<p>"You know enough to get along very well for the present, but you want to +rise."</p> + +<p>"You're right. When I get to be old and infirm I don't want to be an +errand-boy."</p> + +<p>"Nor I either. So, Dick, I think we had better make up our minds to +study an hour or an hour and a half every evening. Of course, you can't +begin this evening, but there are very few when you can't find the +time."</p> + +<p>"I'll send a circ'lar to my numerous friends on Fifth Avenue and +Madison, tellin' 'em how much I'm obliged for their kind invitations, +but the claims of literatoor and science can't be neglected."</p> + +<p>"Do you know, Dick, I think it might be well for us to begin French?"</p> + +<p>"I wonder what Johnny Nolan would say if I should inquire after his +health in the polly-voo language?"</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't be the first time you have astonished him."</p> + +<p>"Well, Fosdick, I'm in for it if you think it's best. Now tell me what +necktie I shall wear?"</p> + +<p>Dick displayed two. One was bright red with large figures, which he had +bought soon after he began to board in Mott Street. The other was a +plain black.</p> + +<p>"You'd better wear the black one, Dick," said Fosdick, whose taste was +simpler and better than his friend's.</p> + +<p>"It seems to me it don't look handsome enough," said Dick, whose taste +had not yet been formed, and was influenced by the Bowery style of +dress.</p> + +<p>"It's more modest, and that is all the better."</p> + +<p>"All right. I suppose you know best. Before I get ready I must give a +new shine to my boots. I'm going to make them shine so you can see your +face in them."</p> + +<p>"Better let me do that for you, Dick. I can do it while you're dressing, +and that will save time."</p> + +<p>"No, Fosdick, I was longer in the business than you, and none of the +boys could beat me on shines."</p> + +<p>"I don't know but you're right, Dick. I freely yield the palm to you in +that."</p> + +<p>Dick stripped off his coat and vest and went to work with a will. He had +never worked so hard for one of his old customers.</p> + +<p>"I'm goin' to give it a twenty-five cent shine," he said.</p> + +<p>Just then a knock was heard at the chamber-door.</p> + +<p>"Come in!" said Dick, pausing a moment in his labors.</p> + +<p>Mr. Clifton, a fellow-boarder, entered with a cigar in his mouth.</p> + +<p>"Holloa," said he, "what's up? Going to the theatre, Hunter?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick. "I'm goin' out to spend the evening with some friends +up in Madison Avenue."</p> + +<p>"So I heard you say at the table, but I thought you were joking."</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick; "it's a fact."</p> + +<p>"Seems to me you handle the brush pretty skilfully," remarked Mr. +Clifton. "I should almost think you had served a regular apprenticeship +at it."</p> + +<p>"So I have," answered Dick. "Didn't you ever see me when I blacked boots +on Chatham Square?"</p> + +<p>"Good joke!" said the young man, who was far from supposing that Dick +was in earnest. "Oh, yes, of course I've seen you often! Did you make +money at it?"</p> + +<p>"I retired on a fortun'," said Dick, "and now I've invested my capital +in mercantile pursuits. There," and he took up one boot, and showed it +to his visitor, "did you ever see a better shine than that?"</p> + +<p>"No, I didn't, that's a fact," said Clifton, admiringly. "You beat the +young rascal I employ all hollow. I say, Hunter, if you ever go into the +'shine' business again, I'll be a regular customer of yours."</p> + +<p>"He little thinks I've blacked his boots before now," thought Dick.</p> + +<p>"All right," said he, aloud. "When a commercial crisis comes, and I fail +in business, I think I'll remember your encouragin' offer, and remind +you of it."</p> + +<p>"Have a cigar either of you?" asked Clifton, drawing out a case. "Excuse +my not offering it before."</p> + +<p>"No, thank you," said Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"Don't smoke, eh? Won't you have one, Hunter?"</p> + +<p>"No, thank you. Fosdick is my guardian, and he don't allow it."</p> + +<p>"So you're a good boy. Well, I wish you a pleasant evening," and Clifton +sauntered out to find some other companion.</p> + +<p>"He wouldn't believe I'd been a boot-black," said Dick, "even after I +told him. I knew he wouldn't, or I wouldn't have said so. Is my hair +parted straight?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, it's all right."</p> + +<p>"How's my cravat?"</p> + +<p>"It'll do. You're getting to be quite a dandy, Dick."</p> + +<p>"I want to look respectable; got it right that time. When I visit Turkey +I want to look as the turkeys do. Won't you go with me,—as far as the +door, I mean?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, if you're going to walk."</p> + +<p>"I'd rather. I feel kind of nervous, and perhaps I'll walk it off."</p> + +<p>The two boys got their caps, and walked up Broadway on the west side. +The lights were already lit, and the shop windows made a brilliant +display. At intervals places of amusement opened wide their hospitable +portals, and large placards presented tempting invitations to enter.</p> + +<p>They reached Union Square, and, traversing it, again walked up Broadway +to Madison Park. At the upper end of this park commences the beautiful +avenue which bears the same name. Only about half a dozen blocks now +required to be passed, when the boys found themselves opposite a +residence with a very imposing front.</p> + +<p>"This is the place," said Dick. "I wish you were going in with me."</p> + +<p>"I hope you will have a pleasant time, Dick. Good-by till I see you +again."</p> + +<p>Dick felt a little nervous, but he summoned up all his courage, and, +ascending the broad marble steps, rang the bell.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2> + +<h3>DICK RECEIVES TWO VALUABLE PRESENTS.</h3> + + +<p>At the end of the last chapter we left Dick standing on the steps of Mr. +Rockwell's residence in Madison Avenue. He had rung the bell and was +waiting to have his summons answered. To say that Dick expected to enjoy +his visit would not be strictly true. He knew very well that his street +education had not qualified him to appear to advantage in fashionable +society, and he wished that Fosdick were with him to lend him +countenance.</p> + +<p>While under the influence of these feelings the door was thrown open, +and a servant looked at him inquiringly.</p> + +<p>"Is Mr. Rockwell at home?" asked Dick.</p> + +<p>"Yes. Would you like to see him?"</p> + +<p>"He asked me to call this evening."</p> + +<p>"What! Are you the boy that saved Master Johnny from drowning?" asked +the servant, her face brightening up, for Johnny was a great favorite in +the house.</p> + +<p>"I jumped into the water after him," said Dick, modestly.</p> + +<p>"I heard Mr. Rockwell say he was expecting you to-night. Come right in. +Mistress is very anxious to see you."</p> + +<p>Placed a little at his ease by this cordial reception, Dick followed the +servant upstairs to a pleasant sitting-room on the second floor. Mr. and +Mrs. Rockwell were seated at a centre-table reading the evening papers, +while Johnny and his sister Grace were constructing a Tower of Babel +with some blocks upon the carpet before the fire.</p> + +<p>Dick entered, and stood just within the door, with his cap in his hand, +feeling a little embarrassed.</p> + +<p>"I am glad to see you, Richard," said Mr. Rockwell, rising from his +seat, and advancing to our hero with a pleasant smile. "Mrs. Rockwell +has been anxious to see you. My dear, this is the brave boy who saved +our little Johnny."</p> + +<p>Mrs. Rockwell, a tall, graceful lady, with a smile that quite captivated +Dick, offered her hand, and said, earnestly, "My brave boy, I have been +wishing to see you. I shudder to think that, but for your prompt +courage, I should now be mourning the loss of my dear little Johnny. +Accept a mother's thanks for a favor so great that she can never hope to +repay it."</p> + +<p>Now this acknowledgment was very pleasant to Dick, but it was also very +embarrassing. It is difficult to receive praise gracefully. So our hero, +not knowing what else to say, stammered out that she was very welcome.</p> + +<p>"I understand that you have entered my husband's employment," said Mrs. +Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick. "He was kind enough to take me."</p> + +<p>"I hope to make a man of business of our young friend," said Mr. +Rockwell. "He will soon feel at home in his new position, and I hope we +may find the connection mutually satisfactory."</p> + +<p>"Have you a pleasant boarding-place?" asked Mrs. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"Tip-top," said Dick. "I mean pretty good," he added, in a little +confusion.</p> + +<p>"Where is it?"</p> + +<p>"In Bleecker Street," said Dick, very glad that he was not obliged to +say Mott Street.</p> + +<p>"That is quite a good location," said Mr. Rockwell. "How do you spend +your evenings, Richard?"</p> + +<p>"In studying with a friend of mine," said Dick. "I want to know +something by the time I grow up."</p> + +<p>"That is an excellent resolution," said his employer, with warm +approval. "I wish more boys of your age were equally sensible. You may +depend upon it that a good education is the best preparation for an +honorable and useful manhood. What is your friend's name?"</p> + +<p>"Henry Fosdick. He rooms with me."</p> + +<p>"I am glad you have a friend who shares your tastes. But perhaps you +would like to renew your acquaintance with the young gentleman to whom +you have rendered so great a service. Johnny has been allowed to stay up +beyond his usual bedtime because you were coming. Johnny, come here!"</p> + +<p>Johnny rose from his blocks, and came to his mother's side. He was a +pleasant-looking little fellow, with a pair of bright eyes, and round, +plump cheeks. He looked shyly at Dick.</p> + +<p>"Did you ever see this young man?" asked his mother.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Johnny.</p> + +<p>"When was it?"</p> + +<p>"When I was in the river," said Johnny. "He pulled me out."</p> + +<p>"Are you glad to see him?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Johnny. "What is his name?"</p> + +<p>"Dick," said our hero, who somehow could not help feeling, when called +Richard, that some other boy was meant.</p> + +<p>"Won't you come and help me build a house?" asked little Johnny.</p> + +<p>Dick accepted the invitation with pleasure, feeling more at home with +children than with older persons.</p> + +<p>"This is sister Grace," said Johnny, with an offhand introduction.</p> + +<p>"I saw you on the boat," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Grace, "I was there. Oh, how frightened I was when Johnny +fell into the water! I don't see how you dared to jump in after him."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I've been in swimming many a time. I don't mind it," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"I s'pose you're used to it, like the fishes," said Johnny. "I'm glad +I'm not a fish. I shouldn't like to live in the water."</p> + +<p>"I don't think I should, either," said Dick. "Now, what do you think the +fishes do when it rains?"</p> + +<p>"I do not know."</p> + +<p>"They go down to the bottom of the sea to get out of the wet."</p> + +<p>"Isn't it wet down at the bottom of the sea?" asked Johnny, in good +faith.</p> + +<p>"Of course it is, you little goose," said Grace, with an air of superior +wisdom.</p> + +<p>"Will you make me a house?" said Johnny.</p> + +<p>"What kind of a house do you want?" said Dick, seating himself on the +carpet, and taking up the blocks.</p> + +<p>"Any kind," said Johnny.</p> + +<p>Dick, beginning to feel quite at home with the children, erected an +imposing-looking house, leaving little spaces for the doors and windows.</p> + +<p>"That's better than the house Grace made," said Johnny, looking at it +with complacency.</p> + +<p>"But it won't last very long," said Dick. "You'd better sell it before +it tumbles over."</p> + +<p>"Do you own any houses?" asked Johnny.</p> + +<p>"Not many," said Dick, smiling.</p> + +<p>"My father owns this house," said Johnny, positively. "He paid fifty +dollars for it."</p> + +<p>"I didn't think houses were so cheap," said Dick. "I'd like to buy one +at that price."</p> + +<p>"You're a little goose, Johnny," said Grace. "He gave as much as five +hundred dollars."</p> + +<p>"Grace doesn't know much more about the price of real estate than +Johnny," said Mr. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"Didn't the house cost as much as five hundred dollars?" asked Grace.</p> + +<p>"As much as that certainly, my dear."</p> + +<p>Just then, by an unguarded movement of Johnny's foot, the edifice of +blocks reared by Dick became a confused ruin.</p> + +<p>"I've got tired of building houses," he announced, "Won't you tell me a +story, Dick?"</p> + +<p>"I don't think I know any," said our hero.</p> + +<p>"Here is a book of pictures," said his mother, bringing one from the +table. "Perhaps your new friend will show them to you."</p> + +<p>Dick took the book, and felt very glad that he had learned to read. +Otherwise he might have been considerably embarrassed.</p> + +<p>The children asked a great many questions of Dick about the pictures, +some of which he could not answer. Johnny, on being shown the picture of +a Turkish mosque, asked if that was the place where the turkeys went to +church.</p> + +<p>"If there was any place for a goose to go to church, you'd go there," +said his sister.</p> + +<p>"I aint a goose any more than you are," said Johnny, indignantly; "am I, +Dick?"</p> + +<p>Just then the servant came in to carry the children to bed, and, +considerably against their wishes, they were obliged to withdraw.</p> + +<p>"Come again, Dick," said Johnny.</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick. "Good-night."</p> + +<p>"Good-night," said the two children, and the door closed upon them.</p> + +<p>"I think I'll be going," said Dick, who did not feel quite so much at +ease, now that his young friends had left him.</p> + +<p>"Wait a few minutes," said Mrs. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>She rang the bell, and a servant brought up some cake and apples, of +which Dick was invited to partake.</p> + +<p>I need not detail the conversation; but Mrs. Rockwell, with the tact of +a genuine lady, managed to draw out Dick, and put him quite at his ease.</p> + +<p>"How old are you, Richard?" she asked.</p> + +<p>"Fifteen," said Dick; "goin' on sixteen."</p> + +<p>"You are getting to be quite a young man,—old enough to wear a watch. +Have you one?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, not suspecting the motive that led to her question.</p> + +<p>"Will you allow me the pleasure of supplying the deficiency?" said Mrs. +Rockwell.</p> + +<p>As she spoke, she drew from a box at her side a very neat gold watch and +chain, and placed it in Dick's hands.</p> + +<p>Our hero was so astonished at first that he could scarcely believe that +this valuable present was intended for him.</p> + +<p>"Is it for me?" he asked, hesitatingly.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Mrs. Rockwell, smiling pleasantly. "I hope you will find it +of service."</p> + +<p>"It is too much," said Dick. "I do not deserve it."</p> + +<p>"You must let me be the judge of that," said the lady, kindly. "Here is +the key; I nearly forgot to give it to you. I suppose you know how to +wind it up?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick. "I understand that. I am <i>very</i> much obliged to you."</p> + +<p>"You are very welcome. Whenever you look at it, let it remind you that +under all circumstances you can rely upon the friendship of Johnny's +parents."</p> + +<p>Dick slipped the watch into a watch-pocket in his vest, for which he had +never before had any use, and attached the chain to his button-hole.</p> + +<p>"How beautiful it is!" he said, in tones of admiration.</p> + +<p>"It was bought at Ball & Black's," said Mrs. Rockwell. "If it should not +keep good time, or anything should happen to it, I advise you to take it +there, and they will repair it for you."</p> + +<p>Dick perceived by his new watch that it was nearly ten o'clock, and rose +to go. He was kindly invited to renew his visit, and promised to do so. +Just as he was leaving the room, Mr. Rockwell handed a sealed envelope +to Dick, saying, "Put this in your pocket, Richard. It will be time +enough to open it when you get home."</p> + +<p>Dick sped home much more quickly than he had come. He thought with +delight of Fosdick's surprise when he should see the new watch and +chain, and also with pardonable exultation of the sensation he would +produce at the table when he carelessly drew out his watch to see what +time it was.</p> + +<p>When he reached his boarding-house, and went upstairs, he found Fosdick +sitting up for him.</p> + +<p>"Well, Dick, what sort of a time did you have?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Tip-top," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Who did you see?"</p> + +<p>"Mr. and Mrs. Rockwell, and two children,—Johnny, the one I fished out +of the water, and his sister, Grace. Johnny's a jolly little chap, and +his sister is a nice girl."</p> + +<p>"Halloa, what's that?" asked Fosdick, suddenly espying the watch-chain.</p> + +<p>"What do you think of my new watch?" asked Dick, drawing it out.</p> + +<p>"Do you mean to say it is yours?"</p> + +<p>"Yes. Mrs. Rockwell gave it to me."</p> + +<p>"It's a regular beauty. Mr. Henderson has got one that he paid a hundred +dollars for; but it isn't as nice as yours."</p> + +<p>"Seems to me I have no end of luck," said Dick. "I'll be a young man of +fortun' before I know it."</p> + +<p>"People will think you are now, when they see you wear such a watch as +that."</p> + +<p>"Johnny Nolan'd think I stole it, if he should see it," said Dick. "Poor +chap! I wish some luck would come to him. I saw him to-day lookin' just +as I used to before I met Frank."</p> + +<p>"There's some difference between then and now, Dick."</p> + +<p>"Yes. I was a rough chap in them days."</p> + +<p>"In those days, Dick."</p> + +<p>"In those days, and I don't know but I am now, but I'm trying to +improve. With you to help me, I think I'll grow up respectable."</p> + +<p>"I hope we both will, Dick. But who's that letter from that you've just +taken out of your pocket?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, I forgot. Mr. Rockwell handed it to me just before I came away, and +told me not to open it till I got home. P'r'aps it says that he hasn't +no more occasion for my valuable services."</p> + +<p>"That isn't very likely, considering the present you have brought home. +But open it; I am curious to see what is in it."</p> + +<p>The envelope was cut open, and a piece of paper dropped out.</p> + +<p>Fosdick picked it up, and to his inexpressible amazement ascertained +that it was a check on the Park Bank for the sum of one thousand dollars +made payable to Richard Hunter, or order.</p> + +<p>"A thousand dollars!" repeated Dick, overwhelmed with astonishment; +"you're only foolin' me. P'r'aps it's ten dollars."</p> + +<p>"No, it's a thousand dollars. Read it yourself if you don't believe it."</p> + +<p>"I wish you'd pinch me, Fosdick," said Dick, seriously.</p> + +<p>"Certainly, if you wish it."</p> + +<p>"That's enough," said Dick, hastily. "I only wanted to make sure I +wasn't dreamin'. I can't believe I'm worth a thousand dollars."</p> + +<p>"You're a lucky fellow, Dick," said Fosdick, "and you deserve your luck. +I'm heartily glad of it."</p> + +<p>"About the best luck I ever had was in meeting you," said Dick, +affectionately. "I'm goin' to give you half the money."</p> + +<p>"No, you're not, Dick. Thank you all the same," said Fosdick, decidedly. +"It was meant for you, and you must keep it. I'll get along well enough. +If I don't, I know you'll help me."</p> + +<p>"But I wish you'd take half the money."</p> + +<p>"No, Dick, it wouldn't be right. But your new watch says it's getting +late, and we had better go to bed."</p> + +<p>It was some time before Dick fell asleep. His good luck had so excited +him that he found it difficult to calm down sufficiently to sink into a +quiet slumber.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2> + +<h3>MR. GILBERT IS ASTONISHED.</h3> + + +<p>When Dick woke up in the morning the first thing he thought of was his +watch, the next the check which he had received from Mr. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"I'll go to the bank this morning, and get my money," said he.</p> + +<p>"How are you going to invest it, Dick?" asked Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," said Dick. "I'll put it in the savings bank till I +decide. That'll make more'n eleven hundred dollars. I didn't use to +think I ever'd be worth that, when I slept in boxes and old wagons."</p> + +<p>"Eleven hundred dollars at six per cent. interest will yield you +sixty-six dollars a year."</p> + +<p>"So it will," said Dick, "and all without working. I tell you what, +Fosdick, at this rate I'll soon be a man of fortune."</p> + +<p>"Yes, if you can make a thousand dollars a day."</p> + +<p>"I wonder what old Gilbert'll say when he sees it," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Who's he?"</p> + +<p>"He's the book-keeper. He aint very fond of me."</p> + +<p>"What has he against you?"</p> + +<p>"He thinks I don't treat him with proper respect," said Dick. "Besides +he tried to get his cousin Roswell Crawford in, but he couldn't."</p> + +<p>"Then it seems both of us have interfered with Roswell."</p> + +<p>"He's got a place now. I guess he's the senior partner by the way he +talks."</p> + +<p>The breakfast-bell rang, and the boys went down to breakfast. Clifton +was down already, and was standing in front of stove. Being an observing +young man he at once noticed Dick's watch-chain.</p> + +<p>"Halloa, Hunter!" said he; "I didn't know you had a watch."</p> + +<p>"I didn't know it myself till last night," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Where did you get it?"</p> + +<p>"It came from Ball & Black's," said our hero, willing to mystify him.</p> + +<p>"That's a nice chain,—solid gold, eh?"</p> + +<p>"Do you think I'd wear anything else?" asked Dick, loftily.</p> + +<p>"Will you allow me to look at the watch?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly," said Dick, drawing it from his pocket, and submitting it to +Clifton's inspection.</p> + +<p>"It's a regular beauty," said the young man, enthusiastically. "Do you +mind telling how much you paid for it?"</p> + +<p>"How much do you think?"</p> + +<p>"A hundred dollars?"</p> + +<p>"It cost all of that," said Dick, confidently. "If you see one for sale +at that price, just let me know, and I'll buy it for a speculation."</p> + +<p>"You must be getting a pretty good salary to buy such a watch as that."</p> + +<p>"Pretty good," said Dick, carelessly.</p> + +<p>Mr. Clifton was rather a shallow young man, who was fond of show, and +had a great respect for those who were able to make it. When Dick first +came to the boarding-house he looked down upon him as a boy; but now +that he proved to be the possessor of an elegant gold watch and chain, +and might, therefore, be regarded as in prosperous circumstances, he +conceived a high respect for him. The truth was that Clifton himself +only got two dollars a week more than Dick, yet he paid eight dollars a +week for board, and spent the rest in dress. His reputation among +tailors was not the best, being always more ready to order new clothes +than to pay for them.</p> + +<p>While they were talking the rest of the boarders entered, and breakfast +commenced. Miss Peyton was there, of course.</p> + +<p>"How did you find your friends in Madison Avenue last evening, Mr. +Hunter?" she inquired.</p> + +<p>"They were all up and dressed," said Dick. "They sent their partic'lar +regards to you."</p> + +<p>"Oh, you wicked story-teller!" simpered Miss Peyton; "just as if I'd +believe such nonsense. Have they got a nice house?"</p> + +<p>"Beautiful," said Dick. "I haven't seen any like it since I called on +Queen Victoria last year."</p> + +<p>"How is the house furnished?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Dick, "as near as I can remember, there's diamonds worked +in the carpet, and all the tables and chairs is of gold. They'd be +rather hard to set on if it twan't for the velvet cushions."</p> + +<p>"Aint you afraid to tell such stories, Mr. Hunter? Mr. Fosdick, you will +have to talk to your friend."</p> + +<p>"I am afraid it wouldn't do much good, Miss Peyton, if you fail to cure +him."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Hunter has just been investing in a handsome watch," remarked +Clifton, passing his cup for a second cup of coffee.</p> + +<p>"Oh, do let me look at it! I dote on watches," said Miss Peyton.</p> + +<p>"Certainly," said Dick; and he detached the chain from his button-hole, +and passed the watch across the table.</p> + +<p>"It's a perfect little love," said Miss Peyton, enthusiastically. "Isn't +it, Mrs. Browning?"</p> + +<p>"It is very beautiful, certainly," said the landlady. She could not help +feeling surprised that Dick, who, it will be remembered, had represented +himself at his first visit to be in limited circumstances, and now +occupied one of her cheapest rooms, could afford to purchase an article +which was evidently so costly.</p> + +<p>"Where did you buy it, Mr. Hunter?" asked another boarder.</p> + +<p>"I did not buy it at all," said Dick, deciding to let it be known how it +came into his possession. "It was given to me."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you'll mention my name to the person that gave it to you," said +Mr. Clifton. "If he's got any more to dispose of in that way, I should +like to come in for one."</p> + +<p>"How do you know but it may have come from a <i>lady</i> friend, Mr. +Clifton?" said Miss Peyton, slyly.</p> + +<p>"How is that, Hunter?"</p> + +<p>"I haven't had any presents from any of my lady friends yet," said Dick. +"Perhaps I may some time."</p> + +<p>"You don't mean anybody in particular, of course, Mr. Hunter?" said Miss +Peyton.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no, of course not."</p> + +<p>This conversation may seem scarcely worth recording, but it will serve +to illustrate the character of Dick's fellow-boarders. Miss Peyton was +rather silly and affected, but she was good-natured, and Dick felt more +at home with her than he would have done had she been a lady like Mrs. +Rockwell, for instance. It got to be the custom with Dick and Fosdick to +remain in the parlor a short time after supper, or rather dinner, for +this was the third meal, and Fosdick joined the young lady in singing. +Dick unfortunately had not been gifted by nature with a voice attuned to +melody, and he participated only as a listener, in which capacity he +enjoyed the entertainment.</p> + +<p>After breakfast Dick set out for the store as usual. He felt unusually +happy and independent as he walked along. The check in his pocket made +him feel rich. He wondered how it would be best to invest his money so +as to yield him the largest return. He wisely decided to take Mr. +Murdock, the head clerk, into his confidence, and ask his advice upon +this point.</p> + +<p>When Dick arrived at the store neither Mr. Gilbert nor Mr. Murdock had +yet arrived. Half an hour later the latter came, and five minutes after +him the book-keeper.</p> + +<p>The latter noticed that the morning paper appeared to have been +disturbed, and, glad of any opportunity to find fault with Dick, said, +angrily, "So you've been reading the paper instead of minding your work, +have you? I'll report you to Mr. Rockwell."</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick, "you're very kind. Are you sure I read the +paper? Is there any news missin' out of it?"</p> + +<p>"You're an impudent boy," said the book-keeper, provoked. He wanted to +overawe Dick; but somehow Dick wouldn't be overawed. Evidently he did +not entertain as much respect for the book-keeper as that gentleman felt +to be his due. That a mere errand-boy should bandy words with a +gentleman in his position seemed to Mr. Gilbert highly reprehensible.</p> + +<p>"You're an impudent boy!" repeated Gilbert, sharply, finding Dick did +not reply to his first charge.</p> + +<p>"I heard you make that remark before," said Dick, quietly.</p> + +<p>Now there was nothing out of the way in Dick's tone, which was perfectly +respectful, and he only stated a fact; but the book-keeper became still +more angry.</p> + +<p>"Who rumpled that paper?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Suppose you ask Mr. Murdock?" said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Did he come in here?" asked Gilbert, cooling down, for it was against +Dick that his charge was made, and not against the head clerk. As to the +paper, he really cared nothing.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Then it's all right. I supposed you had been idling your time over the +paper. Go and ask Mr. Murdock what time it is. I left my watch at home."</p> + +<p>"It's half past eight," said Dick, drawing out his watch.</p> + +<p>Up to this time the book-keeper had not noticed Dick's watch-chain. Now +that his attention was drawn not only to that, but to the beautiful gold +watch which Dick carried, he was not a little surprised.</p> + +<p>"Whose watch is that?" he asked, abruptly.</p> + +<p>"Mine," said Dick, briefly, rather enjoying the book-keeper's surprise.</p> + +<p>"How did you come by it?"</p> + +<p>"Honestly," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Is it gold, or only plated?"</p> + +<p>"It's gold."</p> + +<p>"Humph! Did you buy it, or was it given you?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Dick, "I didn't buy it."</p> + +<p>"Did you say it was yours?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>Gilbert looked at Dick in surprise. Our hero was becoming more and more +an enigma to him. That a boy in Dick's position should have a gold watch +given him, especially now that he had learned from his cousin Roswell +the nature of Dick's former employment, seemed indeed wonderful.</p> + +<p>"Let me look at your watch a minute," he said.</p> + +<p>Dick handed it to him.</p> + +<p>"It seems to be a very good one," he said.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick; "I aint proud. It's as good as I want to wear."</p> + +<p>"It looks entirely out of place on such a boy as you," said the +book-keeper, sharply.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps it would look better on you," suggested our hero, innocently.</p> + +<p>"Yes, it would be more appropriate for me to wear than you. You're not +old enough to be trusted with a watch; least of all with such a good one +as that."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you'd be kind enough to mention it to the one that gave it to +me."</p> + +<p>"Whoever gave it to you didn't show much judgment," said Gilbert, in the +same pleasant way. "Who was it?"</p> + +<p>"It was Mrs. Rockwell."</p> + +<p>If a bombshell had exploded in the office, it could hardly have taken +Gilbert more by surprise.</p> + +<p>"Who did you say?" he repeated, thinking his ears might have deceived +him.</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Rockwell," said Dick, once more.</p> + +<p>The book-keeper could hardly suppress a low whistle.</p> + +<p>"When did she give it to you?"</p> + +<p>"Last evening."</p> + +<p>"Were you up there?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"Did Mr. Rockwell invite you?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>Just then Dick was called away by Mr. Murdock, who had some work for him +to do.</p> + +<p>"There's something mighty queer in all this," thought the book-keeper. +"What Mr. Rockwell can see in that boy, I don't understand. He's an +impudent young rascal, and I'll get him turned off if it's a possible +thing."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2> + +<h3>A FINANCIAL DISCUSSION.</h3> + + +<p>In the course of the morning Dick called at the Park Bank, and presented +the check which was made payable to himself. His employer had +accompanied him to the bank on a previous day, and introduced him to the +cashier as one who was authorized to receive and pay over money for the +firm. Dick therefore found no difficulty in obtaining his money, though +the fact that the check was made payable to him created some surprise.</p> + +<p>"Your salary seems to be a large one," said the teller, as he handed our +hero ten bills of a hundred dollars each.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, "my services are very valooable."</p> + +<p>On leaving the bank, Dick went to the savings bank, and presented his +book.</p> + +<p>"How much do you wish to deposit?"</p> + +<p>"A thousand dollars," said Dick, briefly.</p> + +<p>The bank officer looked at him in surprise.</p> + +<p>"How much did you say?" he repeated.</p> + +<p>"A thousand dollars."</p> + +<p>"No nonsense, young man! My time is too valuable," said the other, +impatiently.</p> + +<p>He was justified in his incredulity, since Dick's deposits hitherto had +been in sums of from one to five dollars.</p> + +<p>"If you don't want to take the money, I can go somewhere else," said our +hero, who was now on his dignity. "I have a thousand dollars to deposit. +Here it is."</p> + +<p>The bank officer took the money, and counted it over in considerable +surprise.</p> + +<p>"Business is improving,—isn't it?" he said.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick. "I made all that money in one day."</p> + +<p>"If you should want a partner, call round and see me."</p> + +<p>"All right. I won't forget."</p> + +<p>Dick took the bank-book, and, putting it in his inside coat-pocket, +buttoned up his coat, and hurried back to the store. His reflections +were of a very agreeable nature, as he thought of his large deposit in +the savings bank, and he could not help feeling that he had been born +under a lucky star.</p> + +<p>Nothing of consequence transpired in the store that day. Dick was +attentive to his duties. He was determined to learn the business as +rapidly as possible, not only because he felt grateful to Mr. Rockwell +for his kindness, but also because he knew that this was the best thing +for his future prospects. Mr. Murdock, who has already been mentioned, +was of service to him in this respect. He was himself an excellent +business man, and very conscientious in the discharge of his duties. He +required the same fidelity of others. He had observed Dick closely, and +was attracted towards him by his evident desire to give satisfaction, as +well as by his frank, open face. He resolved to help him along, more +especially when he saw the manner in which he was treated by the +book-keeper. To tell the truth, Mr. Gilbert was not a favorite with Mr. +Murdock. He understood his business, to be sure, and, so far as Mr. +Murdock knew, kept the books correctly. But personally he was not +agreeable, and the head salesman doubted whether his integrity was what +it should have been. So, altogether, he made up his mind to help Dick on +as well as he could, and take pains to instruct him in the business.</p> + +<p>Dick, on his side, was pleased with Mr. Murdock, and determined to make +him a confidant in the matter of his sudden accession of fortune.</p> + +<p>He took an opportunity, therefore, during the day, to say to him, "Mr. +Murdock, I want to ask your advice about something."</p> + +<p>"Well, my lad, what is it?" said his friend, kindly. "If it's about +choosing a wife, I don't know whether my advice will be good for much."</p> + +<p>"It isn't that," said Dick. "Next year'll be soon enough for that."</p> + +<p>"So I should think. Well, if it's nothing of that sort, what is it?"</p> + +<p>"It's about investing some money. I thought you might be able to advise +me."</p> + +<p>"How much is it?" asked Mr. Murdock, supposing the sum could not be more +than fifty or sixty dollars.</p> + +<p>"Eleven hundred dollars," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"How much?" demanded the salesman, in surprise.</p> + +<p>"Eleven hundred dollars."</p> + +<p>"Is it your own?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"Of course you couldn't have earned so much. Was it left to you?"</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you all about it," said Dick. "I wouldn't tell Mr. Gilbert, +and I don't mean he shall know it, but I'd just as lieves tell you. Do +you know why Mr. Rockwell gave me this place?"</p> + +<p>"No; I've wondered a little, not at that, but at his giving you so much +higher pay than boys usually receive."</p> + +<p>"Then I'll tell you."</p> + +<p>Dick proceeded to give an account of the manner in which he had rescued +little Johnny from drowning, as related in the adventures of "Ragged +Dick."</p> + +<p>"It was a brave act," said Mr. Murdock.</p> + +<p>"It was nothing at all," said Dick, modestly. "I could swim like a duck, +and I didn't mind the wetting."</p> + +<p>"But you ran the risk of drowning."</p> + +<p>"I didn't think of that."</p> + +<p>"If you had been a coward or a selfish boy, it would have been the first +thing you would have thought of. So Mr. Rockwell gave you this place in +acknowledgment of your service. I am glad he did. You deserve it."</p> + +<p>"He has done more," said Dick. Then he related the events of the evening +previous, and told Mr. Murdock of the two gifts he had received. "So, +with the money I had before, I have now eleven hundred dollars," Dick +concluded. "Shall I leave it in the savings bank, or can I do better +with it?"</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you what I think will be a good investment," said Mr. +Murdock. "I know a party who owns four adjoining lots on Forty-Fifth +Street. He is pressed for money, and wishes to dispose of them. He +offered them to me at twenty-two hundred dollars, half cash. I offered +him a thousand dollars cash for two of them, but he wishes to sell the +whole together. I think it will be an excellent speculation, for the +laying out of Central Park is carrying up the price of lots in the +neighborhood rapidly."</p> + +<p>"Why didn't you buy them, then?"</p> + +<p>"Because I didn't want to buy anything that I couldn't pay for at once. +I've got a wife and three children to look out for, and so I can save +money but slowly. If I only had myself to take care of, I wouldn't +hesitate."</p> + +<p>"Can't we club together, and buy it?" suggested Dick, eagerly.</p> + +<p>"That is just what I was going to propose. I think the owner will take +two thousand dollars down for the lots. That will be a thousand dollars +apiece. I've got that money, and so have you. What do you think of it?"</p> + +<p>"Tip-top," said Dick, enthusiastically. "It's just what I'd like to do."</p> + +<p>"Of course it wouldn't bring us in anything, but would, instead, be an +expense for the present, as we should have to pay taxes on it. On the +other hand, you could invest the money in bank-stock, so as to receive +seventy or eighty dollars annually at interest. You must decide which +investment you prefer. The land we may have to keep on hand four or five +years, paying taxes yearly."</p> + +<p>"But the price'll go up."</p> + +<p>"There is no doubt of that. The city is extending northwards rapidly. I +shouldn't be surprised if the lots would bring a thousand dollars apiece +in less than five years. This would be equal to a very handsome +interest."</p> + +<p>"I'm in for buying 'em," said Dick. "So, if you'll see the owner, I'll +have the money all ready whenever you want it."</p> + +<p>"Very well, but perhaps you would like to see them first. We'll manage +to get off an hour earlier than usual this afternoon, and go up and take +a look at them."</p> + +<p>"It seems to me Mr. Murdock and that boy are pretty thick together," +said the book-keeper, glancing through the glass partition. He could see +that they were conversing earnestly, but of course couldn't hear a word +that was said. "What he or Mr. Rockwell can see in the young rascal +passes my comprehension."</p> + +<p>He called sharply to Dick, and ordered him to go to the post-office for +letters.</p> + +<p>"All right," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"And mind you don't loiter by the way," said the book-keeper, sharply. +"You were gone long enough at the bank this morning. Did you come right +back?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Why didn't you?"</p> + +<p>"There was somewhere else I wanted to go."</p> + +<p>"On your own business, or Mr. Rockwell's?"</p> + +<p>"On my own business."</p> + +<p>"So I thought. I shall report you to Mr. Rockwell," said Gilbert, +triumphantly.</p> + +<p>"I wouldn't, if I were you," said Dick, coolly.</p> + +<p>"And why not, you young rascal?"</p> + +<p>"Because he knows it already."</p> + +<p>"Knows it already," repeated the book-keeper, discomfited. "Well, I hope +he gave you a good scolding."</p> + +<p>"I am sorry to disappoint you," said Dick; "but he knows it, because he +gave me leave to go."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe it," said Gilbert, mortified to find that Dick was in +the right after all.</p> + +<p>"Then perhaps you'd better ask Mr. Rockwell."</p> + +<p>"I will," said Gilbert, who really had no intention of doing so. "You +must have had some very urgent private business," he added, with a +sneer.</p> + +<p>"You're right, there," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Playing marbles with some of your ragamuffin friends, I suppose."</p> + +<p>"Playin' marbles is a very refined and intellectual amusement," said +Dick; "but I don't play marbles in business hours."</p> + +<p>"Where did you go?" said the book-keeper, impatiently. "I don't want any +of your impertinence."</p> + +<p>"I went to the savings bank," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"I suppose you have a very large account there," sneered Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, quietly; "pretty large."</p> + +<p>"It's to be hoped you won't withdraw your patronage, or the bank might +fail."</p> + +<p>"Then I won't," said Dick. "Shall I go to the post-office now?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, and be quick about it."</p> + +<p>The book-keeper had some curiosity as to the amount of Dick's account at +the savings bank, but there was no good chance for him to inquire, and +he accordingly returned to his writing, more prejudiced against Dick +than ever.</p> + +<p>On the whole, I have some doubts whether Dick's manner was quite as +respectful as it ought to have been to one who was older and higher in +office than himself. I should not recommend my young readers to imitate +him in this respect. But it is my business to describe Dick just as he +was, and I have already said that he was not a model boy. Still in most +respects he tried to do what was right, and it must be admitted that the +book-keeper's treatment of him was not likely to inspire much attachment +or respect. Dick had no difficulty in perceiving the dislike entertained +by Gilbert for him, and he was beginning to cherish a similar feeling +towards the book-keeper. He determined, however, to give him no cause of +complaint, so far as he was entitled to command his services; but it +must be confessed he found much more satisfaction in obeying Mr. +Rockwell and Mr. Murdock.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2> + +<h3>NEW PLANS.</h3> + + +<p>At the close of the afternoon, as had been proposed, Mr. Murdock, +accompanied by Dick, rode up as far as Forty-Fifth Street, to look at +the lots which he had suggested buying. They were located in a very +eligible situation, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. Some of my young +readers may not be aware that the dimensions of a city lot are +twenty-five feet front by one hundred feet in depth. The four lots +together made a plot of one hundred feet by one hundred, or a little +less than quarter of an acre. In the country the whole would scarcely +have been considered sufficient for a house with a good yard in front; +but if people choose to live in the city they must make up their minds +to be crowded.</p> + +<p>"It looks small,—don't it?" said Dick. "I shouldn't think there was +four lots there."</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Mr. Murdock, "they are of the regular size. Some lots are +only twenty feet wide. These are twenty-five. They don't look so large +before they are built on."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Dick, "I'm in for buying them."</p> + +<p>"I think it will be a good investment for both of us," said Mr. Murdock.</p> + +<p>"The money shall be ready whenever you want it," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Very well. I will see the owner to-morrow, or rather this evening, as +it is best to be prompt, lest we might lose so favorable a bargain. I +will make the best terms I can with him, and let you know the result +to-morrow."</p> + +<p>"All right!" said Dick. "Good-night, Mr. Murdock."</p> + +<p>"Good-night. By-the-by, why won't you come round and take supper with +us? My wife and children will be glad to make your acquaintance."</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick. "I will come some other evening with pleasure; +but if I stay away without saying anything about it, Fosdick won't know +what's become of me."</p> + +<p>Dick got back to Bleecker Street a little late for dinner. When he +entered the dining-room, the remainder of the boarders were seated at +the table.</p> + +<p>"Come, Mr. Hunter, you must render an account of yourself," said Miss +Peyton, playfully. "Why are you late this evening?"</p> + +<p>"Suppose I don't tell," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Then you must pay a fine,—mustn't he, Mrs. Browning?"</p> + +<p>"That depends upon who is to benefit by the fines," said the landlady. +"If they are to be paid to me, I shall be decidedly in favor of it. That +reminds me that you were late to breakfast this morning, Miss Peyton."</p> + +<p>"Oh, ladies mustn't be expected to pay fines," said Miss Peyton, shaking +her ringlets. "They never have any money, you know."</p> + +<p>"Then I think we must let Mr. Hunter off," said Mrs. Browning.</p> + +<p>"If he will tell us what has detained him. You must excuse my curiosity, +Mr. Hunter, but ladies, you know, are privileged to be curious."</p> + +<p>"I don't mind telling," said Dick, helping himself to a piece of toast. +"I'm talking of buying some lots up-town, and went up with a friend to +look at them."</p> + +<p>Fosdick looked at Dick, inquiringly, not knowing if he were in earnest +or not.</p> + +<p>"Indeed!" said Mr. Clifton. "May I inquire where the lots are situated?"</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you if I buy them," said Dick; "but I don't want to run the +risk of losing them."</p> + +<p>"You needn't be afraid of my cutting you out," said Clifton. "I paid my +washerwoman this morning, and haven't got but a dollar and a half over. +I suppose that won't buy the property."</p> + +<p>"I wish it would," said Dick. "In that case I'd buy half a dozen lots."</p> + +<p>"I suppose, from your investing in lots, Mr. Hunter, that you are +thinking of getting married, and living in a house of your own," said +Miss Peyton, simpering.</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, "I shan't get married for a year. Nobody ought to be +married before they're seventeen."</p> + +<p>"That's just my age," said Miss Peyton.</p> + +<p>Mr. Clifton afterwards informed Dick that Miss Peyton was twenty-five, +but did not mention how he had ascertained. He likewise added that when +he first came to the boarding-house, she had tried her fascinations upon +him.</p> + +<p>"She'd have married me in a minute," he said complacently; "but I'm too +old a bird to be caught that way. When you see Mrs. Clifton, gentlemen, +you'll see style and beauty, and—<i>money</i>" he added, after a moment's +reflection.</p> + +<p>Mr. Clifton had a tolerably good opinion of himself, as may be inferred +from this remark. In fact, he valued himself rather more highly than the +ladies appeared to do; but such cases are not remarkable.</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Clifton will be a lucky woman," said Dick, with a sober face.</p> + +<p>"You're very kind to say so," said Mr. Clifton, modestly. "I believe I'm +tolerably good-looking, and nobody'll deny that I've got style. But +money,—that's my weak point. You couldn't lend me five dollars, could +you, till next week?"</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid not," said Dick. "My up-town lots cost so much, and then +there'll be the taxes afterwards."</p> + +<p>"Oh, it's of no consequence. I thought a little of going to the opera +to-night, and I need a new pair of gloves. It costs a sight to keep a +fellow in gloves."</p> + +<p>"So it does," said Dick. "I bought a pair for fifty cents six months +ago, and now I've got to buy another pair."</p> + +<p>"Ha, ha! good joke! By the way, I wonder you fellows don't take a better +room."</p> + +<p>"Why should we? Isn't this good enough?" asked Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"Oh, it's comfortable and all that," said Clifton; "but you know what I +mean. You wouldn't want any of your fashionable friends to call upon you +here."</p> + +<p>"That's a fact," said Dick. "Suppose," he said, turning to Fosdick, with +a twinkle in his eye, "Johnny Nolan should call upon us here. What would +he think of our living in such a room?"</p> + +<p>"He would probably be surprised," said Fosdick, entering into the joke.</p> + +<p>"Is he one of your Madison-Avenue friends?" asked Clifton, a little +mystified.</p> + +<p>"I don't know where he lives," said Dick, with truth; "but he's a friend +of mine, in business down town."</p> + +<p>"Wholesale or retail?"</p> + +<p>"Retail I should say,—shouldn't you, Fosdick?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Fosdick, amused at Clifton's evident mystification.</p> + +<p>"Well, good-evening, gents," said Clifton, sauntering out of the room. +"Call and see me when you haven't anything better to do."</p> + +<p>"Thank you. Good-night."</p> + +<p>"Were you in earnest, Dick, about the up-town lots," asked Fosdick, +after Clifton had left the room.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick. "It's an investment that Mr. Murdock advised. I'll +tell you about it, and then you can tell me what you think of it."</p> + +<p>Dick thereupon gave an account of the conversation that had taken place +between him and the head clerk, and what they proposed to do. "What do +you think of it?" he concluded.</p> + +<p>"I have no doubt it is an excellent plan," said Fosdick; "but of course +my opinion isn't worth much. I don't see but you stand a chance to be a +rich man some time, Dick."</p> + +<p>"By the time I get to be a hundred," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"A good while before that, I presume. But there's something else we must +not forget."</p> + +<p>"What is that?"</p> + +<p>"Money is a good thing to have, but a good education is better. I was +thinking to-day that since we have come here we haven't done any +studying to amount to anything."</p> + +<p>"That is true."</p> + +<p>"And the sooner we begin the better."</p> + +<p>"All right. I agree to that."</p> + +<p>"But we shall need assistance. I've taught you about all I know myself, +and now we want to go higher."</p> + +<p>"What shall we do?"</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you, Dick. Have you noticed the young man that has a room +just opposite ours?"</p> + +<p>"His name is Layton,—isn't it?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"What about him?"</p> + +<p>"I heard yesterday that he was a teacher in a private school. We might +engage him to teach us in the evening, or, at any rate, see if he is +willing."</p> + +<p>"All right. Is he in now, I wonder?"</p> + +<p>"Yes. I heard him go into his room a few minutes since."</p> + +<p>"Very well; suppose we go in and speak to him."</p> + +<p>The boys at once acted upon this suggestion, and, crossing the entry, +knocked at the door.</p> + +<p>"Come in!" said a voice from within.</p> + +<p>The door being opened, they found themselves in the presence of a young +man of pleasant appearance, apparently about twenty-five years of age.</p> + +<p>"Good-evening, gentlemen," he said. "I am glad to see you. Will you have +seats?"</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Fosdick. "We came in on a little business. I +understand you are a teacher, Mr. Layton."</p> + +<p>"Yes, I am engaged in a private school in the city."</p> + +<p>"My friend and myself are engaged in business during the day, but we +feel that our education is quite deficient, and we want to make +arrangements to study evenings. We cannot do this to advantage without +assistance. Are you occupied during the evenings?"</p> + +<p>"No, I am not."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you would not like teaching in the evening, after being engaged +in the daytime."</p> + +<p>"On the contrary, I have been hoping to secure scholars; but I hardly +knew how to set about it."</p> + +<p>"Are you acquainted with the French language, Mr. Layton?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I am tolerably familiar with it. I studied it at college with a +native teacher."</p> + +<p>"If you are a college graduate, then, you will be able to teach us +whatever we desire to learn. But I am afraid we may not be able to make +it worth your while. We have neither of us large salaries. But if four +dollars a week—two dollars for each of us—would be satisfactory—"</p> + +<p>"I shall be satisfied with it," said Mr. Layton. "In fact," he added, +frankly, "I shall consider it quite a welcome addition to my salary. My +father died a year since, and my mother and sister are compelled to +depend upon me in part for support. But I have not been able to do as +much for them as I wished. This addition to my earnings will give me the +means of increasing their comforts."</p> + +<p>"Then it will be a pleasant arrangement all round," said Fosdick. "What +would you advise us to study?"</p> + +<p>After a few inquiries as to their present attainments, Mr. Layton +recommended a course of mathematics, beginning with algebra, history, +and the French language. He gave the boys a list of the books they would +be likely to need.</p> + +<p>The next evening the boys commenced studying, and determined to devote +an hour and a half each evening to mental improvement. They found Mr. +Layton an excellent teacher, and he on his side found them very apt +pupils.</p> + +<p>Dick had an active, intelligent mind, and an excellent capacity, and +Fosdick had always had a thirst for learning, which he was now able to +gratify. As his salary would have been insufficient to pay his expenses +and the teacher besides, he was obliged to have recourse to his little +fund in the savings bank. Dick offered to assist him, but Fosdick would +not consent. Just as his savings were about exhausted, his wages were +raised two dollars a week, and this enabled him to continue the +arrangement without assistance.</p> + +<p>In the course of a few weeks the boys commenced reading French, and +found it quite interesting.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2> + +<h3>ROSWELL CRAWFORD AT HOME.</h3> + + +<p>While Fosdick and Dick are devoting their evenings to study, under the +guidance of Mr. Layton, we will direct the reader's attention to a young +gentleman who considered himself infinitely superior in the social scale +to either. Roswell Crawford could never forget that Dick had once been a +boot-black, and looked upon it as an outrage that such a boy should be +earning a salary of ten dollars a week, while he—a gentleman's son—was +only paid four, which he regarded as a beggarly pittance. Roswell's +father had once kept a small dry goods store on Broadway, but failed +after being in business a little less than a year. This constituted his +claim to gentility. After his failure, Mr. Crawford tried several kinds +of business, without succeeding in any. His habits were not strictly +temperate, and he had died two years previous. His wife hired a house in +Clinton Place, and took boarders, barely succeeding in making both ends +meet at the end of the year. The truth was that she was not a good +manager, and preferred to talk of her gentility and former wealth to +looking after the affairs of the household. She was very much like her +son in this respect.</p> + +<p>Among Mrs. Crawford's boarders was Mr. Gilbert, who is already known to +the reader as the book-keeper of Rockwell & Cooper. It has been +mentioned also that he was Roswell's cousin, being a son of Mrs. +Crawford's only brother. He, too, was not unlike his aunt and cousin, +and all three combined to hate and despise Dick, whom Mrs. Crawford saw +fit to regard as her son's successful rival.</p> + +<p>"How's the boot-black, Cousin James?" asked Roswell, on the evening +succeeding that which Dick had passed at Mr. Rockwell's.</p> + +<p>"Putting on airs worse than ever," replied Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Rockwell has a singular taste, to say the least," said Mrs. +Crawford, "or he wouldn't hire a boy from the streets, and give him such +extravagant wages. To pay such a vagabond ten dollars a week, when a boy +of good family, like Roswell, can get but four, is perfectly +ridiculous."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe he gets so much," said Roswell. "It's only one of his +big stories."</p> + +<p>"You're mistaken there," said Gilbert. "He does get exactly that."</p> + +<p>"Are you sure of it?"</p> + +<p>"I ought to be, since I received directions from Mr. Rockwell to-day to +pay him that amount to-morrow night, that being the end of the week."</p> + +<p>"I never heard of such a thing!" ejaculated Mrs. Crawford. "The man must +be a simpleton."</p> + +<p>"If he is, there's another besides him."</p> + +<p>"Who do you mean?"</p> + +<p>"Mrs. Rockwell."</p> + +<p>"Has she made acquaintance with the boot-black, then?" asked Roswell, +with a sneer.</p> + +<p>"Yes, he visited them last evening at their house."</p> + +<p>"Did he tell you so?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"I should think they'd feel honored by such a visitor."</p> + +<p>"Probably they did, for Mrs. Rockwell made him a present of a gold +watch."</p> + +<p>"<span class="smcap">What</span>!" exclaimed Roswell and his mother in concert.</p> + +<p>"It's true. I sent him out to ask the time to-day, when he pulled out a +new gold watch with an air of importance, and told me the time."</p> + +<p>"Was it a good watch?"</p> + +<p>"A very handsome one. It must have cost, with the chain, a hundred and +twenty-five dollars."</p> + +<p>"The idea of a boot-black with a gold watch!" exclaimed Roswell, with a +sneer. "It's about as appropriate as a pig in a silk dress."</p> + +<p>"I can't understand it at all," said Mrs. Crawford. "It can't be that +he's a poor relation of theirs, can it?"</p> + +<p>"I should say not. Mr. Rockwell wouldn't be likely to have a relation +reduced to blacking boots."</p> + +<p>"Is the boy so attractive, then? What does he look like?"</p> + +<p>"He's as bold as brass, and hasn't got any manners nor education," said +Roswell.</p> + +<p>Poor Dick! His ears ought to have tingled, considering the complimentary +things that were said of him this evening. But luckily he knew nothing +about it, and, if he had, it is doubtful whether it would have troubled +him much. He was independent in his ideas, and didn't trouble himself +much about the opinion of others, as long as he felt that he was doing +right as nearly as he knew how.</p> + +<p>"Do you think this strange fancy of Mr. Rockwell's is going to last?" +inquired Mrs. Crawford. "I wish Roswell could have got in there."</p> + +<p>"So do I, but I couldn't accomplish it."</p> + +<p>"If this boy should fall out of favor, there might be a chance for +Roswell yet; don't you think so?" asked Mrs. Crawford.</p> + +<p>"I wish there might," said Roswell. "I'd like to see that beggar's pride +humbled. Besides, four dollars a week is such a miserable salary."</p> + +<p>"You thought yourself lucky when you got it."</p> + +<p>"So I did; but that was before I found out how much this boot-black was +getting."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Gilbert, "he isn't a favorite of mine, as you know well +enough. If there's anything I can do to oust him, I shall do it."</p> + +<p>"Couldn't you leave some money in his way? He might be tempted to steal +it."</p> + +<p>"I don't know yet what course would be best. I'll try to get him into +trouble of some kind. But I can tell better by and by what to do."</p> + +<p>Gilbert went up to his room, and Mrs. Crawford and Roswell were left +alone.</p> + +<p>"I wish you were at Rockwell & Cooper's, Roswell," said his mother.</p> + +<p>"So do I, mother; but it's no use wishing."</p> + +<p>"I don't know about that. Your cousin ought to have some influence +there."</p> + +<p>"The boot-black's in the way."</p> + +<p>"He may not be in the way always. Your cousin may detect him in +something that will cause his discharge."</p> + +<p>"Even if he does, I've tried once to get in there, and didn't succeed. +They didn't seem to take a fancy to me."</p> + +<p>"I shouldn't expect them to, if they take a fancy to a common street +boy. But when they find him out, they may change their opinion of you."</p> + +<p>"I don't know how that will be, mother. At any rate, I think I ought to +get more than four dollars a week where I am. Why, there's Talbot, only +two years older than I, gets eight dollars, and I do more than he. To +tell the truth, I don't like the place. I don't like to be seen carrying +round bundles. It isn't fit work for a gentleman's son."</p> + +<p>Roswell forgot that many of the most prosperous merchants in the city +began in that way, only on less wages. One who wants to climb the ladder +of success must, except in very rare cases, commence at the lowest +round. This was what Roswell did not like. He wanted to begin half-way +up at the very least. It was a great hindrance to him that he regarded +himself as a gentleman's son, and was puffed up with a corresponding +sense of his own importance.</p> + +<p>The more Roswell thought of his ill-requited services, as he considered +them, the more he felt aggrieved. It may be mentioned that he was +employed in a dry goods store on Sixth Avenue, and was chiefly engaged +in carrying out bundles for customers. A circumstance which occurred +about this time deepened his disgust with the place.</p> + +<p>About the middle of the next week he was carrying a heavy bundle to a +house on Madison Avenue. Now it happened that Mr. Rockwell, who, it will +be remembered, lived on the same street, had left home that morning, +quite forgetting an important letter which he had received, and which +required an early answer. He therefore summoned Dick, and said, +"Richard, do you remember the location of my house?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"I find I have left an important letter at home. I have written a line +to my wife, that she may know where to look for it. I want you to go up +at once."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>Dick took the note, and, walking to Broadway, jumped on board an +omnibus, and in a few minutes found himself opposite the Fifth Avenue +Hotel. Here he alighted, and, crossing the Park, entered Madison Avenue, +then as now lined with fine houses.</p> + +<p>Walking briskly up the avenue, he overtook a boy of about his own size, +with a large bundle under his arm. Glancing at him as he passed, he +recognized Roswell Crawford.</p> + +<p>"How are you, Crawford?" said Dick, in an offhand manner.</p> + +<p>Roswell looked at the speaker, whom he recognized.</p> + +<p>"I'm well," said he, in a stiff, ungracious manner.</p> + +<p>Ashamed of the large bundle he was carrying, he would rather have been +seen by any boy than Dick, under present circumstances. He did not fail +to notice Dick's neat dress, and the gold chain displayed on his vest. +Indeed there was nothing in Dick's appearance which would have been +inconsistent with the idea that he lived on the avenue, and was, what +Roswell claimed to be, a gentleman's son. It seemed to Roswell that Dick +was immensely presumptuous in swaggering up Madison Avenue in such a +style, as he mentally called it, and he formed the benevolent design of +"taking down his pride," and making him feel uncomfortable, if possible.</p> + +<p>"Have you lost your place?" he inquired.</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, "not yet. It's very kind of you to inquire."</p> + +<p>"I suppose they pay you for walking the streets, then," he said, with a +sneer.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, composedly; "that's one of the things they pay me +for."</p> + +<p>"I suppose you like it better than blacking boots?" said Roswell, who, +supposing that Dick was ashamed of his former occupation, felt a +malicious pleasure in reminding him of it.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, "I like it better on the whole; but then there's some +advantages about boot-blackin'."</p> + +<p>"Indeed!" said Roswell, superciliously. "As I was never in the business, +I can't of course decide."</p> + +<p>"Then I was in business for myself, you see, and was my own master. Now +I have to work for another man."</p> + +<p>"You don't seem to be working very hard now," said Roswell, enviously.</p> + +<p>"Not very," said Dick. "You must be tired carrying that heavy bundle. +I'll carry it for you as far as I go."</p> + +<p>Roswell, who was not above accepting a favor from a boy he didn't like, +willingly transferred it to our hero.</p> + +<p>"I carried it out just to oblige," he said, as if he were not in the +daily habit of carrying such packages.</p> + +<p>"That's very kind of you," said Dick.</p> + +<p>Roswell did not know whether Dick spoke sarcastically or not, and +therefore left the remark unnoticed.</p> + +<p>"I don't think I shall stay where I am very long," he said.</p> + +<p>"Don't you like?" asked Dick.</p> + +<p>"Not very well. I'm not obliged to work for a living," added Roswell, +loftily, but not altogether truly.</p> + +<p>"I am," said Dick. "I've had to work for a living ever since I was six +years old. I suppose you work because you like it."</p> + +<p>"I'm learning business. I'm going to be a merchant, as my father was."</p> + +<p>"I'll have to give up the bundle now," said Dick. "This is as far as I +am going."</p> + +<p>Roswell took back his bundle, and Dick went up the steps of Mr. +Rockwell's residence and rang the door-bell.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2> + +<h3>A STORE ON SIXTH AVENUE.</h3> + + +<p>Roswell kept on his way with his heavy bundle, more discontented than +ever. The bundle seemed heavier than ever. Dick had no such bundles to +carry. He had an easier time, his business position was better, and his +wages more than double. And all this in spite of the glaring fact that +Roswell was a gentleman's son, and Dick wasn't. Surely fortune was very +blind, and unfair in the distribution of her favors.</p> + +<p>"I suppose he'll be crowing over me," thought Roswell, bitterly, judging +from what would have been his own feeling had the case been reversed. "I +hope he'll have to go back to boot-blacking some day. I wish mother'd +buy me a gold watch and chain. There'd be some sense in <i>my</i> wearing +it."</p> + +<p>Roswell evidently thought it very inappropriate that Dick should wear a +handsome gold watch, more especially as he was quite sure beforehand +that his mother would not gratify his own desire to possess one. Still +he resolved to ask.</p> + +<p>There was another thing he meant to ask. Feeling that his services were +worth more than the wages he received, and convincing himself that his +employers would be unwilling to lose him, he determined to ask an +advance of two dollars a week, making six dollars in all. Not that he +considered that even this would pay him, but as he could hardly hope +that he would be appreciated according to his deserts, he limited his +request to that sum. He concluded to defer making his application until +Saturday evening, when he would receive his week's wages.</p> + +<p>He consulted his mother upon this subject, and she, having nearly as +high an opinion of her promising son as he had himself, consented to the +application. If his cousin, James Gilbert, had heard of his intention, +he was enough of a business man to have dissuaded him from the attempt. +Though he saw fit to espouse the cause of Roswell against Dick, it was +more because he disliked the latter than because he was blind to the +faults of the former. Indeed, he had a very moderate opinion of his +young cousin's capabilities.</p> + +<p>The days slipped by, and Saturday night came. It was nine o'clock before +Roswell was released, the Saturday-night trade being the best of the +week. The other clerks had been paid, Roswell's turn coming last, +because he was the youngest.</p> + +<p>The designation of the firm was <span class="smcap">Hall & Turner</span>. Mr. Hall, the +senior partner, usually went home early in the evening; and Mr. Turner, +the junior partner, a man of about thirty-five, attended to the evening +business, and paid the weekly wages.</p> + +<p>"Here, Crawford," he said, counting out four one dollar bills; "it's +your turn now."</p> + +<p>"I want to speak to you for a moment, Mr. Turner," said Roswell, +beginning to feel a little nervous; for now that the time had come for +making his request, he felt a little uncertain how it would be received.</p> + +<p>"Very well," said his employer, showing a little surprise; "be quick +about it, for I want to get through."</p> + +<p>"I want to know if you will not be willing to raise my wages," said +Roswell, rather awkwardly.</p> + +<p>"On what ground do you ask for it?" said Mr. Turner, looking up.</p> + +<p>"I thought I might be worth more," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"How long have you been in my employment,—do you remember?"</p> + +<p>"About four months," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"Do you think you have learned enough in that time to make you worth +more?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Roswell, with a little hesitation.</p> + +<p>"How much more would satisfy you?"</p> + +<p>"Two dollars more,—for the present," said Roswell, beginning to feel a +little hopeful.</p> + +<p>"That is six dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"And how soon would you expect another advance?" asked Mr. Turner, +quietly.</p> + +<p>"In about six months."</p> + +<p>"You are quite moderate in your demands, certainly."</p> + +<p>There was something in Mr. Turner's tone which struck Roswell as +unfavorable, and he hastily said in his own justification:—</p> + +<p>"There's a friend of mine, no older than I am, who gets ten dollars a +week."</p> + +<p>Certainly Roswell must have spoken inadvertently, or he would hardly +have referred to Dick as his friend; but his main idea at present was to +produce an impression upon the mind of Mr. Turner.</p> + +<p>"Is your friend in a dry goods store?" asked Mr. Turner.</p> + +<p>"No, sir."</p> + +<p>"Then I don't see that his wages have any bearing upon your case. There +may be some special circumstances that affect his compensation. How long +has he been in the service of his present employer?"</p> + +<p>"Only a week or two."</p> + +<p>"Is this his first place?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"It may be that he is some relative of his employer."</p> + +<p>"That isn't very likely," said Roswell, his lip curling. "He used to be +a boot-black about the streets."</p> + +<p>"Indeed!" said Mr. Turner, keenly. "I think you said he was a friend of +yours."</p> + +<p>"No, sir," said Roswell, proudly; "I haven't the honor."</p> + +<p>"You certainly said 'There's a friend of mine, no older than I am, who +gets ten dollars a week.'"</p> + +<p>"I didn't mean to speak of him as my friend," said Roswell; "I'm a +gentleman's son."</p> + +<p>"If you are, his friendship might do you no harm. If he receives the +wages you state, he must be a smart fellow. If he didn't earn as much, +probably he would not receive it."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe he'll keep his place long," muttered Roswell, his wish +being father to the thought.</p> + +<p>"If he doesn't, you may be able to succeed him," said Mr. Turner. "I +shall be compelled to refuse your request. Indeed, so far from +increasing your compensation, I have been considering during the last +week whether it would not be for my interest to get another boy in your +place."</p> + +<p>"Sir!" exclaimed Roswell, in dismay.</p> + +<p>"I will give you my reasons. You appear to think yourself of too great +consequence to discharge properly the duties of your position."</p> + +<p>"I don't understand you, sir," stammered Roswell.</p> + +<p>"I believe you claim to be a gentleman's son."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Roswell. "My father used to keep a store on Broadway."</p> + +<p>"And I am led to suppose you think it incompatible with your dignity to +carry bundles to different parts of the city."</p> + +<p>"I would rather stand behind the counter and sell goods," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"Of course you will be a salesman in time, if you stick to business +faithfully. But it so happens that we didn't hire you as a salesman, but +as a boy, whose chief business it should be to carry bundles. But we +don't want to impose a disagreeable duty upon you. Therefore, if you +think upon reflection that you would prefer not to continue in your +situation, we will hire somebody else."</p> + +<p>"That won't be necessary, sir," said Roswell, considerably crest-fallen.</p> + +<p>"You are content, then, to remain?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"And upon four dollars a week?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir. I suppose I may hope to have my wages increased some time?"</p> + +<p>"When we find your services worth more, you shall receive more," said +Mr. Turner. "That is fair,—isn't it?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Then here is your money. I didn't mean to talk so long; but it's as +well to come to an understanding."</p> + +<p>Roswell left the store considerably crest-fallen. He found that, instead +of regarding him worth an advance of wages, Mr. Turner had had it in his +mind to discharge him; and that hurt his pride. It was certainly very +singular that people shouldn't be more impressed with the fact that he +was a gentleman's son. He could not have received less deference if he +had been an ex-boot-black, like Dick himself. He certainly was no more +contented than before, nor was his self-appreciation materially +diminished. If the world did not recognize his claims, there was one +comfort, his mother appreciated him, and he appreciated himself. As to +his cousin, he did not feel quite so certain.</p> + +<p>"Why are you so late, Roswell?" asked his mother, looking up from her +work as he entered. "It seems to me they kept you later than usual at +the store, even for Saturday evening."</p> + +<p>"I'm sick of the store," said Roswell, impatiently.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter?"</p> + +<p>"I asked old Turner to-night if he wouldn't raise my wages," said +Roswell.</p> + +<p>"Well, what did he say?"</p> + +<p>"He said he wouldn't do it."</p> + +<p>"Did he give any reason?"</p> + +<p>"He said I didn't earn any more. He's a stingy old hunks, any way, and I +wish I was in another place."</p> + +<p>"So do I; but it isn't so easy to get a new position. You had better +stay in this till another offers."</p> + +<p>"I hate carrying bundles through the streets. It isn't fit work for a +gentleman's son."</p> + +<p>"Ah, if your poor father had lived, things would have been very +different with us all!" said Mrs. Crawford, with a sigh. She chose to +forget that previous to his death her late husband's habits had been +such that he contributed very little to the comfort or support of the +family.</p> + +<p>"I wouldn't care if I were a salesman," continued Roswell; "but I don't +like being an errand boy. I'd just as lives go to the post-office for +letters, or to the bank with money, but, as for carrying big bundles of +calico under my arm, I don't like it. I was walking on Madison Avenue +the other day with a ten-pound bundle, when the boot-black came up, +dressed handsomely, with a gold watch and chain, and exulted over me for +carrying such a big bundle."</p> + +<p>There was a little exaggeration about this, for Dick was very far from +exulting over Roswell, otherwise he certainly would not have volunteered +to carry the bundle himself. But it often happens that older persons +than Roswell are not above a little misrepresentation now and then.</p> + +<p>"He's an impudent fellow, then!" said Mrs. Crawford, indignantly. "Then +Mr. Hall won't raise your wages?"</p> + +<p>"It wasn't Mr. Hall I asked. It was Mr. Turner," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"Didn't he hold out any hopes of raising your wages hereafter?"</p> + +<p>"He said he would raise them when I deserve it. He don't amount to much. +He's no gentleman," said Roswell, scornfully.</p> + +<p>"Who's no gentleman?" inquired James Gilbert, who chanced just then to +enter the room.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Turner."</p> + +<p>"Who's Mr. Turner?"</p> + +<p>"My employer,—Hall & Turner, you know."</p> + +<p>"What's amiss with him?"</p> + +<p>"I asked him to raise my wages to-night, and he wouldn't."</p> + +<p>"Umph! How much did you ask for?"</p> + +<p>"Two dollars more a week."</p> + +<p>"You're a fool!"</p> + +<p>"<i>What!</i>" said Roswell, astonished.</p> + +<p>"<span class="smcap">What</span>!" exclaimed Mrs. Crawford, angrily.</p> + +<p>"I say the lad's a fool to ask for so large an advance so soon. Of +course his employers refused it. I would, in their place."</p> + +<p>"You're very hard upon the poor boy!" said Mrs. Crawford. "I thought you +were his friend."</p> + +<p>"So I am; but he's acted foolishly for all that. He should have known +better."</p> + +<p>"I ought to be worth six dollars, if your boot-black is worth ten," +responded Roswell.</p> + +<p>"He isn't worth ten."</p> + +<p>"Why do you pay him that, then?"</p> + +<p>"It's Mr. Rockwell who pays him, not I. Why he does it, I can't say. It +isn't because he earns it. No boy of his age, or yours either, can earn +ten dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"At any rate he gets ten, and I get only four. I certainly earn more +than that," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"I am not so sure about that," said his cousin. "But if it will afford +you any comfort, I'll venture to make the prediction that he won't +remain in Rockwell & Cooper's employment a week longer."</p> + +<p>"Has anything happened?" asked Roswell, eagerly.</p> + +<p>"<i>Not yet</i>," said James Gilbert, significantly.</p> + +<p>"Then something is going to happen?"</p> + +<p>"You need not trouble yourself to ask questions. Wait patiently, and +when anything happens I'll let you know."</p> + +<p>Here James Gilbert left the room, and went up to his own chamber. His +words had excited hope in both Roswell and his mother. The former felt +that it would be a satisfaction to him to learn that Dick had lost his +situation, even if he failed to get it himself.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2> + +<h3>A NEW ALLIANCE.</h3> + + +<p>The name of Micky Maguire is already familiar to the readers of "Ragged +Dick." He had acquired a prominent position among the down-town +boot-blacks by his strength, which he used oftentimes to impose upon +boys weaker than himself. He was a young ruffian, indeed, with few +redeeming qualities. When Dick was in the same business, he tried on two +or three occasions to make him acknowledge his superiority; but it was +not in Dick's nature to be subservient to any one whom he did not +respect. Moreover, Dick had two good stout arms of his own, and knew how +to use them in self-defence. The consequence was that Micky Maguire +signally failed in the attempts which he made on different occasions to +humble our hero, and was obliged to slink off in discomfiture with his +satellite, Limpy Jim.</p> + +<p>The last glimpse we had of Micky was in Dick's cast-off clothes, of +which by some means, probably not honest, he had become possessed. He +did not wear them long, however. The famous Washington coat and Napoleon +pants were only mortal, and, being already of venerable antiquity, +became at length too fragmentary even for Micky's not very fastidious +taste. One morning, accordingly, having levied an unwilling contribution +from a weaker but more industrious boot-black, Micky went to Baxter +Street, and invested it in a blue coat with brass buttons, which, by +some strange chain of circumstances, had found its way thither from some +country town, where it may at one time have figured at trainings and on +town-meeting days. A pair of overalls completed Micky's costume. He +dispensed with a vest, his money not having been sufficient to buy that +also.</p> + +<p>Certainly Micky presented a noticeable figure as he stood in the City +Hall Park, clad in the above-mentioned garments. He was rather proud of +the brass buttons, and may even have fancied, in his uncultivated taste, +that his new costume became him.</p> + +<p>While he was swaggering about he espied part of a cigar, which some one +had thrown aside. Micky, who was fond of smoking, picked it up, and +looked about him for a light, not being provided with a match. A young +man was slowly crossing the park with a cigar in his mouth. But he was +evidently plunged in thought, and hardly conscious of the scene about +him. Micky observed this, and a cunning scheme suggested itself.</p> + +<p>He walked up to the young man, and said, cavalierly, "Give us a light, +mister, will yer?"</p> + +<p>The young man mechanically took the cigar from his mouth, and passed it +to the questioner without observing who he was. Had he done so, it is +doubtful whether the request would have been complied with.</p> + +<p>Rapidly calculating that he would not notice the substitution, Micky, +after lighting the "stub," handed it to the young man, retaining the +good cigar himself, and placing it straightway in his mouth.</p> + +<p>This trick would probably have passed off undetected, if it had not been +observed by some of Micky's fellow-professionals.</p> + +<p>A jeering laugh from these called the young man's attention to the +substitution, and, with a look of indignation, he said, "You young +rascal, you shall pay for this!"</p> + +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> +<div class="figcenter"> +<a href="images/il143.jpg"><img src="images/il143.jpg" alt=""/></a> +</div> +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> + +<p>But Micky evaded his grasp, and scudded rapidly through the park, +pursued by the victim of misplaced confidence.</p> + +<p>"Run, Micky; I'll bet on you!" cried Pat Nevins, encouragingly.</p> + +<p>"Go it, long legs!" said another, who backed the opposite party. "Give +him a good lickin' when you catch him."</p> + +<p>"Maybe you'd have to wait too long for that," said Pat.</p> + +<p>"Leave yer cigar wid us, mister," said another boy.</p> + +<p>James Gilbert, for he was the young man in question, began to find that +he was becoming rather ridiculous, and felt that he would rather let +Micky go free than furnish a spectacle to the crowd of boot-blacks who +were surveying the chase with eager interest. He accordingly stopped +short, and, throwing down the "stub," prepared to leave the park.</p> + +<p>"Don't give it up, mister! You'll catch him," said his first backer. +"Micky can't run far. Ragged Dick give him a stretcher once."</p> + +<p>"Ragged Dick!" said Gilbert, turning abruptly at the sound of this name.</p> + +<p>"Maybe you know him?"</p> + +<p>"Does he black boots?"</p> + +<p>"He used to, but he don't now."</p> + +<p>"What does he do?"</p> + +<p>"Oh, he's a swell now, and wears good clothes."</p> + +<p>"How is that?"</p> + +<p>"He's in a store, and gets good pay."</p> + +<p>"What's the name of the boy that ran away with my cigar?"</p> + +<p>"Micky Maguire."</p> + +<p>"Was he a friend of Ragged Dick, as you call him?"</p> + +<p>"Not much. They had two or three fights."</p> + +<p>"Which beat?"</p> + +<p>"Dick. He can fight bully."</p> + +<p>Gilbert felt disappointed. He was in hopes our hero had met with a +defeat. Somehow he seemed born for success.</p> + +<p>"Then I suppose Maguire hates him?"</p> + +<p>"I'll bet he does."</p> + +<p>"Humph!" thought Gilbert; "I may turn his enmity to some account. Let me +consider a little."</p> + +<p>At length a plan suggested itself, and his countenance cleared up, and +assumed an expression of satisfaction. On reaching home he held the +conversation with Roswell and his mother which has been recorded at the +close of the last chapter.</p> + +<p>Meantime Micky went home to a miserable lodging on Worth Street, in the +precincts of the Five Points, and very near where the Five Points House +of Industry now stands. This admirable institution has had a salutary +influence, and contributed greatly to the improvement of the +neighborhood. Then, however, it was about as vile and filthy as could +well be.</p> + +<p>Micky exulted not a little at the success of his cunning, and smoked the +cigar—an expensive one, by the way—with not a little satisfaction. He +recounted the story to a group of admiring friends who had not been +fortunate enough to witness it.</p> + +<p>"It's you that's got the cheek, Micky," said Teddy Donovan.</p> + +<p>"You did it neat," said another. "Maybe I'll try that same, some day."</p> + +<p>"You'd better not. The copp might get hold of you."</p> + +<p>"Was it a good cigar, Micky?"</p> + +<p>"Wasn't it, just! I wish I'd got another. Stand treat, Teddy."</p> + +<p>"I would if I had the stamps. I'm savin' up my money to go to the Old +Bowery to-night."</p> + +<p>The boys were standing in a little group, and in the interest of their +discussion did not observe the approach of James Gilbert, who was now +visiting the park with a special object in view. With an expression of +satisfaction he recognized the boy who had served him a trick the day +before. Indeed, it was not easy to mistake Micky. The blue coat with +brass buttons and the faded overalls would have betrayed him, even if +his superior height had not distinguished him from his comrades.</p> + +<p>Had Micky been aware of Gilbert's approach he would have thought it +prudent to "change his base;" but, his back being turned, he was taken +by surprise. His attention was drawn by a tap on the shoulder, and, +looking round, he recognized his enemy, as he regarded him. He started +to run, but was withheld by a strong grasp.</p> + +<p>"Leave me alone, will yer?" he said, ducking his head as if he expected +a blow.</p> + +<p>"I believe you are fond of smoking," said Gilbert, continuing to hold +him tight.</p> + +<p>Micky maintained silence.</p> + +<p>"And sometimes exchange a poor cigar for a good one?" continued his +captor.</p> + +<p>"It was a mistake," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"What did you run for, then?"</p> + +<p>"What you going to do about it, mister?" asked one boy, curiously.</p> + +<p>"So it was a mistake,—was it?" said Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Micky, glibly.</p> + +<p>"Take care you don't make the mistake again, then. Now you may black my +boots."</p> + +<p>Not only the boys who were standing by, but Micky himself, were +considerably surprised at this unexpected turn. They confidently +expected that Micky would "get a lickin'," and instead of that, he had +found a customer. Their respect for Gilbert was considerably diminished +for failing to exact punishment, and, their interest in the affair being +over, they withdrew.</p> + +<p>Micky laid down his box, and commenced operations.</p> + +<p>"How long have you been a boot-black?" asked Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Five years—goin' on six," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"Can you earn much?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Micky. "Business aint very good now."</p> + +<p>"You manage to dress well," said Gilbert, with an amused look at Micky's +habiliments.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Micky, with a glance at the brass buttons; "but I had to +borrer the money to buy my clo'es."</p> + +<p>"There used to be a boy around here that was called Dick. Did you know +him?"</p> + +<p>"There be a good many Dicks. Which did you mean?"</p> + +<p>"This boy was nearly your size. I believe they called him 'Ragged +Dick.'"</p> + +<p>"I know'd him," said Micky, shortly, with a scowl.</p> + +<p>"Was he a friend of yours?"</p> + +<p>"No, he wasn't. I give him a lickin' once."</p> + +<p>The fact happened to be the other way; but Micky was not very scrupulous +as to the strict truth of his statements.</p> + +<p>"You don't like him, then? Where is he now?"</p> + +<p>"He's in a store, and swells round with good clothes."</p> + +<p>"Have you seen him lately?"</p> + +<p>"No, an' I don't want to."</p> + +<p>"He wears a gold watch now. I suppose he wouldn't have anything to say +to you."</p> + +<p>"Maybe not," said Mickey.</p> + +<p>"It would be a good joke if he should lose his place and have to go back +to boot-blacking again."</p> + +<p>"I wish he would," said Micky, fervently. "It 'ould cure him of puttin' +on airs."</p> + +<p>"If, for example, his employer should be convinced that he was a thief, +he would discharge him."</p> + +<p>"Do you know him, mister?" asked Micky, looking up suddenly.</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"Is he a friend of yours?"</p> + +<p>"I like him about as well as you do," said Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Done!" said Micky, releasing the second foot.</p> + +<p>"Suppose you brush the other boot again. I'll pay you double. I want to +talk to you a little."</p> + +<p>"All right!" said Micky, and he resumed operations.</p> + +<p>The conversation that followed we do not propose to chronicle. The +results will appear hereafter. Enough that Gilbert and Micky departed +mutually satisfied, the latter the richer by five times his usual fee.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII.</h2> + +<h3>DICK FALLS INTO A TRAP.</h3> + + +<p>One evening, when Dick and Fosdick returned from their respective +stores, a surprise awaited them.</p> + +<p>"The postman left some letters for you," said the servant, as she opened +the door to admit them.</p> + +<p>"Maybe they're from the tax-collectors," said Dick. "That's the +misfortun' of being men of property. What was your tax last year, +Fosdick?"</p> + +<p>"I don't remember such trifles," said Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"I don't think they was taxes," said the girl, seriously; "they looked +as if they was from a young lady."</p> + +<p>"Very likely they are from Fosdick's wife," said Dick. "She's +rusticatin' in the country for the benefit of her health."</p> + +<p>"Maybe they're from yours, Mr. Hunter," said the girl, laughing.</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, gravely, "I'm a disconsolate widower, which accounts +for my low spirits most of the time, and my poor appetite. Where are the +letters?"</p> + +<p>"I left them on the bureau in your room," said the servant. "They come +this afternoon at three o'clock."</p> + +<p>Both Fosdick and Dick felt not a little curious as to who could have +written them letters, and hastened upstairs. Entering their chamber, +they saw two very neat little notes, in perfumed French envelopes, and +with the initial G in colors on the back. On opening them they read the +following in a neat, feminine, fine handwriting. As both were alike, it +will be sufficient to give Dick's.</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"Miss Ida Greyson presents her compliments to Mr. Richard Hunter, +and solicits the pleasure of his company on Thursday evening next, +at a little birthday party.</p> + +<p>"<i>No.</i> — <i>West Twenty-Fourth Street</i>."</p></div> + +<p>"We're getting fashionable," said Dick. "I didn't use to attend many +parties when we lived in Mott Street and blacked boots for a livin'. I'm +afraid I shan't know how to behave."</p> + +<p>"I shall feel a little bashful," said Fosdick; "but I suppose we've got +to begin some time."</p> + +<p>"Of course," said Dick. "The important position we hold in society makes +it necessary. How'll I be able to hold levees when I'm mayor, if I don't +go into society now?"</p> + +<p>"Very true," said Fosdick; "I don't expect to occupy any such position; +but we ought to go in acknowledgment of Mr. Greyson's kindness."</p> + +<p>Mr. Greyson was the teacher of the Sunday-school class of which both +Dick and Fosdick were members. His recommendation had procured Fosdick +his present place, and he had manifested his kindness in various ways. +Those who have read "Ragged Dick" will remember that he had a very +sprightly and engaging daughter of ten years of age, who seemed to have +taken an especial fancy to Dick. Being wealthy, his kindness had been of +great service to both boys, inspiring them with self-respect, and +encouraging them to persevere in their efforts to raise themselves to a +higher position.</p> + +<p>The dinner-bell rang just as the boys had finished their discussion, and +they went down and took places at the table.</p> + +<p>Soon Miss Peyton came sailing in, shaking her ringlets coquettishly. She +was proud of these ringlets, and was never tired of trying their +fascinations upon gentlemen. But somehow they had not succeeded in +winning a husband.</p> + +<p>"Good-evening, Mr. Hunter," said she. "You look as if you had had good +news."</p> + +<p>"Do I?" said Dick. "Perhaps you can tell what it is."</p> + +<p>"I know how it came," said Miss Peyton, significantly.</p> + +<p>"Then I hope you won't keep me in suspense any longer than you can +help."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you'd rather I wouldn't mention before company."</p> + +<p>"Never mind," said Dick. "Don't have any regard to my feelin's. They're +tough, and can stand a good deal."</p> + +<p>"How do you like the letter G?" asked Miss Peyton, slyly.</p> + +<p>"Very much," said Dick, "as long as it behaves itself. What is your +favorite letter?"</p> + +<p>"Don't think I'm going to tell you, Mr. Hunter. That was a pretty little +note, and in a young lady's hand too."</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick. "Perhaps you'd like to see it."</p> + +<p>"You wouldn't show it to me on any account, I know."</p> + +<p>"You may see it if you like," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"May I, really? I should like to very much; but would the young lady +like it?"</p> + +<p>"I don't think she'd mind. She's written one to my friend Fosdick just +like it."</p> + +<p>Dick passed the invitation across the table.</p> + +<p>"It's very pretty indeed," said Miss Peyton. "And is Miss Ida Greyson +very handsome?"</p> + +<p>"I'm no judge of beauty," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"So she lives in West Twenty-Fourth Street. Is her father rich?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know how rich," said Dick; "but my impression is that his taxes +last year were more than mine."</p> + +<p>"I know now what your favorite letters are," said Miss Peyton. "They are +I. G."</p> + +<p>"I. G. are very well as long as you don't put P. before them," said +Dick. "Thank you for another cup of tea, Mrs. Browning."</p> + +<p>"I should think you'd need some tea after such a brilliant effort, +Hunter," said Mr. Clifton, from across the table.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick. "I find my brain gets exhausted every now and then by +my intellectual efforts. Aint you troubled that way?"</p> + +<p>"Can't say I am. Don't you want to go out and try a game of billiards +this evening?"</p> + +<p>"No, thank you. I've got to study."</p> + +<p>"I expect to see you a college professor some of these days."</p> + +<p>"I haven't made up my mind yet," said Dick. "I'm open to an offer, as +the oyster remarked when he was placed on the table. If I can serve my +fellow-men best by bein' a college professor, and gettin' a big salary, +I'm willin' to sacrifice my private feelin's for the public good."</p> + +<p>"Do you agree with your friend, Mr. Fosdick?" said Miss Peyton. "Won't +you favor us with your views?"</p> + +<p>"I have none worth mentioning," said Fosdick. "I leave my friend to do +the talking, while I attend to the eating."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Hunter's remarks are very entertaining," said Miss Peyton.</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick; "but my friend prefers a different kind of +entertainment."</p> + +<p>The boys rose from the table, and went up to their room to look over the +evening's lessons. They were quite pleased with their new teacher, whom +they found not only competent for his task, but interested in promoting +their progress. He was able to help them readily out of their +difficulties, and encouraged them to persevere. So they came to look +forward to their evening lessons not as tasks, but as pleasant +exercises.</p> + +<p>"It's strange," said Dick, one evening after the teacher had left them; +"I used to enjoy goin' to the Old Bowery so much. I went two or three +times a week sometimes. Now I would a good deal rather stay at home and +study."</p> + +<p>"Then you didn't have a home, and the lighted theatre must have been +much pleasanter than the cold and cheerless streets."</p> + +<p>"Yes, that was it. I used to get so tired sometimes of having no home to +go to, and nobody to speak to that I cared about."</p> + +<p>"You'd hardly like to go back to the old life, Dick?"</p> + +<p>"No, it would come pretty hard to me now. I didn't seem to mind it so +much then."</p> + +<p>"Because you had never known anything better."</p> + +<p>"No. It was a lucky day when I met you, Fosdick. I'd never have had the +patience to learn. Readin', or tryin' to read, always gave me the +headache."</p> + +<p>"You always leave off the last letter in such words as 'reading,' Dick. +You should be more careful, now that you associate with educated +persons."</p> + +<p>"I know it, Fosdick, but I'm so used to droppin'—I mean dropping—the g +that it comes natural. I will try to remember it. But about this +party,—shall we have to get new clothes?"</p> + +<p>"No, we have each a nice suit, and we shan't be expected to dress in the +height of the fashion."</p> + +<p>"I wish it was over. I dread it."</p> + +<p>"So do I a little; but I think we shall enjoy it. Ida is a nice girl."</p> + +<p>"That's so. If I had a sister I'd like her to be like Ida."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps she'd like a brother like you. I notice she seems to fancy your +company."</p> + +<p>"I hope you're not jealous, Fosdick. You can be a brother to Miss +Peyton, you know."</p> + +<p>Fosdick laughed. "There's no chance for me there either," he said. "She +evidently prefers you."</p> + +<p>"I'll adopt her for my aunt if it'll be gratifying to her feelings," +said Dick; "but I aint partial to ringlets as a general thing."</p> + +<p>It is well perhaps that Miss Peyton did not hear these remarks, as she +cherished the idea that both Fosdick and Dick were particularly pleased +with her.</p> + +<p>A day or two afterwards Dick was walking leisurely through Chatham +Street, about half past one o'clock. He was allowed an hour, about noon, +to go out and get some lunch, and he was now on his way from the +restaurant which he usually frequented. As it was yet early, he paused +before a window to look at something which attracted his attention. +While standing here he became conscious of a commotion in his immediate +neighborhood. Then he felt a hand thrust into the side-pocket of his +coat, and instantly withdrawn. Looking up, he saw Micky Maguire dodging +round the corner. He put his hand into his pocket mechanically, and drew +out a pocket-book.</p> + +<p>Just then a stout, red-faced man came up puffing, and evidently in no +little excitement.</p> + +<p>"Seize that boy!" he gasped, pointing to Dick. "He's got my +pocket-book."</p> + +<p>Contrary to the usual rule in such cases, a policeman did happen to be +about, and, following directions, stepped up, and laid his hand on +Dick's shoulder.</p> + +<p>"You must go with me, my fine fellow," he said "Hand over that +pocket-book, if you please."</p> + +<p>"What's all this about?" said Dick. "Here's the pocket-book, if it is +yours. I'm sure I don't want it."</p> + +<p>"You're a cool hand," said the guardian of the public peace. "If you +don't want it, what made you steal it from this gentleman's pocket?"</p> + +<p>"I didn't take it," said Dick, shortly.</p> + +<p>"Is this the boy that stole your pocket-book?" demanded the policeman of +the red-faced man, who had now recovered his breath.</p> + +<p>"It's the very young rascal. Does he pretend to deny it?"</p> + +<p>"Of course he does. They always do."</p> + +<p>"When it was found on him too! I never knew such barefaced impudence."</p> + +<p>"Stop a minute," said Dick, "while I explain. I was standing looking in +at that window, when I felt something thrust into my pocket. I took it +out and found it to be that pocket-book. Just then that gentleman came +up, and charged me with the theft."</p> + +<p>"That's a likely story," said the officer. "If any one put the +pocket-book into your pocket, it shows you were a confederate of his. +You'll have to come with me."</p> + +<p>And poor Dick, for the first time in his life, was marched to the +station-house, followed by his accuser, and a gang of boys. Among these +last, but managing to keep at a respectful distance, was Micky Maguire.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII.</h2> + +<h3>DICK IN THE STATION-HOUSE.</h3> + + +<p>Poor Dick! If Trinity Church spire had suddenly fallen to the ground, it +could scarcely have surprised and startled him more than his own arrest +for theft.</p> + +<p>During the hard apprenticeship which he had served as a street boy, he +had not been without his share of faults and errors; but he had never, +even under the severest pressure, taken what did not belong to him.</p> + +<p>Of religious and moral instruction he had then received none; but +something told him that it was mean to steal, and he was true to this +instinctive feeling. Yet, if he had been arrested a year before, it +would have brought him less shame and humiliation than now. Now he was +beginning to enjoy the feeling of respectability, which he had compassed +by his own earnest efforts. He felt he was regarded with favor by those +whose good opinion was worth having, and his heart swelled within him as +he thought that they might be led to believe him guilty. He had never +felt so down-hearted as when he walked in company with the policeman to +the station-house, to be locked up for examination the next morning.</p> + +<p>"You wasn't sharp enough this time, young fellow," said the policeman.</p> + +<p>"Do you think I stole the pocket-book?" asked Dick, looking up in the +officer's face.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no, of course not! You wouldn't do anything of that kind," said the +policeman, ironically.</p> + +<p>"No, I wouldn't," said Dick, emphatically. "I've been poor enough and +hungry enough sometimes, but I never stole. It's mean."</p> + +<p>"What is your name?" said the officer. "I think I have seen you before."</p> + +<p>"I used to black boots. Then my name was Ragged Dick. I know you. Your +name is Jones."</p> + +<p>"Ragged Dick! Yes, yes, I remember. You used to be pretty well out at +elbows, if I remember rightly."</p> + +<p>"My clothes used to be pretty well ventilated," said Dick, smiling +faintly. "That was what made me so healthy, I expect. But did you ever +know me to steal?"</p> + +<p>"No," said the officer, "I can't say I have."</p> + +<p>"I lived about the streets for more then eight years," said Dick, "and +this is the first time I was ever arrested."</p> + +<p>"What do you do now?"</p> + +<p>"I'm in a store on Pearl Street."</p> + +<p>"What wages do you get?"</p> + +<p>"Ten dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"Do you expect me to believe that story?"</p> + +<p>"It's true."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe there's a boy of your age in the city that gets such +wages. You can't earn that amount."</p> + +<p>"I jumped into the water, and saved the life of Mr. Rockwell's little +boy. That's why he pays me so much."</p> + +<p>"Where did you get that watch and chain? Are they gold?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, Mrs. Rockwell gave them to me."</p> + +<p>"It seems to me you're in luck."</p> + +<p>"I wasn't very lucky to fall in with you," said Dick. "Don't you see +what a fool I should be to begin to pick pockets now when I am so well +off?"</p> + +<p>"That's true," said the officer, who began to be shaken in his previous +conviction of Dick's guilt.</p> + +<p>"If I'd been going into that business, I would have tried it when I was +poor and ragged. I should not have waited till now."</p> + +<p>"If you didn't take the pocket-book, then how came it in your pocket?"</p> + +<p>"I was looking in at a shop window, when I felt it thrust into my +pocket. I suppose it was the thief who did it, to get out of the scrape +himself."</p> + +<p>"That might be. At any rate, I've known of such cases. If so, you are +unlucky, and I am sorry for you. I can't let you go, because appearances +are against you, but if there is anything I can do to help you I will."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, Mr. Jones," said Dick, gratefully. "I did not want you to +think me guilty. Where is the man that lost the pocket-book?"</p> + +<p>"Just behind us."</p> + +<p>"I should like to speak to him a moment."</p> + +<p>The red-faced man, who was a little behind, came up, and Dick asked, +quietly, "What makes you think I took your pocket-book, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Wasn't it found in your pocket, you young rascal?" said the other, +irritably.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"And isn't that enough?"</p> + +<p>"Not if somebody else put it there," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"That's a likely story."</p> + +<p>"It's a true story."</p> + +<p>"Can you identify this as the boy who robbed you, and whom you saw +running?"</p> + +<p>"No," said the red-faced man, rather unwillingly. "My eyesight is not +very good, but I've no doubt this is the young rascal."</p> + +<p>"Well, that must be decided. You must appear to-morrow morning to prefer +your complaint."</p> + +<p>"Mind you don't let the rascal escape," said the other.</p> + +<p>"I shall carry him to the station-house, where he will be safe."</p> + +<p>"That's right, I'll make an example of him. He won't pick my pocket +again in a hurry."</p> + +<p>"I hope the judge won't be so sure that I am guilty," said Dick. "If he +is, it'll go hard with me."</p> + +<p>"Why don't you call your employer to testify to your good character?"</p> + +<p>"That's a good idea. Can I write a note to him, and to another friend?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; but perhaps the mail wouldn't carry them in time."</p> + +<p>"I will send a messenger. Can I do so?"</p> + +<p>"When we get to the station-house I will see that you have a chance to +send. Here we are."</p> + +<p>Escorted by the officer, and followed by his accuser, Dick entered. +There was a railing at the upper end of the room, and behind it a desk +at which sat a captain of the squad.</p> + +<p>The officer made his report, which, though fair and impartial, still was +sufficient to cause our hero's commitment for trial.</p> + +<p>"What is your name?" questioned the captain.</p> + +<p>Dick thought it best to be straightforward, and, though he winced at the +idea of his name appearing in the daily papers, answered in a manly +tone, "Richard Hunter."</p> + +<p>"Of what nation?"</p> + +<p>"American."</p> + +<p>"Where were you born?"</p> + +<p>"In this city."</p> + +<p>"What is your age?"</p> + +<p>"Sixteen years."</p> + +<p>These answers were recorded, and, as Dick expressed a desire to +communicate with his friends before trial, permission was given him to +write to them, and the trial was appointed for the next morning at the +Tombs. The red-faced man certified that his wallet contained nine +dollars and sixty-two cents, which was found to be correct. He agreed to +be present the next morning to prefer his charge, and with such manifest +pleasure that he was not retained, as it sometimes happens, to insure +his appearance.</p> + +<p>"I will find a messenger to carry your notes," said the friendly +officer.</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick. "I will take care that you are paid for your +trouble."</p> + +<p>"I require no pay except what I have to pay the messenger."</p> + +<p>Dick was escorted to a cell for safe-keeping. He quickly dashed off a +letter to Mr. Murdock, fearing that Mr. Rockwell might not be in the +store. It was as follows:—</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"<span class="smcap">Mr. Murdock</span>,—What will you think when I tell you that I +have been unlucky enough to be arrested on suspicion of picking a +man's pocket? The real thief slipped the wallet into my pocket as I +was looking into a shop window, and it was found on me. I couldn't +prove my innocence, so here I am at the station-house. They will +think strange at the store because I am absent. Will you tell Mr. +Rockwell privately what has detained me; but don't tell Mr. +Gilbert. He don't like me any too well, and would believe me guilty +at once, or pretend he did. I am sure <i>you</i> won't believe I would +do such a thing, or Mr. Rockwell either. Will you come and see me +to-night? I am to be tried to-morrow morning. I aint very proud of +the hotel where I am stopping, but they didn't give me much choice +in the matter.</p> + +<p>"<span class="smcap">Richard Hunter.</span>"</p> + +<p>"<i>Station-House, Franklin Street.</i>"</p></div> + +<p>The other letter was to Fosdick; here it is:—</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"<span class="smcap">Dear Fosdick</span>,—I didn't much think when I left you this +morning that I should be writing to you from the station-house +before night. I'll tell you how it happened." [Here follows a +detailed account, which is omitted, as the reader is already +acquainted with all the circumstances.] "Of course they will wonder +at the boarding-house where I am. If Miss Peyton or Mr. Clifton +inquires after me to-night, you can say that I am detained by +business of importance. That's true enough. I wish it wasn't. As +soon as dinner is over, I wish you'd come and see me. I don't know +if you can, not being acquainted with the rules of this hotel. I +shan't stop here again very soon, if I can help it. There's a woman +in the next cell, who was arrested for fighting. She is swearing +frightfully. It almost makes me sick to be in such a place. It's +pretty hard to have this happen to me just when I was getting along +so well. But I hope it'll all come out right. Your true friend,</p> + +<p>"<span class="smcap">Dick.</span></p> + +<p>"P.S.—I've given my watch and chain to the officer to keep for me. +Gold watches aint fashionable here, and I didn't want them to think +me putting on airs.</p> + +<p>"<i>Station-House, Franklin Street.</i>"</p></div> + +<p>After Dick had written these letters he was left to himself. His +reflections, as may readily be supposed, were not the most pleasant. +What would they think at the boarding-house, if they should find what +kind of business it was that had detained him! Even if he was acquitted, +some might suppose that he was really guilty. But there was a worse +contingency. He might be unable to prove his innocence, and might be +found guilty. In that case he would be sent to the Island. Dick +shuddered at the thought. Just when he began to feel himself +respectable, it was certainly bad to meet with such hard luck. What, +too, would Mr. Greyson and Ida think? He had been so constant at the +Sunday school that his absence would be sure to be noticed, and he knew +that his former mode of life would make his guilt more readily believed +in the present instance.</p> + +<p>"If Ida should think me a pick-pocket!" thought poor Dick, and the +thought made him miserable enough. The fact was, that Ida, by her +vivacity and lively manners, and her evident partiality for his society, +had quite won upon Dick, who considered her by all odds the nicest girl +he had ever seen. I don't mean to say that Dick was in love,—at least +not yet. Both he and Ida were too young for that; but he was certainly +quite an admirer of the young lady. Again, if he were convicted, he +would have to give up the party to which he had been invited, and he +could never hope to get another invitation.</p> + +<p>All these reflections helped to increase Dick's unhappiness. I doubt if +he had ever felt so unhappy in all his life. But it never once occurred +to him that his arrest was brought about by the machinations of his +enemies. He hadn't chanced to see Micky Maguire, and had no suspicion +that it was he who dropped the wallet into his pocket. Still less did he +suspect that Gilbert's hostility had led him so far as to conspire with +such a boy as Micky against him. It was lucky that he did not know this, +or he would have felt still more unhappy.</p> + +<p>But it is now time to turn to Micky Maguire and Mr. Gilbert, whose joint +scheme had met with so much success.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV.</h2> + +<h3>MICKY MAGUIRE'S DISAPPOINTMENT.</h3> + + +<p>Micky Maguire waited until Dick was actually on the way to the +station-house, and then started for Pearl Street to acquaint Gilbert +with the success of his machinations. His breast swelled with triumph at +the advantage he had gained over his enemy.</p> + +<p>"May be he'll keep his 'cheerin' reflections' to himself another time," +thought Micky. "He won't have much to say about my going to the Island +when he's been there himself. They won't stand none of his airs there, +I'm thinkin'."</p> + +<p>There was another pleasant aspect to the affair. Micky had not only +triumphed over his enemy, but he was going to be paid for it. This was +the stipulation between Gilbert and himself. The book-keeper had not +promised any definite sum, but Micky, in speculating upon the proper +compensation for his service, fixed upon five dollars as about what he +ought to receive. Like many others who count their chickens before they +are hatched, he had already begun to consider what he would buy with it +when he had got it.</p> + +<p>Now, only the day previous, Micky had noticed hanging in a window in +Chatham Street, a silver watch, and chain attached, which was labelled +"<span class="smcap">Genuine Silver, only Five Dollars</span>." Since Micky had been the +possessor of a blue coat with brass buttons, his thoughts had dwelt more +than ever before on his personal appearance, and the watch had struck his +fancy. He did not reflect much on the probable quality of a silver watch +which could be sold for five dollars, and a chain thrown into the +bargain. It was a watch, at any rate, and would make a show. Besides, +Dick wore a watch, and Micky felt that he did not wish to be outdone. As +soon as he received his reward he meant to go and buy it.</p> + +<p>It was therefore in a very cheerful frame of mind that Micky walked up +in front of Rockwell & Cooper's store, and took his stand, occasionally +glancing at the window.</p> + +<p>Ten minutes passed away, and still he remained unnoticed. He grew +impatient, and determined to enter, making his business an excuse.</p> + +<p>Entering, he saw through the open door of the office, the book-keeper, +bending over the desk writing.</p> + +<p>"Shine yer boots?" he asked.</p> + +<p>Gilbert was about to answer angrily in the negative, when looking up he +recognized his young confederate. His manner changed, and he said, "Yes, +I believe I'll have a shine; but you must be quick about it."</p> + +<p>Micky swung his box from his shoulder, and, sinking upon his knees, +seized his brush, and went to work scientifically.</p> + +<p>"Any news?" asked Gilbert, in a low voice.</p> + +<p>"Yes, mister, I've done it," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"Have you managed to trap him?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I left him on his way to the station-house."</p> + +<p>"How did you manage it?"</p> + +<p>"I grabbed an old fellow's wallet, and dropped it into Dick's pocket. He +pulled it out, and while he was lookin' at it, up came the 'copp' and +nabbed him."</p> + +<p>"How about the man from whom the wallet was taken?"</p> + +<p>"He came up puffin', and swore Dick was the chap that stole it."</p> + +<p>"So he was carried off to the station-house?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; he's there safe enough."</p> + +<p>"Then we shall have to carry on business without him," said Gilbert, +coolly. "I hope he will enjoy himself at his new quarters."</p> + +<p>"Maybe they'll send him to the Island," said Micky, beginning his +professional operations upon the second boot.</p> + +<p>"Very likely," said Gilbert. "I suppose you've been there before this."</p> + +<p>"Wot if I have?" said Micky, in rather a surly tone, for he did not +relish the allusion.</p> + +<p>"No offence," said Gilbert. "I only meant that if you have ever been +there, you can judge whether your friend Dick will enjoy it."</p> + +<p>"Not a great deal," said Micky; "but you needn't call him my friend. I +hate him."</p> + +<p>"Your enemy, then. But get through as soon as possible."</p> + +<p>Micky struck his brush upon the floor to indicate that the job was +finished, and, rising, waited for his fee.</p> + +<p>Gilbert took from his pocket ten cents and handed him.</p> + +<p>"That's for the shine," he said; "and here's something for the other +matter."</p> + +<p>So saying, he placed in the hand of the boot-black a bank-note.</p> + +<p>Micky glanced at it, and his countenance changed ominously, when he +perceived the denomination. It was a one-dollar bill!</p> + +<p>"It's one dollar," he said.</p> + +<p>"Isn't that enough?"</p> + +<p>"No, it isn't," he answered, sullenly. "I might 'ave been nabbed myself. +I can't afford to work on no such terms."</p> + +<p>Micky was right. It certainly was a very small sum to receive for taking +such a risk, apart from all moral considerations, and his +dissatisfaction can hardly be wondered at. But Gilbert was not of a +generous nature. In fact he was disposed to be mean, and in the present +instance he had even expected to get the credit of being generous. A +dollar, he thought, must seem an immense sum to a ragged boot-black. But +Micky thought differently, and Gilbert felt irritated at his +ingratitude.</p> + +<p>"It's all you'll get," said he, roughly.</p> + +<p>"Then you'd better get somebody else to do your dirty work next time, +mister," said Micky, angrily.</p> + +<p>"Clear out, you young blackguard!" exclaimed Gilbert, his temper by this +time fully aroused. "Clear out, if you don't want to be kicked out!"</p> + +<p>"Maybe you'll wish you'd given me more," said Micky, sullenly picking up +his box, and leaving the office.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter?" asked Mr. Murdock, who happened to come up just as +Micky went into the street, and heard the last words of the altercation.</p> + +<p>"Oh," said Gilbert, carelessly, "he wasn't satisfied with his pay. I +gave him ten cents, but the young rascal wanted more."</p> + +<p>As he said this, he turned back to his desk.</p> + +<p>"I wonder whether Gilbert's going anywhere," thought the head clerk. "I +never knew him so extravagant before. He must be going out this +evening."</p> + +<p>Just then it occurred to him that Dick had been absent longer than +usual, and, as he needed his services, he asked, "Has Richard returned, +Mr. Gilbert?"</p> + +<p>"I haven't seen him."</p> + +<p>"Did he go out at the usual time?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"What can have detained him?" said Mr. Murdock, thoughtfully.</p> + +<p>"He's probably fallen in with some of his old friends, and forgotten all +about his duties."</p> + +<p>"That is not his way," said Mr. Murdock, quietly, as he walked away. He +understood very well Mr. Gilbert's hostility to Dick, and that the +latter was not likely to receive a very favorable judgment at his hands.</p> + +<p>Five minutes later a boy entered the store, and, looking about him a +moment in uncertainty, said, "I want to see Mr. Murdock."</p> + +<p>"I am Mr. Murdock," he answered.</p> + +<p>"Then this note is for you."</p> + +<p>The clerk felt instinctively that the note was from Dick, and, not +wishing Gilbert to hear the conversation, motioned the boy to follow him +to the back part of the store.</p> + +<p>Then he opened and read the note quickly.</p> + +<p>"Did Richard Hunter give this to you?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"No," said Tim Ryan, for that was his name. "It was the 'copp' that +arrested him."</p> + +<p>"I suppose a 'copp' is a policeman."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Were you present when he was arrested?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Do you know anything about it?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I seed it all."</p> + +<p>"You saw the wallet taken?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Did Richard take it?"</p> + +<p>"You mean Dick?" said Tim, interrogatively, for Richard was to him a +strange name.</p> + +<p>"No, he didn't, then. He wouldn't steal. I never know'd him to."</p> + +<p>"Then you know Dick?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir. I've knowed him ever since I was so high," indicating a point +about three feet above the floor.</p> + +<p>"Then who did take it, if not he?"</p> + +<p>"Micky Maguire."</p> + +<p>"Who is he?"</p> + +<p>"He blacks boots."</p> + +<p>"Then how did it happen that he was not arrested?"</p> + +<p>"Micky was smart enough to drop the wallet into Dick's pocket as he was +standin' before a shop winder. Then he got out of the way, and Dick was +nabbed by the 'copp.'"</p> + +<p>"Is this Micky of whom you speak a friend of yours?"</p> + +<p>"No; he likes to bully small boys."</p> + +<p>"Then why didn't you tell the officer he had arrested the wrong boy?"</p> + +<p>"I wanted to," said Tim, "for Dick's always been kind to me; but I was +afraid Micky would give me a beatin' when he got free. Then there was +another reason."</p> + +<p>"What was that?"</p> + +<p>"It's mean to tell of a fellow."</p> + +<p>"Isn't it meaner to let an innocent boy get punished, when you might +save him by telling?"</p> + +<p>"Maybe it is," said Tim, perplexed.</p> + +<p>"My lad," continued Mr. Murdock, "you say Dick has been kind to you. You +now have an opportunity to repay all he has ever done, by clearing him +from this false charge, which you can easily do."</p> + +<p>"I'll do it," said Tim, stoutly. "I don't care if Micky does lick me for +it."</p> + +<p>"By the way," said Mr. Murdock, with a sudden thought, "what is the +appearance of this Micky Maguire?"</p> + +<p>"He's rather stout, and has freckles."</p> + +<p>"Does he wear a blue coat, with large brass buttons?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Tim, in surprise. "Do you know him?"</p> + +<p>"I have seen him this morning," said Mr. Murdock. "Wait a minute, and I +will give you a line to Dick; or rather it will not be necessary. If you +can get a chance, let him know that I am going to call on him this +afternoon. Will you be at the station-house, or near it, at six +o'clock?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Then we can arrange about your appearing as a witness at the trial. +Here is half a dollar for your trouble in bringing the note."</p> + +<p>"I don't want it, sir," said Tim. "I don't want to take anything for +doing a good turn to Dick."</p> + +<p>"But you have been prevented from earning money. You had better take +it."</p> + +<p>But Tim, who was a warm-hearted Irish boy, steadfastly refused, and left +the store in quest of Henderson's hat and cap store, having also a note +to deliver to Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"So that was Micky Maguire who was here a little while since," said Mr. +Murdock to himself. "It seems singular that immediately after getting +Richard into trouble, he should have come here where he was employed. +Can it be that Gilbert had a previous acquaintance with him?"</p> + +<p>The more Mr. Murdock reflected, the more perplexed he became. It did +cross his mind that the two might be in league against Dick; but then, +on the other hand, they evidently parted on bad terms, and this seemed +to make such a combination improbable. So he gave up puzzling himself +about it, reflecting that time would clear up what seemed mysterious +about the affair.</p> + +<p>Gilbert, on his part, could not help wondering on what errand Tim Ryan +came to Mr. Murdock. He suspected he might be a messenger from Dick, but +thought it best not to inquire, and Mr. Murdock did not volunteer any +information. When the store closed, the head clerk bent his steps +towards the station-house.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV.</h2> + +<h3>THE FRANKLIN STREET STATION-HOUSE.</h3> + + +<p>The station-house to which Dick had been conveyed is situated in that +part of Franklin Street which lies between Centre and Baxter Streets. +The last is one of the most wretched streets in the city, lined with +miserable tenement houses, policy shops, and second-hand clothing +stores. Whoever passes through it in the evening, will do well to look +to the safety of his pocket-book and watch, if he is imprudent enough to +carry either in a district where the Ten Commandments are unknown, or +unregarded.</p> + +<p>The station-house is an exception to the prevailing squalidness, being +kept with great neatness. Mr. Murdock ascended the steps, and found +himself in a large room, one side of which was fenced off by a railing. +Behind this was a desk, at which sat the officer in charge. To him, Mr. +Murdock directed himself.</p> + +<p>"Have you a boy, named Richard Hunter, in the house?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said the sergeant, referring to his minutes. "He was brought in +this afternoon, charged with picking a gentleman's pocket."</p> + +<p>"There is some mistake about this. He is as honest as I am."</p> + +<p>"I have nothing to do with that. He will have a fair trial to-morrow +morning. All I have to do is to keep him in safe custody till then."</p> + +<p>"Of course. Where is he?"</p> + +<p>"In a cell below."</p> + +<p>"Can I see him?"</p> + +<p>"If you wish."</p> + +<p>The officer summoned an attendant, and briefly ordered him to conduct +Mr. Murdock to Dick's cell.</p> + +<p>"This way, sir," said the attendant.</p> + +<p>Mr. Murdock followed him through a large rear room, which is intended +for the accommodation of the officers. Then, descending some steps into +the courtyard, he descended thence into the apartments in the basement. +Here are the cells for the temporary detention of offenders who are not +at once sent to the Tombs for trial. The passages are whitewashed and +the cells look very neat. They are on either side, with a grating, so +that one passing along can look into them readily. They are probably +about seven feet long, by four or five in width. A narrow raised +bedstead, covered with a pallet, occupies one side, on which the +prisoner can either lie or sit, as he pleases.</p> + +<p>"How are you, boss?" asked a negro woman, who had been arrested for +drunkenness, swaying forward, as Mr. Murdock passed, and nearly losing +her balance as she did so. "Can't you give me a few cents to buy some +supper?"</p> + +<p>Turning from this revolting spectacle, Mr. Murdock followed his guide to +the second cell beyond where our hero was confined.</p> + +<p>"Is it you, Mr. Murdock?" exclaimed our hero, joyfully jumping to his +feet. "I am glad to see you."</p> + +<p>"And I am glad to see you; but I wish it were somewhere else," said Mr. +Murdock.</p> + +<p>"So do I," said Dick. "I aint partial to this hotel, though the +accommodations is gratooitous, and the company is very select."</p> + +<p>"I see you will have your joke, Dick, even in such a place."</p> + +<p>"I don't feel so jolly as I might," said Dick. "I never was in the +station-house before; but I shall be lucky if I don't get sent to a +worse place."</p> + +<p>"Have you any idea who took the wallet which was found in your pocket?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Do you know a boy called Micky Maguire?" proceeded Mr. Murdock.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, looking up in surprise. "Micky used to be a great +friend of mine. He'd be delighted if he only knew that I was enjoyin' +the hospitality of the government."</p> + +<p>"He does know it," said Mr. Murdock, quietly.</p> + +<p>"How do you know?" asked Dick, quickly.</p> + +<p>"Because it was he that stole the wallet and put it in your pocket."</p> + +<p>"How did you find out?" asked Dick, eagerly.</p> + +<p>"Do you know a boy named Tim Ryan?"</p> + +<p>"Yes; he's a good boy."</p> + +<p>"It was he that brought me your note. He saw the whole proceeding."</p> + +<p>"Why didn't he tell, and stop my bein' arrested, then?"</p> + +<p>"I asked him that; but he said he was afraid Micky would beat him when +he found out. But he is a friend of yours, and he stands ready to +testify what he knows, at your trial, to-morrow morning."</p> + +<p>"That's lucky," said Dick, breathing a sigh of relief. "So it was Micky +that served me the trick. He always loved me like a brother, Micky did, +but I didn't expect he'd steal for my benefit. I'm very much obliged to +him, but I'd rather dispense with such little favors another time."</p> + +<p>"You will be surprised to learn that Micky came round to our store this +afternoon."</p> + +<p>"What for?" questioned Dick, in amazement.</p> + +<p>"I don't know whether he came by accident or design; but Mr. Gilbert +employed him to black his boots."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Gilbert!"</p> + +<p>"Yes. They seemed to be conversing earnestly; but I was too far off to +hear what was said. Finally, Gilbert appeared to get angry, and drove +the boy out."</p> + +<p>"That's strange!" said Dick, thoughtfully. "Mr. Gilbert loves me about +as much as Micky does."</p> + +<p>"Yes, there seems to be some mystery about it. We may find out some time +what it is. But here is your friend Fosdick."</p> + +<p>"How are you, Fosdick?" hailed Dick from his cell. "I'm holdin' a little +levee down here. Did you receive my card of invitation?"</p> + +<p>"I've been uneasy all the afternoon, Dick," said Fosdick. "Ever since I +heard that you were here, I've been longing to come and see you."</p> + +<p>"Then you aint ashamed of me, even if I am in the station-house?"</p> + +<p>"Of course I know you don't deserve to be here. Tell me all about it. I +only got a chance to speak a minute with Tim Ryan, for there were +customers waiting."</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you all I know myself," said Dick. "I'm sorry to keep you +standing, but the door is locked, and I've accidentally lost the key. So +I can't invite you into my parlor, as the spider invited the fly."</p> + +<p>"Don't stand on ceremony, Dick. I'd just as lieves stay outside."</p> + +<p>"So would I," said Dick, rather ruefully.</p> + +<p>The story was told over again, with such new light as Mr. Murdock had +been able to throw upon it.</p> + +<p>"It's just like Micky," said Fosdick. "He's a bad fellow."</p> + +<p>"It was rather a mean trick," said Dick; "but he hasn't had a very good +bringin' up, or maybe he'd be a better boy."</p> + +<p>That he should have spoken thus, at the moment when he was suffering +from Micky's malice, showed a generosity of feeling which was +characteristic of Dick. No one was more frank, open, or free from malice +than he, though always ready to stand up for his rights when he +considered them assailed. It is this quality in Dick, joined to his +manly spirit, which makes him a favorite with me, as he is also with +you, let me hope, young reader.</p> + +<p>"It'll come out right, Dick," said Fosdick, cheerfully. "Tim Ryan's +testimony will clear you. I feel a good deal better about it now than I +did this afternoon, when I didn't know how things were likely to go with +you."</p> + +<p>"I hope so," said Dick. "But I'm afraid you won't get any supper, if you +stay any longer with me."</p> + +<p>"How about your supper, Dick?" asked Fosdick, with sudden thought. "Do +they give you any in this establishment?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick; "this hotel's on the European system, with +improvements. You get your lodgin' for nothing, and nothing to eat along +with it. I don't like the system much. I don't think I could stand it +more'n a week without its hurtin' my constitution."</p> + +<p>"I'll go out and get you something, Dick," said Fosdick, "if the rules +of the establishment allow it. Shall I?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Dick, "I think I might eat a little, though the place isn't +very stimulatin' to the appetite."</p> + +<p>"What shall I bring you?"</p> + +<p>"I aint particular," said Dick.</p> + +<p>Just then the attendant came along, and Fosdick inquired if he would be +allowed to bring his friend something to eat.</p> + +<p>"Certainly," was the reply. "We provide nothing ourselves, as the +prisoners only stay with us a few hours."</p> + +<p>"I'll be right back," said Fosdick.</p> + +<p>Not far from the station-house, Fosdick found a baker's shop, where he +bought some bread and cakes, with which he started to return. As he was +nearing the station-house, he caught sight of Micky Maguire hovering +about the door. Micky smiled significantly as he saw Fosdick and his +burden.</p> + +<p>"Where are you carryin' that?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Why do you ask?" said Fosdick, who could not feel very friendly to the +author of Dick's misfortune.</p> + +<p>"Never mind why," said Micky. "I know well enough. It's for your friend +Dick. How does he like his new lodgins'?"</p> + +<p>"How do you like them? You've been there often enough."</p> + +<p>"Don't be impudent, or I'll lam' ye," said Micky, scowling.</p> + +<p>As Fosdick was considerably smaller than himself, Micky might have +ventured upon an assault, but deemed it imprudent in the immediate +vicinity of the station-house.</p> + +<p>"Give my compliments to Dick," he said. "I hope he'll sleep well."</p> + +<p>To this Fosdick returned no answer, but, entering the building, +descended to Dick's temporary quarters. He passed the bread and cake +through the grating, and Dick, cheered by the hope of an acquittal on +the morrow, and a speedy recovery of his freedom, partook with a good +appetite.</p> + +<p>"Can't you give me a mouthful, boss?" muttered the negro woman before +mentioned, as she caught sight of Fosdick's load.</p> + +<p>He passed a cake through the grating, which she seized eagerly, and +devoured with appetite.</p> + +<p>"I think I must be going," said Mr. Murdock, consulting his watch, "or +my wife and children won't know what has become of me."</p> + +<p>"Good-night, Mr. Murdock," said Dick. "Thank you for your kindness."</p> + +<p>"Good-night, Richard. Keep up your courage."</p> + +<p>"I'll try to."</p> + +<p>Fosdick stopped longer. At last he went away, and our hero, left to +himself, lay down upon his pallet and tried to get to sleep.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI.</h2> + +<h3>ROSWELL CRAWFORD RETIRES FROM BUSINESS.</h3> + + +<p>"Can you send this home for me?" asked a lady in Hall & Turner's store +about three o'clock in the afternoon of the day on which Dick, as we +have related, was arrested.</p> + +<p>"Certainly, madam. Where shall it be sent?" asked the clerk.</p> + +<p>"No. 47 West Fortieth Street," was the reply.</p> + +<p>"Very well, it shall be sent up immediately. Here, Roswell."</p> + +<p>Roswell Crawford came forward not very willingly. He had no great liking +for the task which he saw would be required of him. Fortieth Street was +at least a mile and a half distant, and he had already just returned +from a walk in a different direction. Besides, the bundle was a large +one, containing three dress patterns. He did not think it very suitable +for a gentleman's son to be seen carrying such a large bundle through +the streets.</p> + +<p>"Why don't you send Edward?" he said, complainingly. "He doesn't do half +as much as I."</p> + +<p>"I shall send whom I please," said the clerk, sharply. "You wouldn't do +anything if you could help it."</p> + +<p>"I won't carry bundles much longer," said Roswell. "You put all the +heaviest bundles off upon me."</p> + +<p>Roswell's back being turned, he did not observe Mr. Turner, who had come +up as he was speaking.</p> + +<p>"What are you complaining about?" asked that gentleman.</p> + +<p>Roswell turned, and colored a little when he saw his employer.</p> + +<p>"What is the matter?" repeated Mr. Turner.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Evans always gives me the largest bundles to carry," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"He is always complaining of having to carry bundles," said the clerk. +"He says it isn't suitable work for a gentleman's son."</p> + +<p>"I have noticed it," said Mr. Turner. "On the whole, I think, Mr. +Crawford," he said, with mock deference, "I think you have mistaken your +vocation in entering a dry-goods store. I advise you to seek some more +gentlemanly employment. At the end of the week, you are at liberty to +leave my employment for one better suited to you."</p> + +<p>"I'm ready to go now," said Roswell, sulkily.</p> + +<p>"Very well; if you desire it, I will not insist upon your remaining. If +you will come up to the desk, you shall receive what is due you."</p> + +<p>It was somewhat humiliating to Roswell to feel that his services were so +readily dispensed with. Still he had never liked the place, and heartily +disliked carrying bundles. By going at once, he would get rid of the +large bundle to be carried to West Fortieth Street. Congratulating +himself, therefore, on the whole, on escaping from what he regarded as a +degrading servitude, he walked up to the desk in a dignified manner, and +received the wages due him.</p> + +<p>"I hope you will find some more congenial employment," said Mr. Turner, +who paid him the amount of his wages.</p> + +<p>"I have no doubt I shall," said Roswell, loftily. "My father was a +gentleman, and our family has considerable influence."</p> + +<p>"Well, I wish you success. Good-by."</p> + +<p>"Good-by," said Roswell, and walked out of the shop with head erect.</p> + +<p>He did not quite like going home at once, as explanation would be rather +awkward under the circumstances. He accordingly crossed over to Fifth +Avenue, considering that the most suitable promenade for a gentleman's +son. He could not help regarding with some envy the happy possessors of +the elegant buildings which he passed. Why had partial Fate denied him +that fortune which would have enabled him to live in this favored +locality?</p> + +<p>"Plenty of snobs have got money," he thought. "How much better I could +use it than they! I wish I were rich! You wouldn't catch me slaving my +life out in a dry-goods store, or any other."</p> + +<p>This was undoubtedly true. Work of any kind had no charms for Roswell. +To walk up the avenue swinging a dandy cane, dressed in the height of +the fashion, or, what was better yet, sitting back luxuriously in an +elegant carriage drawn by a dashing span; such was what he regarded +himself most fit for. But, unfortunately, he was not very likely to +realize his wishes. The desire to enjoy wealth doesn't bring it, and the +tastes of a gentleman are not a very good stock to begin life with. So +Roswell sauntered along in rather a discontented frame of mind until he +reached Madison Park, where he sat down on a bench, and listlessly +watched some boys who were playing there.</p> + +<p>"Hallo, Roswell!" said one of his acquaintances, coming up by chance. +"How do you happen to be here?"</p> + +<p>"Why shouldn't I be here?"</p> + +<p>"I thought you were in a store somewhere on Sixth Avenue."</p> + +<p>"Well, I was, but I have left it."</p> + +<p>"When did you leave it?"</p> + +<p>"To-day."</p> + +<p>"Got sacked, hey?"</p> + +<p>"Sacked," in the New York vernacular, means discharged from a place. The +idea of having it supposed that he had been "sacked" was not pleasing to +Roswell's pride. He accordingly answered, "I never was 'sacked' in my +life. Besides, it's a low word, and I never use it."</p> + +<p>"Well, you know what I mean. Did they turn you off?"</p> + +<p>"No, they didn't. They would have been glad to have me stay."</p> + +<p>"Why didn't you then?"</p> + +<p>"I didn't like the business."</p> + +<p>"Dry goods,—wasn't it?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, a retail dry-goods store. If I ever go into that line again, it'll +be in a wholesale store. There's a chance there for a man to rise."</p> + +<p>"You don't call yourself a man yet,—do you?"</p> + +<p>"I call myself a gentleman," said Roswell, shortly.</p> + +<p>"What are you going to do now?"</p> + +<p>"I'm in no hurry about a new place. I shall look round a little."</p> + +<p>"Well, success to you. I must be getting back to the shop."</p> + +<p>"What are you doing?"</p> + +<p>"I'm learning a trade."</p> + +<p>"Oh!" said Roswell, turning up his nose slightly, which was quite easy +for him to do, as nature had given that organ an upward turn. He thought +all trades low, and resolved hereafter to hold as little communication +as possible with the boy who had so far demeaned himself as to be +learning one. That was worse than being in a dry-goods store, and +carrying around bundles.</p> + +<p>Towards six o'clock Roswell rose from his seat, and sauntered towards +Clinton Place, which was nearly a mile distant. He entered the house a +little before dinner.</p> + +<p>"Are you not earlier than usual, Roswell?" asked his mother.</p> + +<p>"I've left the store," he said, abruptly.</p> + +<p>"Left the store!" echoed his mother, in some dismay. "Why?"</p> + +<p>"Because they don't know how to treat me. It's no fit place for a +gentleman's son."</p> + +<p>"I am sorry, Roswell," said Mrs. Crawford, who, like her son, was "poor +and proud," and found the four dollars he earned weekly of advantage. +"I'm afraid you have been foolish."</p> + +<p>"Listen, mother, and I'll tell you all about it," he said.</p> + +<p>Roswell gave his explanation, which, it need hardly be said, was very +favorable to himself, and Mrs. Crawford was finally brought to believe +that Hall & Turner were low people, with whom it was not suitable for +one of her son's gentlemanly tastes to be placed. His vindication was +scarcely over, when the bell rang, and his Cousin Gilbert was admitted.</p> + +<p>Mr. Gilbert entered briskly, and with a smiling face. He felt unusually +complaisant, having succeeded in his designs against our hero.</p> + +<p>"Well, James," said Mrs. Crawford, "you look in better spirits than I +feel."</p> + +<p>"What's happened amiss?"</p> + +<p>"Roswell has given up his place."</p> + +<p>"Been discharged, you mean."</p> + +<p>"No," said Roswell, "I left the place of my own accord."</p> + +<p>"What for?"</p> + +<p>"I don't like the firm, nor the business. I wish I were in Mr. +Rockwell's."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Gilbert, "perhaps I can get you in there."</p> + +<p>"Has the boot-black left?"</p> + +<p>"He's found another place," said Gilbert, smiling at what he regarded as +a good joke.</p> + +<p>"You don't mean to say he has left a place where he was earning ten +dollars a week?" said Mrs. Crawford, in surprise. "Where is this new +place that you speak of?"</p> + +<p>"In the station-house."</p> + +<p>"Is he in the station-house?" asked Roswell, eagerly.</p> + +<p>"That is what I hear."</p> + +<p>"What's he been doing?"</p> + +<p>"Charged with picking a pocket."</p> + +<p>"Well, I do hope Mr. Rockwell will now see his folly in engaging a boy +from the streets," said Mrs. Crawford, charitably concluding that there +was no doubt of our hero's guilt.</p> + +<p>"What'll be done with him, Cousin James?" asked Roswell.</p> + +<p>"He'll be sent to the Island, I suppose."</p> + +<p>"He may get clear."</p> + +<p>"I think not. Circumstances are very much against him, I hear."</p> + +<p>"And will you try to get me in, Cousin James?"</p> + +<p>"I'll do what I can. Perhaps it may be well for you to drop in to-morrow +about ten o'clock."</p> + +<p>"All right,—I'll do it."</p> + +<p>Both Mrs. Crawford's and Roswell's spirits revived wonderfully, and Mr. +Gilbert, too, seemed unusually lively. And all because poor Dick had got +into difficulties, and seemed in danger of losing both his place and his +good name.</p> + +<p>"It's lucky I left Hall & Turner's just as I did!" thought Roswell, +complacently. "May be they'd like to engage the boot-black when he gets +out of prison. But I guess he'll have to go back to blacking boots. +That's what he's most fit for."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII.</h2> + +<h3>DICK'S ACQUITTAL.</h3> + + +<p>After his interview with Mr. Murdock and Henry Fosdick, Dick felt +considerably relieved. He not only saw that his friends were convinced +of his innocence, but, through Tim Ryan's testimony, he saw that there +was a reasonable chance of getting clear. He had begun to set a high +value on respectability, and he felt that now he had a character to +sustain.</p> + +<p>The night wore away at last. The pallet on which he lay was rather hard; +but Dick had so often slept in places less comfortable that he cared +little for that. When he woke up, he did not at first remember where he +was, but he very soon recalled the circumstances, and that his trial was +close at hand.</p> + +<p>"I hope Mr. Murdock won't oversleep himself," thought our hero. "If he +does, it'll be a gone case with me."</p> + +<p>At an early hour the attendant of the police station went the rounds, +and Dick was informed that he was wanted. Brief space was given for the +arrangement of the toilet. In fact, those who avail themselves of the +free lodgings provided at the station-house rarely pay very great +attention to their dress or personal appearance. Dick, however, had a +comb in his pocket, and carefully combed his hair. He also brushed off +his coat as well as he could; he also critically inspected his shoes, +not forgetting his old professional habits.</p> + +<p>"I wish I had a brush and some blackin'," he said to himself. "My shoes +would look all the better for a good shine."</p> + +<p>But time was up, and, under the escort of a policeman, Dick was conveyed +to the Tombs. Probably all my readers have heard of this building. It is +a large stone building, with massive columns, broad on the ground, but +low. It is not only used for a prison, but there are two rooms on the +first floor used for the holding of courts. Into the larger one of these +Dick was carried. He looked around him anxiously, and to his great joy +perceived that not only Mr. Murdock was on hand, but honest Tim Ryan, +whose testimony was so important to his defence. Dick was taken forward +to the place provided for those awaiting trial, and was obliged to await +his turn. One or two cases, about which there was no doubt, including +the colored woman arrested for drunkenness, were summarily disposed of, +and the next case was called. The policeman who had arrested Dick +presented himself with our hero.</p> + +<p>Dick was so neatly dressed, and looked so modest and self-possessed, +that the judge surveyed him with some surprise.</p> + +<p>"What is this lad charged with?" he demanded.</p> + +<p>"With taking a wallet from a gentleman's pocket," said the policeman.</p> + +<p>"Did you arrest him?"</p> + +<p>"I did."</p> + +<p>"Did you take him in the act?"</p> + +<p>"No; I did not see him take it."</p> + +<p>"What have you to say, prisoner? Are you guilty or not guilty?" said the +judge, turning to Dick.</p> + +<p>"Not guilty," said Dick, quietly.</p> + +<p>"State why you made the arrest," said the judge.</p> + +<p>"I saw him with the wallet in his hand."</p> + +<p>"Is the gentleman who had his pocket picked, present?"</p> + +<p>"He is."</p> + +<p>"Summon him."</p> + +<p>The red-faced man came forward, and gave his testimony. He stated that +he was standing on the sidewalk, when he felt a hand thrust into his +pocket, and forcibly withdrawn. He immediately felt for his wallet, and +found it gone. Turning, he saw a boy running, and immediately gave +chase.</p> + +<p>"Was the boy you saw running the prisoner?"</p> + +<p>"I suppose it was."</p> + +<p>"You suppose? Don't you know?"</p> + +<p>"Of course it was, or he would not have been found with the wallet in +his hand."</p> + +<p>"But you cannot identify him from personal observation?"</p> + +<p>The red-faced man admitted with some reluctance that his eyesight was +very poor, and he did not catch sight of the boy till he was too far off +to be identified.</p> + +<p>"This is not so clear as it might be," said the judge. "Still, +appearances are against the prisoner, and as the wallet was found in his +possession, he must be found guilty, unless that fact can be +satisfactorily explained."</p> + +<p>"I have a witness who can explain it," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Where is he?"</p> + +<p>Tim Ryan, who understood that his evidence was now wanted, came forward.</p> + +<p>After being sworn, the judge asked, "What is your name?"</p> + +<p>"Tim Ryan, sir."</p> + +<p>"Where do you live?"</p> + +<p>"In Mulberry Street."</p> + +<p>"Tell what you know of this case."</p> + +<p>"I was standing in Chatham Street, when I saw the ould gintleman with +the red face (here the prosecutor scowled at Tim, not relishing the +description which was given of him) standing at the corner of Pearl +Street. A boy came up, and put his hand into his pocket, and then run +away as fast as his legs could carry him, wid the wallet in his hand."</p> + +<p>"Who was this boy? Do you know him?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Tell his name."</p> + +<p>"It was Micky Maguire," said Tim, reluctantly.</p> + +<p>"And who is Micky Maguire?"</p> + +<p>"He blacks boots."</p> + +<p>"Then if this Micky Maguire took the wallet, how happened it that it was +found in this boy's possession?"</p> + +<p>"I can tell that," said Tim. "I ran after Micky to see if he'd get off +wid the wallet. He hadn't gone but a little way when I saw him slip it +into Dick's pocket."</p> + +<p>"I suppose you mean by Dick, the prisoner at the bar?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"And what became of this Micky?"</p> + +<p>"He stopped runnin' after he'd got rid of the pocket-book, and a minute +after, up came the 'copp,' and took Dick."</p> + +<p>"Why didn't you come forward, and explain the mistake?"</p> + +<p>"I was afraid Micky'd beat me."</p> + +<p>"Do you know this Micky Maguire?" said the judge, turning to the +officer.</p> + +<p>"I do."</p> + +<p>"What is his reputation?"</p> + +<p>"Bad. He's been at the Island three or four times already."</p> + +<p>"Did you see him anywhere about when you made the arrest?"</p> + +<p>"I did."</p> + +<p>"Do you know this boy who has just testified?"</p> + +<p>"Yes. He is a good boy."</p> + +<p>"The case seems a clear one. The prisoner is discharged from custody. +Arrest Micky Maguire on the same charge as early as possible."</p> + +<p>The next case was called, and Dick was free.</p> + +<p>Mr. Murdock came forward, and took him by the hand, which he shook +heartily.</p> + +<p>"I congratulate you on your acquittal," he said.</p> + +<p>"I feel a little better than I did," said Dick. "Tim, you're a good +fellow," he said, clasping Tim's hand. "I wouldn't have got off, if it +hadn't been for you."</p> + +<p>"I ought to do that much for you, Dick, when you've been so kind to me."</p> + +<p>"How are you getting along now, Tim?"</p> + +<p>"Pretty well. Mother's got so she can work and we're doin' well. When +she was sick, it was pretty hard."</p> + +<p>"Here's something to help you along," said Dick, and he drew a bill from +his pocket.</p> + +<p>"Five dollars!" said Tim, in surprise.</p> + +<p>"You can buy some new clothes, Tim."</p> + +<p>"I ought not to take so much as that, Dick."</p> + +<p>"It's all right, Tim. There's some more where that comes from."</p> + +<p>They were in Centre Street by this time. Fosdick came up hurriedly.</p> + +<p>"Have you got off, Dick?" he asked, eagerly.</p> + +<p>"Yes, Fosdick. There's no chance of my being entertained at the expense +of the city."</p> + +<p>"I didn't expect the trial was coming off so early. Tell me all about +it."</p> + +<p>"What did they say at the house at my being away?" asked Dick.</p> + +<p>"Miss Peyton inquired particularly after you. I said, as you directed +me, that you were detained by important business."</p> + +<p>"What did she say then?"</p> + +<p>Dick was so particular in his inquiries, fearing lest any suspicion +should have been formed of the real cause which had detained him. There +was no reason for it; but it had always been a matter of pride with him +in his vagabond days that he had never been arrested on any charge, and +it troubled him that he should even have been suspected of theft.</p> + +<p>"You are fishing for compliments, Dick," said Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"How do you make that out?"</p> + +<p>"You want to know what Miss Peyton said. I believe you are getting +interested in her."</p> + +<p>"When I am, just send me to a lunatic asylum," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"I am afraid you are getting sarcastic, Dick. However, not to keep you +in suspense, Miss Peyton said that you were one of the wittiest young +men she knew of, and you were quite the life of the house."</p> + +<p>"I suppose I ought to blush," said Dick; "but I'm a prey to hunger just +now, and it's too much of an effort."</p> + +<p>"I'll excuse you this time," said Fosdick. "As to the hunger, that's +easily remedied. We shall get home to breakfast, and be in good time +too."</p> + +<p>Fosdick was right. They were the first to seat themselves at the table. +Mr. Clifton came in directly afterwards. Dick felt a momentary +embarrassment.</p> + +<p>"What would he say," thought our hero, "if he knew where I passed the +night?"</p> + +<p>"Good-morning, Hunter," said Clifton. "You didn't favor us with your +presence at dinner last evening."</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick. "I was absent on very important business."</p> + +<p>"Dining with your friend, the mayor, probably?"</p> + +<p>"Well, no, not exactly," said Dick, "but I had some business with the +city government."</p> + +<p>"It seems to me that you're getting to be quite an important character."</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick. "I am glad to find that genius is sometimes +appreciated."</p> + +<p>Here Miss Peyton entered.</p> + +<p>"Welcome, Mr. Hunter," she said. "We missed you last evening."</p> + +<p>"I hope it didn't affect your appetite much," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"But it did. I appeal to Mr. Fosdick whether I ate anything to speak +of."</p> + +<p>"I thought Miss Peyton had a better appetite than usual," said Fosdick.</p> + +<p>"That is too bad of you, Mr. Fosdick," said Miss Peyton. "I'm sure I +didn't eat more than my canary bird."</p> + +<p>"Just the way it affected me," said Dick. "It always improves my +appetite to see you eat, Miss Peyton."</p> + +<p>Miss Peyton looked as if she hardly knew whether to understand this +remark as complimentary or otherwise.</p> + +<p>That evening, at the dinner-table, Clifton drew a copy of the "Express" +from his pocket, and said, "By Jove, Hunter, here's a capital joke on +you! I'll read it. 'A boy, named Richard Hunter, was charged with +picking a pocket on Chatham Street; but it appearing that the theft was +committed by another party, he was released from custody.'"</p> + +<p>Dick's heart beat a little quicker while this was being read, but he +maintained his self-possession.</p> + +<p>"Of course," said he, "that was the important business that detained me. +But I hope you won't mention it, for the sake of my family."</p> + +<p>"I'd make the young rascal change his name, if I were you," said +Clifton, "if he's going to get into the Police record."</p> + +<p>"I think I shall," said Dick, "or maybe I'll change my own. You couldn't +mention a highly respectable name that I could take,—could you?"</p> + +<p>"Clifton is the most respectable name I know of," said the young +gentleman owning that name.</p> + +<p>"If you'll make me your heir, perhaps I'll adopt it."</p> + +<p>"I'll divide my debts with you, and give you the biggest half," said +Clifton.</p> + +<p>It is unnecessary to pursue the conversation. Dick found to his +satisfaction that no one at the table suspected that he was the Richard +Hunter referred to in the "Express."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2> + +<h3>THE CUP AND THE LIP.</h3> + + +<p>While Dick's night preceding the trial was an anxious one, Gilbert and +Roswell Crawford passed a pleasant evening, and slept soundly.</p> + +<p>"Do you think Mr. Rockwell would be willing to give me the same wages he +has paid to the boot-black?" he inquired with interest.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps he won't take you at all."</p> + +<p>"I think he ought to pay some attention to your recommendation," said +Mrs. Crawford. "You ought to have some influence with him."</p> + +<p>"Of course," said Gilbert, "I shall do what I can in the matter; but +it's a pity Roswell can't give better references."</p> + +<p>"He's never been with a decent employer yet. He's been very unlucky +about his places," said Mrs. Crawford.</p> + +<p>She might have added that his employers had considered themselves +unfortunate in their engagement of her son; but, even if she had known +it, she would have considered that they were prejudiced against him, and +that they were in fault entirely.</p> + +<p>"I will do what I can for him," continued Gilbert; "but I am very sure +he won't get as much as ten dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"I can earn as much as the boot-black, I should hope," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"He didn't earn ten dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"He got it."</p> + +<p>"That's a very different thing."</p> + +<p>"Well, if I get it, I don't care if I don't earn it."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough," said Gilbert, who did not in his heart set a very +high estimate upon the services of his young cousin, and who, had the +business been his own, would certainly not have engaged him at any +price.</p> + +<p>Roswell thought it best not to say any more, having on some previous +occasions been greeted with remarks from his cousin which could not by +any means be regarded as complimentary.</p> + +<p>"Do you think I had better come in at ten o'clock, Cousin James?" +inquired Roswell, as breakfast was over, and Gilbert prepared to go to +the counting-room.</p> + +<p>"Well, perhaps you may come a little earlier, say about half-past nine," +said the book-keeper.</p> + +<p>"All right," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>Being rather sanguine, he made up his mind that he was going to have the +place, and felt it difficult to keep his good fortune secret. Now, in +the next house there lived a boy named Edward McLean, who was in a +broker's office in Wall Street, at a salary of six dollars a week. Now, +though Edward had never boasted of his good fortune, it used to disturb +Roswell to think that his place and salary were so much superior to his +own. He felt that it was much more respectable to be in a broker's +office, independent of the salary, than to run around the city with +heavy bundles. But if he could enter such an establishment as Rockwell & +Cooper's, at a salary of ten dollars, he felt that he could look down +with conscious superiority upon Edward McLean, with his six dollars a +week.</p> + +<p>He went over to his neighbor's, and found Edward just starting for Wall +Street.</p> + +<p>"How are you, Roswell?" said Edward.</p> + +<p>"Pretty well. Are you going down to the office?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"You've got a pretty good place,—haven't you?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I like it."</p> + +<p>"How much do you get?"</p> + +<p>"Six dollars a week."</p> + +<p>"That's very fair," said Roswell, patronizingly.</p> + +<p>"How do you like your place?" asked Edward. "I believe you're in a +dry-goods store on Sixth Avenue."</p> + +<p>"Oh, no," said Roswell.</p> + +<p>"You were?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I went in temporarily to oblige them," said Roswell, loftily; +"but, of course, I wouldn't engage to remain any length of time in such +a place, however large the inducements they might offer."</p> + +<p>Considering Roswell's tone, it would hardly have been supposed that the +large inducements were four dollars a week, and that, even at that +compensation, his services were not desired.</p> + +<p>"Then it wasn't a good place?" said Edward.</p> + +<p>"Well enough for such as liked it," said Roswell. "I have no complaint +of Hall & Turner. I told them that it was not dissatisfaction with them +that led me to leave the place, but I preferred a different kind of +business."</p> + +<p>"Have you got another place?"</p> + +<p>"I have an offer under consideration," said Roswell, consequentially; +"one of the most solid firms in the city. They offer me ten dollars a +week."</p> + +<p>"Ten dollars a week!" repeated Edward, somewhat staggered by the +statement. "That's big pay."</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Roswell; "but I think I ought to get as much as that."</p> + +<p>"Why, I thought myself lucky to get six dollars," said Edward.</p> + +<p>"Yes, that's very fair," said Roswell, condescendingly. "In fact, I've +worked at that figure myself; but, of course, one expects more as he +grows older."</p> + +<p>"I suppose you'll accept your offer," said Edward.</p> + +<p>"I haven't quite made up my mind," said Roswell, carelessly. "I think I +shall."</p> + +<p>"You'd better. Such places don't grow on every bush."</p> + +<p>Though Edward did not more than half believe Roswell's statement, he +kept his disbelief to himself, feeling that it was a matter of +indifference to him whether Roswell received a large or small salary.</p> + +<p>"I must be going down to the office," he said. "Good-morning."</p> + +<p>"Good-morning," said Roswell, and he re-entered the house, feeling that +he had impressed Edward with a conviction of his superiority, and the +value set upon his services by the business men of New York. He went +upstairs, and picked out a flashy necktie from his drawer, tied it +carefully before the glass, and about nine set out for Rockwell & +Cooper's warehouse.</p> + +<p>It is necessary for us to precede him.</p> + +<p>Gilbert reached the counting-room at the usual time. His thoughts on the +way thither were pleasant.</p> + +<p>"I shan't be subjected to that young rascal's impertinence," he +considered. "That's one satisfaction."</p> + +<p>His astonishment, nay, dismay, may be imagined, therefore, when, on +entering the counting-room, the first object his eyes rested on was the +figure of Dick.</p> + +<p>"Good-morning, Mr. Gilbert," said our hero, pleasantly.</p> + +<p>"How came you here?" he demanded.</p> + +<p>"I walked," said Dick. "I don't often ride. I think walkin's good for +the constitution."</p> + +<p>"You know what I mean, well enough. How did you get out of prison?"</p> + +<p>"I haven't been there."</p> + +<p>"You were arrested for picking a man's pocket yesterday afternoon," said +Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Excuse me, Mr. Gilbert, you're slightly mistaken there. I was arrested +<i>on suspicion</i> of picking a man's pocket."</p> + +<p>"The same thing."</p> + +<p>"Not quite, as it has been proved that I was innocent, and the wallet +was taken by another boy."</p> + +<p>"Have you been tried?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, and acquitted."</p> + +<p>Gilbert looked and felt disappointed. He could not conceive how Dick +could have escaped when the plot to entrap him had been so artfully +contrived.</p> + +<p>"Well, young man," he said, "I'll give you a piece of advice, and if +you're wise you'll follow it."</p> + +<p>"That's kind in you," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"I pass over your impertinence this time, and will advise you as a +friend to resign your situation before Mr. Rockwell comes."</p> + +<p>"Why should I?"</p> + +<p>"It'll save your being discharged."</p> + +<p>"Do you think he'll discharge me?"</p> + +<p>"I know he will. He won't have any one in his employ who has been +arrested for picking pockets."</p> + +<p>"Not even if he didn't do it?"</p> + +<p>"Not even if he was lucky enough to get off," said Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"You think I'd better give up my place?"</p> + +<p>"That'll be the best course for you to pursue."</p> + +<p>"But how'll I get another place?"</p> + +<p>"I'll do what I can to help you to another place if you leave at once."</p> + +<p>"I think I'll wait and see Mr. Rockwell first."</p> + +<p>"I'll make all the necessary explanations to Mr. Rockwell," said the +book-keeper.</p> + +<p>"I think I'd rather see him myself, if it doesn't make any difference to +you."</p> + +<p>"You're acting like a fool. You'll only be kicked out of the store. If +you don't follow my advice, I shan't interest myself in getting you +another place."</p> + +<p>"Do you think I took the wallet, Mr. Gilbert?" asked Dick.</p> + +<p>"Of course I do."</p> + +<p>"Then how could you recommend me to another place?"</p> + +<p>"Because I think this may prove a lesson to you. You've been lucky +enough to escape this time, but you can't expect it always."</p> + +<p>"I'm much obliged to you for your favorable opinion; but I don't think I +shall resign at once."</p> + +<p>At this moment Mr. Rockwell entered the warehouse. He had been informed +of Dick's misfortune by Mr. Murdock, who had had occasion to call at his +house on his way from the trial.</p> + +<p>"How's this, Richard?" he said, advancing, with a frank smile. "I hear +you got into strange quarters last night."</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick; "but I didn't like it well enough to stay long."</p> + +<p>"Why didn't you send for me?"</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir, I didn't like to trouble you. Mr. Murdock was very +kind."</p> + +<p>"Have they got the real thief?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know, sir."</p> + +<p>"Well, 'all's well that ends well.' You can afford to laugh at it now."</p> + +<p>Mr. Gilbert listened to this colloquy with very little satisfaction.</p> + +<p>It seemed to show such a good understanding between Dick and his +employer that he perceived that it would be a very difficult thing to +supersede him.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Rockwell seems to be infatuated with that boy," he muttered to +himself.</p> + +<p>"I think I won't resign just yet," said Dick, in a low voice, to the +book-keeper.</p> + +<p>"You'll be found out some day," said Gilbert, snappishly. "Go to the +post-office, and mind you don't stop to play on the way."</p> + +<p>Dick started on his errand, and, in passing out into the street, +encountered Roswell Crawford, who, attired with extra care, had just +come down the street from Broadway. On seeing Dick, he started as if he +had seen a ghost.</p> + +<p>"Good-morning, Roswell," said Dick, pleasantly.</p> + +<p>"Good-morning," said Roswell, stiffly.</p> + +<p>"Your cousin is in the counting-room. I am in a hurry, and must leave +you."</p> + +<p>"I thought he was on his way to the Island by this time," thought +Roswell, perplexed. "What can it mean?"</p> + +<p>It occurred to him all at once that Dick might just have been +discharged, and this thought cheered him up considerably. He entered the +counting-room with a jaunty step.</p> + +<p>"Good-morning, Cousin James," he said.</p> + +<p>Gilbert turned round, and said, in a surly tone, "You may as well take +yourself off. There's no chance for you here."</p> + +<p>"Hasn't the boot-black been discharged?"</p> + +<p>"No; and isn't going to be."</p> + +<p>"How is that?" asked Roswell, looking very much disappointed.</p> + +<p>"I can't stop to tell you now. You'd better go now, and I'll tell you +this evening."</p> + +<p>"Just my luck!" said Roswell to himself, considerably crest-fallen. "I +wish I hadn't said a word to Edward McLean about the place."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX.</h2> + +<h3>ANOTHER ARREST.</h3> + + +<p>Micky Maguire, as the reader will remember, was by no means satisfied +with the compensation he received from Gilbert for his share in the plot +which came so near proving disastrous to our friend Dick.</p> + +<p>He felt that the book-keeper had acted meanly to him, and he meant to +have his revenge if a good opportunity should ever offer. He was very +much disappointed to think he must do without the watch which he had set +his heart upon. He would have felt no particular scruples against +stealing it, but that would be rather dangerous. He began to wish he had +kept the pocket-book. Very probably it contained more than enough to buy +the watch.</p> + +<p>But, in spite of his disappointment, he had one satisfaction. He had +avenged himself upon Dick, whom he had long disliked. He knew nothing of +Tim Ryan's testimony, and supposed there was no doubt of Dick's +conviction. He would like very well to have been present at the trial; +but he had unpleasant associations connected with the court-room at the +Tombs, having figured there on several occasions in an important but not +very enviable capacity.</p> + +<p>As he was standing by the park railings, his particular friend and +admirer, Limpy Jim, came up.</p> + +<p>"Mornin', Jim," said Micky. "What luck?"</p> + +<p>"None at all," said Jim. "I haven't had a shine yet, and I'm precious +hungry."</p> + +<p>"Come and take breakfast with me," said Micky, in an unusual fit of +generosity; for he was generally more willing to be treated than to +treat.</p> + +<p>"Have you got stamps enough?"</p> + +<p>"Look at this," and Micky displayed the bill which he had received from +Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"You're in luck, Micky. Did you make all that by shines?"</p> + +<p>"Never mind how I made it. I guess it's good. Come along if you're +hungry."</p> + +<p>Limpy Jim followed Micky across Printing-House Square to a cheap +restaurant on Nassau Street, between Ann and Beekman Streets, and they +were soon partaking with relish of a breakfast which, as they were not +very fastidious, proved abundantly satisfactory.</p> + +<p>"I've got some news," said Micky, after he had drained his cup of +coffee. "You haven't forgot Ragged Dick, have ye?"</p> + +<p>"He's set up for a gentleman. I saw him a week ago strutting round as if +he lived on Fifth Avenue."</p> + +<p>"Well, he's set up for something else now."</p> + +<p>"What's that?"</p> + +<p>"A pick-pocket."</p> + +<p>"What?" asked Jim, amazed.</p> + +<p>"He stole an old chap's pocket-book yesterday afternoon, and I seed a +policeman haulin' him off to the p'lice station."</p> + +<p>"That's where he gets his good clo'es from?" suggested Jim.</p> + +<p>"Most likely. I expect he's on his way to the Island by this time."</p> + +<p>"Serve him right for puttin' on airs. He won't pretend to be so much +better than the rest of us now."</p> + +<p>"Wonder what Tom Wilkins'll say? He's a great friend of Dick's."</p> + +<p>"He's a sneak," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"That's so. I wanted to borrer a shillin' of him last week, and he +wouldn't lend it to me."</p> + +<p>This Tom Wilkins was a boot-black like the two who were expressing so +unfavorable an opinion of his character. He had a mother and two sisters +partially dependent upon him for support, and faithfully carried home +all his earnings. This accounts for his being unwilling to lend Limpy +Jim, who had no one to look out for but himself, and never considered it +necessary to repay borrowed money. Tom had reason to feel friendly to +Dick, for on several occasions, one of which is mentioned in the first +volume of this series, Dick had given him help in time of need. He was +always ready to defend Dick, when reviled by Micky and his followers, +and had once or twice been attacked in consequence. Limpy Jim was right +in supposing that nothing would disturb Tom more than to hear that his +friend had got into trouble.</p> + +<p>Micky, who was in a generous mood, bought a couple of cheap cigars, of +which he presented one to his satellite. These were lighted, and both +boys, feeling more comfortable for the hearty meal of which they had +partaken, swaggered out into the street.</p> + +<p>They re-entered the park, and began to look out for patrons.</p> + +<p>"There's Tom Wilkins now," said Limpy Jim.</p> + +<p>Tom was busily engaged in imparting a scientific shine to the boots of +an old gentleman who was sitting on one of the wooden seats to be found +in the neighborhood of the City Hall.</p> + +<p>When he had completed his task, and risen from his knees, Limpy Jim +advanced towards him, and said, with a sneer, "I've heard fine news +about your friend Dick."</p> + +<p>"What's that?" asked Tom.</p> + +<p>"He's got nabbed by a 'copp.'"</p> + +<p>"I don't believe it," said Tom, incredulously.</p> + +<p>"Isn't it so, Micky?" said Jim, appealing to his friend.</p> + +<p>"Yes, it's true. I seed him hauled off for pickin' an old fellow's +pocket in Chatham Street."</p> + +<p>"I don't believe it," repeated Tom; but he began to feel a little +uneasy. "I saw him and spoke to him yesterday mornin'."</p> + +<p>"What if you did? It didn't happen till afternoon."</p> + +<p>"Dick wouldn't steal," said Tom, stoutly.</p> + +<p>"He'll find it mighty hard work provin' that he didn't," said Micky. +"You won't see him for the next three months."</p> + +<p>"Why won't I?"</p> + +<p>"Because he'll be at the Island. Maybe you'll go there yourself."</p> + +<p>"If I do, it'll be for the first time," retorted Tom; "and that's more +than either of you can say."</p> + +<p>As this happened to be true, it was of course regarded as offensive.</p> + +<p>"Shut up, Tom Wilkins!" said Micky, "if you don't want a lickin'."</p> + +<p>"None of your impudence!" said Limpy Jim, emboldened by the presence and +support of Micky, who was taller and stronger than Tom.</p> + +<p>"I've only told the truth," said Tom, "and you can't deny it."</p> + +<p>"Take that for your impudence!" said Micky, drawing off, and hitting Tom +a staggering blow on the side of the head.</p> + +<p>Limpy Jim was about to assist Micky, when there was a very unlooked-for +interruption. Micky Maguire was seized by the collar, and, turning +indignantly, found himself in the grip of a policeman.</p> + +<p>"So you are fighting, are you, my fine fellow?" demanded the guardian of +the public peace.</p> + +<p>"He insulted me," said Micky, doggedly, not attempting resistance, which +he knew would be ineffectual. "Didn't he, Jim?"</p> + +<p>But Jim had already disappeared. He had a prejudice, easily accounted +for, against the metropolitan police, and had as little communication +with them as possible.</p> + +<p>"I don't know anything about that," said the policeman. "All I know is +that you're wanted."</p> + +<p>"Just for hittin' him? I didn't hurt him any."</p> + +<p>"He didn't hurt me much," said Tom, generously, not desiring to see +Micky get into trouble on his account.</p> + +<p>"He says I didn't hurt him," urged Micky. "Can't you let me go?"</p> + +<p>"That isn't what I want you for," said the policeman.</p> + +<p>Micky was astonished. The real cause of his arrest never once occurred +to him, and he could not understand why he was "wanted."</p> + +<p>"What is it, then?" he asked in some surprise. "What 'ave I been doin'?"</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you don't remember relieving an old gentleman of his +pocket-book yesterday in Chatham Street."</p> + +<p>"'Twasn't me."</p> + +<p>"Who was it then?"</p> + +<p>"Ragged Dick,—the feller that was took at the time. I seed him pick the +man's pocket."</p> + +<p>"It seems that you remember something about it."</p> + +<p>"But it was Dick that did it. If he says I did it, he lies."</p> + +<p>"I've nothing to do with that. You must tell your story to the judge."</p> + +<p>"Has he let Dick go?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>Micky received this intelligence with dismay. Somehow it had got out +that he was the real thief, and he began to think that his chance of +getting off was small. Just then, while in custody of the policeman, he +saw advancing towards him the man who had inveigled him into the +plot,—Gilbert, the book-keeper. His anger against Gilbert overcame his +prudence, and he said, "Well, if I did take the pocket-book, I was paid +for doin' it, and that was the man that hired me."</p> + +<p>With some surprise, the policeman listened to this story.</p> + +<p>"If you don't believe me, just wait till I speak to him."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Gilbert!" called Micky.</p> + +<p>Gilbert, who had not till now noticed his confederate, looked up, and, +rapidly understanding what had happened, determined upon his course.</p> + +<p>"Who speaks to me?" he said, quietly.</p> + +<p>"You've got me into trouble, Mr. Gilbert," said Micky, "and I want you +to get me out of it."</p> + +<p>"What does he mean?" asked Gilbert, coolly, addressing the policeman.</p> + +<p>"You hired me to steal a man's pocket-book, and I'm took up for it," +said Micky. "I want you to help me, or I'll be sent to the Island."</p> + +<p>"The boy must be crazy," said Gilbert, shrugging his shoulders.</p> + +<p>"You give me a dollar to do it," said Micky, very much incensed at the +desertion of his confederate.</p> + +<p>"Do you know the boy?" asked the policeman respectfully, for he put no +faith in Micky's statement.</p> + +<p>"He blacked my boots once," said Gilbert. "That's all I know about him. +What is he arrested for?"</p> + +<p>"For picking pockets. There was another boy arrested on suspicion, but +it appeared on trial that he was innocent, and that this boy really took +the wallet."</p> + +<p>"He looks like a young scamp," said Gilbert, coolly. "I'm much obliged +to him for introducing my name into the matter. I hope he'll get his +desserts."</p> + +<p>This was too much for Micky's patience. He assailed Gilbert with such a +shower of oaths that the policeman tightened his grip, and shook him +vigorously. Gilbert shrugged his shoulders, and walked off with apparent +unconcern.</p> + +<p>"Wait till I get free," said Micky, furiously. "I'll fix him."</p> + +<p>In regard to Micky, I have only to say further at this time, that he was +at once conveyed to the Tombs, summarily tried and convicted, and spent +the same night on Blackwell's Island, where we leave him for three +months.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX.</h2> + +<h3>BEFORE THE PARTY.</h3> + + +<p>"You'll be able to attend Ida Greyson's party after all, Dick," said +Fosdick, on Tuesday evening.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Dick, "I was afraid that I should be wanted to grace the +fashionable circles at Blackwell's Island; but as my particular friend +Micky Maguire has kindly offered to go in my place, I shall be able to +keep my other engagement."</p> + +<p>"Micky's a bad fellow."</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid he is," said Dick; "but he's never had a fair chance. His +father was a drunkard, and used to beat him and his mother, till Micky +ran away from home, and set up for himself. He's never had any good +example set him."</p> + +<p>"You speak kindly of Micky, considering he has always been your enemy."</p> + +<p>"I haven't any ill will against Micky," said Dick, generously. "If I +ever can do him a good turn I will. I've been luckier than he and most +of my old companions, I'm going to do all I can to help them along. +There's good in them if you can only bring it out."</p> + +<p>Dick spoke earnestly, in a very different tone from his usual one. He +had a certain philosophy of his own, and had always taken the world +easily, however it treated him; but he had a warm and sympathizing heart +for the sufferings of others, and he felt that he was in a position to +befriend his old associates, and encourage them to higher aims and a +better mode of life.</p> + +<p>"You're a good fellow, Dick," said Fosdick. "It isn't everybody that is +so charitable to the faults of others."</p> + +<p>"I know one," said Dick, smiling.</p> + +<p>"You mean me; but I'm afraid you are mistaken. I can't say I feel very +well disposed towards Micky Maguire."</p> + +<p>"Maybe Micky'll reform and turn out well after all."</p> + +<p>"It would be a wonderful change."</p> + +<p>"Haven't both of us changed wonderfully in the last eighteen months?"</p> + +<p>"You were always a good fellow, even when you were Ragged Dick."</p> + +<p>"You say that because you are my friend, Fosdick."</p> + +<p>"I say it because it's true, Dick. You were always ready to take the +side of the weak against the strong, and share your money with those who +were out of luck. I had a hard time till I fell in with you."</p> + +<p>"Thank you," said Dick; "if I ever want a first-rate recommendation I'll +come to you. What a lot of friends I've got! Mr. Gilbert offered to get +me another place if I'd only resign my situation at Rockwell & +Cooper's."</p> + +<p>"He's a very disinterested friend," said Fosdick, laughing. "Do you +think of accepting his offer?"</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid I might not be suited with the place he'd get me," said +Dick. "He thinks I'm best fitted to adorn the office of a boot-black. +Maybe he'd appoint me his private boot-black; but I'm afraid I shouldn't +be able to retire on a fortune till I was two or three hundred, if I +accepted the situation."</p> + +<p>"What shall we wear to the party, Dick?"</p> + +<p>"We've got good suits of clothes. We can carry them to a tailor's and +have them pressed, and they will look well enough. I saw a splendid +necktie to-day at a store on Broadway. I'm going to buy it."</p> + +<p>"You have a weakness for neckties, Dick."</p> + +<p>"You see, Fosdick, if you have a striking necktie, people will look at +that, and they won't criticise your face."</p> + +<p>"There may be something in that, Dick. I feel a little nervous though. +It is the first fashionable party I ever attended."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Dick, "I haven't attended many. When I was a boot-black I +found it interfered with my business, and so I always declined all the +fashionable invitations I got."</p> + +<p>"You'd have made a sensation," said Fosdick, "if you had appeared in the +costume you then wore."</p> + +<p>"That's what I was afraid of. I don't want to make a sensation. I'm too +modest."</p> + +<p>In fact both the boys, though they were flattered by Ida's invitation, +looked forward rather nervously to the evening of the party. For the +first time they were to meet and mingle on terms of equality with a +large number of young people who had been brought up very differently +from themselves. Dick could not help remembering how short a time had +elapsed since, with his little wooden box strapped to his back, he used +to call out, "Black your boots?" in the city park. Perhaps some of his +old customers might be present. Still he knew that he had improved +greatly, and that his appearance had changed for the better. It was +hardly likely that any one seeing him in Mr. Greyson's drawing-room, +would identify him as the Ragged Dick of other days. Then there was +another ground for confidence. Ida liked him, and he had a sincere +liking for the little girl for whom he had a feeling such as a brother +has for a cherished younger sister. So Dick dressed himself for the +party, feeling that he should "get through it somehow."</p> + +<p>I need not say, of course, that his boots shone with a lustre not to be +surpassed even by the professional expert of the Fifth Avenue Hotel. It +was very evident that Dick had not forgotten the business by which he +once gained his livelihood.</p> + +<p>When Dick had arranged his necktie to suit him, which I am bound to +confess took at least quarter of an hour, had carefully brushed his +hair, and dusted his clothes, he certainly looked remarkably well. Dick +was not vain, but he was anxious to appear to advantage on his first +appearance in society. It need not be added that Fosdick also was neatly +dressed, but he was smaller and more delicate-looking than Dick, and not +likely to attract so much attention.</p> + +<p>As the boys were descending the stairs they met Miss Peyton.</p> + +<p>"Really, Mr. Hunter," said that young lady, "you look quite dazzling +this evening. How many hearts do you expect to break this evening?"</p> + +<p>"I'm not in that line of business," said Dick. "I leave all that to +you."</p> + +<p>"You're too bad, really, Mr. Hunter," said Miss Peyton, highly pleased, +nevertheless. "I never think of such a thing."</p> + +<p>"I suppose I must believe you," said Dick, "but why is it that Mr. +Clifton has looked so sad lately?"</p> + +<p>"Mr. Clifton would not think of poor me," said Miss Peyton.</p> + +<p>"If you only knew what he said about you the other day."</p> + +<p>"Do tell me."</p> + +<p>"I couldn't."</p> + +<p>"If you will, I'll give you—"</p> + +<p>"Thank you," interrupted Dick, gravely; "but I never accept kisses from +ladies over six years old."</p> + +<p>"How can you say so, Mr. Hunter?"</p> + +<p>"I'm sorry to disappoint you, Miss Peyton, but I really couldn't."</p> + +<p>"As if I ever thought of such a thing!" said Miss Peyton, in affected +horror.</p> + +<p>"I appeal to my friend Fosdick."</p> + +<p>"Did I say so, Mr. Fosdick?"</p> + +<p>Fosdick smiled.</p> + +<p>"You mustn't appeal to me, Miss Peyton. You and Mr. Hunter are so +brilliant that I don't pretend to understand you."</p> + +<p>"Then you won't tell me what Mr. Clifton said. It is too bad. I shan't +sleep to-night for thinking of it."</p> + +<p>"Suppose you ask Mr. Clifton."</p> + +<p>"I don't know but I will."</p> + +<p>Miss Peyton went into the parlor, her heart fluttering with the thought +that she had made a conquest of the gentleman referred to. As Mr. +Clifton was a clerk on a small salary, continually in debt, and with no +expectations, he could not be considered a very brilliant match; but +Miss Peyton was not very particular, and she would have readily changed +her name to Clifton if the chance should present itself. As we may not +have occasion to refer to her again, it may be as well to state that Mr. +Clifton's pecuniary affairs came to a crisis some months afterwards. He +had always been in the habit of laughing at Miss Peyton; but in his +strait he recollected that she was mistress of a few thousand dollars +over which she had absolute control. Under these circumstances he +decided to sacrifice himself. He accordingly offered his heart and hand, +and was promptly accepted. Miss Peyton informed him that he was "the +object of her heart's tenderest affection, her first and only love." Mr. +Clifton expressed no doubt of this, though he was aware that Miss Peyton +had been laying her snares for a husband for nearly ten years.</p> + +<p>The marriage took place at the boarding-house, Dick and Fosdick being +among the invited guests.</p> + +<p>Mr. Clifton with his wife's money bought a partnership in a retail store +on Eighth Avenue, where it is to be hoped he is doing a good business. +Any one desirous of calling upon him at his place of business is +referred to the New York City Directory for his number. Whether Mr. and +Mrs. Clifton live happily I cannot pretend to say, not being included in +the list of their friends; but I am informed by my friend Dick, who +calls occasionally, that Mrs. Clifton is as fascinating now as before +her marriage, and very naturally scorns the whole sisterhood of old +maids, having narrowly escaped becoming one herself.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI.</h2> + +<h3>IDA GREYSON'S PARTY.</h3> + + +<p>When Dick and his friend reached Mr. Greyson's house, two carriages +stood before the door, from each of which descended young guests, who, +like themselves, had been invited to the party. One of these brought two +young girls of twelve, the other two boys of twelve and fourteen, and +their sister of ten. Entering with this party, the two boys felt less +embarrassed than if they had been alone. The door was opened by a +servant, who said, "Young ladies' dressing-room, second floor, left-hand +room. Young gentlemen's dressing-room opposite."</p> + +<p>Following directions, the boys went upstairs and entered a spacious +chamber, where they deposited their outer garments, and had an +opportunity to arrange their hair and brush their clothes.</p> + +<p>"Is your sister here this evening?" asked one of the boys, addressing +Dick.</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, soberly; "she couldn't come."</p> + +<p>"I'm sorry for that. She promised to dance with me the first Lancers."</p> + +<p>"Wouldn't I do as well?" asked Dick.</p> + +<p>"I don't think you would," said the other, laughing. "But I'll tell you +what,—you shall dance with my sister."</p> + +<p>"I will, with pleasure," said Dick, "if you'll introduce me."</p> + +<p>"Why, I thought you knew her," said the other, in surprise.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps I did," said Dick; "but I exchanged myself off for another boy +just before I came, and that makes a difference, you know. I shouldn't +have known you, if you hadn't spoken to me."</p> + +<p>"Do you know me now?" asked the other boy, beginning to understand that +he had made a mistake.</p> + +<p>"You live on Twenty-First Street,—don't you?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," was the unexpected reply, for Dick had by a curious chance +guessed right. "You're Henry Cameron, after all."</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick; "my name is Richard Hunter."</p> + +<p>"And mine is Theodore Selden; but I suppose you knew that, as you knew +where I live. If you're ready, we'll go downstairs."</p> + +<p>"Come, Fosdick," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"We're going to have the Lancers first," said Theodore. "Ida told my +sister so. Have you a partner engaged?"</p> + +<p>"No."</p> + +<p>"Then I'll introduce you to my sister. Come along."</p> + +<p>I may explain here that Dick, and Fosdick also, had several times danced +the Lancers in the parlor at the boarding-house in the evening, so that +they felt reasonably confident of getting through respectably. Still his +new friend's proposal made Dick feel a little nervous. He was not +bashful with boys, but he had very little acquaintance with girls or +young ladies, and expected to feel ill at ease with them. Still he could +not think of a good reason for excusing himself from the promised +introduction, and, after going up to Ida in company with his new friend, +and congratulating her on her birthday (he would not have known how to +act if Theodore had not set him an example), he walked across the room +to where one of the young ladies who had entered at the time he did was +seated.</p> + +<p>"Alice," said Theodore, "this is my friend Mr. Hunter, who would like to +dance with you in the first Lancers."</p> + +<p>Dick bowed, and Alice, producing a card, said, "I shall be most happy. +Will Mr. Hunter write his name on my card?"</p> + +<p>Dick did so, and was thankful that he could now write a handsome hand.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Theodore, unceremoniously, "I'll leave you two to amuse each +other, while I go off in search of a partner."</p> + +<p>"I'm in for it," thought Dick, seating himself on the sofa beside Alice. +"I wish I knew what to say."</p> + +<p>"Do you like the Lancers?" inquired the young lady.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I like it," said Dick, "but I haven't danced it much. I'm afraid I +shall make some mistakes."</p> + +<p>"I've no doubt we shall get along well," said Alice. "Where did you +learn?"</p> + +<p>"I learned at home," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"I thought I had not met you at Dodworth's. I attended dancing school +there last winter."</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick; "I never took lessons."</p> + +<p>"Don't you like Ida Greyson?" inquired Alice.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I like her very much," said Dick, sincerely.</p> + +<p>"She's a sweet girl. She's a very intimate friend of mine. Who is that +boy that came into the room with you?"</p> + +<p>"His name is Henry Fosdick."</p> + +<p>"He's going to dance with Ida. Come, let us hurry and get in the same +set."</p> + +<p>Dick offered his arm, and, as the sets were already being formed, led +his partner to the upper end of the room, where they were just in time +to get into the same set with Ida.</p> + +<p>Theodore, with a girl about his own age, had already taken his position +opposite Dick. Fosdick and Ida were the first couple, and opposite them +Isaac and Isabella Selden, cousins of Theodore and Alice.</p> + +<p>They had scarcely taken their places when the music struck up. Dick felt +a little flustered, but determined to do his best. Being very quick in +learning figures, and naturally gracefully in his movements, he got +through very creditably, and without a mistake.</p> + +<p>"I thought you expected to make mistakes," said Alice Selden, as Dick +led her back to her seat. "I think you dance very well."</p> + +<p>"It was because I had such a good partner," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"Thank you for the compliment," said Alice, courtesying profoundly.</p> + +<p>"Seems to me you're very polite, Alice," said Theodore, coming up.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Hunter was paying me a compliment," said Alice.</p> + +<p>"I wish you'd tell me how," said Theodore to Dick.</p> + +<p>"I wish he would," interrupted Alice. "All your compliments are of the +wrong kind."</p> + +<p>"It isn't expected that brothers should compliment their sisters," said +Theodore.</p> + +<p>Mrs. Greyson came into the room during the dancing, and was pleased to +see that Dick and Henry Fosdick, instead of sitting awkwardly in the +corner, were taking their part in the evening's amusement. Dick made an +engagement with Alice for another dance later in the evening, but danced +the second with Ida Greyson, with whom, by this time, he felt very well +acquainted.</p> + +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> +<div class="figcenter"> +<a href="images/il259.jpg"><img src="images/il259.jpg" alt=""/></a> +</div> +<hr style="width: 45%;" /> + +<p>"I didn't know you knew Alice Selden," said Ida. "Where did you meet +her?"</p> + +<p>"Her brother Theodore introduced me this evening. I did not know her +before."</p> + +<p>"You haven't been here lately, Dick," said Ida, familiarly.</p> + +<p>"No," said he. "It's because I've been very busy."</p> + +<p>"You don't work in the evening,—do you?"</p> + +<p>"I study in the evening."</p> + +<p>"What do you study, Dick?"</p> + +<p>"French, for one thing."</p> + +<p>"Can you speak French?"</p> + +<p>"A little. Not much."</p> + +<p>"I'm going to try you '<i>Comment vous portez-vous, monsieur?</i>'"</p> + +<p>"'<i>Très bien, mademoiselle. Et vous?</i>'"</p> + +<p>"That's right," said Ida, gravely. "I can't talk much yet myself. Who +teaches you?"</p> + +<p>"I have a private teacher."</p> + +<p>"So have I. She comes twice a week. When I don't know my lesson, she +boxes my ears. Is your teacher cross?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Dick, laughing. "He doesn't box my ears."</p> + +<p>"That's because you're so large. I wish I could have you for my teacher. +I'd ask papa, if you could only speak it like a native."</p> + +<p>"So I can," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"You can, really?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, like a native of New York."</p> + +<p>Ida laughed, and was afraid that wouldn't do.</p> + +<p>When the dance was over, and Dick was leading Ida to her seat, a +surprise awaited him. A boy came forward hastily, and said in a tone +blending amazement with gratification, "Is it possible that this is Dick +Hunter?"</p> + +<p>"Frank Whitney!" exclaimed Dick, clasping his hand cordially. "How came +you here?"</p> + +<p>"Just the question I was going to ask you, Dick. But I'll answer first. +I am spending a few days with some cousins in Thirty-Seventh Street. +They are friends of the Greysons, and were invited here this evening, +and I with them. I little dreamed of meeting you here. I must say, Dick, +you seem quite at home."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Greyson has been a kind friend of mine," said Dick, "and I've met +Ida quite often. But I felt a little nervous about coming to this party. +I was afraid I'd be like a cat in a strange garret."</p> + +<p>"You're a wonderful boy, Dick. You look as if you had been used to such +scenes all your life. I can hardly believe you're the same boy I met in +front of the Astor House a little more than a year ago."</p> + +<p>"If I'm changed, it's because of what you said to me then, you and your +father. But for those words I might still have been Ragged Dick."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad to hear you say that, Dick; but, for all that, a great deal of +credit is due to yourself."</p> + +<p>"I've worked hard," said Dick, "because I felt that I had something to +work for. When are you going to enter college?"</p> + +<p>"I expect to apply for admission in about two months."</p> + +<p>"At Columbia College?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"I am glad of that. I shall hope to see you sometimes."</p> + +<p>"You will see me often, Dick."</p> + +<p>Here the music struck up, and the boys parted. It is unnecessary to +speak farther of the events of the evening. Dick made several other +acquaintances, and felt much more at ease than he had anticipated. He +returned home, feeling that his first party had been a very agreeable +one, and that he had on the whole appeared to advantage.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII.</h2> + +<h3>MICKY MAGUIRE RETURNS FROM THE ISLAND.</h3> + + +<p>For three months Micky Maguire was not seen in his accustomed haunts. +During his involuntary residence at the Island he often brooded over the +treachery of Gilbert, to whom his present misfortune was due. He felt +that he had been selfishly left to his fate by his equally guilty +confederate. It had certainly been a losing speculation for poor Micky. +He had received but a paltry dollar for his services, and in return he +was deprived of his liberty for three months.</p> + +<p>The disgrace of being sent to the Island Micky did not feel as Dick +would have done. He had been there too many times to care for that. But +he did not like the restraints of the place, and he did like the free +and independent life of the streets from which for a time he was +debarred.</p> + +<p>The result of Micky's brooding was a strong thirst for vengeance upon +the author of his misfortunes. He could do nothing at present, but only +bide his time.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile things went on pretty much as usual at the establishment in +Pearl Street. Gilbert liked Dick no better than he had done. In fact, he +disliked him more, but, seeing the friendly relations between Dick and +his employer, found it prudent to treat him well whenever Mr. Rockwell +was by. At other times he indulged in sneers and fault-finding, which +Dick turned off good-humoredly, or returned some droll answer, which +blunted the edge of the sarcasm, and made the book-keeper chafe with the +feeling that he was no match for the boy he hated. Dick, by faithful +attention to his duties, and a ready comprehension of what was required +of him, steadily advanced in the good opinion of every one except +Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Keep on as you have begun, Richard," said Mr. Murdock to him, "and +you'll be a member of the firm some time."</p> + +<p>"Do you really think so, Mr. Murdock?" asked Dick, with a flush of +gratification.</p> + +<p>"I really do. You have excellent abilities, Mr. Rockwell likes you, and +you have only to continue steady and faithful, and you'll be sure to +rise."</p> + +<p>"You know what I was, Mr. Murdock."</p> + +<p>"You are none the worse for that, Richard. It is a great credit to a boy +to earn his own living when circumstances force it upon him. If his +employment is an honest one, it is an honorable one."</p> + +<p>By such remarks as these Dick was encouraged, and he felt that Mr. +Murdock was a true friend to him. Meanwhile a way was opening for his +advancement.</p> + +<p>One day Micky Maguire appeared in his old haunts. The second day he met +Gilbert in the street; but the book-keeper took not the slightest notice +of him. That touched Micky's pride, and confirmed him in his resolution. +He decided to make known to Mr. Rockwell Gilbert's share in the little +plot, thinking that this would probably be the best method of injuring +him.</p> + +<p>He ascertained, by means of a directory, with some difficulty, for +Micky's education was rather slight, the residence of Mr. Rockwell, and +about eight o'clock in the evening ascended the steps and rang the bell. +He might have gone to his place of business, but Gilbert would be there, +and he preferred to see Mr. Rockwell at home.</p> + +<p>The servant stared at the odd and not particularly prepossessing figure +before her.</p> + +<p>"Is Mr. Rockwell at home?" asked Micky.</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"I want to see him."</p> + +<p>"Did he tell you to call?"</p> + +<p>"It's on particular business," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"Stop here and I'll tell him," said the girl.</p> + +<p>"There's a boy at the door wants to see you, Mr. Rockwell," said the +girl.</p> + +<p>"Did you ask him in?"</p> + +<p>"No sir. He looks like a suspicious carakter," said Bridget, laying the +stress on the second syllable.</p> + +<p>Mr. Rockwell rose, and went to the door.</p> + +<p>"What is your business?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"It's about Dick,—Ragged Dick we used to call him," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"You mean Richard Hunter."</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Micky. "He was took up for stealin' a gentleman's +pocket-book three months ago."</p> + +<p>"But he was proved innocent," said Mr. Rockwell, "so, if you have +anything to say against him, your time is thrown away."</p> + +<p>"I know he was innocent," said Micky; "another boy took it."</p> + +<p>"Who was he?"</p> + +<p>"I did it."</p> + +<p>"Then you did a wicked thing in stealing the money, and a mean thing in +trying to get an innocent boy into trouble."</p> + +<p>"I wouldn't have done it," said Micky, "if I hadn't been paid for it."</p> + +<p>"Paid for stealing!" said Mr. Rockwell, astonished.</p> + +<p>"Paid for tryin' to get Dick into trouble."</p> + +<p>"That does not seem to be a very likely story," said Mr. Rockwell. "Who +would pay you money for doing such a thing?"</p> + +<p>"Mr. Gilbert."</p> + +<p>"My book-keeper?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Micky, vindictively.</p> + +<p>"I can hardly believe this," said Mr. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"He paid me only a dollar for what I did," said Micky, in an injured +tone. "He'd ought to have given me five dollars. He's a reg'lar mean +feller."</p> + +<p>"And is this why you betray him now?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Micky; "it isn't the money, though it's mean to expect a +feller to run the risk of bein' nabbed for a dollar; but when the 'copp' +had got hold of me I met him, and he said I was a young scamp, and he +didn't know anything about me."</p> + +<p>"Is this true?" asked Mr. Rockwell, looking keenly at Micky.</p> + +<p>Micky confirmed his statement by an oath.</p> + +<p>"I don't want you to swear. I shall not believe you the sooner for that. +Can you explain why Mr. Gilbert should engage in such a base +conspiracy?"</p> + +<p>"He told me that he hated Dick," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"Do you like him?"</p> + +<p>"No, I don't," said Micky, honestly; "but I hate Mr. Gilbert worse."</p> + +<p>"Why do you hate Richard?"</p> + +<p>"Because he puts on airs."</p> + +<p>"I suppose," said Mr. Rockwell, smiling, "that means that he wears good +clothes, and keeps his face and hands clean."</p> + +<p>"He wasn't nothin' but a boot-black," said Micky, in an injured tone.</p> + +<p>"What are you?"</p> + +<p>"I'm a boot-black too; but I don't put on airs."</p> + +<p>"Do you mean to be a boot-black all your life?"</p> + +<p>"I dunna," said Micky; "there aint anything else to do."</p> + +<p>"Tell me truly, wouldn't you rather wear good clothes than poor ones, +and keep yourself clean and neat?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, I should," said Micky, after a slight hesitation.</p> + +<p>"Then why do you blame Dick for preferring to do the same?"</p> + +<p>"He licked me once," said Micky, rather reluctantly, shifting his +ground.</p> + +<p>"What for?"</p> + +<p>"I fired a stone at him."</p> + +<p>"You can't blame him much for that, can you?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Micky, slowly, "I dunno as I can."</p> + +<p>"For my own part I have a very good opinion of Richard," said Mr. +Rockwell. "He wants to raise himself in the world, and I am glad to help +him. If that is putting on airs, I should be glad to see you doing the +same."</p> + +<p>"There aint no chance for me," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"Why not?"</p> + +<p>"I aint lucky as Dick is."</p> + +<p>"Dick may have been lucky," said Mr. Rockwell, "but I generally find +that luck comes oftenest to those who deserve it. If you will try to +raise yourself I will help you."</p> + +<p>"Will you?" asked Micky, in surprise.</p> + +<p>The fact was, he had been an Ishmaelite from his earliest years, and +while he had been surrounded by fellows like Limpy Jim, who were ready +to encourage and abet him in schemes of mischief, he had never had any +friends who deserved the name. That a gentleman like Mr. Rockwell should +voluntarily offer to assist him was indeed surprising.</p> + +<p>"How old are you?" asked Mr. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"Seventeen," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"How long have you blacked boots?"</p> + +<p>"Ever since I was eight or nine."</p> + +<p>"I think it is time for you to do something else."</p> + +<p>"What will I do?"</p> + +<p>"We must think of that. I must also think of the information you have +given me in regard to Mr. Gilbert. You are certain you are telling the +truth."</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Micky; "it's the truth."</p> + +<p>Micky did not swear this time, and Mr. Rockwell believed him.</p> + +<p>"Let me see," he said, reflecting; "can you be at my store to-morrow +morning at ten o'clock?"</p> + +<p>"I can," said Micky, promptly.</p> + +<p>"What is your name?"</p> + +<p>"Micky Maguire."</p> + +<p>"Good-night, Michael."</p> + +<p>"Good-night, sir," said Micky, respectfully.</p> + +<p>He walked away with a crowd of new thoughts and new aspirations kindling +in his breast. A gentleman had actually offered to help him on in the +world. Nobody had ever taken any interest in him before. Life to him had +been a struggle and a conflict, with very little hope of better things. +He had supposed he should leave off blacking boots some time, but no +prospect seemed open before him.</p> + +<p>"Why shouldn't I get up in the world?" he thought, with new ambition.</p> + +<p>He half confessed to himself that he had led a bad life, and vague +thoughts of amendment came to him. Somebody was going to take an +interest in him. That was the secret of his better thoughts and +purposes.</p> + +<p>On the whole, I begin to think there is hope for Micky.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2> + +<h3>FAME AND FORTUNE.</h3> + + +<p>Mr. Gilbert chanced to be looking out of the window of Mr. Rockwell's +counting-room, when he was unpleasantly surprised by the sudden +apparition of Micky Maguire. He was destined to be still more +unpleasantly surprised. Micky walked up to the main entrance, and +entered with an assured air. Gilbert hastened to meet him, and prevent +his entrance.</p> + +<p>"Clear out of here, you young rascal!" he said, in a tone of authority. +"You're not wanted here."</p> + +<p>"I've come on business," said Micky, with a scowl of dislike, showing no +intention of retreating.</p> + +<p>"I have no business with you," said Gilbert.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps you haven't," said Micky, "but Mr. Rockwell has."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Rockwell will have nothing to say to a vagabond like you."</p> + +<p>"He told me to come," said Micky, resolutely, "and I shan't go till I've +seen him."</p> + +<p>Gilbert did not believe this, but suspected that Micky intended to +betray him, and to this of course he had a decided objection.</p> + +<p>"Go out!" he said, imperiously, "or I'll make you."</p> + +<p>"I won't then," said Micky, defiantly.</p> + +<p>"We'll see about that."</p> + +<p>Gilbert seized him by the shoulders; but Micky was accustomed to +fighting, and made a vigorous resistance. In the midst of the fracas Mr. +Rockwell came up.</p> + +<p>"What does this mean?" he demanded, in a quiet but authoritative tone.</p> + +<p>"This young rascal has attempted to force his way in," said the +book-keeper, desisting, and with a flushed face.</p> + +<p>"I asked to see you," said Micky, "and he said I shouldn't."</p> + +<p>"I told him to come," said Mr. Rockwell. "You may come into the +counting-room, Michael. Mr. Gilbert, I should like your presence also."</p> + +<p>In surprise, not unmingled with foreboding, Mr. Gilbert followed his +employer and Micky Maguire into the counting-room.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Gilbert," commenced Mr. Rockwell, "are you acquainted with this +boy?"</p> + +<p>"He blacked my boots on one occasion," said the book-keeper; "I know no +more of him except that he is a young vagabond and a thief."</p> + +<p>"Who hired me to steal?" retorted Micky.</p> + +<p>"I don't think you would need any hiring," said Gilbert, with a sneer.</p> + +<p>Micky was about to retort in no choice terms, but Mr. Rockwell signed to +him to be silent.</p> + +<p>"This boy has made a charge against you, Mr. Gilbert," he said, "which +you ought to be made aware of."</p> + +<p>"He is capable of any falsehood," said the book-keeper; but he began to +be nervous.</p> + +<p>"I thought your acquaintance with him was very slight."</p> + +<p>"So it is; but it is easy to judge from his looks what he is."</p> + +<p>"That is not always a safe guide. But to the charge. He asserts that you +hired him to fix the charge of theft upon Richard, on account of your +dislike to him."</p> + +<p>"So he did, and all he give me was a dollar," said Micky, aggrieved. +"That was mean."</p> + +<p>"Do you believe this story?" asked Gilbert, turning to Mr. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"I know that you dislike Richard, Mr. Gilbert."</p> + +<p>"So I do. He's artful and bad; but you'll find him out some day."</p> + +<p>"I don't think you do him justice. Artful is the very last word I should +apply to him."</p> + +<p>"You may be deceived."</p> + +<p>"If I am, I shall never put confidence in any boy again. But you haven't +answered the charge, Mr. Gilbert."</p> + +<p>"It isn't worth answering," said the book-keeper, scornfully.</p> + +<p>"Still, I would be glad to have you give an answer one way or the +other," persisted Mr. Rockwell.</p> + +<p>"Then it's a lie, of course."</p> + +<p>"It's true," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"I hope you consider my word as of more value than this vagabond's," +said Gilbert, contemptuously.</p> + +<p>"Why were you so anxious to prevent his entering, Mr. Gilbert?"</p> + +<p>"I didn't see what business he could possibly have here."</p> + +<p>"Michael, will you give an account of all that has taken place between +Mr. Gilbert and yourself? I do not yet feel satisfied."</p> + +<p>"Mr. Rockwell," said Gilbert, in a passion, "I do not choose to submit +to the insulting investigation you propose. My month is out next +Thursday; I beg leave to resign my situation."</p> + +<p>"Your resignation is accepted," said Mr. Rockwell, quietly.</p> + +<p>"If it is convenient to you, I should like to leave at once," said the +book-keeper, livid with passion.</p> + +<p>"As you please," said his employer. "Your salary shall be paid up to the +end of the month."</p> + +<p>To this Gilbert offered no opposition. The balance of his salary was +paid him, and he left the warehouse in a very unpleasant frame of mind, +much to the gratification of Micky Maguire, who felt that his vengeance +was complete.</p> + +<p>"Now, Michael," said Mr. Rockwell, "I must see what I can do for you. Do +you wish to give up your present business?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Micky, "I don't like it."</p> + +<p>"I can give you a situation as errand-boy in my own employ," said Mr. +Rockwell. "My head clerk will explain your duties."</p> + +<p>"What wages will I get?" asked Micky, anxiously.</p> + +<p>"For the present you shall have a dollar a day, or six dollars a week. I +will besides give you a new suit of clothes. Will that suit you?"</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Micky, feeling as if he had unexpectedly become heir to a +fortune. "When will I begin?"</p> + +<p>"To-morrow if you like. Come here this afternoon at three, and I will +send Richard with you to a clothing-house."</p> + +<p>Just then Dick, who had been to the post-office, entered, and Mr. +Rockwell in a few words informed him of the changes that had taken +place.</p> + +<p>"I believe you and Michael haven't been very good friends," he added; +"but I trust you will get over that."</p> + +<p>Dick promptly offered his hand to his old enemy.</p> + +<p>"I am glad you are coming here, Micky," he said "I'll do all I can to +help you on, and if we are not good friends it won't be my fault."</p> + +<p>"Do you mean that, Dick?" said Micky, almost incredulous.</p> + +<p>"Yes, I do."</p> + +<p>"I've acted mean by you more'n once."</p> + +<p>"If you have, it's all over now," said Dick. "There's no use in +remembering it."</p> + +<p>"You're a good fellow, Dick," said Micky, "an' I ought to have known it +before."</p> + +<p>Dick was gratified by this testimony from one who for years had been his +active opponent, and he determined to help Micky to turn over the new +leaf which was to bear a very different record from the old one.</p> + +<p>When Micky had gone out, Mr. Rockwell said, "Well, Richard, I have lost +my book-keeper."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Dick.</p> + +<p>"And I can't say I am sorry. I will do Mr. Gilbert the justice to say +that he understood his business; but he was personally disagreeable, and +I never liked him. Now I suppose I must look out for a successor."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir, I suppose so."</p> + +<p>"I know a very competent book-keeper, who is intending to go into +business for himself at the expiration of six months. Until that time I +can secure his services. Now, I have a plan in view which I think you +will approve. You shall at once commence the study of book-keeping in a +commercial school in the evening, and during the day I will direct Mr. +Haley to employ you as his assistant. I think in that way you will be +able to succeed him at the end of his term."</p> + +<p>Dick was completely taken by surprise. The thought that he, so recently +plying the trade of a boot-black in the public streets, could rise in +six months to the responsible post of a book-keeper in a large wholesale +house, seemed almost incredible.</p> + +<p>"I should like nothing better," he said, his eyes sparkling with +delight, "if you really think I could discharge the duties +satisfactorily."</p> + +<p>"I think you could. I believe you have the ability, and of your fidelity +I feel assured."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir; you are very kind to me," said Dick, gratefully.</p> + +<p>"I have reason to be," said Mr. Rockwell, taking his hand. "Under God it +is to your courage that I owe the life of my dear boy. I shall never +forget it. One thing more. I intend Michael to undertake most of your +present duties, such as going to the post-office, etc. Do you think he +will answer?"</p> + +<p>"I think so," said Dick. "He has been a rough customer, but then he has +never had a chance. I believe in giving everybody a chance."</p> + +<p>"So do I," said Mr. Rockwell. "Michael shall have his chance. Let us +hope he will improve it."</p> + +<p>There are many boys, and men too, who, like Micky Maguire, have never +had a fair chance in life. Let us remember that, when we judge them, and +not be too hasty to condemn. Let us consider also whether it is not in +our power to give some one the chance that may redeem him.</p> + +<p>That afternoon Micky Maguire was provided with a new suit of clothes, of +which he felt very proud. The next morning, on his way to the +post-office, he fell in with his old confederate, Limpy Jim, who +regarded him with a glance of the most bewildering surprise.</p> + +<p>"It aint you, Micky,—is it?" he asked, cautiously, surveying his old +comrade's neat appearance. "When did you come back from the Island?"</p> + +<p>"Shut up about the Island, Jim," said Micky. "Do I look as if I had been +there?"</p> + +<p>"You look nobby," said Jim. "Where's your brush?"</p> + +<p>"I've give up the blackin' business," said Micky.</p> + +<p>"You have? What are you going to do? Sell papers?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Micky, consequentially. "I'm in business on Pearl Street."</p> + +<p>"Why," said Limpy Jim, surprised, "that's where that upstart Ragged Dick +works."</p> + +<p>"He aint an upstart, an' he aint ragged," said Micky. "He's a friend of +mine, an' if you insult him, I'll lam' ye."</p> + +<p>"O my eyes!" ejaculated Jim, opening the organs of vision to a very wide +extent; "that's the biggest joke I ever heerd of."</p> + +<p>"You'll hear of a bigger one pretty quick," said Micky, rolling up his +sleeves, and squaring off scientifically.</p> + +<p>Limpy Jim, who had a respect for Micky's prowess, incontinently fled, +surveying Micky from a safe distance, with a look in which surprise +seemed to mingle with incredulity.</p> + +<p>It may seem strange, but, from that time forth, Dick had no firmer +friend than Micky Maguire, who, I am glad to say, though occasionally +wayward, improved vastly, and became a useful employé of the +establishment which he had entered. Of course both in ability and +education, though in the last he gained considerably, he was quite +inferior to Dick; but he was advanced as he grew older to the position +of porter, where his strength stood him in good stead. His pay increased +also, and through Dick's influence he was saved from vicious habits, and +converted from a vagabond to a useful member of society.</p> + +<p>And now, almost with regret, I find myself closing up the record of +Dick's chequered career. The past with its trials is over; the future +expands before him, a bright vista of merited success. But it remains +for me to justify the title of my story, and show how Dick acquired +"Fame and Fortune." I can only hint briefly at the steps that led to +them.</p> + +<p>In six months, at the age of seventeen, Dick succeeded to Mr. Gilbert's +place with a salary, to commence with, of one thousand dollars. To this +an annual increase was made, making his income at twenty-one, fourteen +hundred dollars. Just about that time he had an opportunity to sell his +up-town lots, to a gentleman who had taken a great fancy to them, for +five times the amount he paid, or five thousand dollars. His savings +from his salary amounted to about two thousand dollars more.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile Mr. Rockwell's partner, Mr. Cooper, from ill health felt +obliged to withdraw from business, and Richard, to his unbounded +astonishment and gratification, was admitted to the post of junior +partner, embarking the capital he had already accumulated, and receiving +a corresponding share of the profits. These were so large that Richard +was able to increase his interest yearly by investing his additional +savings, and three years later he felt justified in offering his hand to +Ida Greyson, whose partiality to Dick had never wavered. He was no +longer Ragged Dick now, but Mr. Richard Hunter, junior partner in the +large firm of Rockwell & Hunter. Mr. Greyson felt that even in a worldly +way Dick was a good match for his daughter; but he knew and valued still +more his good heart and conscientious fidelity to duty, and excellent +principles, and cheerfully gave his consent. Last week I read Dick's +marriage in the papers, and rejoiced in his new hopes of happiness.</p> + +<p>So Dick has achieved <span class="smcap">Fame</span> and <span class="smcap">Fortune</span>,—the fame of an +honorable and enterprising man of business, and a fortune which promises +to be very large. But I am glad to say that Dick has not been spoiled by +prosperity. He never forgets his humble beginnings, and tries to show +his sense of God's goodness by extending a helping hand to the poor and +needy boys, whose trials and privations he understands well from his own +past experience. I propose in my next story to give an account of one of +these boys, and shall take the opportunity to give further information +in regard to some of the characters introduced in this volume. This +story, the third in the Ragged Dick series; will be entitled</p> + +<p><span class="smcap">Mark, the Match Boy;</span><br /> +<span class="smcap">or</span>,<br /> +<span class="smcap">Richard Hunter's Ward</span>.</p> + + + + +<hr style='width: 65%;' /> + +<h2><a name="OTHER_BOOKS_BY_HORATIO_ALGER_JR." id="OTHER_BOOKS_BY_HORATIO_ALGER_JR."></a>HORATIO ALGER'S Successful Juvenile Books.</h2> + + +<hr style='width: 65%;' /> + +<h4>Ragged Dick Books.</h4> + +<p>I. RAGGED DICK; or, Street Life in New York. II. FAME AND FORTUNE; or, +The Progress of Richard Hunter. III. MARK, THE MATCH BOY. IV. ROUGH AND +READY; or, Life Among New York Newsboys. V. BEN THE LUGGAGE BOY; or, +Among the Wharves. VI. RUFUS AND ROSE; or, The Fortunes of Rough and +Ready.</p> + + +<h4>Tattered Tom Books.<br /> +A Continuation of the Ragged Dick Series.</h4> + + +<p>FIRST SERIES, in Four Volumes</p> + +<p>I. TATTERED TOM; or, The Story of a Street Arab. II. PAUL, THE PEDDLER; +or, The Adventures of a Young Street Merchant. III. PHIL, THE FIDDLER; +or, The Young Street Musician. IV. SLOW AND SURE; or, From the Sidewalk +to the Shop.</p> + + +<p>SECOND SERIES.</p> + +<p>I. JULIUS; or, The Street Boy out West.</p> + + +<h4>Luck and Pluck Books.</h4> + + +<p>FIRST SERIES, in Four Volumes</p> + +<p>I. LUCK AND PLUCK; or, John Oakley's Inheritance. II. SINK OR SWIM; or, +Harry Raymond's Resolve. III. STRONG AND STEADY; or, Paddle your own +Canoe. IV. STRIVE AND SUCCEED; or, The Progress of Walter Conrad.</p> + + +<p>SECOND SERIES.</p> + +<p>I. TRY AND TRUST; or, The Story of a Bound Boy. II. BOUND TO RISE; or, +How Harry Walton rose in the World. III. RISEN FROM THE RANKS; or, Harry +Walton's Success.</p> + + +<h4>Bold and Brave Books.</h4> + +<p><i>To be completed in Four Volumes.</i></p> + +<p>I. BOLD AND BRAVE; or, The Fortunes of a Factory Boy.</p> + + +<h4>Campaign Books.</h4> + +<p>I. FRANK'S CAMPAIGN. II. PAUL PRESCOTT'S CHARGE. III. CHARLIE CODMAN'S +CRUISE.</p> + + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Fame and Fortune, by Horatio Alger, Jr. + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAME AND FORTUNE *** + +***** This file should be named 21632-h.htm or 21632-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/2/1/6/3/21632/ + +Produced by Sigal Alon, Fox in the Stars, Mary Meehan and +the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at +https://www.pgdp.net + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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