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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b6e1c67 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #54350 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/54350) diff --git a/old/54350-8.txt b/old/54350-8.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 96bdca2..0000000 --- a/old/54350-8.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,9973 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook, Jed, the Poorhouse Boy, by Horatio Alger - - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - - -Title: Jed, the Poorhouse Boy - - -Author: Horatio Alger - - - -Release Date: March 13, 2017 [eBook #54350] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 - - -***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JED, THE POORHOUSE BOY*** - - -E-text prepared by David Edwards, Martin Pettit, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images -generously made available by the Google Books Library Project -(https://books.google.com) - - - -Note: Images of the original pages are available through - the Google Books Library Project. See - https://books.google.com/books?id=gnj9LVjclz8C&hl=e - - - - - -JED, THE POORHOUSE BOY - -by - -HORATIO ALGER, JR. - -Author of "Ragged Dick," "Luck and Pluck," "Tattered Tom," -etc., etc. - - - - - - -The John C. Winston Co. -Philadelphia -Chicago Toronto - -Copyright, 1899, by -Henry T. Coates & Co. - - - - -CONTENTS. - -CHAPTER PAGE - I. JED, 1 - - II. MR. AND MRS. FOGSON, 11 - - III. THE SCRANTON POORHOUSE, 20 - - IV. AN EXCITING CONTEST, 30 - - V. JED SECURES AN ALLY, 37 - - VI. MR. FOGSON MAKES UP HIS MIND, 49 - - VII. FOGSON'S MISTAKE, 59 - - VIII. MR. FOGSON IS ASTONISHED, 68 - - IX. JED LEAVES THE POORHOUSE, 77 - - X. JED REACHES DUNCAN, 87 - - XI. JED'S FIRST APPEARANCE ON THE STAGE, 96 - - XII. PERCY DIXON IS BEWILDERED, 106 - - XIII. FOGSON IN PURSUIT, 115 - - XIV. JED'S LUCK, 125 - - XV. TWO OLD ACQUAINTANCES, 135 - - XVI. MISS HOLBROOK, SPINSTER, 144 - - XVII. JED MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE, 153 - - XVIII. MR. FOGSON RECEIVES A LETTER, 162 - - XIX. DISCHARGED, 167 - - XX. JED'S POOR PROSPECTS, 172 - - XXI. JED ARRIVES IN NEW YORK, 182 - - XXII. JED MAKES TWO CALLS, 192 - - XXIII. JED'S BAD LUCK, 202 - - XXIV. A STARTLING DISCOVERY, 212 - - XXV. WITHOUT A PENNY, 222 - - XXVI. IN SEARCH OF EMPLOYMENT, 232 - - XXVII. AN INTRACTABLE AGENT, 241 - - XXVIII. A STRANGE COMMISSION, 250 - - XXIX. A SURPRISE PARTY, 260 - - XXX. JED ENTERTAINS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE, 270 - - XXXI. JED RETURNS GOOD FOR EVIL, 280 - - XXXII. AT BAR HARBOR, 290 - - XXXIII. THE POORHOUSE RECEIVES TWO VISITORS, 299 - - XXXIV. THE DETECTIVE, 308 - - XXXV. MRS. AVERY'S STORY, 313 - - XXXVI. "WHO WAS JED?" 318 - - XXXVII. JANE GILMAN, 328 - -XXXVIII. THE DETECTIVE SECURES AN ALLY, 338 - - XXXIX. JED LEARNS WHO HE IS, 343 - - XL. GUY FENWICK'S DEFEAT, 349 - - XLI. CONCLUSION, 365 - - - - -JED, - -THE POORHOUSE BOY. - - - - -CHAPTER I. - -JED. - - -"Here, you Jed!" - -Jed paused in his work with his axe suspended above him, for he was -splitting wood. He turned his face toward the side door at which stood a -woman, thin and sharp-visaged, and asked: "Well, what's wanted?" - -"None of your impudence, you young rascal! Come here, I say!" - -Jed laid down the axe and walked slowly to the back door. He was a -strongly-made and well-knit boy of nearly sixteen, but he was poorly -dressed in an old tennis shirt and a pair of overalls. Yet his face was -attractive, and an observer skilled in physiognomy would have read in -it signs of a strong character, a warm and grateful disposition, and a -resolute will. - -"I have not been impudent, Mrs. Fogson," he said quietly. - -"Don't you dare to contradict me!" snapped the woman, stamping her foot. - -"What's wanted?" asked Jed again. - -"Go down to the gate and hold it open. Squire Dixon will be here in five -minutes, and we must treat him with respect, for he is Overseer of the -Poor." - -Jed smiled to himself (it was well he did not betray his amusement), for -he knew that Mrs. Fogson and her husband, though tyrannical to the -inmates of the poorhouse, of which they had been placed in charge by -Squire Dixon three months before, were almost servile in the presence of -the Overseer of the Poor, with whom it was their object to stand well. - -"All right, ma'am!" he said bluntly, and started for the gate. He did -not appear to move fast enough for the amiable Mrs. Fogson, for she -called out in a sharp voice: "Why do you walk like a snail? Hurry up, I -tell you. I see Squire Dixon coming up the road." - -"I shall get to the gate before he does," announced Jed, independently, -not increasing his pace a particle. - -"I hate that boy!" soliloquized Mrs. Fogson, looking after him with a -frown. "He is the most independent young rascal I ever came across--he -actually disobeys and defies me. I must get Fogson to give him a -horse-whipping some of these fine days; and when he does, I'm going to -be there and see it done!" she continued, her black eyes twinkling -viciously. "Every blow he received would do me good. I'd gloat over it! -I'd flog him myself if I was strong enough." - -The amiable character of Mrs. Fogson may be inferred from this gentle -soliloquy. When Fogson married her he caught a Tartar, as he found to -his cost. But he was not so much to be pitied, for his own disposition -was not unlike that of his wife, but he lacked her courage and intense -malignity, and was a craven at heart. - -As Jed walked to the gate his face became grave and almost melancholy. - -"I can't stand this kind of life long!" he said to himself. "Mrs. Fogson -is about the ugliest-tempered woman I ever knew, and her husband isn't -much better. What a contrast to Mr. Avery and his good wife! When they -kept the poorhouse we were all happy and contented. They had a kind word -for all. But when Squire Dixon became overseer he put in the Fogsons, -and since then we haven't heard a kind word or had a happy day." - -Just then Squire Dixon's top buggy neared the gate. He was a -pompous-looking man with a bald head and red face, the color, as was -well known, being imparted by too frequent potations of brandy. With him -was his only son and heir, Percy Dixon, a boy who "put on airs," and -was, in consequence, heartily detested by his schoolmates and -companions. He had small, mean features and a pair of gray eyes, while -his nose had an upward tendency, as if he were turning it up at the -world in general. - -Jed held the gate open in silence and the top buggy passed through. - -Then he slowly closed the gate and walked up to the house. - -There stood Mrs. Fogson, her thin lips wreathed in smiles, as she ducked -her head obsequiously to the town magnate. - -"How do you do, Squire Dixon?" she said. "It does me good to see you. -But I needn't ask for your health, you look so fine and noble this -morning." - -Squire Dixon was far from being inaccessible to flattery. - -"I am very well, I thank you, my good friend, Mrs. Fogson," he said in a -stately tone, with a gracious smile upon his florid countenance. "And -how are you yourself?" - -"As well as I can be, squire, thanking you for asking, but them paupers -is trials, as I daily discover." - -"Nothing new in the way of trouble, I hope, Mrs. Fogson?" - -"Well, no; but walk in and I'll send for my husband. He would never -forgive me if I didn't send for him when you were here. Master Percy, -forgive me for not speaking to you before. I hear such good accounts of -you from everybody. Your father is indeed fortunate to have such a son." - -Percy raised his eyebrows a little. Even he was aware of his -unpopularity, and he wondered who had been speaking so well of him. - -"I'm all right!" he answered curtly. - -Squire Dixon, too, though he overestimated Percy, who was popularly -regarded as a chip of the old block, was at a loss to know why he should -be proud of him. Still it was pleasing to have one so near to him -complimented. - -"You are kind to speak of Percy in that way," he said. - -"He's so like you, the dear boy!" murmured Mrs. Fogson. - -This might be a compliment, but as Percy stood low in his studies and -frequently quarreled with his school companions, Squire Dixon hardly -knew whether to feel flattered. - -Percy looked rather disgusted to be called a "dear boy" by a woman whom -he regarded as so much his social inferior as Mrs. Fogson, but it was -difficult to resent so complimentary a speech, and he remained silent. -He looked scornfully about the plainly-furnished room, and reflected -that it would be pleasanter out of doors. - -"I guess I'll go out in the yard," he said abruptly. - -"Would you be kind enough in that case, Master Percy, to tell the boy -Jed to go and call my husband from the three-acre lot? He is at work -there." - -"Yes, Mrs. Fogson, I'll tell him." - -Percy left the room and walked up to where Jed was splitting wood. - -"Go and call Mr. Fogson from the three-acre lot!" he said peremptorily. - -Jed paused in his work. - -"Who says so?" he inquired. - -"I say so!" - -"Then I shan't go. You are not my boss." - -"You are an impudent boy." - -"Why am I?" - -"You have no business to talk back to me. You'd better go after Mr. -Fogson, if you know what's best for yourself." - -"Did Mrs. Fogson send the message by you?" - -"Yes." - -"Then I will go. Why didn't you tell me that before?" - -"Because it was enough that I told you. My father's the Overseer of the -Poor." - -"I am aware of that." - -"And he put the Fogsons where they are." - -"Then I wish he hadn't. We had a good time when Mr. Avery was here. Now -all is changed." - -"So you don't like Mr. and Mrs. Fogson?" asked Percy curiously. - -"No, I don't. But I must be going to the lot to call Mr. Fogson." - -"I'll go with you. I don't want to be left alone." - -Jed ought doubtless to have felt complimented at this offer of company -from his high-toned visitor, but he did not appear to be overwhelmed by -it. - -"You can go along if you like," he said. - -"Of course I can. I don't need to ask permission of you." - -"Certainly not. No offense was meant." - -"It is well for you that there isn't. So you liked Mr. and Mrs. Avery -better than the Fogsons?" - -"Yes," answered Jed guardedly, for he understood now that Percy wanted -to "pump" him. - -"Why?" - -"Because they treated me better." - -"My father thinks well of the Fogsons. He says that old Avery pampered -the paupers and almost spoiled them." - -"I won't argue the question. I only know that we all liked Mr. and Mrs. -Avery. Now it's scold, scold, scold all day and every day, and we don't -live nearly as well as we did." - -"Paupers mustn't expect to live as well as at a first-class hotel!" said -Percy sarcastically. - -"They certainly don't live like that here." - -"And they won't while my father is overseer. He says he's going to put a -stop to their being pampered at the town's expense. You live well enough -now." - -"If you think we live so well, I wish you would come and board here for -a week." - -"_Me_--board at a poorhouse!" ejaculated Percy in intense disgust. "You -are very kind, but I shouldn't like it." - -"I don't think you would." - -"All the same, you ought to be grateful for such a good home." - -"It may be a good home, but I shan't stay here long." - -"You shan't stay here long?" exclaimed Percy in amazement. "Do you mean -to tell me you are going to run away?" - -"I haven't formed any plans yet." - -"I'll tell my father, and he'll put a spoke in your wheel. What do you -expect to do if you leave? You haven't got any money?" - -"No." - -"Then don't make a fool of yourself." - -Jed did not reply, for they had reached the fence that bounded the -three-acre lot, and Mr. Fogson had discovered their approach. - - - - -CHAPTER II. - -MR. AND MRS. FOGSON. - - -Mr. Fogson was about as unpleasant-looking as his wife, but was not so -thin. He had stiff red hair with a tendency to stand up straight, a -blotched complexion, and red eyes, corresponding very well with the -color of his hair. He was quite as cross as his wife, but she was more -venomous and malicious. Like her he was disposed to fawn upon Squire -Dixon, the Overseer of the Poor, with whom he knew it was necessary to -stand well. - -Had Jed come alone he might have met with a disagreeable reception; but -Mr. Fogson's quick eye recognized in his companion the son of the -poorhouse autocrat, Squire Dixon, and he summoned up an ingratiating -smile on his rugged features. - -"How are you, Master Percy?" he said smoothly. "Did your pa come with -you?" - -"Yes, he's over to the house. Mrs. Fogson wants you to go right home, -as he may want to see you." - -"All right! It will give me pleasure. It always does me good to see your -pa." - -Percy looked at him critically, and thought that Mr. Fogson was about as -homely a man as he had ever seen. It was fortunate that the keeper of -the poorhouse could not read his thoughts, for, like most ugly men, Mr. -Fogson thought himself on the whole rather prepossessing. - -Fogson took his place beside Percy, and curtly desired Jed to walk -behind. - -Jed smiled to himself, for he understood that Mr. Fogson considered him -not entitled to a place in such superior company. - -Mr. Fogson addressed several questions to Percy, which the latter -answered languidly, as if he considered it rather a bore to be -entertained by a man in Fogson's position. Indeed he almost snubbed him, -and Jed was pleased to find the man who made so many unpleasant speeches -to others treated in the same manner himself. As a general thing, a man -who bullies others has to take his turn in being bullied himself. - -Meanwhile Mrs. Fogson was chatting with Squire Dixon. - -"Nobody can tell what I have to put up with from them paupers," she -said. "You'd actilly think they paid their board by the way they talk. -The fact is, the Averys pampered and indulged them altogether too much." - -"That is so, Mrs. Fogson," said the squire pompously, "and that, I may -remark, was the reason I dismissed them from their responsible position. -Do they--ahem!--complain of anything in particular?" - -"Why, they want butter every day!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson. "Think of it! -Butter every day for paupers!" - -"As you justly observe, this is very unreasonable. And how often do you -give them butter?" - -"Once a week--on Sundays." - -"Very judicious. It impresses them with the difference between Sunday -and other days. It shows your religious training, Mrs. Fogson." - -"I always aim to be religious, Squire Dixon," said Mrs. Fogson meekly. - -"Well, and what else?" - -"Likewise the old people expect tea every day. They say Mrs. Avery gave -it to them." - -"I dare say she did. It's an imposition on the town to spend -their--ahem!--hard-earned money on such luxuries." - -"That's the way I look at it, Squire Dixon." - -"How often do you give them meat?" - -"Every other day. I get the cheapest cuts from the butcher--what he has -left over. But they ain't satisfied. They want it every day." - -"Shocking!" exclaimed the squire, arching his brows. - -"So I say. Of course I get a good many sour looks, and more complaints, -but I tell 'em that if they ain't suited with their boarding-house they -can go somewhere else." - -"Very good! Very good indeed; ha, ha! I presume none of them have left -the poorhouse in consequence?" - -"No, but one has threatened to do so." - -"Who is that?" asked Squire Dixon quickly. - -"The boy Jed." - -"Oh, yes, he was the one who opened the gate for me. Now, what sort of a -boy is he, Mrs. Fogson?" - -"He's an impudent young jackanapes," answered Mrs. Fogson spitefully, -"begging your pardon for using such an inelegant expression." - -"It is forcible, however, Mrs. Fogson. It is forcible, and I think you -are quite justified in using it. So he is impudent?" - -"Yes; you'd think, by the airs he puts on, that he owned the poorhouse, -instead of being a miserable pauper. Why, I venture to say he considers -himself the equal of your son, Master Percy." - -"No, no, Mrs. Fogson, that is a little too strong. He couldn't be so -absurd as that." - -"I am not so sure of that, Squire Dixon. There is no end to that boy's -impudence and--and uppishness. Why, he said the other day that the meat -wasn't fit for the hogs." - -"And was it, Mrs. Fogson?" asked the squire in an absent-minded way. - -"To be sure, squire, though I must admit that it was a trifle touched, -being warm weather; but paupers can't expect first-class hotel fare--can -they, now, squire?" - -"To be sure not." - -"Then, again, Jed is always praising up Mr. and Mrs. Avery, which, as -you can imagine, isn't very pleasant for Mr. Fogson and me. I expect he -was Mr. Avery's pet, from all I hear." - -"Very likely he was. He was brought to the poorhouse when a mere baby, -and they took care of him from his infancy. I've heard Mrs. Avery say -she looked upon him as if he were her own child." - -"And that is why she pampered him--at the town's expense." - -"As you truly observe, at the town's expense. I am sure you and Mr. -Fogson will feel it your duty to make the poorhouse as inexpensive as -possible to the town, bearing in mind the great responsibility that has -devolved upon you." - -"Of course, squire, me and Fogson bear that in mind, but we ain't paid -any too well for our hard labor." - -"That reminds me, Mrs. Fogson, another month has rolled by, and----" - -"I understand, squire," said Mrs. Fogson. "I have got it all ready," and -she drew a sealed envelope out of her pocket and passed it to the -squire, who pocketed it with a deprecatory cough. His face brightened -up, for he knew what the envelope contained. - -"You can depend on me to use my official influence in your favor, Mrs. -Fogson," he said cheerfully. "As long as you show a proper appreciation -of my service in giving you the place, I will stand by you." - -Squire Dixon was a rich man. He was paid by the town for his services as -overseer, yet he was not above accepting five dollars a month from the -man he had installed in office. He had never distinctly asked for it, -but he had hinted in a manner not to be mistaken that it would be -politic for Mr. Fogson to allow him a percentage on their salary and -profits. They got the money back, and more, for in auditing their -accounts he did not scrutinize too closely the prices they claimed to -have paid for supplies. It was an arrangement mutually advantageous, -which had never occurred to Mr. and Mrs. Avery, who in their scrupulous -honesty were altogether behind the times, according to the squire's -thinking. - -"And how many paupers have you in the house at present, Mrs. Fogson?" -asked the overseer. - -"Nineteen, squire. Would you like to look at them?" - -"Well, perhaps in my official capacity it would be as well." - -"Come in here, then," and Mrs. Fogson led the way into a large room -where sat the paupers, a forlorn, unhappy-looking company. Two of the -old ladies were knitting; one young woman, who had lost her child, and -with it her mind, was fondling a rag baby; two were braiding a rag -carpet, and others were sitting with vacant faces, looking as if life -had no attraction for them. - -"Will you address them, squire?" asked Mrs. Fogson. - -"Ahem!" said the squire, straightening up and looking around him with -the air of a benignant father. "I will say a few words." - -"Attention all!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson in a sharp voice. "Squire Dixon -has consented to make a few remarks. I hope you will appreciate your -privilege in hearing him." - - - - -CHAPTER III. - -THE SCRANTON POORHOUSE. - - -"Ahem!" began Squire Dixon, clearing his throat; "the announcement of my -friend Mrs. Fogson furnishes me with a text. I hope you all appreciate -your privileges in sharing this comfortable home at the expense of the -town. Here all your material wants are cared for, and though you are -without means, you need have no anxiety. A well-filled board is spread -for you three times a day, and you enjoy the maternal care of Mrs. -Fogson." - -Here there was a shrill laugh from one of the old women. - -Squire Dixon frowned, and Mrs. Fogson looked anything but maternal as -she scowled at the offending "boarder." - -"I am surprised at this unseemly interruption," said Squire Dixon -severely. "I am constrained to believe that there is at least one -person present who does not appreciate the privileges of this happy -home. You are probably all aware that I am the Overseer of the Poor, and -that it was through my agency that the services of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson -were obtained." - -Here it would have been in order for some one to propose "Three cheers -for Mr. and Mrs. Fogson," but instead all looked gloomy and depressed. - -"I don't know that I have any more to say," concluded Squire Dixon after -a pause. "I will only exhort you to do your duty in the position in -which Providence has placed you, and to give as little trouble as -possible to your good friends Mr. and Mrs. Fogson." - -Here there was another cackling laugh, which caused Mrs. Fogson to look -angry. - -"I'm on to you, Sally Stokes," she said sharply. "You'll have to go -without your supper to-night." - -The poor, half-witted creature immediately burst into tears, and rocked -to and fro in a dismal manner. - -"You have done perfectly right in rebuking such unseemly behavior, Mrs. -Fogson," said Squire Dixon. - -"I didn't mind the insult to myself, squire," returned Mrs. Fogson -meekly. "It made me angry to have you insulted while you were making -your interesting remarks. The paupers are very ill-behaved; I give you -my word that I slave for them from morning till night, and you see how I -am repaid." - -"Mrs. Fogson, virtue is its own reward," observed the squire solemnly. - -"It has to be in my case," said Mrs. Fogson; "but it comforts me to -think that you at least appreciate my efforts." - -"I do; I do, indeed! You can always rely upon me to--to--in a word, to -back you up." - -Here a diversion was made by the appearance of Mr. Fogson and the two -boys. - -"Oh, Simeon!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson impulsively. "You don't know what -you have lost." - -Mr. Fogson mechanically glanced at his vest to see whether his -watch-chain and the watch appended were gone. - -"What have I lost?" he demanded. - -"Squire Dixon's interesting speech to the paupers. It was truly -eloquent." - -"My dear Mrs. Fogson," said the squire, looking modest, "you quite -overrate my simple words." - -"They were simple, but they were to the point," said the lady of the -poorhouse, "and I hope--I do hope that the paupers will lay them to -heart." - -There was an amused smile on the face of Jed, who was sharp enough to -see through the shallow humbug which was being enacted before him. He -understood very well the interested motives of Mrs. Fogson, and why she -saw fit to flatter the town official from whom she and her husband had -received their appointment. - -"I wish you had heard the squire, too, Jed!" said Mrs. Fogson, detecting -the smile on the boy's face. - -"Perhaps, ma'am, you can tell me what he said," returned Jed demurely. - -Mrs. Fogson was a little taken aback, but she accepted the invitation. - -"He said you ought to consider yourself very lucky to have such a -comfortable home." - -"I do," said Jed with a comical look. - -"I am glad to hear it," said Mrs. Fogson, suspiciously, "though it -hasn't always looked that way, I am bound to say." - -"Are you going to stay much longer, father?" asked Percy, who was -getting tired. - -"Perhaps we had better go," said Squire Dixon. "We have staid quite a -while." - -"When do you have dinner?" asked Percy, turning to Jed. - -"In about an hour. I have no doubt Mrs. Fogson will invite you, if you -would like to stay." - -"_Me_--eat with paupers?" retorted Percy with fine scorn. - -"I don't think you would like it," said Jed. "I don't." - -"Why, you are a pauper yourself." - -"I don't think so. I earn my living, such as it is. I work from morning -till night." - -"What do they give you for dinner?" asked Percy, moved by curiosity. - -"Mrs. Fogson puts a bone in the boiler and makes bone soup," answered -Jed gravely. "You can't tell how good it is till you try it." - -"Is there anything else?" - -"A few soggy potatoes, and some stale bread without butter." - -"Don't you have tea?" - -"Once on Sundays. It don't do to pamper us, you know." - -"Do you have puddings or pies?" - -"No; the town can't afford it," returned Jed without a smile. "What do -you think of our bill of fare?" - -"Pretty mean, I think. Do Mr. and Mrs. Fogson eat with you?" - -"No; they eat later, in the small room adjoining." - -"Do they have the same dinner as you?" - -"Sometimes they have roast chicken, and the other day when I went into -the room there was a plum pudding on the table." - -Percy laughed. - -"Just what I thought. The old man and old woman aren't going to get -left." - -"I don't know about that." - -"What do you mean?" - -"I'll explain another time," said Jed, nodding. "I wish I was Overseer -of the Poor." - -"What would you do?" - -"I'd turn out the Fogsons and put back Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Father says they spoiled the paupers." - -"At any rate they didn't starve them." - -"Old Fogson is saving money to the town--so father says." - -"Wait till the end of the year. You'll find the town will have just as -much to pay. What they save off the food they will put into their own -pockets." - -"What are you talking about?" asked Mrs. Fogson suspiciously. - -Jed did not have to reply, for Percy took offense at what he rightly -judged to be a piece of impertinence. - -"Mrs. Fogson," he said, "what we are talking about is no concern of -yours." - -A bright red spot showed itself in either cheek of Mrs. Fogson, and she -would have annihilated the speaker if she could; but she was politic, -and remembered that Percy was the son of the overseer. - -"I didn't mean any offense, Master Percy," she said. "It was simply a -playful remark on my part." - -"I'm glad to hear it," responded Percy. "You didn't look very playful." - -Squire Dixon was conversing with Mr. Fogson, and didn't hear this little -conversation. - -"I am just digging my potatoes," said Fogson deferentially. "I have some -excellent Jackson whites. I will send you round a bushel to try." - -"You are very kind, Mr. Fogson," said the squire, smiling urbanely. "I -shall appreciate them, you may be sure. Mr. Avery never would have made -me such an offer. It is clear to me that you are the right man in the -right place." - -"I am proud to hear you say so, Squire Dixon. With such an Overseer of -the Poor as you are, I am sure the interests of the town will be safe." - -"Thank you! Good-by." - -"Come again soon, squire," said Mrs. Fogson with a frosty smile. She did -not extend a similar invitation to Percy, who had wounded her pride by -his unceremonious words. - -"They are very worthy people, Percy," said the squire as they rode away. - -"Do you think so, father? I don't admire your taste." - -"My son, I am surprised at you," but in his secret heart the squire -agreed with Percy. - -Soon after Squire Dixon and Percy left the poorhouse dinner was served. -It answered very well the description given by Jed. Though the boy was -hungry, he found it almost impossible to eat his portion, scanty though -it was. - -"Turning up your nose at your dinner as usual!" said Mrs. Fogson -sharply. "If you don't like it you can get another boarding-house." - -"I think I shall," answered Jed. - -"What do you mean by that?" demanded Mrs. Fogson quickly. - -"If the board doesn't improve I shall dry up and blow away," returned -Jed. - -Mrs. Fogson sniffed and let the matter drop. - -Towards the close of the afternoon, as Jed was splitting wood in the -yard, his attention was drawn to a runaway horse which was speeding down -the road at breakneck speed, while a lady's terrified face was visible -looking vainly around in search of help. - -Jed dropped his axe, ran to the bend of the road, and dashed out, waving -a branch which he picked up by the roadside. The horse slowed down, and -Jed, seizing the opportunity, ran to his head, seized him by the bridle, -and brought him to a permanent stop. - -"How brave you are!" said the lady. "Will you jump into the buggy and -drive me to my home? I don't dare to trust myself alone with the horse -again." - -Jed did as desired, and at the end of the ride Mrs. Redmond (she was the -wife of Dr. Redmond) gave him a dollar, accompanying it with hearty -thanks. - -"I suppose Fogson will try to get this dollar away from me," thought -Jed, "but he won't succeed." - - - - -CHAPTER IV. - -AN EXCITING CONTEST. - - -Jed was not mistaken. - -When he returned to the poorhouse supper was ready, and Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson were waiting for him with sour and angry faces. - -"Where have you been?" demanded Fogson. - -"Absent on business," announced Jed coolly. - -"Don't you know that your business is to stay here and work?" - -"I have been working all day." - -"No, you haven't. You have been to the village." - -"I had a good reason for going." - -"Why didn't you ask permission of me or Mrs. Fogson?" - -"Because there wasn't time." - -"You are two minutes late for supper. I've a good mind to let you go -without," said Mrs. Fogson. - -"It wouldn't be much of a loss," answered Jed, not looking much alarmed. - -"You are getting more and more impudent every day. Why do you say there -wasn't time to ask permission to leave your work?" - -"Because the runaway horse wouldn't stop while I was asking." - -"What runaway horse?" demanded Fogson with sudden interest. - -"While I was splitting wood I saw Dr. Redmond's wife being run away -with. She looked awfully frightened. I ran out to the bend and stopped -the horse. Then she wanted me to drive her home, for she was afraid he -would run off again." - -"Is that so? Well, of course that makes a difference. Did she give you -anything?" - -"Now it's coming," thought Jed. - -"Yes," he answered. - -"How much?" asked Mr. Fogson with a greedy look. - -"A dollar." - -"Quite handsome, on my word. Well, hand it over." - -"What?" ejaculated Jed. - -"Give me the dollar!" said Fogson in a peremptory tone. - -"The dollar is mine." - -"You are a pauper. You can't hold any property. It's against the law." - -"Is it? Who told you so?" - -"No matter who told me so. I hope I understand the law." - -"I hope I understand my rights." - -"Boy, this is trifling. You'd better not make me any trouble, or you -will find yourself in a bad box." - -"What do you want to do with the dollar?" - -"None of your business! I shall keep it." - -"I have no doubt you will if you get it, but it is mine," said Jed -firmly. - -"Mrs. Fogson," said her husband solemnly, "did you ever hear of such -perverseness?" - -"No. The boy is about the worst I ever see." - -"Mr. Fogson," said Jed, "when Mr. Avery was here I had money given me -several times, though never as much as this. He never thought of asking -me for it, but always allowed me to spend it for myself." - -"Mr. Avery and I are two different persons," remarked Mr. Fogson with -asperity. - -"You are right, there," said Jed, in hearty concurrence with the -speaker. - -"And he was very unwise to let you keep the money. If it was five cents, -now, I wouldn't mind," continued Mr. Fogson with noteworthy liberality. -"But a dollar! You couldn't be trusted to spend a sum like that properly -at your age." - -"I am almost sixteen," said Jed significantly. - -"No matter if you are. You are still a mere boy. But I don't propose to -waste any more words. Hand over that money!" - -Jed felt that the critical moment had come. He must submit to a flagrant -piece of injustice or resist. - -He determined to resist. - -He met Fogson's glance firmly and resolutely, and uttered but two words: -"I won't!" - -"Did you ever hear such impudence, Mrs. Fogson?" asked her husband, his -face becoming red and mottled in his excitement. - -"No, Simeon, I didn't!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. - -"What shall I do?" - -"Thrash him. It's the only way to cure him of his cantankerous conduct." - -Jed was of good height for his age, and unusually thickset and strong. -Though poorhouse fare was hardly calculated to give him strength, he had -an intimate friend and school companion on a farm near by whose mother -often gave him a substantial meal, so that he alone of the inmates of -the poorhouse could afford to be comparatively indifferent to the mean -table kept by the managers. - -Jed was five feet six, and Simeon Fogson but two inches taller. Fogson, -however, was not a well man. He was a dyspeptic, and frequently indulged -in alcoholic drinks, which, as my young readers doubtless know, have a -direct tendency to impair physical vigor. - -"Get me the whip, Gloriana," said Mr. Fogson fiercely, addressing his -wife by her rather uncommon first name. "I will see whether this young -upstart is to rule you and me and the whole establishment." - -"I don't care about ruling anybody except myself," said Jed. - -"You can't rule yourself. I am put in authority over you." - -"Who put you in authority over me?" asked Jed defiantly. - -"The town." - -"And did the town give you leave to rob me? Answer me that!" - -"Did you ever hear the like?" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson, raising her arms in -almost incredulous surprise. - -By this time Mr. Fogson had the whip in his hand, and with an air of -enjoyment drew the lash through his fingers. - -"Take off your coat!" he said. - -"I would rather keep it on," replied Jed undauntedly. - -"It won't do you any good. I shall strike hard enough for you to feel it -even if you had two coats on." - -"You'd better not!" said Jed, eyeing Mr. Fogson warily. - -"Are you going to stand the boy's impudence, Simeon?" demanded his wife -sharply. - -"No, I'm not;" and Simeon Fogson, flourishing the whip, brought it down -on Jed's shoulders and back. - -Then something happened which took the poorhouse superintendent by -surprise. Jed sprang toward him, and, grasping the whip with energy, -tore it from his grasp, and with angry and inflamed face confronted his -persecutor. Mr. Fogson turned pale, and looked undecided what to do. - -"Shall I hold him, Simeon?" asked his wife venomously. - -"No; I'm a match for a half-grown boy like him," returned Fogson, -ashamed to ask for help in so unequal a contest. - -He sprang forward and grabbed Jed, who accepted the gage of battle and -clinched with his adversary. A moment afterward they were rolling on the -floor, first one being uppermost, then the other. - - - - -CHAPTER V. - -JED SECURES AN ALLY. - - -It was trying to Mrs. Fogson to see her husband apparently getting the -worst of it from "that young viper," as she mentally apostrophized Jed, -and she longed to take a part, notwithstanding her husband's refusal to -accept her assistance. - -A bright but malicious idea struck her. She seized a tin dipper and -filled it half full from the tea-kettle, the water in which was almost -scalding. Then she seized an opportunity to empty it over Jed. But -unfortunately for the success of her amiable plan, by the time she was -ready to pour it out it was Mr. Fogson who was exposed, and he received -the whole of the water on his neck and shoulder. - -"Help! Help! Murder!" he shrieked in anguish. "You have scalded me, -you--you she cat!" - -As he spoke he released his hold on Jed, who sprang to his feet and -stood watching for the next movement of the enemy. - -"Did I scald you, Simeon?" asked Mrs. Fogson in dismay. - -"Yes; I am almost dead. Get some flour and sweet oil--quick!" - -"I didn't mean to," said his wife repentantly. "I meant it for that -boy." - -"You're an idiot!" roared Fogson, stamping his foot. "Go and get the -oil--quick!" - -Mrs. Fogson, much frightened, hurried to obey orders, and the next -fifteen minutes were spent in allaying the anguish of her lord and -master, who made it very unpleasant for her by his bitter complaints and -upbraidings. - -"I think I'd better get out of this," thought Jed. "The old woman will -be trying to scald me next." - -He disappeared through the side door, leaving the amiable couple busily -but not pleasantly employed. - -He had scarcely left the house when Dr. Redmond drove up, his errand -being to see one of the inmates of the poorhouse. - -"How are you, Jed?" he said pleasantly. "My wife tells me you did her a -great service to-day?" - -"I was glad to do it, doctor," said Jed. - -"Here's a dollar. I am sure you can use it." - -"But, doctor, Mrs. Redmond gave me a dollar." - -"Never mind! You can use both." - -"Thank you," said Jed. "You'd better go right in, doctor; Mrs. Fogson -has just scalded her husband, and he is in great pain." - -"How did it happen?" asked the doctor in amazement. - -"Go in and they'll tell you," said Jed. "I'll see you afterwards and -tell you whether their story is correct." - -When Mr. and Mrs. Fogson saw the doctor enter they were overjoyed. - -"Oh, Dr. Redmond," groaned Fogson, "do something to relieve me quick. -I'm in terrible pain." - -"What's the matter?" asked Dr. Redmond. - -"I am scalded." - -"How did it happen?" - -"_She_ did it!" said Fogson, pointing scornfully to Mrs. Fogson. - -Dr. Redmond set himself at once to relieve the suffering one, making use -of the remedies that Fogson himself had suggested to his wife. When the -patient was more comfortable he turned gravely to Mrs. Fogson and asked: -"Will you explain how your husband got scalded?" - -"The woman poured hot water on me," interrupted Fogson with an ugly -scowl. "It would serve her right if I treated her in the same manner." - -"You don't mean that she did it on purpose, Mr. Fogson?" exclaimed the -doctor. - -"Of course I didn't," retorted Mrs. Fogson indignantly. "I meant it for -Jed." - -"You meant to scald Jed?" said the doctor sternly. - -"Yes; he assaulted my husband, and I feared he would kill him. It was -all the way I could help." - -"Mrs. Fogson, I can hardly believe you would be guilty of such an -atrocious act even on your own confession, nor can I believe that Jed -would assault your husband without good cause." - -"It is true, whether you believe it or not," said Mrs. Fogson sullenly. - -Dr. Redmond's answer was to open the outer door and call "Jed!" - -Jed entered at once, and stood in the presence of his persecutors, calm -and undisturbed. - -"Jed," said the doctor, "Mrs. Fogson admits that she scalded her husband -in trying to scald you, and urges, in defense, that you assaulted Mr. -Fogson. What do you say to this?" - -"That Mr. Fogson struck me over the shoulder with a horsewhip, and that -I pulled it away from him. Upon this he sprang at me, and in -self-defense I grappled with him, and while we were rolling over the -floor Mrs. Fogson poured a dipper of hot water over her husband, meaning -it for me." - -"Is this true, Mr. Fogson?" asked the doctor. - -"Yes, it's about so. Mrs. Fogson acted like an idiot." - -"If she had scalded Jed instead of you, would you say the same thing?" - -"Well, of course that would have been different." - -"I can see no difference," said Dr. Redmond sternly. "It was not an -idiotic, but a brutal and inhuman act." - -"Come, doctor, that's rather strong," protested Fogson uncomfortably. - -"It is not too strong! I don't think there is a person in the village -but would agree with me. Had the victim of the scalding been Jed, I -would have reported the matter to the authorities. Now tell me why you -attempted to horsewhip the boy?" - -"Because he was impudent," replied Fogson evasively. - -"And that was all?" - -"He disobeyed me." - -"Jed, let me hear your version of the story." - -"Mr. Fogson knew that I had a dollar given me by Mrs. Redmond, and he -called upon me to give it up to him. I wouldn't do it, and upon that he -tried to horsewhip me." - -"You see he owns up to his disobeying me, doctor," put in Fogson -triumphantly. - -"Why did you require him to give you the dollar, Mr. Fogson?" - -"Because he is a pauper, and a pauper has no right to hold money." - -"I won't discuss that point. What did you propose to do with the dollar -in case you had obtained it from Jed?" - -"As you are not Overseer of the Poor, Dr. Redmond, I don't know that I -have any call to tell you. When Squire Dixon asks me I will make it all -straight with him." - -"Probably," answered the doctor in a significant tone, for he as well as -others understood that there was some secret compact between Mr. Fogson -and the town official, and he had earnestly opposed Squire Dixon at the -polls. - -"Not only you, but Squire Dixon will have to give an account of your -stewardship," he said. "If any outrage should be committed against the -boy Jed, or any one else in this establishment, you will find that -making it straight with Squire Dixon won't be sufficient." - -"I will report what you say to Squire Dixon," said Fogson defiantly. - -"I wish you would. I shouldn't object to saying the same thing to his -face. Now, Mrs. Fogson, if you will lead the way I will go and see Mrs. -Connolly." - -"Come along, then," said Mrs. Fogson, compressing her thin lips. "I -don't believe there is anything the matter with that old woman." - -"I am a better judge of that matter than you, Mrs. Fogson." - -The poor old woman looked thin and wan, and hardly had strength to lift -up her head to meet the doctor's glance. - -After a brief examination he said: "Your trouble is nervous debility. -You have no strength. What you need is nourishment. Do you have tea -three times a day, Mrs. Connolly?" - -"Only once a week, doctor," wailed the poor old woman, bursting into -tears. - -"Only once a week!" repeated the doctor shocked. "What does this mean, -Mrs. Fogson?" - -"It means, Dr. Redmond," answered the mistress of the poorhouse, "that -this is not a first-class hotel." - -"I should say not," commented the doctor. "How often did you have tea, -Mrs. Connolly, when Mr. and Mrs. Avery were here?" - -"At breakfast and supper, and on Sundays three times a day." - -"Precisely. What do you say to that, Mrs. Fogson?" - -"I say, as everybody says, that the Averys squandered the town's money." - -"They certainly didn't put it into their own pockets. The town, I think -I am safe in saying, doesn't mean to starve the poor people whom it -provides for. Do I understand that you are actuated by a desire to save -the town's money?" - -"Of course I am, and Squire Dixon approves all I do," answered Mrs. -Fogson defiantly. - -"If he approves your withholding the necessities of life from those -under your charge he is unfit for his position. When the accounts of the -poorhouse are audited at the end of the year I shall make a searching -examination, and ascertain how much less they are under your -administration than under that of your predecessors." - -Judging from her looks, Mrs. Fogson was aching to scratch Dr. Redmond's -eyes out; but as he was not a pauper she was compelled to restrain her -anger. - -"Now, Mrs. Connolly," said the doctor, "you are to have tea twice a day, -and three times on Sunday. I shall see that it is given to you," he -added, with a significant glance at Mrs. Fogson. - -"Oh, how glad I am!" said the poor creature. "God bless you, Dr. -Redmond!" - -"Mrs. Fogson," went on the doctor, "do you limit yourself to tea once a -week?" - -"I ain't a pauper, Dr. Redmond!" replied Mrs. Fogson indignantly. - -"No; you are much stronger than a pauper, and could bear the deprivation -better. Let me tell you that you needn't be afraid to supply decent food -to the poor people in your charge. It won't cost any more than it did -under the Averys, for prices are, on the whole, cheaper." - -"Perhaps if it does cost more you'll pay it out of your own pocket." - -"I contribute already to the support of the poorhouse, being a large -taxpayer, and I give my medical services without exacting payment. The -town is not mean, and I will see that no fault is found with reasonable -bills." - -"I wish you'd fall and break your neck, you old meddler," thought Mrs. -Fogson, but she did not dare to say this. - -"One thing more, madam!" said the doctor, who had now entered the room -where Jed and her husband were; "reserve your hot water for its -legitimate uses. No more scalding, if you please." - -"That's well put, doctor!" growled Fogson. "If she wants to scald -anybody else, she had better try herself." - -"That's all the gratitude I get for taking your part, Simeon Fogson," -said the exasperated helpmeet. "The next time, Jed may beat you black -and blue for all I care." - -"It strikes me," remarked the doctor dryly, "that your husband is a -match for a boy of sixteen, and need be under no apprehension. No more -horsewhips, Mr. Fogson, if _you_ please, and don't trouble yourself -about any small sums that Jed may receive. Jed, jump into my buggy, and -I will take you home with me. I think Mrs. Redmond will give you some -supper." - -"The boy hasn't done his chores," said Mrs. Fogson maliciously. - -"Very well, I will make a bargain with you. Don't object to his going, -and I won't charge Mr. Fogson anything for my attendance upon him just -now." - -This appeal to the selfish interests of Mr. Fogson had its effect, and -Jed jumped into the doctor's buggy with eager alacrity. - - - - -CHAPTER VI - -MR. FOGSON MAKES UP HIS MIND. - - -"I don't know, Jed, whether I can make up to you for the supper you will -lose at the poorhouse," observed the doctor jocosely. "Mrs. Redmond may -not be as good a cook as Mrs. Fogson." - -"I will risk it," said Jed. - -"Is the fare much worse than it was when Mrs. Avery was in charge?" - -"Very much worse. I don't mind it much myself, for I often get a meal at -Fred Morrison's, but the poor old people have a hard time." - -"I will make it my business to see that there is an improvement." - -"Dr. Redmond," said Jed after a pause, "do you think it would be wrong -for me to run away from the poorhouse?" - -"Have you any such intention?" asked the doctor quickly. - -"Yes; I think I can earn my own living, and a better living than I have -there. I am young and strong, and I am not afraid to try." - -"As to that, Jed, I don't see why there should be any objection to your -making the attempt. The town of Scranton ought not to object to -lessening the number it is required to support." - -"Mr. and Mrs. Fogson would object. They would miss my work." - -"Have you ever spoken to them on the subject?" - -"I did one day, and they said I would have to stay till I was -twenty-one." - -"That is not true." - -"I don't think I could stay that long," said Jed soberly. "I should be -dead before that time if I had to live with Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, and -fared no better. Besides, you see how I am dressed. I should think you -would be ashamed to have me at your table." - -Jed's clothes certainly were far from becoming. They were of unknown -antiquity, and were two sizes too small for him, so that the sleeves -and the legs of the trousers were so scant as to attract attention. In -his working hours he wore a pair of overalls, but those he took off when -he accepted Dr. Redmond's invitation. - -"I didn't invite your clothes, Jed; I invited you," responded the -doctor. "I confess, however, that your suit is pretty shabby. How long -have you worn it?" - -"It was given me nearly two years ago." - -"And you have had no other since?" - -"No. If I stayed there till I was twenty-one I expect I should have to -wear the same old things." - -Dr. Redmond laughed. - -"I am bound to say, Jed, that in that case you would cut a comical -figure. However, I don't think it will be as bad as that. My son Ross is -in college. He is now twenty. I will ask my wife to look about the house -and see if there isn't an old suit of his that will fit you. It will, at -any rate, be a good deal better than this." - -"Thank you, doctor; but will you save it till I am ready to leave -Scranton?" - -"Yes, Jed. I will have it put in a bundle, and it will be ready for you -any time you call for it." - -"There's another thing, doctor. I think Mr. Fogson will try to get my -money away, notwithstanding all you said." - -"He wouldn't dare to." - -"He is very cunning. He will find some excuse." - -Jed was right. To prove this, we will go back to the poorhouse and -relate the conversation between the well-matched pair after Dr. -Redmond's departure. - -"Simeon," said his wife, "if you had any spunk you wouldn't let Dr. -Redmond insult and bully you, as he did just now." - -"What would you have me to do?" demanded her husband irritably. "I -couldn't knock him down, could I?" - -"No, but you could have talked up to him." - -"I did; but you must remember that he is an important man in the town, -and it wouldn't be wise to make him an enemy." - -"Squire Dixon is still more important. If he backs you up you needn't -be afraid of this trumpery doctor." - -"Well, what would you advise?" - -"Go this evening and see the squire. Tell him what has happened, and if -he gives you authority to take Jed's money, take it." - -"Really, that is a good suggestion, Mrs. F. I will go soon after -supper." - -"It would do no good to triumph over Dr. Redmond. He is an impertinent -meddler." - -"So he is. I agree with you there." - -Soon after seven o'clock Squire Dixon was somewhat surprised when the -servant ushered Mr. Fogson into his presence. - -"Ah, Fogson," he exclaimed. "I was not expecting to see you. Has -anything gone wrong?" - -"I should think so. Jed has rebelled against my lawful authority, and -Dr. Redmond is aiding and abetting him in it." - -"You astonish me, Fogson. Are you sure you are not mistaken?" - -"I'll tell you the whole story, squire, and you can judge for yourself." - -Upon this Mr. Fogson gave an account of the scenes that had taken place -in the poorhouse, including his contest with Jed, and Mrs. Fogson's -ill-judged attempt to assist him. - -"Certainly, you were in bad luck," said the squire. "Is the injury -serious?" - -"The burn is very painful, squire. Mrs. Fogson acted like an idiot. Why -didn't she take better aim?" - -"To be sure, to be sure. Wasn't the boy scalded at all?" - -"Not a particle," answered Fogson in an aggrieved tone. "Now, what I -want to know is, didn't I have a right to take the money from Jed?" - -"Yes, I think so. The boy would probably have made bad use of it." - -"The ground I take, squire, is that a pauper has no right to possess -money." - -"I quite agree with you. Since the town maintains him, the town should -have a right to exact any money of which he becomes accidentally -possessed." - -"I don't quite see that the town should have it," said Fogson. "As the -boy's official guardian, I think I ought to keep it, to use for the boy -whenever I thought it judicious." - -"Yes, I think that view is correct. I had only given the point a -superficial consideration." - -"Dr. Redmond denies this. He says I have no right to take the money from -Jed." - -"Dr. Redmond's view is not entitled to any weight. He has no official -right to intermeddle." - -"You'd think he had, by the manner in which he lectured Mrs. Fogson and -myself. I never heard such impudence." - -"Dr. Redmond assumes too much. He doesn't appear to understand that I, -and not he, was appointed Overseer of the Poor." - -"He says you are not fit for the position," said Fogson, transcending -the limits of strict accuracy, as the reader will understand. - -"What?" ejaculated Squire Dixon, his face flushing angrily. - -"That's just what he said," repeated Fogson, delighted by the effect of -his misrepresentations. "It's my belief that he wanted the office -himself." - -"Very likely, very likely!" said the squire angrily. "Do I understand -you to say that he actually called me unfit for the position?" - -"Yes he did. He appears to think that he can boss you and Mrs. F. and -myself. Why, he stood by that boy, though he had actually assaulted me, -and invited him home to supper." - -"You don't mean this, Mr. Fogson?" - -"Yes I do. Jed is at this very moment at the doctor's house. What -mischief they are concocting I can't tell, but I am sure that I shall -have more trouble with the boy." - -Squire Dixon was very much disturbed. He was a vain man, and his pride -sustained a severe shock when told that the doctor considered him unfit -for his position. - -"However," resumed the crafty Fogson, "I suppose we shall have to give -in to the doctor." - -"Give in!" exclaimed the squire, his face turning purple. "Never, Mr. -Fogson, never!" - -"I hate to give in, I confess, squire, but the doctor is a prominent -man, and----" - -"Prominent man! I should like to know whether I am not a prominent man -also, Mr. Fogson? Moreover, I represent the town, and Dr. Redmond -doesn't." - -"I am glad you will stand by me, squire. With you on my side, I will not -fear." - -"I will stand by you, Mr. Fogson." - -"I should hate to be triumphed over by a mere boy." - -"You shall not be, Mr. Fogson." - -"Then will you authorize me to demand the money from him?" - -"I will authorize you, Mr. Fogson, and if the boy persists in refusing, -I authorize you to use coercive measures. Do you understand?" - -"I believe I do, squire. You will let it be understood that you have -given me authority, won't you? Suppose the boy complains to Dr. -Redmond?" - -"You may refer Dr. Redmond to me, Mr. Fogson," said the squire -pompously. "I think I shall be tempted to give this meddling doctor a -piece of my mind." - -Mr. Fogson took leave of the squire and pursued his way homeward with a -smile on his face. He had accomplished what he desired, and secured a -powerful ally in his campaign against the boy Jed and Dr. Redmond. - -He returned home a little after eight, and just before nine Jed made his -appearance at the door of the poorhouse. He was in good spirits, for he -had decided that he would soon turn his back upon the place which had -been his home for fourteen years. - - - - -CHAPTER VII. - -FOGSON'S MISTAKE. - - -"So you have got home?" said Mr. Fogson with an unpleasant smile as he -opened the door to admit Jed later that evening. - -"Yes, sir." - -"You had a pleasant time, I presume?" - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, wondering to what all these questions tended. - -"I suppose Dr. Redmond put himself out to entertain such a distinguished -guest?" - -"No, Mr. Fogson, I don't think he did." - -"He didn't make arrangements to run the poorhouse, with your help, did -he?" - -"No," answered Jed with emphasis. - -"We ought to be thankful, Mrs. Fogson and I, humbly thankful, that we -ain't to be turned out by this high and mighty doctor." - -"If you don't like the doctor you had better tell him so," said Jed; "he -don't need me to defend him." - -"Do you know where I've been to-night?" queried Fogson, changing his -tone. - -"How could I tell?" - -"I've been to see Squire Dixon." - -"Well, sir, I suppose you had a right to. I hope you had a pleasant -call." - -"I did, and what's more, I told him of Dr. Redmond's impertinent -interference with me in my management of the poorhouse. He told me not -to pay any attention to Redmond, but to be guided by him. So long as he -was satisfied with me, it was all right." - -"You'd better tell Dr. Redmond that when he calls here next time." - -"I shall; but there's something I've got to say to you. He said I had a -perfect right to take the dollar from you, for as a pauper you had no -right to hold property of any kind. That's what Squire Dixon says. Now -hand over that money, or you'll get into trouble." - -"I wouldn't give the money to Squire Dixon himself," answered Jed -boldly. - -"You wouldn't, hey? I'll tell him that. You'll give it to me to-night, -though." - -He put out his hand to seize Jed, but the boy quietly moved aside, and -said, "You can't get the money from me to-night, Mr. Fogson." - -"Why can't I? There's no Dr. Redmond to take your part now. Why can't I, -I'd like to know?" - -"Because I haven't got it." - -"WHAT!" exclaimed Fogson. "Do you mean to say you've spent it already? -If you have----" - -"No, I haven't spent it, but I have given it to Dr. Redmond to keep for -me." - -Fogson showed in his face his intense disappointment. He expected to get -the money without fail, and lo! the victory was snatched from him. - -He glared at Jed, and seemed about to pounce upon him, but he thought -better of it. - -"You'll go and get the money in the morning," he said. "You and Dr. -Redmond are engaged in a conspiracy against the town and the laws, and I -am not sure but I could have you both arrested. Mind, if that money is -not handed to me to-morrow you will get a thrashing. Now go to bed!" - -Jed was not sorry to avail himself of this permission. He had not -enjoyed the interview with Mr. Fogson, and he felt tired and in need of -rest. Accordingly he went up stairs to the attic, where there was a cot -bed under the bare rafters, which he usually occupied. There had been -another boy, three months before, who had shared the desolate room with -him, but he had been bound out to a farmer, and now Jed was the sole -occupant. - -Tired as he was, he did not go to sleep immediately. He undressed -himself slowly in the obscurity, for he was not allowed a lamp, and made -a movement to get into bed. - -But a surprise awaited him. His extended hand came in contact with a -human face, and one on which there was a mustache. Somebody was in his -bed! - -Naturally, Jed was startled. - -"Who are you?" he inquired. - -"Who'm I? I'm a gentleman," was the drowsy reply. - -"You're in my bed," said Jed, annoyed as well as surprised. - -"Where is _my_ bed?" hiccoughed the other. - -"I don't know. How did you get in here?" - -"I came in when no one was lookin'," answered the intruder. "Zis a -hotel?" - -"No; it's the Scranton poorhouse." - -"You don't say? Dad always told me I'd end up in the poorhouse, but I -didn't expect to get there so quick." - -"You'd better get up and go down stairs. Fogson wouldn't like to have -you stay here all night." - -"Who's Fogson?" - -"He is the manager of the poorhouse." - -"Who cares for Fogson? I don't b'lieve Fogson is a gen'leman." - -"Nor I," inwardly assented Jed. - -This was the last word that he could get from the intruder, who coolly -turned over and began to snore. - -Fortunately for Jed, there was another cot bed--the one formerly -occupied by the other boy--and he got into it. - -Fatigued by the events of the day, Jed soon slept a sound and refreshing -sleep. In fact his sleep was so sound that it is doubtful whether a -thunderstorm would have awakened him. - -Towards morning the occupant of the other bed turned in such a way as to -lie on his back. This position, as my readers are probably aware, is -conducive to heavy snoring, and the intruder availed himself of this to -the utmost. - -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson slept directly underneath, and after awhile, the -door leading to the attic being open, the sound of the snoring attracted -the attention of Mrs. Fogson. - -"Simeon!" she said, shaking her recumbent husband. - -"What is it, Mrs. F.?" inquired her lord and master drowsily. - -"Did you hear that?" - -"Did I hear what?" - -"That terrific snoring. It is loud enough to wake the dead." - -By this time Fogson was fairly awake. - -"So it is," he assented. "Who is it?" - -"Jed, of course. What possesses the boy to snore so?" - -"Can't say, I'm sure. I never heard a boy of his age make such a noise." - -"It must be stopped, Simeon. It can't be more than three o'clock, and -if it continues I shan't sleep another wink." - -"Well, go up and stop it." - -"It is more suitable for you to go, Mr. Fogson. I do believe the boy is -snoring out of spite." - -Even Fogson laughed at this idea. - -"He couldn't do that unless he snored when he was awake," he replied. -"It isn't easy to snore when you are not asleep. If you don't believe -it, try it." - -"I am ashamed of you, Simeon. Do you think I would demean myself by any -such low action? If that snoring isn't stopped right off I shall go into -a fit." - -"I wouldn't like to have you do that," said Fogson, rather amused. "It -would be rather worse than hearing Jed snore." - -About this time there was an unusual outburst on the part of the -sleeper. - -"A little hot water would fix him," said Fogson. "It is a pity you had -not saved your hot water till to-night." - -"Cold water would do just as well." - -"So it would. Mrs. F., that's a bright idea. I owe the boy a grudge for -giving his money to Dr. Redmond. I'll go down stairs and get a clipper -of cold water, and I'll see if I can't stop the boy's noise." - -Mr. Fogson went down stairs, chuckling, as he went, at the large joke he -was intending to perpetrate. It would not be so bad as being scalded, -but it would probably be very disagreeable to Jed to be roused from a -sound sleep by a dash of cold water. - -"I hope he won't wake up before I get there," thought Mr. Fogson, as he -descended to the kitchen in his stocking feet to procure the water. - -He pumped for a minute or two in order that the water might be colder, -and then with the dipper in hand ascended two flights of stairs to the -attic. - -Up there it was still profoundly dark. There was but one window, and -that was screened by a curtain. Moreover, it was very dark outside. Mr. -Fogson, however, was not embarrassed, for he knew just where Jed's bed -was situated, and, even if he had not, the loud snoring, which still -continued, would have been sufficient to guide him to the place. - -"It beats me how a boy can snore like that," soliloquized Fogson. "He -must have eaten something at Dr. Redmond's that didn't agree with him. -If I didn't know it was Jed I should feel frightened at such an -unearthly hubbub. However, it won't continue long," and Fogson laughed -to himself as he thought of the sensation which his dipper of water was -likely to produce. - -He approached a little nearer, and in spite of the darkness could see -the outlines of a form on the bed, but he could not see clearly enough -to make out the difference between it and Jed's. - -He poised himself carefully, and then dashed the water vigorously into -the face of the sleeping figure. - -The results were not exactly what he had anticipated. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. - -MR. FOGSON IS ASTONISHED. - - -The sleeper had already slept off pretty nearly all the effects of his -potations, and the sudden cold bath restored him wholly to himself. But -it also aroused in him a feeling of anger, justifiable under the -circumstances, and, not belonging to the Peace Society, he was moved to -punish the person to whom he was indebted for his unpleasant experience. - -With a smothered imprecation he sprang from the bed and seized the -astonished Fogson by the throat, while he shook him violently. - -"You--you--scoundrel!" he ejaculated. "I'll teach you to play such a -scurvy trick on a gentleman." - -Mr. Fogson screamed in fright. He did not catch his late victim's words, -and was still under the impression that it was Jed who had tackled him. - -Meanwhile the intruder was flinging him about and bumping him against -the floor so forcibly that Mrs. Fogson's attention was attracted. -Indeed, she was at the foot of the stairs, desiring to enjoy Jed's -dismay when drenched with the contents of the tin dipper. - -"What's the matter, Simeon?" she cried. - -"Jed's killing me!" called out Fogson in muffled tones. - -"You don't mean to say you ain't a match for that boy!" ejaculated Mrs. -Fogson scornfully. "I'll come up and help you." - -Disregarding her light attire she hurried up stairs, and was astonished -beyond measure when she saw how unceremoniously her husband was being -handled. She rushed to seize Jed, when she found her hands clutching a -mustache. - -"Why, it ain't Jed!" she screamed in dismay. - -"No, it ain't Jed," said the intruder. "Did you mean that soaking for -Jed, whoever he is?" - -"Yes, yes, it was--quite a mistake!" gasped Fogson. - -"I am glad to hear you say so, for I meant to fling you down stairs, -and might have broken your neck." - -"Oh, what a dreadful man!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. "How came you here -and where is Jed?" - -"I am here!" answered Jed, who had waked up two or three minutes -previous and was enjoying the defeat of his persecutor. - -"Did you bring in this man?" demanded Mrs. Fogson sternly. - -"No. I walked in myself," answered the intruder. "I was rather -mellow--in other words I had drunk too much mixed ale, and I really -didn't know where I was. I had an idea that this was a hotel." - -"You made a mistake, sir. This is the Scranton poorhouse." - -"So the boy told me when he came in. I wouldn't have taken a bed here if -I had known your playful way of pouring cold water on your guests." - -"Sir, apart from your assault on me, _me_, the master of the poorhouse," -said Fogson, trying to recover some of his lost dignity, "you committed -a trespass in entering the house without permission and appropriating a -bed." - -"All right, old man, but just remember that I was drunk." - -"I don't think that is an excuse." - -"Isn't it? Just get drunk yourself, and see what you'll do." - -"I don't allow Mr. Fogson to get drunk," said his wife with asperity. - -"Maybe my wife wouldn't let me, if there was any such a person, but I -haven't been so fortunate as Mr. Fogson, if that is his name." - -"Mrs. F.," said her husband with a sudden thought, "you are not dressed -for company." - -Mrs. Fogson, upon this hint, scuttled down stairs, and the intruder -resumed: "If I've taken a liberty I'm willing to apologize. What's more, -I'll pay you fifty cents for the use of your bed and stay the night -out." - -He was appealing to Mr. Fogson's weak point, which was a love of money. - -"I see you're ready to do the square thing," he said in softened -accents. "If you'll say seventy-five----" - -"No, I won't pay over fifty. I don't care to take it another night on -those terms, if I am to be waked up by a dipper of water. You've wet the -sheet and pillow so that I may take my death of cold if I sleep here any -longer." - -"I'll bring you a comforter which you can lay over the wet clothes." - -"All right! Bring it up and I'll hand you the fifty cents." - -"And--and if you would like breakfast in the morning, for the small -extra sum of twenty-five cents----" - -"Isn't that rather steep for a poorhouse breakfast?" - -"You will not eat with the paupers, of course, but at a private table, -with Mrs. Fogson and myself." - -"All right! Your offer is accepted." - -Mr. Fogson brought up the comforter, and the visitor resumed the -slumbers which had been so unceremoniously interrupted. - -The sun rose early, and when its rays crept in through the side window -both Jed and his companion were awake. - -"I say, boy, come over here and share my bed. I want to talk to you." - -Jed's curiosity was excited, and he accepted the invitation. - -He found his roommate to be a good-looking young man of perhaps thirty, -and with a pleasant expression. - -"So you are Jed?" he asked. - -"Yes, sir." - -"And you live in the poorhouse?" - -"Yes," answered Jed, half-ashamed to admit it, "but I don't mean to stay -here." - -"Good! A smart boy like you ought not to be a pauper. You are able to -earn your own living outside. But perhaps you are attached to the queer -people who made me a visit last night." - -"Not much!" answered Jed emphatically. - -"I don't admire them much myself. I didn't see the old lady. Is she -beautiful?" - -Jed laughed heartily. - -"You'll see her at the breakfast table," he said. "Then you can judge -for yourself." - -"I don't think I shall do anything to excite Fogson's jealousy. Zounds, -if this isn't the queerest hotel I ever struck. I am sorry to have -taken your bed from you." - -"I was glad not to be in it when Mr. Fogson came up." - -"You're right there," said the other laughing. "Whew! how the cold water -startled me. Sorry to have deprived you of it." - -"Mr. Fogson got a dose himself yesterday, only it was hot water." - -"You don't say so! Was that meant for you, too?" - -"Yes;" and Jed told the story of his struggle with Mr. Fogson, and his -wife's unfortunate interference. - -"That's a capital joke," said the visitor laughing. "Now I suppose you -wonder who I am." - -"Yes; I should like to know." - -"I'm Harry Bertram, the actor. I don't know if you ever heard of me." - -"I never attended the theatre in my life." - -"Is that so? Why, you're quite a heathen. Never went to a theatre? Well, -I _am_ surprised." - -"Is it a good business?" asked Jed. - -"Sometimes, if the play happens to catch on. When you are stranded five -hundred miles from home, and your salary isn't paid, it isn't exactly -hilarious." - -"Are you going to play anywhere near here?" asked Jed, who was beginning -to think he would like to see a performance. - -"We are billed to play in Duncan to-morrow evening, or rather this -evening, for it's morning now." - -"Duncan is only five miles away." - -"If you want to attend I'll give you a pass. It's the least I can do to -pay for turning you out of your bed." - -"I could walk the five miles," said Jed. - -"Then come. I'll see you at the door and pass you in. Ask for Harry -Bertram." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram." - -"Old Fogson won't make a fuss about your going, will he?" - -"Yes, he will; but I've made up my mind to leave the poorhouse, and I -might as well leave it to-day as any time." - -"Good! I admire your pluck." - -"I wish I knew what I could do to make a living." - -"Leave that to me. I'll arrange to have you travel with the show for -two or three days and bunk with me. Have you got any--any better clothes -than those?" and Bertram pointed to the dilapidated garments lying on a -chair near by. - -"Yes, I am promised a good suit by a friend of mine in the village. I'll -go there and put them on before starting." - -"Do; the actors sometimes look pretty tough, but I never saw one dressed -like that." - -"Jed!" screamed Mrs. Fogson from the bottom of the stairs. "You get -right up and come down stairs!" - -"They're calling me," said Jed, starting up. - -"Will I have to get up too?" - -"No; Mr. and Mrs. Fogson don't breakfast till seven. They'll send me up -to call you." - -"All right! We'll soon be travelling together where there are no -Fogsons." - -"I hope so," and Jed went down stairs with new life in his step. - - - - -CHAPTER IX. - -JED LEAVES THE POORHOUSE. - - -At eight o'clock Harry Bertram was summoned to breakfast in the private -sitting-room of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. In spite of the poor fare of which -the paupers complained the Fogsons took care themselves to have -appetizing meals, and the well-spread table looked really attractive. - -"Sit down here, Mr. Bertram," said Mrs. Fogson, pointing to a seat. The -place opposite was vacant, as the heads of the table were occupied by -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. - -"Mrs. Fogson," said the actor, "I am going to ask a favor." - -"What is it?" returned the lady, wreathing her features into a frosty -smile. - -"I see the seat opposite me is unoccupied. Will you oblige me by letting -the boy Jed take it?" - -Mrs. Fogson's face changed. - -"I should prefer not to have him here," she answered in a forbidding -tone. - -"Of course I propose to pay for his breakfast the same price that I pay -for my own." - -"The boy is insubordinate and disobedient," said the lady coldly. - -"Still he gave me his bed last night. Some boys would have objected." - -"My dear," said Fogson, whose weakness for money has already been -mentioned, "I think, as the gentleman has agreed to pay for Jed's -breakfast, we may give our consent, merely to gratify him." - -"Very well," answered Mrs. Fogson, resolved to claim the twenty-five -cents for herself. - -She rose from her seat, went to the window, and opening it, called to -Jed, who was at work in the yard. - -He speedily made his appearance. - -"Sit down to the table, Jedediah," said Mr. Fogson with dignity. "Mr. -Bertram desires you to breakfast with him." - -Jed was very much surprised, but as he noted the warm biscuit and -beefsteak, which emitted an appetizing odor, he felt that it was an -invitation not to be rejected. - -"I am very much obliged to Mr. Bertram," he said, "and also to you and -Mrs. Fogson." - -This was a politic remark to make, and he was served as liberally as the -guest. - -"Do you find your position a pleasant one, Mr. Fogson?" asked Bertram -politely. - -"No, Mr. Bertram, far from it. The paupers are a thankless, ungrateful -set, but I am sustained by a sense of duty." - -"The paupers were spoiled by our predecessors, Mr. and Mrs. Avery," -chimed in Mrs. Fogson. "Really, Mr. Bertram, you would be surprised to -learn how unreasonable they are. They are always complaining of their -meals." - -"I am sure they must be unreasonable if they complain of meals like -this, Mrs. Fogson," said the actor. - -"Of course we can't afford to treat them like this. The town would -object. But we give them as good fare as we can afford. Are you going to -stay long in Scranton?" - -"No; I am merely passing through. I shall sleep to-night at Duncan." - -"At the poorhouse?" asked Jed with a comical smile. - -"Yes, if I could be sure of as good fare as this," replied the actor -with an answering smile. "But that would be very doubtful." - -Mrs. Fogson, who, cross-grained as she was, was not above flattery, -mentally pronounced Mr. Bertram a most agreeable young man--in fact, a -perfect gentleman. - -"I am really ashamed," continued Bertram, "to have entered your house in -such a condition, but I was feeling a little internal disturbance, and -fancied that whisky would relieve it. Unfortunately I took too much." - -"It might have happened to anyone," said Fogson considerately. "I am -myself a temperance man, but sometimes I find whisky beneficial to my -health." - -Bertram, noticing the ruddy hue of Mr. Fogson's nose, was quite ready to -believe this statement. - -"May I ask if you are a business man?" remarked Fogson. - -"My business is acting. I belong to the Gold King Company, which is to -play at Duncan to-night." - -"Indeed!" said Mrs. Fogson, with a glance of curiosity. "I never saw an -actor before." - -"I am sorry you should see such an unworthy representative of the -Thespian art. If we were to play in Scranton, it would give me pleasure -to offer you and Mr. Fogson complimentary tickets." - -"I wish you were to play here," said Mrs. Fogson in a tone of regret. "I -haven't seen a play for five years." - -"I suppose you couldn't come to Duncan?" - -"No; we could not be spared. Besides, we have no horse and carriage," -said Fogson. "We must wait till you perform in Scranton." - -Jed was very much relieved to hear this remark, for it would have -interfered with his own plans if Mr. and Mrs. Fogson had accepted an -invitation to witness the play at Duncan. - -"Is it a good paying business?" asked Mr. Fogson. - -"Well, so so. My salary is fifty dollars a week." - -"You don't say so!" exclaimed Fogson in envious surprise. "You ought to -lay up money." - -"It seems so, but in the summer we generally have a long vacation. -Besides, we have to pay our hotel bills; so that, after all, we don't -have as much left as you would suppose. Besides, we have to buy our -costumes, and some of them are quite expensive." - -In spite of these drawbacks the Fogsons evidently looked upon Bertram as -a wealthy young man. - -At length they rose from the table. Jed had never before eaten such a -meal since he entered the poorhouse, and he felt in a degree envious of -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, who probably fared thus every day. When he -considered, however, how they nearly starved the poor people of whom -they had charge he felt indignant, and could not help wishing that some -time they might exchange places with the unfortunate paupers. - -He went out to the yard again, and resumed his work at the woodpile. -Harry Bertram strolled out and lazily watched him. - -"I suppose you never did work of this kind, Mr. Bertram?" said Jed. - -"Oh yes, I lived for nearly a year with an aunt who required me to -prepare all the wood for the kitchen stove. I can tell you one thing, -though, I did not enjoy it, and when I left her I retired forever from -that line of business." - -"Are you going to stay in Scranton to-day?" - -"No; I must be getting over to Duncan. We have taken on a new actor and -shall be obliged to have a rehearsal. Will you go along with me?" - -"I should like to, but it would only get me into trouble. I will start -about four o'clock, and go over to Dr. Redmond's to get the suit of -clothes he promised me." - -"I suppose you won't have to take a trunk of clothes from here?" - -"About all the clothes I own are on my back. If I leave any behind me, -anyone is welcome to them." - -"Do you think there will be any difficulty in your getting away?" - -"I think I can slip off without being noticed." - -"Do you think they will go after you?" - -"They might if they suspected where I was going." - -"Then I shall have to help you. Join me at the theatre, and it will go -hard if, between us, we cannot foil the enemy." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram. You are a real friend." - -"Some people say I am everybody's friend but my own. You can judge for -yourself about that when you know me better." - -Harry Bertram walked off whistling, and Jed was left to his reflections. -It is needless to say that he felt in an excited mood, for it seemed to -him that he had come to a turning-point in his life. As far back as he -could remember he had been an inmate of the Scranton poorhouse. - -When Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge he had not minded this much, such -was the kindness with which he was treated by those good people. But -when, through the influence of Squire Dixon, they were removed and Mr. -and Mrs. Fogson put in their place he began to feel the bitterness of -his position. The three months which had passed since then seemed to him -like so many years. But now he had resolved, once for all, to end his -thralldom, and go out into the great world and see what he could do for -himself. - -Circumstances favored him. - -About half-past three Mr. Fogson called him down. - -"I want you to go to Squire Dixon's and carry this letter," he said. - -Jed's heart leaped with joy. It at once occurred to him that Squire -Dixon lived only about twenty rods from Dr. Redmond, and that he could -call at the doctor's house after doing his errand. - -"Is there any answer?" he asked. - -"No; I have asked the squire to call here this evening, if he can. He is -the overseer, and I wish to consult him." - -"Very well, sir." - -Jed took the letter, glad that no answer would be required. Even if -there had been, he would have neglected to bring it, for he could not -afford to throw away this chance of escape. - -The distance from the poorhouse to Squire Dixon's residence was about -three-quarters of a mile. Jed covered it in less than fifteen minutes. - -In the front yard Percy Dixon was strutting about with the airy -consequence habitual to him. - -"What brings you here?" he asked rudely. - -"I've come with a note for your father. After I've delivered it I will -stop a little while and play with you if you want me to." - -"You needn't trouble yourself. I don't care to play with paupers." - -"Don't call me that again, Percy Dixon!" said Jed, his patience worn -out. - -"What will happen if I do?" demanded Percy tauntingly. - -"I may be obliged to give you a thrashing." - - - - -CHAPTER X. - -JED REACHES DUNCAN. - - -Percy Dixon's face flushed with resentment. - -"Do you know who you are talking to?" he demanded. - -"Yes," answered Jed coolly. "I am talking to a boy who thinks a great -deal more of himself than any one else does." - -"I would punish you, but I don't want to dirty my hands with you. I'll -tell my father, and he'll see that old Fogson flogs you." - -Jed smiled. He never meant to see Fogson again if he could help it, but -he was too wise to impart his plans to Percy. - -At this moment his father came up to the gate, and as he opened it his -attention was drawn to Jed. - -"Have you come here with any message for me?" he asked. - -"I have a note for you." - -"Give it to me." - -"Humph!" said the squire, casting his eye over the note. "Mr. Fogson -asks me to call this evening. I will do so." - -"Very well, sir." - -"Father," interrupted Percy, "there is to be a play performed at Duncan -this evening." - -"Is there?" - -"Yes; I saw a bill in the post-office. It's the 'Gold King,' I believe. -May I go?" - -"I don't know," said the squire, hesitating. "Mr. Fogson wants me to -call at the poorhouse." - -"If you don't care about going, I can drive mother and Alice over. You -know you promised we should attend the next theatrical performance -anywhere near." - -"If your mother and Alice would like to go I have no objection. You must -drive carefully, and you can leave the horses in the hotel stable." - -"All right," said Percy joyfully. "Did you ever go to a theatre?" he -asked Jed in a patronizing tone. - -"No." - -"I have been quite often," said Percy complacently. "But, of course, -paupers can't attend amusements." - -"You may change your mind this evening," thought Jed. - -Jed went at once to the doctor's house. Dr. Redmond had just arrived -from a round of visits. - -"Good morning, Jed," he said pleasantly. - -"Good morning, Dr. Redmond." - -"Do you want to see me?" - -"I have come to claim your promise," said Jed. - -"What is that?" - -"You promised me a suit of clothes when I got ready to leave the -poorhouse." - -Dr. Redmond's face instantly assumed a look of interest. - -"And you have decided to take this important step?" he said. - -"Yes, doctor. I am tired of being called a pauper. I am sure I can earn -my own living, and I mean to try it." - -"I don't know but you are right, Jed. At any rate, you have my best -wishes. Come into the house, and I will ask Mrs. Redmond to look up the -suit. If I am not mistaken you will need other things also--socks, -handkerchiefs, and underclothing." - -"I need them, no doubt, but I don't want to ask too much." - -"I think Mrs. Redmond can fit you out. And, by the way, I think you can -manage a little supper. In what direction are you going?" - -"To Duncan." - -"Why there, in particular?" - -"I have a friend there." - -"Who is it?" - -"Harry Bertram, the actor." - -Dr. Redmond looked surprised. - -"How did you get acquainted with him?" - -Jed told the story. The incident of Fogson's assault on the sleeping -actor and his defeat amused the doctor not a little. - -"He may be of service to you," he said. "At any rate, an actor sees a -good deal of the world, and he may be able to give you some advice. Now -put on your clothes and see what a transformation they will make." - -Mrs. Redmond took Jed up to a small chamber belonging to her absent -son, and laid the clothing on the bed, advising Jed to go into the -bathroom close by and take a good bath. - -When, half an hour or more later, he descended to the floor below, Dr. -Redmond started in surprise. In place of the poorhouse drudge there -stood before him a good-looking boy, attired in a brown suit, with clean -linen and his hair neatly brushed. Dr. and Mrs. Redmond exchanged -glances. - -"I wouldn't believe clothes made such a difference," exclaimed the -doctor. - -"Nor I," chimed in his wife. - -The same idea came into the mind of each. Jed's personal appearance -would do credit to any family, however exclusive. Yet he had been -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse, and associated with paupers all -his life. - -"I mustn't forget to give you your money," said the doctor, and he put a -roll of bills into Jed's hand. - -"But here is five dollars!" said Jed. "It was only two you had of mine." - -"Take the five. You will need it. It is small enough capital for a boy -to go forth into the world with to seek his fortune. Now how are you -going to Duncan?" - -"I am going to walk." - -"I am afraid you will get very tired," said Mrs. Redmond in a tone of -sympathy. - -"No, ma'am, it is only five miles." - -"And five miles is a trifle to a strong boy like Jed." - -"Won't you wait till after supper?" asked Mrs. Redmond. - -"No, thank you. It would get me there too late." - -"Then I will make up some sandwiches for you. Your walk will make you -hungry." - -Jed started with a small valise in which were packed some extra -underclothing, and he carried in his hand a substantial lunch wrapped in -paper. - -It was far better than the supper which he missed at the poorhouse. - -He was rather afraid of meeting some one whom he knew, particularly -Percy Dixon, who he was sure would be delighted to thwart his plan by -reporting him; but fortunately he escaped observation. He passed two men -whom he knew very well, but in his new dress they did not know him. - -Jed had walked about half way when a man in a top buggy overtook him, -and, stopping his horse, called out, "Is this the road to Duncan?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Is it a straight road all the way?" - -"Not quite, sir. There are one or two turns." - -"I am sorry to hear it. I am not acquainted hereabouts, and I shouldn't -like to lose my way. Are you going to Duncan?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Then jump in, unless you prefer walking. With a good guide I shall be -all right." - -"I would rather ride, and I will accept your invitation with pleasure." - -"Then we are both suited." - -Jed's new acquaintance was a stout man of middle age, with a prompt, -alert manner, and looked like a business man. He had a quick, impulsive -way with him. - -"Are you travelling?" he asked, noticing Jed's valise. - -"Yes, sir." - -"Going to see the world, eh?" - -"I'm going in search of a living, sir," answered Jed. - -"Got parents?" - -"No, sir. I'm alone in the world." - -"Well, you've got a tough job before you." - -"Yes, sir, I don't doubt it; but I am young and healthy, and I think I -ought to be able to earn my living. Are you a business man?" - -"No, not exactly. Why do you ask?" - -"I thought you might have a place for me if you were." - -"I am not in the right sort of business for you, my lad. I am the -manager of the Gold King Dramatic Company." - -"Then you are acquainted with Harry Bertram?" said Jed eagerly. - -"Yes, he is one of my actors. What do you know of Harry Bertram?" - -"He slept in the same room with me last night. He told me to come to -Duncan, and he would see what he could do for me." - -"Ha, indeed! Well, Harry is a good fellow, and a good friend. He has -one fault. He is a little too convivial." - -"Yes, sir; I thought so. Is he a good actor?" - -"Excellent in his line. He gets a very good salary, but I am afraid he -doesn't save very much of it. Are you going to see the play this -evening?" - -"Yes; Mr. Bertram thought he could get me in." - -"You won't need to ask him for a pass. Here is one;" and the manager -scribbled on a leaf from his note-book - - - _Admit Bearer._ - MORDAUNT. - - -"Thank you, sir," said Jed, as he pocketed the pass. "I suppose you are -Mr. Mordaunt?" - -"John Mordaunt, manager of the Gold King Company. In my humbler days I -was known to my friends as Jack Mordaunt." - -By this time they had reached Duncan, and drove at once to the hotel. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. - -JED'S FIRST APPEARANCE ON THE STAGE. - - -Several gentlemen were sitting on the piazza in front of the hotel. -Among them was Jed's acquaintance of the night before, Harry Bertram. - -When he saw Mr. Mordaunt in the buggy he advanced to greet him. - -"I am glad to see you, Mr. Mordaunt," he said. "I wanted to consult -you." - -"Any hitch, Bertram?" asked the manager. - -"Yes. Young Clinton is sick and can't play to-night." - -"What's the matter with the boy?" - -"He is threatened with fever." - -"Couldn't he play to-night? His part is a small one, but it is -important." - -"The doctor absolutely forbids his appearing on the stage." - -"That is awkward. If we were in the city we might get a substitute, but -a common country boy would make a mess of the part." - -"You have a boy with you. Do you think he would do?" - -"You have known him longer than I. I refer the matter to you." - -"Why, it's Jed!" exclaimed Bertram, examining our hero closely. - -"Didn't you know me, Mr. Bertram?" asked Jed smilingly. - -"Who could, with such a change of dress? You must have met some good -fairy. And how did you fall in with Mr. Mordaunt?" - -"He kindly offered me a ride." - -"Then you have left Scranton for good?" - -"For good, I hope. If I can help you in any way I will do my best." - -"Try him, Bertram," said the manager. "He is very presentable. Take him -in hand, and see if you can't get him ready to take Ralph Clinton's -place." - -"Then no time is to be lost. Come up to my room, Jed, and I will tell -you what you are expected to do--that is, if you have had supper." - -"I ate my supper on the road before I fell in with Mr. Mordaunt." - -"Follow me, then, Jed." - -Harry Bertram led the way to a comfortable chamber on the second floor. - -"Now sit down, and I'll tell you what you will have to do. First, do you -think you have the nerve to stand before an audience and play the part -of a telegraph boy?" - -"Yes, sir. I am not troubled with bashfulness." - -"Have you ever spoken in public?" - -"Yes, at school examinations." - -"Then I think you'll do. Here is your part." - -He handed Jed a small manuscript book containing the lines of his rôle, -with the cues. - -"You see it isn't long. I may be able to give you a little rehearsal, as -you appear only in the first and last acts." - -The next half hour was devoted to teaching Jed his part. Bertram was -delighted with the aptitude shown by his pupil. - -"Have you never attended a theatre?" he asked, almost incredulously. - -"Never, Mr. Bertram." - -"Then I can only say that you have the dramatic instinct, luckily for -us. If you are sure you won't be afraid before the footlights, you'll -do." - -"Then I shall do," said Jed. "I never should think of being nervous." - -"One thing more--nothing will be said of any substitution. To the -audience you will be Ralph Clinton, as put down on the bill." - -"That will suit me. I am afraid if I were announced as JED, THE -POORHOUSE BOY, it wouldn't help you," continued Jed with a smile. - -"You may have to continue in the part a week or more. As to the pay, I -can't speak of that yet. Mr. Mordaunt will arrange with you." - -"If I can earn my board I shall be satisfied." - -"I can promise you that, and fully as good board as you have been -accustomed to." - -"I hope it won't be worse," said Jed laughing. - -"When you go to the theatre I will see if Ralph Clinton's uniform will -fit you. I haven't much doubt on that point, as you seem to be about the -same size." - -The performance was to commence at eight. Harry Bertram and his protégé -went to the hall, which was to be used as a theatre, early, so that Jed -might be introduced to his fellow-actors and receive a little -instruction as to the business of his part. - -He was very quick to comprehend, and forgot nothing, so that Bertram -felt quite easy in regard to him, though it was his first appearance on -any stage. - -Jed was very well received by the other members of the company, all of -whom expressed satisfaction at having the gap so quickly filled. - -"I am glad to make your acquaintance, my boy," said George Osprey, the -leading man. "Where have you played?" - -"Nowhere, sir. This is my first appearance." - -"I hope you won't funk." - -"If that means break down, I am sure I won't." - -"Good! Your confidence will pull you through." - -"Mr. Osprey, introduce me, please," lisped an elderly young lady, of -affected manners. - -"This is Miss Celesta Raffles,Mr.----, I don't think I know your name." - -"Jed Gilman, but I believe I am to be billed as Ralph Clinton." - -"I am delighted to meet you, Mr. Gilman," said Miss Raffles. "I am sure -you will be an honor to our noble profession." - -"I hope so, Miss Raffles," said Jed smilingly, "but I shall be able to -tell better to-morrow." - -"I always sympathize with youth--with impulsive, enthusiastic youth," -gushed Miss Raffles. - -"If they are of the male sex," interpolated Mr. Osprey. "Mr. Gilman, I -must warn you that Miss Raffles is a dangerous woman. She will do her -best to make an impression on your heart." - -"Oh, you wicked slanderer!" said the delighted Celesta. "Mr. Gilman, I -am not dangerous at all. I will merely ask you to look upon me as your -sister--your elder sister." - -"Thank you, Miss Raffles," said Jed, showing a tact and self-possession -hardly to be expected of one with his training. "Is Mr. Osprey one of -your brothers?" - -"Yes, she told me that she would be a sister to me. I have never--never -recovered from the blow." - -"I may change my mind," said Celesta, who admired the handsome leading -man. "If you try again, you may meet with better success----" - -"No," answered Osprey warily. "I never ask the same favor a second time. -I leave you to Mr. Gilman. May you be happy, my children!" - -As Celesta Raffles looked to be thirty-five, and Jed was but sixteen, he -was a good deal amused, but Miss Raffles was disposed to take the matter -in earnest. - -"Don't let him prejudice you against me, Mr. Gilman!" she murmured. "We -shall soon be better acquainted, I am sure. Do you know, I am to be your -mother in the play? It is a little absurd, as I am only twenty-three, -but we have to do strange things on the stage." - -"She's thirty-six if she's a day," whispered Osprey, "but if you want to -keep in her good graces you must believe her own reports of her age." - -"Time to dress, Jed!" said Harry Bertram. "It will take you longer than -usual, as it is the first time. Your nerve won't fail you, will it?" - -Jed shook his head. - -"I feel as cool as ever I did," he answered. - -Fortunately the telegraph boy's uniform fitted him exactly. He hardly -knew himself as he looked at his reflection in the little mirror in his -dressing-room. - -"I wonder if Mr. and Mrs. Fogson would recognize me if they should see -me on the stage?" thought Jed. - -Then it occurred to him that Percy Dixon and his mother would be -present. He smiled to himself as he thought of Percy's bewilderment when -he saw him under such a strange change of circumstances. - -It is not necessary to give the plot of the Gold King. It is sufficient -to say that Jed, the telegraph boy, had been stolen from his parents in -early life, the Gold King being his father. He is obliged to earn his -own living as a boy, but in the last act he is restored to his friends -and his old station in life. - -In the first act Jed appeared in his predecessor's uniform. In the last -he wore his own suit, this being quite as well adapted to the character -as Ralph Clinton's street costume. - -Mrs. Dixon and Percy occupied seats in the third row from the front. -They always paid the highest prices, and secured the most eligible -seats. - -At the end of ten minutes Jed's cue was called and he appeared on the -stage. Percy, who was watching the play with the greatest attention, -started in amazement when he saw the boy actor. - -"Mother," he whispered, "that boy is the perfect image of Jed, the -poorhouse boy." - -"Is he, indeed? Very singular, on my word!" - -"And he has the same voice," continued Percy, still more excited. - -"But I suppose it can't be he," said Mrs. Dixon inquiringly. - -"No, I think not," answered Percy. "Jed doesn't know anything about -acting, and this boy is perfectly at home on the stage." - -This was indeed true. Jed was quite self-possessed. Moreover, he never -hesitated for a word or stumbled, but was letter-perfect. His scene was -with George Osprey, as member of a fashionable club, who had inquired -into his history. "Yes," said Jed, repeating his part, "yes, Mr. -Glendower, I am a poor boy, but those who look down upon me will one day -find their mistake--they may find that the poor telegraph boy whom they -once despised is able to look down upon them." - -As he uttered these words, Jed, perhaps intentionally, let his glance -rest on Percy Dixon, while the latter gazed at him open-mouthed. - -"I believe it is Jed, after all, mother!" he ejaculated. - - - - -CHAPTER XII. - -PERCY DIXON IS BEWILDERED. - - -At the end of the first act Jed and George Osprey were called before the -curtain. Jed had been instructed to bow his thanks, and did so. Percy -watched his face eagerly, for this brought Jed within a few feet of him. - -"Mother," he said, "if that boy isn't Jed, it is his twin brother." - -"But, Percy," said his mother, who was a practical woman, "I never heard -that the boy had a twin brother." - -"Oh, pshaw! I meant that he is exactly like him." - -"But this boy is Ralph Clinton. The bill says so." - -"I know it," said Percy, with a puzzled expression. "I don't understand -it at all." - -"The boy you mean is probably in bed at the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Perhaps he is. I don't see, for my part, how he could be here, or know -how to act." - -The play proceeded. It was in five acts, and Jed was not called upon to -appear again till the last one. He proved himself up to the requirements -of the part, and evidently produced a favorable impression on the -audience. - -"Mother," said Percy, "I would like to wait at the stage door till the -actors come out." - -"But, Percy, it is already late. We ought to be starting for home." - -"But, mother, you know father is Overseer of the Poor, and if this boy -is Jed, he has run away from the Scranton poorhouse, and father will be -held responsible." - -"Why should he?" - -"Because the paupers are under his charge. If one of them runs away he -will be blamed." - -"Well, if you think we ought to stop," said the lady undecidedly. "But I -don't see what you expect to accomplish." - -"I want to see that boy face to face. I want to speak to him, and find -out for certain who he is." - -"Well, don't be any longer than you can help." - -"I won't." - -Meanwhile Jed and Harry Bertram were conversing in the greenroom. - -"You did yourself proud, my boy," said Bertram. "You acted as well as -Clinton, and in some respects better." - -"I am glad to hear you say so, Mr. Bertram," said Jed, gratified. - -"I could hardly believe that this was your first appearance on the -stage. Weren't you frightened at all?" - -"Not a bit. I enjoyed it." - -"Did you see any of your Scranton friends in the audience?" - -"I saw none of my Scranton _friends_," answered Jed, "but I saw two -Scranton acquaintances." - -"Who were they?" - -"Percy Dixon, son of the Overseer of the Poor, and his mother." - -"Where were they sitting?" - -"In the third row from the stage." - -"Do you think they recognized you?" - -"I saw Percy watching me very closely I am sure he noticed my -resemblance to his old acquaintance Jed, but he couldn't understand how -it was possible for me to be the same boy." - -"Then you baffled him?" - -"I don't know. I shouldn't wonder if he would be waiting outside to get -a view of me." - -"And if he does?" - -"He will do all he can to get me back to the poorhouse." - -"Then I'll tell you what to do. Go out of the stage door arm in arm with -me, and I will address you as Ralph. If he speaks, appear not to know -him." - -"That will be a capital joke," said Jed taking in the humor of the -situation. - -"Between us, I think we can bluff him off." - -Jed had appeared in the last act in his street costume, and had no -preparations to make, but Bertram had to exchange his stage for his -ordinary dress. When they were ready they emerged from the stage door -arm in arm. A glance showed Jed that Percy was waiting to intercept -him. He did not appear to notice Percy, but passed on. - -Percy hastened forward, and touched him on the arm. - -"Look here, I want to speak to you," he said. - -"Speak on, my boy," said Jed, assuming the style of his new profession. - -"How did you come here?" demanded Percy bluntly. - -"What do you mean?" - -"I mean that you are Jed Gilman." - -"My dear Ralph, what does this person mean?" said Bertram. - -"He evidently mistakes me for some one he knows," said Jed coolly. "May -I ask your name, young man?" - -"You know me well enough," said Percy angrily, for Jed had not tried to -change his voice. "I am Percy Dixon." - -"Percy Dixon?" repeated Jed. "Where have I met you?" - -"Where have you met me?" retorted Percy. "At the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Do you reside there?" asked Jed with admirable composure. - -"Do I live at the poorhouse?" repeated Percy, exasperated. "Of course I -don't." - -Mrs. Dixon had heard this colloquy, as she was sitting in the carriage -only six feet away. - -"Percy," she said, "I told you you had made a mistake." - -"I don't believe I have," said Percy in a sulky tone. - -"For whom do you take me, Mr. Dixon?" asked Jed. - -"For Jed Gilman, a poorhouse boy." - -"I feel very much complimented," said Jed smoothly. "I hope Jed is a -nice boy." - -"No, he isn't. He is an impudent young rascal." - -"Then how dare you compare my friend Ralph to a boy like that?" demanded -Bertram savagely. "You must be crazy, or do you mean to deliberately -insult him?" - -Poor Percy was overwhelmed. He wasn't half so certain now that he was -right. True, there was a wonderful resemblance between the young actor -and Jed, but then it seemed impossible that Jed should have left the -poorhouse suddenly (and Percy remembered seeing him that very afternoon -at his own home) and developed into a member of a dramatic company. - -"I may have made a mistake," he said doubtfully. - -"I am glad you realize this possibility," said Bertram. "Did you witness -the play this evening?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Do you think your friend Jed----" - -"He is not my friend." - -"Well, do you think that Jed, whatever he is, could act like my friend -Ralph?" - -"No, I don't think he could," Percy admitted. - -"Probably this Jed is a very ordinary boy?" - -"I should say so. Ordinary is no name for it. He is stupid." - -"Then you will see for yourself that it is not very likely that he -should become an accomplished actor all at once. If it were you it might -be different. You are evidently a young man of social position, while -this Jed is a poor boy, and I presume without education." - -"Yes, he is very ignorant," answered Percy, falling into the trap. "Is -it--hard to learn to act?" he added. - -"Not if you have talent and education. Do you think of trying the -stage?" - -"I might some time," said Percy, flattered by the question. - -"If you do, I hope you will succeed. Now, Mr. Dixon, I must bid you good -night, as my friend Ralph and myself are fatigued with our acting and -must get to bed." - -"Good evening!" said Jed, raising his hat gravely. - -"Good evening!" returned Percy, more puzzled than ever. - -He jumped into the carriage and started to drive home. - -"Then it wasn't Jed?" said his mother. - -"I suppose not," answered Percy, "but I never in all my life saw such a -resemblance." - -"Very likely," replied Mrs. Dixon placidly. "There was a woman in -Trenton who looked just like me, so that no one could tell us apart." - -"Yes," admitted Percy; "I must be mistaken. This boy had a very nice -suit on, while Jed was dressed in rags." - -When they reached home Squire Dixon was abed and asleep. Percy came down -late to breakfast. - -"By the way, Percy," said his father, as he helped him to breakfast, -"Fogson has just been over to report that the boy Jed has mysteriously -disappeared. He never went back after bringing me the message yesterday -afternoon." - -Percy dropped his knife and fork and stared at his father in open-eyed -amazement. - -"Then it was Jed, after all!" he exclaimed. - - - - -CHAPTER XIII. - -FOGSON IN PURSUIT. - - -"What do you mean, Percy?" asked Squire Dixon, referring to his son's -exclamation at the close of the preceding chapter. "Do you know anything -of Jed?" - -"Yes; I saw him last evening at Duncan." - -"But what took him there? What was he doing?" - -"He was on the stage. He was playing in 'The Gold King.'" - -"What do you mean by this absurd statement?" demanded his father -angrily. - -"It is true. Ask mother if it isn't." - -"I think Percy is right," said Mrs. Dixon. "The young actor bears a -wonderful resemblance to the boy Jed." - -"But Jed doesn't know anything about acting." - -"That is why I thought I was mistaken. But if Jed has run away it must -be he." - -"Why didn't you manage to speak to him after the play?" - -"I did, and he denied that he was Jed. He calls himself Ralph Clinton." - -"Really, this is a most surprising circumstance," said the squire. "The -boy is a hardened young villain. His running away from those who are -lawfully set over him in authority is a most audacious and highhanded -outrage." - -"That's what I think," chimed in Percy. "What shall you do about it? -Shan't you go after him?" - -"I think it my duty to do so. As soon as breakfast is over, ask Mr. -Fogson to come round here. Tell him I have news of the fugitive." - -Three-quarters of an hour later Simeon Fogson was admitted into the -august presence of the Overseer of the Poor. - -"I hear you have news of Jed Gilman," he said. "That is what your son -Percy tells me." - -"It is true, Mr. Fogson. The young scapegrace has joined a company of -actors. What is he coming to?" - -"To the gallows, I think," answered Fogson. "But how did you learn -this?" - -"Percy saw him on the stage last evening." - -"And he actually played a part?" - -"Yes." - -"In his ragged suit?" - -"No," answered Percy. "He had a telegraph boy's suit first, and -afterwards a nice brown suit--as nice as mine." - -"Where did he get 'em?" asked Fogson. - -"That's the question!" returned the squire solemnly. "There is a strange -mystery about the boy's goings on. Have you observed anything queer in -his conduct of late?" - -"I have noticed that he has been unusually impudent. Ha, I have it!" -said Fogson, suddenly, slapping his thigh. - -"What have you?" asked Percy. - -"There was an actor stayed at the poorhouse night before last--an actor -named Bertram. It is he that has lured Jed astray." - -"There was an actor by that name in the play last evening." - -"Then that settles it. Squire Dixon, what shall I do?" - -"I think, Mr. Fogson, you had better go at once to Duncan--I will lend -you my buggy--and secure the boy, tying him hand and foot, if necessary, -and take him back to the poorhouse." - -Simeon Fogson smiled grimly. It was an errand that suited him. - -"I will do so," he said, "and I will lose no time." - -"Don't ask for Jed Gilman," suggested Percy. "Ask for Ralph Clinton. -That's the name he goes by now." - -Mr. Fogson drew out a stub of a lead-pencil and put down this name. In -twenty minutes he was on his way, and an hour later he drew up in front -of the hotel in Duncan. - -He left the buggy and entered the public room of the inn. - -"Is there such a boy as Ralph Clinton here?" he asked the clerk. - -"Yes; do you want to see him?" - -"I should like very much to see him," answered Fogson grimly. - -"He is in No. 12. Jim, show the gentleman up. He is sick." - -Fogson nodded. - -"I dare say," he added significantly. "I guess his acting made him -sick." - -"Yes, that's what I heard. Is he your son?" - -"No, but I am his guardian." - -Fogson was quite elated at so easily getting on the track of the -fugitive. - -"Sick!" he repeated to himself, as he ascended the staircase. "I guess -he'll be sick before he gets through with me." - -The servant knocked at No. 12, and a boy's voice was heard to say "Come -in!" - -The door was opened, and Fogson, rushing in, grasped the arm of a boy -sitting in a rocking-chair. - -"I've got you, you young rascal!" he exclaimed. - -"What do you mean, you lunatic?" demanded the boy in a clear voice, -higher pitched than was Jed's. - -Then for the first time Fogson, who was shortsighted, found out that the -boy was not Jed, but a youth of lighter complexion and slighter -physique. - -He fell back in confusion. - -"I was told you were Ralph Clinton," he explained, looking rather -foolish. - -"I am Ralph Clinton." - -"But I want Jed Gilman." - -"Then why don't you look for Jed Gilman? What have I got to do with -him?" - -"Do you act with the Gold King Company?" - -"Yes, when I am well." - -"Did you act last evening?" - -"No; there was another boy that took my place." - -"That's the one I want. He ran away from me." - -"Are you his father?" - -"No, I'm his guardian." - -"I don't like your looks," said Ralph, who was a very free-spoken young -man. "I don't blame him for running away from you." - -Fogson scowled. - -"I believe you're as bad as he," he growled. "There's one thing -sure--I'm going to get the boy back. Where is he?" - -"On the road, I expect. He will take my place till I get well." - -"Not much, he won't. Have the rest of the actors left Duncan?" - -"You'd better ask down stairs. I'm not going to help you get the boy -back." - -Fogson had nothing to do but to go down again to the public room. The -clerk told him that the company were to play that evening at Bolton, -twelve miles away, and were probably there now, having taken the morning -train. - -"Twelve miles away!" thought Fogson in dismay. "I can't drive so far as -that. Squire Dixon wouldn't like to have me drive his horse so many -miles. What shall I do?" - -This was a question easier asked than answered. If he had not been -burdened with the horse and buggy he would have taken the next train for -Bolton. As it was, he didn't feel at liberty to do this. - -He wished Squire Dixon were at hand, so that he might ask his advice, -for he felt quite unable to decide for himself what was best to be done. -As he stood beside his team in a state of indecision he heard the sound -of approaching wheels, and looking up, recognized Dr. Redmond's -carriage. - -"What brings you to Duncan, Mr. Fogson?" asked the doctor with a -peculiar smile. - -"I've come after that rascal Jed." - -"Is he here?" asked the doctor innocently. - -"He has run away from the poorhouse and joined some strolling players. -He played in the theatre last evening." - -"Did he, indeed?" asked the doctor, really surprised. "He must be a -smart boy to take up acting so suddenly." - -"He is a very impudent boy." - -"Is he? Then I should think you would be glad to get rid of him." - -"I don't mean to let him off so easily. I'm going to bring him back to -the poorhouse, and when I get hold of him I'll----" - -Mr. Fogson nodded his head significantly. It was clear that he intended -that the way of the transgressor should be hard. - -"It strikes me, Mr. Fogson, that you are acting in a very foolish -manner," said the doctor. - -"Why am I?" - -"I will tell you. Jed has got tired of being supported by the town, and -he has taken the matter into his own hands. In other words, he proposes -to relieve the town of the expense of his maintenance. The town will -doubtless be glad to have one dependent less on its hands. You appear to -want to get him back, and make the town once more responsible for his -support. Is it not so?" - -Fogson looked blank. The matter had never presented itself to him in -that light before. - -"You certainly won't make yourself very popular by this action," -proceeded Dr. Redmond. "As a good citizen you ought to be glad that the -town's expenses are lessened." - -"Would you have me let the boy go?" Fogson ejaculated. - -"Certainly, I would. Jed is able to support himself, and there is no -earthly reason for keeping him in the poorhouse. I advise you to -represent the matter to Squire Dixon, and see what he thinks about it." - -Mr. Fogson drove home slowly. He found it hard to have Jed escape from -his clutches, but Squire Dixon, upon consultation, reluctantly decided -that perhaps it was best to drop the matter then and there. No one was -more disappointed over this decision than Percy Dixon. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV. - -JED'S LUCK. - - -Jed continued to act in the part assigned to him. He knew that he was -liable to be superseded at any time by Ralph Clinton, but he did not -care to borrow trouble. - -As a matter of fact, however, he was allowed to play till the end of the -season, but this was not very far off. Warm weather had set in, and -audiences became small. - -One day Harry Bertram called Jed aside. - -"Well, Jed," he said, "I am afraid we must part." - -"Why, Mr. Bertram?" - -"The weather has become so warm that we are no longer paying expenses. -Mr. Mordaunt has decided to close the season on Saturday night." - -Jed looked blank. He didn't know what would come next. - -"I thought we might hold out another week, and we might if the weather -had remained comfortable, but people won't come to see 'The Gold King' -or any other play when the thermometer stands at eighty degrees." - -"What shall you do, Mr. Bertram?" - -"Fall back on my trade, if possible." - -"What is that?" - -"I am a telegraph operator, and I may be able to fill in the summer in -some Western Union office. I have to work at summer prices, but as long -as I make my board and lodging I shall be content." - -"I wish _I_ had a trade," said Jed thoughtfully. - -"You don't feel like going back to your old home?" - -"In the Scranton poorhouse? Not much!" answered Jed energetically. "I'll -starve first. Have you got any place engaged?" - -"No, but I have worked two summers at Sea Spray, an Atlantic coast -summer resort. I shall go there and see if there is an opening." - -"Is it far away?" - -"About fifty miles. I'll tell you what, Jed, you had better come with -me. Something may turn up for you." - -"What is the fare, Mr. Bertram?" - -"About a dollar and a half. You will have some money coming to you. You -haven't been paid anything yet, have you?" - -"No; I didn't suppose I was entitled to any." - -"You will get something. I will speak to the treasurer and arrange -matters for you." - -Accordingly on Saturday evening, after the last performance, Jed was -made happy by receiving twelve dollars, or at the rate of four dollars -per week for the time he had been employed. - -"Mr. Mordaunt directs me to say that he would pay you more if the -business would permit," said the treasurer. - -"Tell him this is more than I expected," said Jed elated. - -"That isn't professional," remarked Bertram smiling. "Actors generally -claim to be worth a good deal more than they are paid." - -"I haven't been on the stage long enough to be professional," said Jed. - -Early on Monday morning Jed and his friend Bertram took the cars for -Sea Spray. As they neared the coast, the ocean breeze entered cool and -refreshing through the open windows. Presently the cars stopped, only -two hundred feet from the bluff, and Jed for the first time gazed with -delight at the Atlantic billows rolling in on the beach. - -"This is beautiful!" he exclaimed. "I hope I can stay here all summer." - -"Have you never seen the sea before?" - -"No; I have never travelled before. All my life has been spent at -Scranton." - -"Take a walk with me along Ocean Avenue, and I will see what chance -there is of my obtaining employment." - -Harry Bertram made his way to the principal hotel, where he knew there -was a Western Union office. He told Jed to sit down in the reading-room -while he sought for information. - -In ten minutes he came back with a smile of satisfaction on his face. - -"I am in great luck," he said. "The operator here has just been summoned -home by the serious illness of his father in Chicago. He was -considering whom he could get to take his place when I presented myself. -The result is that I am engaged to take charge of the telegraph office -at twelve dollars a week and my board." - -"Then you are provided for." - -"Yes. I can get through the summer very well." - -"I should think so. You will have the twelve dollars a week clear." - -"No; I must get a room outside. However, my predecessor has recommended -his--in a private house about a quarter of a mile from the shore--at -only four dollars a week." - -"Then I suppose we must part," said Jed with a tinge of sadness. - -"No, Jed. You shall room with me, and your room will cost you nothing. -As to meals, I can see you through till you secure some work." - -"But I don't want to be a burden upon you, Mr. Bertram." - -"I don't mean that you shall be, any longer than is necessary. It will -go hard if a boy like you can't find something to do that will buy his -meals at a crowded watering-place." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram. I have money enough left to buy my meals for -two weeks at least." - -"If we were at a regular office I could employ you as messenger, but -most of the messages will come to guests in the hotel." - -"I don't know exactly what I can do, but I am ready to do anything." - -"Except black boots," said Bertram with a smile. - -"I don't think I should like to do that if there is anything else to be -found." - -"I couldn't think of allowing a member of our honorable profession to -undertake such menial employment." - -Harry Bertram went to work that evening. Jed kept him company in the -office a part of the time, and during the three succeeding days went -from one hotel to another to see if he could obtain anything to do. - -But every position had been filled for the season. Jed began to fear -that there was no work for him at Sea Spray. - -On the fourth morning, as he was sitting with Bertram, a gentleman whom -he had several times seen--a guest of the house--approached them. - -"Is this boy your brother?" he asked of Bertram. - -"No, but he is my valued friend. In fact, I may call myself his guardian -for the time being." - -"Yes," assented Jed with a smile. - -"He does not assist you?" - -"No, he knows nothing of telegraphy." - -"Would you like employment?" asked the gentleman, turning to Jed. - -"I am very anxious to get work," said Jed quickly. - -"Then I think I may be able to meet your wishes. How old are you?" - -"Sixteen." - -"You may have seen a boy of ten walking about with me?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"He is my son. He and I are here alone, but until yesterday I had a -nurse in my employ whose sole business was to look after Chester. I -felt entire confidence in her, but discovered last evening that she had -purloined some jewelry belonging to me. Of course I discharged her -instantly, and in consequence am obliged to find some one in her place. - -"Chester objects to another nurse. It hurts his boyish pride to have a -woman accompanying him everywhere. It appears to me that a boy old -enough to look after him will suit him much better. But perhaps you -would not like being encumbered with a small boy?" - -"I should like it very much, sir," said Jed. "I like young boys, and I -am sure I should like your son." - -"Come up stairs, then. I will see how he likes you." - -Jed followed his new acquaintance up to a suite of two rooms on the -second floor. A young boy was at the window. He looked inquiringly at -his father and Jed. - -"Come here, Chester," said the former. "Are you quite sure you don't -want another nurse?" - -"Yes," answered the boy. "Some of the boys in the hotel call me 'sissy' -because I have a girl always with me." - -"Would you prefer this boy?" - -Chester took a long, close look at Jed, who met his glance with a smile. - -"Yes," said the little boy confidently. "I shall like him much better -than a girl." - -"That settles it," said Mr. Holbrook in a tone of satisfaction. "What is -your name?" - -"Jed Gilman." - -"What was your last employment?" - -"I took the boy's part in 'The Gold King.'" - -"Are you an actor?" asked Chester, much interested. - -"Not much of one." - -"You must have some talent," remarked Mr. Holbrook, "or Mr. Mordaunt, -who is a manager of reputation, would not have employed you. Is your -season over?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I think you will suit me. I am obliged to be in New York every day on -business, and this leaves Chester alone. I wish you to act as his -companion, to go with him on the beach and in bathing, and to look -after him while I am away. Are you boarding here?" - -"No, sir; I could not afford it." - -"I shall arrange to have you take meals here with Chester, but after -eight o'clock in the evenings you will be your own master. Now as to the -matter of compensation. Will ten dollars a week satisfy you?" - -"Ten dollars a week and my meals?" - -"Yes." - -"I didn't expect so much." - -"I like to pay liberally, and expect to be well served." - -"When shall I commence, sir?" - -"At once. I want to take the next train for the city. As I go down -stairs I will tell them that you are to take your meals here. Now, -Chester, I will leave you with your new friend, as I have barely time to -reach the next train for New York." - - - - -CHAPTER XV. - -TWO ODD ACQUAINTANCES. - - -"Ten dollars a week!" repeated Harry Bertram, to who Jed communicated -his good luck. "Why, that is famous!" - -"Ten dollars a week and my meals!" - -"Better still. That is better than acting." - -"I don't know how I shall suit Mr. Holbrook." - -"You will suit him if you suit the boy." - -By this time Chester made his appearance. - -"I want to walk on the beach," he said. "Come, Jed." - -And the boy put his hand confidingly in that of Jed. - -They descended the steps that led from the bluff to the beach, and -walked leisurely up and down on the sand. Presently Chester expressed a -wish to sit down, and before long was engaged with a small wooden spade -in making a sand fortification. - -Relieved from duty, since his young charge could come to no harm, Jed -had leisure to watch the crowds passing him in both directions. - -Presently a thin, dark-complexioned man, of perhaps thirty-five, after -walking up and down the beach, came to a stop, and, apparently without -motive, seated himself on the sand beside Chester and his youthful -guardian. - -"A pleasant day," he remarked, looking at Jed. - -"Yes," answered Jed politely. - -He was not favorably impressed by the stranger's appearance, but -recognized the claims of courtesy. - -"Is this little boy your brother?" - -"No," answered Jed. - -"I thought perhaps you brought him down to the beach." - -"I did." - -"I have seen him about before--with a girl." - -"That was Clara, my old nurse," said Chester, who caught the drift of -the conversation. "I haven't got any nurse now," he added proudly. "I -saw you talking to Clara one day," he added, after a closer examination -of the stranger's features. - -"Oh, no, my little boy!" said the man, seeming annoyed. "I don't know -Clara, as you call her." - -"Then you look just like the man that was talking with her." - -The stranger opened his mouth and smiled unpleasantly. - -"I dare say there are people that look like me," he said, "though I -can't say I ever met one. What is your name, my little friend?" - -"I am not your friend," said Chester, who did not appear favorably -impressed by his new acquaintance. - -"My little enemy, then." - -"My name is Chester Holbrook." - -"And how old are you?" - -"Ten years old. How old are you?" - -Again the man's lips opened in an unpleasant smile. - -"You have an inquiring mind, Chester," he said. "I am--thirty years -old." - -"You look older than that." - -"I am afraid that is not polite, Chester," said Jed gently. - -"Why isn't it?" asked Chester innocently. - -"People don't like to be thought older than they are." - -"Oh, never mind," said the dark man. "A child is licensed to say what he -pleases. So he is your charge?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I don't think I have seen you here before. Have you known Mr. Holbrook -long?" - -"No." Then upon the impulse of the moment Jed inquired, "Do you know -him?" - -The man's face changed, and he looked a shade embarrassed. - -"Why do you think I know him?" he asked. - -"I don't think it, but as you seemed interested in the boy, I asked you -the question." - -"Oh, that's it. I have seen Mr. Holbrook, and I may have spoken to him. -I can't be sure on the subject, as I meet a good many people. Are you -going in bathing?" - -"Do you want to bathe, Chester?" asked Jed. - -"No; papa told me not to go to-day, as I have a cold." - -"I thought perhaps I would have had your company in the surf. Well, I -must be going or I shall be late for the bath." - -The stranger got up slowly and sauntered away. - -"I don't like that man. Do you, Jed?" asked Chester. - -"Not very much. I never saw him before." - -"I have seen him. I saw him one day last week." - -"Did you see him on the beach?" - -"Yes; he came up and talked with Clara." - -"But he said you were mistaken about that." - -"I was not mistaken," said Chester positively. "I remember him very -well." - -"Do you remember what he was talking about?" asked Jed, struck by what -the boy said. - -"Yes; he was asking questions about me." - -"He seems a good deal interested in you. Perhaps he is especially fond -of small boys." - -Chester shook his head. - -"I don't think he is," he answered. - -When the bathing hour was over they ascended the steps and took seats in -a summer house on the bluff. - -Ten minutes later a tall woman, with piercing black eyes and a swarthy -complexion, entered the arbor and sat down beside them. - -"Do you want your fortune told?" she asked of Jed. - -He shook his head. - -"I don't believe in fortune-tellers," he said. - -"Don't you? Let me convince you of my power. Give me your hand." - -There seemed a fascination about the woman, and almost involuntarily he -suffered her to take his hand. - -"You look prosperous," she began abruptly, "but your life has been full -of poverty and privation. Is this true?" - -"Yes," answered Jed, impressed in spite of himself by the woman's words. - -"Shall I tell you where your early years were passed?" - -"No," answered Jed, with a quick look at Chester. He did not care to -have the boy hear that his life had been passed in the Scranton -poorhouse. - -"You are right. The knowledge could do no good and might embarrass you. -You admit that I have told the truth?" - -"Yes." - -"Then shall I tell you of the future?" - -Jed did not answer, but the woman took his assent for granted and went -on. "You will be rich--some day." - -"Shall I? I am glad to hear that. But I don't know where the wealth is -to come from." - -"It is not necessary for you to know. It will be enough if it comes." - -"I agree with you there," said Jed, smiling. "Will it be soon?" - -"That is a question which I might answer, but I will not." - -"I don't care to know, as long as I am to be prosperous some day. Shall -I ever go back to--to the place where my earlier years were passed?" - -"You may, but not to live. That part of your life is over." - -"I am glad of that at any rate. One question more. Shall I meet my--any -one belonging to me--any one to whom I am related?" - -Jed fixed his eyes anxiously upon the fortune-teller, for skeptical as -he was at first, he was beginning to have some confidence in her claims -to knowledge. - -"Yes." - -"When?" - -"Don't seek to know more. Let me look at this boy's hand. Do you want me -to tell your fortune, my pretty?" - -Chester laughed. - -"Yes," he said. "Perhaps you can tell me if I will ever be a soldier. I -would like to be a General." - -"No; you will never be a soldier, but you will have a fight before you." - -"A fight? What kind of a fight?" - -The fortune-teller turned to Jed and said rapidly, "This boy is -threatened with a serious danger. He has an enemy." - -"How can a young boy have an enemy?" - -"There are few who do not have enemies," said the woman sententiously. - -"Can you describe the enemy?" - -"He is a dark man, not tall, but taller than you. He is thin." - -"I met such a man on the beach," said Jed, surprised. "I met him only -this morning. Is he the one you mean?" - -"When you meet such a man beware of him!" said the woman, and without -waiting for a reply she rose from her seat and walked away rapidly. - -"What a funny old woman!" said Chester. "I am hungry. Let us go up to -the hotel. It is time for lunch." - -Jed's face became thoughtful. What he had heard left a deep impression -upon his mind. - - - - -CHAPTER XVI. - -MISS HOLBROOK, SPINSTER. - - -It was at first on Jed's mind to tell Mr. Holbrook of his encounter with -the young man upon the beach and his subsequent conversation with the -fortune-teller and her predictions in regard to Chester. But he was -afraid of being laughed at. - -Moreover, as the days passed the impression made upon his mind became -weaker, and was only recalled when from time to time he saw the young -man on the sands or walking on the bluff. - -He got on very well with Chester. The boy became strongly attached to -him, much to the satisfaction of his father. - -"So you like Jed, do you?" said Mr. Holbrook one evening, on his return -from the city. - -"Yes, papa, I like him ever so much." - -"Do you like him as much as Clara?" - -"Why, I don't like her at all." - -Time wore on till the middle of August. Jed enjoyed his generous meals -and the sea bathing which he shared in company with his young charge. He -still lodged with Harry Bertram, but he shared the expense of the room. - -But a change was coming, and an unwelcome one. - -"Chester," said his father one evening, "I am going away for a week or -ten days." - -"Take me with you, papa!" - -"No, I cannot. I am called to Chicago on business, and you will be much -better off here at the beach." - -"Jed will stay with me?" - -"Yes, and I have sent for your Aunt Maria to come and look after you -while I am gone." - -"But I don't like Aunt Maria," objected the little boy. "She's always -scolding me. She doesn't like boys." - -"Perhaps not," said Mr. Holbrook with a smile. "If Maria had married it -might have been different, but I believe few maiden ladies are fond of -children." - -"Then why do you have her come here, papa? Jed can take care of me." - -"I have great confidence in Jed, Chester, but you will need some one to -look after your clothes and oversee you in other ways." - -"Isn't there any one else you can send for, papa? I don't like old -maids." - -"Don't trouble me with your objections, Chester. It will only be for a -little while, remember. I am sure you can get along with your aunt for -ten days." - -"I will try to," answered the boy with a look of resignation. - -The next day Miss Maria Holbrook came to Sea Spray with her brother. She -was a tall, slender lady of middle age, with a thin face, and looked as -if she were dissatisfied with a large proportion of her -fellow-creatures. - -Chester looked at her, but did not show any disposition to welcome her -to the beach. - -"You may kiss me, Chester," said the lady with an acid smile. - -"Thank you, Aunt Maria, but I am not particular about it." - -"Well, upon my word!" ejaculated the spinster. "My own brother's child, -too!" - -"Kiss your aunt, Chester," said his father. - -"No, it is not necessary," put in Miss Holbrook sharply. "I don't want -any hypocritical caresses. Robert, I am afraid you are spoiling that -boy." - -"Oh, no, Maria, not quite so bad as that. Chester is a middling good -boy." - -Miss Maria Holbrook sniffed incredulously. - -"I am afraid you judge him too leniently," she said. - -"Well, you can tell better after you have had time to observe him. It is -two years now since you have seen Chester." - -"Let us hope that my first impressions may be modified," said the -spinster in a tone that indicated great doubt whether such would be the -case. - -"Jed, you may go. Chester will not need you any more this evening," said -Mr. Holbrook. - -"Thank you, sir," said Jed, and walked away. - -"Who is that boy?" asked the spinster abruptly, looking at him through -her eyeglasses. - -"He is in charge of Chester while I am in the city." - -"Why, he is only a boy!" - -"Is that against him?" - -"I thought Chester had a nurse." - -"So he did, but she proved dishonest." - -"Then why didn't you engage another?" - -"Because Chester felt sensitive about having a girl following him. The -other boys in the hotel laughed at him." - -"Let them laugh!" said Miss Holbrook severely. "Are you to have your -plans changed by a set of graceless boys?" - -"As to that, Maria, I find this boy more satisfactory, both to Chester -and myself." - -"Humph! What is his name?" - -"Jed." - -"A very plebeian name." - -"It isn't exactly fashionable, but names are not important." - -"I beg your pardon. I think names _are_ important." - -"Perhaps that is the reason you have never changed yours, Maria. You -might have been Mrs. Boggs if you had been less particular." - -"I would rather remain unmarried all my life. But where did you pick up -this boy?" - -"I met him in the hotel." - -"Was he boarding here?" - -"No; I think he was boarding somewhere in the village." - -"Do you know anything of his family?" - -"No." - -"Do you know anything of his antecedents?" continued Miss Holbrook. - -"Yes; he played a part last season in the 'Gold King.'" - -"Heavens and earth!" ejaculated the spinster, holding up her hands in -horror. "Do you mean to tell me that you have placed your son in the -charge of a young play actor?" - -Mr. Holbrook laughed. - -"Why not?" - -"I am surprised that you should ask. You know as well as I do the -character of actors." - -"I know that some of them are very estimable gentlemen. As to Jed, he -has not been long on the stage, I believe." - -"Do you know anything of his family? Is he respectably connected?" - -"I didn't think it important to inquire. It seems to me that the boy's -own character is much more to the point. I have found Jed faithful and -reliable, without bad habits, and I feel that Chester is safe in his -hands." - -"Oh you men, you men!" exclaimed Miss Holbrook. "You don't seem to have -any judgment." - -"I suppose," said Mr. Holbrook with good-natured sarcasm, "that all the -good judgment is monopolized by the old maids. What a pity they have no -children to bring up." - -"Brother!" said Miss Holbrook in a freezing tone. - -"I beg your pardon, Maria, but please credit me with a little good -sense." - -Miss Holbrook went up to the room assigned her with an offended -expression, and had nothing further to say about Jed that evening. - -The next morning Jed reported for duty just as Mr. Holbrook was leaving -for his journey. - -"Look after Chester while I am gone, Jed," said Mr. Holbrook -pleasantly. "This is my sister, Miss Maria Holbrook, who will take my -place here while I am gone." - -Jed took off his hat politely, and Miss Holbrook honored him with a -slight inclination of her head and a forbidding look. - -"Good-by, Maria! I will telegraph you on my arrival in Chicago." - -"Good-by, brother! You need have no apprehensions about Chester while I -am here." - -"I shall rest quite easy. Between you and Jed I am sure he will come to -no harm." - -Miss Holbrook pursed up her mouth at the conjunction of her name with -Jed's, but said nothing. - -"Shall I go and take a walk with Jed?" asked Chester. - -"Yes, in a moment. I wish to speak to the young man first." - -"What young man?" - -"Jedediah." - -"Jedediah!" echoed Chester with a merry laugh. "How funny that sounds!" - -"I apprehend that Jedediah is your right name," said Miss Holbrook -severely. - -"I suppose so," answered Jed. - -"You _suppose_ so?" - -"I mean that I have always been called Jed. I don't remember ever having -been called by the full name." - -"Don't your parents call you so?" - -"My parents are not living." - -"When did they die?" - -Jed looked troubled. - -"When I was a baby," he answered gravely. - -"Indeed! Then who brought you up?" - -"Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Were they any relations of yours?" - -"No, but they were very kind to me." - -"Come along, Jed! There's the steamboat just leaving the pier!" called -Chester impatiently. - -Without waiting to be further questioned Jed answered the call of his -young charge. He was glad to get away, for he felt that the spinster -might ask him some questions which he would find it difficult to answer. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII. - -JED MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE. - - -Jed was not long in finding that Chester's aunt looked upon him, if not -with hostility, at least with distrust. This was an unpleasant -discovery. Mr. Holbrook had always appeared to have confidence in him, -and approved his management of his son. - -While Chester and Jed were walking on the beach Miss Holbrook took a -seat upon the bluff and watched them through her spectacles, as Jed -could not help seeing. - -"I say, Jed," asked the little boy, "how do you like Aunt Maria?" - -"I don't feel very well acquainted with her yet," answered Jed -cautiously. - -"_I_ don't like her!" said Chester emphatically. - -"Why not?" - -"Oh, she's always scolding and finding fault. Papa says it's because -she's an old maid." - -Jed smiled. - -"I wish papa had not sent for her," went on Chester. "We could get along -well enough without her." - -"I think _we_ should get along very well together, Chester." - -"I am sure we should. Have you got any old maid aunts?" - -"Not that I know of," replied Jed soberly, as he had forced upon him the -thought of his solitary condition. - -"Then you are lucky. I'll give you Aunt Maria if you want her." - -"Perhaps she might not consent to be given away, Chester." - -Half an hour later Jed met with a surprise, and one not altogether -agreeable. - -"Hello! you here!" exclaimed an amazed voice that sounded familiar to -Jed. - -He looked up and saw Percy Dixon approaching. - -"Oh, it's you, Percy?" he said. "When did you arrive?" - -"This morning. Father and I are staying at the Spray House." This was -the largest hotel, and Percy mentioned the name with evident pride. - -"It is a nice hotel," responded Jed. - -"I should say so. Why, it's the most expensive one here. But you haven't -told me how you came here." - -"I have been here for some weeks." - -"Where do you live?" - -"I have a room in the village, but I take my meals at the Spray House." - -"You take your meals at the Spray House?" ejaculated Percy. - -"Yes." - -"How can you afford it?" - -"This boy's father pays my board. I look after Chester." - -"What's your name?" asked Chester, who was by no means bashful. - -"Percy Dixon," answered Percy politely, for he judged that Chester -belonged to a rich family. - -"So you know Jed?" - -"Yes. I have that honor," returned Percy with a curl of the lip. "When -did you leave off acting?" he asked, turning to Jed. - -"At the end of the season. Few dramatic companies play during the -summer." - -"Are you going to play with them again?" - -"I don't know yet. The boy whose place I took may be ready to take his -own part in the fall." - -"I saw your old friends Mr. and Mrs. Fogson just before I came away," -said Percy significantly. "Wouldn't you like to know how they are?" - -"No; I feel no particular interest in them." - -"They are interested in you. Fogson says he's bound to get you back some -time." - -"I don't care to talk of them," said Jed coldly. - -"Are you going in bathing?" asked Chester. - -"Yes, I think so. Do you go in?" - -"Shall we go in, Jed?" asked the little boy. - -"Yes, if you like, Chester." - -The three boys repaired to the bathing-houses and prepared for their -bath. - -As they walked up to the hotel together afterwards, Percy remarked: "It -seems strange to see you in such a place as this." - -"I suppose so." - -"It's funny how you get on. How did you get the chance to take care of -the little boy?" - -Jed explained. - -"Is Chester's father rich?" - -"I presume so, from what I hear." - -"Is he here now?" - -"No; he is in Chicago for a week or ten days." - -"And is there no one except you to take care of the boy?" - -"There is an aunt of Chester's in the hotel--his father's sister. There -she is now!" and Jed pointed out Miss Maria Holbrook. - -Percy noticed her attentively, and was observed in turn by the spinster, -who privately resolved to seek some information about Jed from one who -appeared to know him. - -After dinner, while on the piazza, Miss Holbrook noticed Percy sitting -but a few feet distant. - -"Ahem!" she began. "Young man, will you do me the favor to move your -chair a little nearer?" - -Percy did so gladly. He wished for a chance to become acquainted with -Jed's employers. - -"Thank you. May I ask your name?" - -"Percy Dixon." - -"I noticed that you seemed to be acquainted with the boy who is in -charge of my young nephew Chester." - -"Yes, ma'am, I know him." - -"Have you known him long?" - -"As far back as I can remember." - -"Did you live in the same town?" - -"Yes, ma'am." - -"Where?" - -"Scranton." - -"You must pardon my curiosity, but my brother--Chester's father--engaged -this boy without apparently knowing much about him, except that he had -been on the stage." - -"He wasn't on the stage long." - -"Perhaps not, but probably he didn't get any good from it. What is your -opinion of him. Though, as you are his friend----" - -"I am _not_ his friend!" said Percy bluntly. - -"Then you haven't a high opinion of him?" said Miss Holbrook eagerly. - -"No; I never liked him." - -"I don't like him myself, though I can't tell exactly why not, and I am -bound to say that Chester and his father seem infatuated with him." - -"I think you are quite right, Miss Holbrook." - -"I can't help thinking there is some mystery about him." - -"You are right, Miss Holbrook. There _is_ a mystery about him." - -"I was sure of it," exclaimed the spinster. "What is the character of -his relations?" - -"He has none that I know of." - -"I believe he told me his parents were dead, and that he was brought up -by a Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Ho, ho!" laughed Percy. - -"Why do you laugh?" - -"At his being brought up by Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Isn't it true, then?" - -"Yes; but he probably didn't tell you that Mr. and Mrs. Avery had -charge of the Scranton poorhouse." - -"What!" ejaculated the spinster. - -"It is as I say. Until a few weeks since Jed was an inmate of the -Scranton poorhouse." - -"And this boy is actually in charge of my nephew!" exclaimed Miss -Holbrook, overwhelmed with horror. - -"Yes; I was very much surprised to see Jed in such company." - -"My poor brother must be quite unaware of this astounding fact!" - -"No doubt, Miss Holbrook. Jed is cunning. He wouldn't be very apt to -tell your brother that he is a pauper." - -"A pauper! What a horrid thought! And that boy has actually the -effrontery to push himself in among people of position. I can hardly -believe it." - -"If you have any doubt about it, Miss Holbrook, just write a note to Mr. -Simeon Fogson, and ask him what he thinks of Jed Gilman." - -"But I thought it was Mr. Avery who kept the poorhouse." - -"He did; but when my father became Overseer of the Poor," said Percy -with conscious pride, "he removed the Averys and put in Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson, whom he considered more fit for the office. The Averys were weak -people and pampered the paupers." - -"Mr. Simeon Fogson, Scranton," Miss Holbrook entered on her tablets. - -"Really, Mr. Dixon, I am very much obliged to you for the important -information you have given me, and so ought my brother to be. He has -been very careless and indiscreet in engaging a boy of unknown -antecedents, but it is fortunate that Chester has an aunt who is keenly -alive to his interests." - -As she rose to go to her room to write to Mr. Fogson, Percy smiled. - -"Jed Gilman will find that his goose is cooked," he said to himself. -"Won't he be astonished when the thunderbolt falls?" - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII. - -MR. FOGSON RECEIVES A LETTER. - - -Let us go back to the Scranton poorhouse. Mr. Fogson was sawing wood -near the house. It was a task which Jed had been accustomed to do, but -in his absence it devolved upon Mr. Fogson, who was very much -disinclined to that form of labor, but still more to paying for having -it done. - -He had thought of requiring Isaac Needham, one of the paupers, to do the -sawing; but the old man, who was over seventy-five, proved physically -unable to do the work, and very much against his will Mr. Fogson found -himself compelled to undertake it himself. - -"Drat that Jed!" he muttered, as he stopped to mop his forehead with his -red cotton handkerchief. "It's an outrage for him to throw his work on -me. I wish I had him here this blessed minute and could give him a taste -of the strap." - -At this point a neighbor's boy, Joe Coakley, entered the yard. - -"Here's a letter for you, Mr. Fogson," he said. "I guess it's from a -lady." - -With considerable surprise Mr. Fogson took the letter in his hand. The -envelope was square, and of fine paper, while the address was in a -lady's handwriting. - -Mr. Fogson examined the postmark curiously. - -"Sea Spray!" he repeated. "Why, that's a fashionable watering-place. Who -can have written me from there?" - -Just then Mrs. Fogson came out from the side door. - -"What letter have you there?" she asked. - -"It is from a lady, Mrs. F.," answered her husband with a grin. - -"What business has a lady writing to you?" demanded Mrs. Fogson -suspiciously. - -"Really I don't know, as I have not read the letter." - -"Give it to me!" - -"No, thank you. I read my own letters." - -"Mr. Fogson, if you are engaged in a private correspondence with any -lady I intend to find out all about it." - -"Don't be a fool, Mrs. F.; I don't know who the writer is, and I have -never had a letter from her before." - -By this time he had opened the envelope, and his face quickly assumed an -expression of interest. - -"It's about Jed," he exclaimed. "I'll read it to you." - -This was the letter: - - - MY DEAR SIR: - - I am informed that you can give me information as to the past - history of Jedediah Gilman. Some weeks ago my brother, Robert - Holbrook, a well-known merchant of New York, engaged the boy as a - companion and personal attendant of his young son Chester, without - knowing much about him or taking the trouble to inquire. Having - seen the boy, I have doubts as to whether he is a suitable - companion for a boy in my nephew's high social station. I learn - from young Mr. Percy Dixon, of your town, that you can give me full - information as to the boy's antecedents. I shall feel indebted to - you if you will take the trouble to communicate with me by letter. - - My brother is now in Chicago, and I am in temporary charge of my - nephew. I feel that it is my duty to inquire into the character of - a boy who by his intimate association with him may, if he is - unworthy, do incalculable harm to his young and trustful nature. - - Yours very truly, - MARIA HOLBROOK, - _Spray Hotel_, - Sea Spray, N. J. - - -"Well, upon my word!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. "So that young villain has -wormed his way into the confidence of a rich New York merchant!" - -"Like a snake in the grass," suggested Simeon Fogson. - -"Exactly. It makes me shudder to think what an impostor he is. It is -providential that Percy Dixon should find him out and show him up." - -"I'll show him up!" said Fogson, nodding. "I'll just write to Miss -Holbrook, and tell her of his goin's on. I reckon he won't keep his -place long after they get my letter." - -"You'd better let me write the letter, Simeon." - -"No, Mrs. F., the letter was addressed to me, and I'm goin' to answer -it." - -"Just as you like, Mr. Fogson, but you are well aware that you are weak -in your spelling." - -"Never mind, Mrs. F., I reckon I can make myself understood." - -"Just as you like, Fogson. Only make it strong enough." - -"You can trust me for that." - - - - -CHAPTER XIX. - -DISCHARGED. - - -In a front room on the second floor of the Spray Hotel sat Miss Maria -Holbrook with a letter in her hand. It was written on the cheapest -note-paper, and inclosed in a plebeian brown envelope. - -Of course it will be understood that it was the epistolary effort of Mr. -Simeon Fogson. - -"Just as I thought!" soliloquized the lady. "This boy seems to be a -disreputable character of the lowest antecedents, and utterly unworthy -to associate even as a servant with a member of my family." - -Here Chester entered in his usual impetuous manner. - -"Oh, Aunt Maria," he cried, "I had a bully bath." - -"I am shocked to hear you use such a low term as 'bully,' Chester," said -his aunt. "No doubt you learned it of Jedediah." - -"No, I didn't. Jed never uses the word. At least I never heard him." - -"Will you tell Jedediah that I wish to see him at once on important -business?" - -"It seems funny to hear you call him Jedediah, Aunt Maria." - -"I apprehend that it is his right name; 'Jed' sounds low." - -"Well, I'll tell him to come up." - -When Jed made his appearance Miss Holbrook said: "You may go below, -Chester. I wish to speak to Jedediah in private." - -"What's up now, I wonder?" thought Jed. - -The lady turned upon him a severe look. - -"Jedediah," she said, "is it true that your earlier years were spent at -the Scranton poorhouse?" - -"Yes, madam," answered Jed, coloring. - -"Did you apprise my brother of this fact when he engaged you?" - -"No, madam. I suppose you learned it from Percy Dixon." - -"I learned it from young Mr. Dixon, but I could hardly believe it. He -referred me to Mr. Simeon Fogson, of Scranton, and I have a letter from -that gentleman in my hand. You probably will not care to read it." - -"I should like very much to read it, Miss Holbrook. I should like to -know whether Mr. Fogson tells the truth." - -"Here is the letter, then." - -Jed read it with conflicting emotions. - - - RESPECTED MADAM: - - I am glad to give you the informashun you ask about that young - villen Jed Gilman, who ran away from the Poor House some weeks - since after a violent assault on me, his offishul guardeen. Words - cannot tell you how much trouble I have had with that boy. - - Likewise he has been very impident to Mrs. Fogson. The reeson is - that he was too much indulged by my predicesors in offis Mr. and - Mrs. Avery. I have tried to do my dooty by the boy, but as Squire - Dixon, the Overseer will tell you my efforts has been in vane. I am - not supprised that your brother was took in by Jed for he is the - artfulest boy I ever seen. I hope for the sake of your young - nefew's welfare you will discharge him at once and not allow him to - corrup his youthful mind. - - Yours respectfully, - SIMEON FOGSON. - - -"Well," said Miss Holbrook triumphantly, "that doesn't seem to commend -you very highly." - -"No," answered Jed, returning the letter to the envelope. "It is such a -letter as I should expect Mr. Fogson to write." - -"Why?" - -"Because he is unfit for his place," answered Jed boldly. "He half -starves the poor people under his charge, treats them roughly, and is -detested by all." - -"He says you are impudent and troublesome." - -"I did not allow him to impose upon me." - -"He says you ran away." - -"I had a right to leave, as I felt able to support myself. I was -recommended to do so by Dr. Redmond, the best physician in Scranton, who -is a friend of mine." - -"I have listened to your side of the story," said Miss Holbrook coldly, -"and the terms in which you speak of Mr. Fogson convince me that his -charges are correct. Of course you will not expect me to keep you in -charge of my nephew." - -"Will you wait till Mr. Holbrook returns?" pleaded Jed, who felt sad at -the prospect of parting with Chester. - -"No; I shall not feel justified in doing so. I will pay you up to date, -and assume the charge of Chester myself." - -She drew a bill from her pocket and handed it to Jed, who took it -mechanically and left the room with a sober face. He was dismissed from -his position in disgrace, a disgrace which he felt was not deserved. - -What was he to do next? - - - - -CHAPTER XX. - -JED'S POOR PROSPECTS. - - -Jed walked around to the office of his friend Harry Bertram. - -The telegraph operator noticed at once that he looked disturbed. - -"What has happened, Jed?" he asked. - -"I am discharged! That is all." - -"Discharged? Who discharged you?" - -"Miss Holbrook." - -"What is her reason? What have you done?" asked Bertram, much surprised. - -"I have done nothing, but she has discovered that I was brought up in -the Scranton poorhouse," announced Jed despondently. - -"As if that made you any the worse!" ejaculated Bertram indignantly. - -"It isn't to my credit, at any rate. I am ashamed of it myself." - -"I don't know why you should be ashamed. You have left it, and are now -earning your own living." - -"I was, but I am out of work now, and I may find it hard to get another -position." - -"You can perhaps go back to the stage." - -"If I can take my part in the 'Gold King' I shall be satisfied," said -Jed hopefully. "When will the season commence?" - -"September 7--three weeks from next Thursday." - -At that moment one of the bell boys came to the telegraph office with a -letter in his hand. - -"I have a letter for you, Mr. Bertram," he said. - -"Ha! This is from Mordaunt. Now we shall know." - -He tore open the envelope hastily. His countenance fell, and he handed -it in silence to Jed. - -This is the letter. - - - DEAR BERTRAM: - - Season of the Gold King opens at Jersey City on the seventh of - September. As we shall have two new actors I shall call rehearsals - for the Tuesday previous. Please report at Middleton Agency in New - York on the first. - - JOHN MORDAUNT, Manager. - - P. S.--Ralph Clinton has recovered from his sickness, and will be - ready to resume his part. - - -"That settles it!" said Jed soberly, as he handed back the letter. "That -opening is closed to me." - -"I am awfully sorry, Jed," returned Bertram in a tone of sympathy. -"Perhaps if you enroll your name at the agency you can get a chance in -some other play. I will speak a good word for you, and so I am sure will -Mordaunt." - -Jed shook his head. - -"I don't think my chance would be very good," he said, "as I have had so -little experience. Besides, it is three weeks from now. I must try to -get work before then." - -"Stay here, Jed. I will pay your expenses." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram, but I have more than money enough for that, and -you will need all yours. It will be better for me to leave Sea Spray, -and go out in the world in search of work." - -"I hate to have you go, Jed. I shall feel lonesome." - -"So shall I, Mr. Bertram, but we are sure to meet again," said Jed with -forced cheerfulness. - -"You must promise if things don't go well with you to write to me. You -can learn from the _Clipper_ or any of the dramatic papers where we are -playing." - -"I'll promise that, Harry," said Jed, pressing the hand of his friend. - -"That's right, Jed! Don't call me Mr. Bertram again." - -"I will remember." - -"Don't go till to-morrow." - -"No, I won't. I shall need a little time to get ready." - -At this point a message came for Bertram to transmit, and Jed walked -over to the beach, feeling dull and despondent. As he sauntered on -slowly with his eyes on the sand some one called out, "Hallo, there!" - -Looking up, he met the gaze of Percy Dixon. - -"Where's Chester?" asked Percy. - -"In the hotel, I suppose." - -"Why isn't he with you?" - -"Because he is no longer under my charge," answered Jed eyeing Percy -fixedly. - -"Ho, ho! you don't mean to say that you're bounced!" queried Percy, with -a look of malicious pleasure. - -"That is about the size of it." - -"Well, I _am_ surprised," returned Percy cheerfully. "What have you been -up to?" - -"Nothing." - -"Then why are you discharged?" asked Percy with a look of innocent -wonder. - -"I don't think _you_ need ask, Percy Dixon," said Jed coldly. "If you had -not made your appearance at Sea Spray I should have kept my place." - -"Ho, ho! What have I been doing, I should like to know?" asked Percy -smiling. - -"I don't need to tell you. You told Miss Holbrook that I had been -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Well, it's true, isn't it?" - -"Yes, it is true, but you understood very well what would be the result -of your communication." - -"As she asked me about you, I had to tell." - -"You gave her the name of Mr. Fogson, and led to her writing to him." - -"So he's written, has he." - -"Yes; Miss Holbrook showed me the letter this morning." - -"What did he say?" asked Percy, smiling. - -"Probably Miss Holbrook will show you the letter if you ask her." - -"I will. I should like to see what old Fogson says. He don't admire you -very much." - -"There is no love lost between us." - -"Well, what are you going to do?" inquired Percy, whose weak point was -curiosity. - -"I shall try to get another position." - -"Do you expect to go back to the stage?" - -"No; my old part in the 'Gold King' has been taken by the actor whose -place I filled during his sickness." - -"Then you haven't anything in view." - -"Nothing particular." - -"Then I advise you to go back to the poorhouse. Fogson will be glad to -see you. I will arrange it with father." - -"You are very kind, but I have no more idea of returning to the -poorhouse than you have of making your home there." - -"I'll thank you not to mention my name in connection with the -poorhouse," said Percy, coloring and speaking angrily. - -"I will make the same request of you." - -"You are getting on your high horse," remarked Percy sarcastically. - -"Perhaps so. Good morning." - -"That fellow's the proudest beggar I ever saw," mused Percy, as he stood -still on the beach and watched Jed's receding figure. "It's so -ridiculous, too! A boy brought up in a poorhouse! I wonder if he has any -idea what a fool he is making of himself." - -"Why is Percy so malicious?" thought Jed, as he pursued his way, -feeling, if anything, a little more despondent than before. "If our -situations were changed I should delight in helping him along. He seems -determined to force me back to the poorhouse. But I won't go! I'll -starve first." - -To one who has been steadily employed enforced idleness is tedious and -tiresome. As Jed paced the sands his life seemed perfectly aimless, and -he wondered how he was going to get through the day. - -Moreover he missed Chester. The boy's warm heart and affectionate ways -had endeared him to his young guardian, and Jed felt sad to think that -in all probability he should never again be on terms of intimacy with -the little fellow. - -Plunged in thought and despondent he sauntered along till suddenly he -heard a young fresh voice, that brought a brighter look to his face. - -"Jed, Jed!" - -Jed turned, and saw only a couple of rods distant the boy of whom he had -been thinking, walking beside his tall and stately aunt, who, after -discharging Jed, had felt obliged to undertake the charge of her young -nephew herself. - -"Why, Chester!" said Jed with a bright smile. - -Chester broke away from his aunt, and running up to Jed took his hand -confidingly. - -"Aunt Maria says you are going away!" he broke out. "What makes you go -away?" - -"Your aunt has sent me away," announced Jed. - -"But I won't let you go," said the little boy, taking a firmer grip of -Jed's hand. - -"Come back directly, Chester!" said Miss Holbrook frowning. - -"I want to stay with Jed," said Chester rebelliously. - -"But I don't want you to stay with him. Come back directly, you naughty -boy!" exclaimed Miss Holbrook angrily. - -"I'd rather stay with Jed!" - -"Jedediah!" said Miss Holbrook, turning a look of displeasure upon Jed. -"I am sorry that you incite Chester to acts of disobedience." - -"Miss Holbrook," returned Jed independently, "I don't think I have done -what you charge me with. I like Chester, and I cannot drive him away." - -"That is all very well, but I understand your motives. You want to force -me to take you back." - -"Excuse me, I have no such thought. If your brother will take me back I -shall be glad to return to him." - -"I will see that he does not recall you. Chester, if you don't come -back at once I will punish you." - -Looking at his aunt's angry face, Chester very reluctantly felt -compelled to obey. - -"Kiss me, Jed!" he said. - -Jed bent over and kissed the little boy. Tears nearly came to his eyes -when he felt that it might be for the last time. - -"I trust, Jedediah," said Miss Holbrook stiffly, "that your sense of -propriety will prevent your speaking to Chester again." - -"Miss Holbrook," said Jed with a tremor in his voice, "as I am to leave -Sea Spray to-morrow morning I shall hardly meet Chester again." - -Then, as Chester walked away unwillingly with his aunt, Jed's heart sank -within him. In all the world he seemed to be alone, and he cared little -at that moment what was to become of him in the future. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI. - -JED ARRIVES IN NEW YORK. - - -Jed counted over his money and found he had thirty-nine dollars and -thirty-seven cents. He would have had more, but he had supplied himself -with clothes, so that he was on the whole very well provided in that -way. - -He resolutely refused to borrow from Harry Bertram, though the actor -pressed a loan upon him. - -"No, Harry," he said, "I have almost forty dollars, and I am sure that -will last me till I can earn some more." - -"Well, perhaps so," replied the actor, "but you have no idea how fast -money melts away. What are your plans?" - -"I am afraid I haven't any," answered Jed, looking perplexed. "I want to -make a living, but I don't know what I am fit for." - -"Where do you mean to go?" - -"I think I should like to go to New York," answered Jed. "I have never -been there." - -"You will find the city very dull at this time of year. Business is very -quiet in August." - -"But there must be a good many chances in a city of over a million -inhabitants." - -"Well, perhaps you may as well find out for yourself. I am afraid you -will be disappointed." - -Jed attached considerable importance to the opinion of his friend -Bertram, but in his own mind there was a conviction that the other -exaggerated the chances of failure. He was of a sanguine temperament -himself, and this made him hopeful. - -There were two ways of reaching New York from Sea Spray. One was a -combination of cars and boat, the other took one all the way by steamer. -This, on the whole, Jed preferred. - -With his modest gripsack in his hand he passed over the gang-plank and -took a seat forward. Next to him was a tall, thin man, dressed in shabby -attire, who did not appear to have shaved for several days. Though the -weather was warm, he had his coat buttoned tight across his chest, -possibly to conceal the lack of a vest. - -When the boat had been perhaps fifteen minutes under way, he turned and -eyed Jed with some attention. - -"Are you staying at Sea Spray this summer, young man?" he asked. - -"I have spent some weeks there," answered Jed. - -"I suppose you are going to New York for the day?" - -"No; I am going for good. That is I hope I am going for good." - -"You are going to fill a business position, perhaps?" - -"I hope so, but I have none engaged." - -"Are you acquainted in New York?" - -"No; I have never been there. This will be my first visit." - -"Indeed! This is very interesting. I should be glad to help you to a -position." - -Jed thought privately that his new acquaintance must stand quite as much -in need of a place as he, but courtesy led him to say, "Thank you." - -"Have you any particular choice as to the business you take up?" - -"No; anything that will enable me to pay my expenses will satisfy me." - -"Just so. You have heard of H. B. Claflin, probably?" - -"Yes; he is a dry goods merchant." - -"On a very large scale. I have a mind to give you a letter to him." - -"Do you know him?" asked Jed doubtfully. - -"Yes; Horace and I used to go to school together. He was older than I, -but we were pretty intimate." - -"Why don't you apply for a position for yourself?" - -"Dry goods are not in my line. I am an editor--that is, an editorial -writer." - -"Indeed!" - -Jed had read from time to time squibs and witty paragraphs touching the -poverty of editors, and this seemed to explain the shabby appearance of -his new friend. - -"What paper do you write for?" he ventured to ask. - -"I contribute editorially to most of the city dailies. Sometimes I get -as high as fifteen and twenty dollars a column." - -Jed was rather surprised at this. He concluded that Mr. Hamilton -Barry--for this was the name the stranger had given--was not a very good -financial manager. - -"That seems a high price," said Jed. - -"Yes, but brain-work ought to be paid handsomely. Do you ever write for -publication yourself?" - -"Oh, no," said Jed, flattered nevertheless by the question. "I haven't -education enough." - -"I thought if you did I might get you something to do. But perhaps -business is more in your line?" - -"I think it will be." - -"Then I had better write you a note to Mr. Claflin. When we get to the -city I will run into some hotel and write you a letter of -recommendation." - -"But, Mr. Barry, you don't know me. How can you recommend me?" - -"My dear boy, I judge you by your appearance. Besides, I know something -of phrenology, and you have a good head--a very good head. I read in it -honesty, integrity, enterprise and fidelity. Those qualities certainly -ought to qualify you to succeed in business." - -"I don't know anything about phrenology, but I hope it's true." - -"My young friend you may rely implicitly on the verdict of the wonderful -science." - -"I shall be glad to," said Jed smiling, "since, as you say, it is so -favorable to me." - -When they reached the pier Hamilton Barry passed his arm familiarly -through Jed's, and led the way to a small public house, the office of -which seemed also to be a bar. - -"Won't you take a glass of something?" asked the editor. - -"I don't drink," answered Jed, rather embarrassed. - -"Take a glass of sarsaparilla. It won't harm an infant." - -"Thank you. I don't mind." - -Upon this Mr. Barry stepped up to the bar and ordered one sarsaparilla -and one whisky straight. While Jed was solemnly drinking the first, the -editor poured down the whisky at one gulp. - -Then he felt in his pockets for the fifteen cents which were due. But -somehow no silver was forthcoming. - -"Upon my word," he exclaimed, "I must have left my money at home. Mr. -Gilman, can you oblige me with a quarter?" - -Jed produced the required coin. Taking it, Barry paid the score, and -quietly pocketed the change. - -"Now for the letter!" he said. "Where is your writing-room?" - -"Haven't got any," answered the barkeeper. - -"Can't you scare up a sheet of paper and an envelope?" - -After some time these were produced, also a pen and a bottle of ink. -Barry sat down at one of the tables generally used for bar customers, -and in a short time produced a letter which he handed to Jed. - -It ran thus: - - - DEAR HORACE: - - This letter will be handed to you by a talented young friend, who - is in search of a business position. Mr. J. Gilman is in my - judgment possessed of superior business qualifications, and will - prove a valuable man in your store. I advise you to engage him at - once. - - Your old friend, - HAMILTON BARRY. - - -This note was placed in an envelope directed to Horace B. Claflin. In -the corner Barry wrote: "To introduce Mr. J. Gilman." - -"There," he said. "Take this letter round to Claflin and he will -undoubtedly give you a good place." - -He spoke with so much confidence that Jed was led to think himself in -luck to be the recipient of such a testimonial. - -"Thank you," he said. "I feel very much obliged." - -"Oh don't mention it!" said Barry in an airy way. "It gives me pleasure -to assist you, Mr. Gilman, I assure you. When you have ascended round by -round until you are at the top of the ladder, I trust you will not -forget your chance acquaintance, Hamilton Barry." - -"I certainly will not, Mr. Barry," said Jed warmly, grasping the hand -of the editor. "I hope some day to thank you as I wish." - -"My dear boy, the sentiment does you credit. I know you are sincere." - -"Certainly," said Jed. - -"It is because I know this that I venture to suggest that you may do me -a favor at once." - -"What is it?" - -"Let me have a fiver till next Monday. I shall then call at the office -of the _Tribune_ for twenty dollars due me for two editorials published -early this week." - -This request rather staggered Jed. Now that he had paid his fare to New -York he had only about thirty-seven dollars, and five dollars would cut -rather seriously into his small balance. - -"I am afraid," he said awkwardly, "that I can hardly spare five dollars. -If two dollars would help you----" - -"It would materially," interposed Barry. "Of course it is only a loan. -Meet me here next Monday, at six o'clock, say, after your duties are -over at Claflin's, and I will gladly repay you." - -This off-hand allusion to Claflin, taking for granted his engagement -there, made Jed ashamed of his temporary distrust, and he drew from his -pocketbook a two-dollar note, which he handed to Mr. Barry. - -"Thanks," said the editor, as he carelessly slipped it into his pocket. -"Be here on Monday at six o'clock sharp." - -Then with a jaunty air he touched his hat and walked rapidly around the -corner. - -"I think I will go around to Claflin's at once," decided Jed. "I may as -well strike while the iron is hot." - - - - -CHAPTER XXII. - -JED MAKES TWO CALLS. - - -On Church Street Jed found an imposing-looking building which a passing -policeman informed him was Claflin's place of business. The size rather -impressed Jed, accustomed as he had been hitherto to the small stores in -Scranton, but he felt that it was no time for diffidence. So he opened -the outer door and entered. - -He found himself in a scene of activity. The shelves were filled with -goods, and behind the counters were numerous salesmen. No one took any -notice of Jed at first till a tall, stout man, in walking across the -room, espied him. - -"Any one waiting on you, young man?" he asked. - -"No," answered Jed. - -"Here, Wilkins," said the floor-walker, "attend to this young man. What -house do you represent?" - -"None, sir," answered Jed uncomfortably, feeling out of place. - -"Ah, you want to buy at retail. Go into the next room." - -"No, sir, I didn't come to buy anything," stammered Jed. "I have a -letter for Mr. Claflin." - -The great merchant is now dead, but at the time of Jed's call he was -living. - -"Wilkins, you may take the letter and carry it to Mr. Claflin." - -Wilkins took the letter from Jed's hands, walked across the room, and -ascended to Mr. Claflin's office on the second floor. He reappeared -within five minutes and signaled to Jed to approach. - -"Mr. Claflin will see you," he said. "Follow me." - -Presently Jed found himself in the presence of the great merchant, who -surveyed him curiously. - -"Are you Mr. J. Gilman?" he asked. - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, blushing. - -"You bring a letter from--" here Mr. Claflin referred to a note--"from -a man who calls himself Hamilton Barry?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I don't know any such man. How did he happen to offer you a letter?" - -"I told him I wanted a position." - -"Exactly. Did he say he knew me?" - -"Yes, sir. He said he used to go to school with you." - -Mr. Claflin laughed. - -"Did he borrow any money from you?" - -"Yes," answered Jed, surprised that the merchant should have guessed -this. - -"Not much, I hope." - -"Two dollars." - -"That was all?" - -"No, sir; he treated me to some sarsaparilla and did not have the money -to pay for it." - -"He is evidently a fraud and an impostor. Did he say he ever worked for -me?" - -"No, sir; he said he was an editor--that he wrote articles for the daily -papers." - -"When did he offer to repay you?" - -"Next Monday, when he had received pay from the _Tribune_ for some -articles he had written." - -"What was the man's appearance?" - -"He was tall, and not very well dressed." - -"It is hardly likely that he ever wrote an article for the _Tribune_ or -any other of the city dailies. I hope he did not get all your money?" - -"No, sir. I have considerable besides." - -"I advise you to take good care of it, and to steer clear of -questionable acquaintances." - -Mr. Claflin turned to a letter which he was writing, and Jed felt that -he was dismissed. Mr. Claflin had said nothing about taking him into his -employment, and he went down stairs feeling mortified and depressed. - -Mingled with these feelings was one of anger at having been so cruelly -deceived by his steamboat acquaintance. - -"I'd just like to meet him again!" soliloquized Jed, involuntarily -doubling up his fist. - -"I wonder whether he really writes for the _Tribune_?" he asked himself. - -He decided to solve this question at once, though he had not much doubt -on the subject. He wanted to know exactly what he had to depend on. - -He walked up to Broadway, then down to the City Hall Park, and asked a -boy whom he met, "Where is the _Tribune_ office?" - -"There it is across the park," said the boy, pointing to a tall building -with a lofty tower. "What do you want to do--sell papers?" - -"No," answered Jed. "I want to ask about one of the editors." - -"You're from the country, ain't you?" - -"Yes. What makes you think so?" - -"Because all the boys in the city know the _Tribune_ building. Say, what -do you do for a livin'?" inquired the boy confidentially. - -This was rather a puzzling question, but Jed, remembering that he had -been on the stage for a time, felt justified in answering, "I am an -actor." - -"Cracky! you don't say. You ain't little Lord Fauntleroy, are you?" - -"No; I played the telegraph boy in the play of 'The Gold King.'" - -"How did you like it?" asked the newsboy, becoming interested. - -"Very much." - -"Are you goin' to play it again?" - -"No; I took the place of the regular actor for a few weeks while he was -sick. Now he is well, and I am not needed." - -"Say, does actin' pay well?" asked the boy curiously. - -"I was paid pretty well." - -"Do you think you could get me a chance?" - -"I am afraid I can't get another chance myself." - -The newsboy had no more questions to ask, and Jed, following directions, -crossed the park and the street beyond to the _Tribune_ building. - -He entered the office, and walked up to a window, beyond which stood a -young man who was handing out papers to a purchaser who wanted some back -numbers. - -Jed presented himself next, and the clerk looked at him inquiringly. - -"Do you wish to subscribe?" asked the clerk, as Jed remained silent. - -"No; I want to ask whether you have an editor named Hamilton Barry?" - -"I don't think so. Why do you ask?" - -"He borrowed some money of me, and said he would pay me when he -collected some money due him from the _Tribune_." - -The clerk smiled. - -"I am sure none of our editors borrow money from boys," he said. "You -have been imposed upon, young man." - -"I guess you are right," responded Jed, coloring. - -"If you like, I will send up to the city editor to inquire if there is a -man named Barry in his department." - -"I guess I won't trouble you." - -Jed turned away quite satisfied in his own mind that he had been -cleverly swindled and would never see his two dollars again. He -reflected that it might have been more, and stoutly resolved not to let -any designing persons wheedle him out of any more money. - -He had never visited New York before, and the streets were all new to -him. So he strolled about for a couple of hours, gazing curiously at -shops, buildings, streets, and street scenes. - -This naturally led to a feeling of hunger, and at twelve o'clock he -began to look around for a restaurant. He found one on Fulton Street, -and went in. - -He took a seat on the right-hand side, about midway up the room, and -consulted the bill of fare. He found that roast meats were fifteen and -twenty-five cents, the latter being for large plates. Tea and coffee -were five cents each, and pie or pudding was ten cents. - -He ordered a large plate of roast beef, feeling quite hungry, and a cup -of coffee. - -Jed had about half finished his dinner when his attention was drawn by a -familiar voice at the next table. Looking up, he saw that two men had -entered the restaurant since he had been served and were sitting with -their backs to him. One of them he recognized, with a thrill of -excitement, as his acquaintance of the morning, Hamilton Barry. - -"I say, Barry," said his companion, "you've had a streak of luck. How do -you happen to be in funds?" - -"I negotiated a loan, my boy." - -"That is interesting. Would the party accommodate me, do you think?" - -"Depends upon your invention, my boy. I told him a plausible story, and -did him a favor." - -"Explain." - -"He was looking for a position, and I gave him a letter of introduction -to H. B. Claflin." - -The friend burst into a fit of laughter. - -"I admire your cheek," he said. "What do you know of Claflin?" - -"I told him that Claflin and I went to school together." - -"A lie, of course?" - -"Yes; I never set eyes on the man in my life." - -"And on the strength of that you negotiated a loan." - -"Precisely." - -"How much?" - -"I struck him for a five, but he only let me have two." - -"Which, of course, you promised to repay." - -"I told him I would repay him next Monday when the _Tribune_ paid me -for two editorial articles I wrote for them." - -This tickled the fancy of both, and they burst into uproarious laughter. - -It may be imagined with what feelings of indignation poor Jed listened -to these rascals, and understood how adroitly he had been swindled. He -felt tempted to get up and address the man who had swindled him in -fitting terms, but concluded to wait until he had finished his dinner. - -He felt particularly angry when Barry ordered a high-priced dish--a -plate of roast turkey--to be paid for with his money. - -At last his dinner was over, and taking the check in his hand, Jed made -his way to the table in front. - -"Mr. Barry," he said as calmly as he could, "I believe you owe me two -dollars. I shall be glad if you will pay me now." - -Barry looked up quickly, and actually seemed embarrassed when he -recognized Jed. - -"Confusion!" he ejaculated. "The kid!" - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII. - -JED'S BAD LUCK. - - -"Yes," answered Jed coolly, "it is the kid. I have called upon Mr. -Claflin, and also at the office of the _Tribune_. Probably you can guess -what I was told at both places." - -Mr. Barry felt that he was in a tight place, but reflecting that Jed was -only a boy, he determined to bluff him off. - -"I don't know what you are talking about, boy," he said. "I know nothing -of Mr. Claflin, and have nothing to do with the _Tribune_ office." - -"I am aware of that, but you gave me a letter of introduction to H. B. -Claflin, and borrowed two dollars of me, promising to pay me when you -settled with the _Tribune_ for editorial contributions." - -"There is not a word of truth in this," said Barry, fidgeting in his -chair. - -"I have been listening to your conversation for fifteen minutes," -continued Jed, "and I heard you give an account of the matter to your -friend here." - -Barry hesitated a moment. Even his brazen hardihood was scarcely -adequate to the emergency. He was the more uneasy because a policeman -was sitting at the next table but one. - -"It was only a practical joke, boy," he said hurriedly. "I'll pay you -back the two dollars." - -"That will be satisfactory," returned Jed. - -"But I can't do it to-day. I'll meet you on Monday afternoon, as I said. -I am in rather a hurry now and must be going." - -He rose from the table precipitately, and went up to the desk followed -by his friend. - -"Shall I stop him?" thought Jed. - -He decided not to do so, as he felt sure Barry could not pay him. The -loss was not a serious one, but it would not do to make a second -mistake. He paid his check and left the restaurant. - -Jed knew very little of New York, even for a country boy. Some Scranton -people doubtless had visited the great city, but, as an inmate of a -poorhouse, he had not been thrown in their way. Accordingly he was like -a mariner without a compass. He could only follow where impulse led. - -He turned into Broadway, and with his gripsack in his hand walked up the -great thoroughfare, looking in at shop windows as he strolled along. -Travelling in this leisurely manner, it was perhaps four o'clock when he -reached Union Square. - -He was by this time fatigued and ready to rest on one of the benches -which he found in the park. One person was sitting there already. It was -a slender young man with a diamond ring on one of the fingers of his -right hand. At least it looked to be a diamond. - -He was dressed in rather a showy manner. He was perhaps twenty-two, but -so slender that he must have weighed a dozen or fifteen pounds less than -Jed, who was only sixteen. He looked casually at the country boy as the -latter sat down, and presently turned and addressed him. - -"It is a warm day," he said. - -"Yes," answered Jed, who felt lonely and was glad to be social with some -one. - -"I judge from your bag," he glanced at the gripsack, "that you are a -visitor to New York." - -"Yes," answered Jed frankly. "I have never been in New York before." - -"That was my case two years ago. Now I feel quite like an old resident. -Are you staying at a hotel?" - -"No; that is what I should like to ask about. I must spend the night -somewhere. Can you recommend a _cheap_ hotel?" - -"Why do you go to a hotel? No hotel is cheap in the long run. It is much -better to hire a room in a lodging-house and take your meals at -restaurants." - -"Yes, I suppose it would be. But I don't know where to find such a -lodging-house." - -"Come, I'll make you an offer. I have a room on Twenty-Seventh Street. -You shall pay for my supper, and I will let you stay in my room without -charge till to-morrow. Then if you like it well enough to room with me, -I shall be glad to have you." - -"Thank you; how much do you pay for your room?" - -"Four dollars a week. That will be two dollars a piece. That is cheap -for the city. You can't get a room at a hotel for less than a dollar a -night." - -"Is that so?" asked Jed. "That would be seven dollars a week." - -"Precisely." - -"I couldn't afford to pay that." - -"There is no reason why you should. I couldn't afford it myself. Well, -do you accept my offer? Do just as you please. Of course I have no -motive except to give a helping hand to a stranger in the city." - -"You are very kind," said Jed gratefully. "I know so little of New York -that I feel quite helpless." - -"Quite natural. I've been through it all." - -"Are you--in business?" rather wondering how his companion should be -free at that hour. - -"Yes, I am in a broker's office down town. We have easy hours. I am off -for the day at three o'clock." - -"Are you well paid? But perhaps you don't care to tell." - -"Oh, yes, I don't mind. I get twenty dollars a week." - -"I wish I could get twelve," said Jed wistfully. "I shall have to get -work soon." - -"You have some money to keep you while you are waiting for work?" said -the other quickly. - -"Yes. I have about thirty-five dollars." - -The young man's face brightened up. - -"I am glad for you," he said. "You can make that last a good while, if -you are guided by me, and keep down your expenses." - -"That is exactly what I want to do," responded Jed earnestly. - -"Oh well, I will put my experience at your service. I hope you will -conclude to room with me. I feel rather lonesome at times. Of course I -could easily get a roommate, but I am rather particular." - -"You might not like me," said Jed. - -"I am sure I shall. I can tell in five minutes whether I am going to -like a person or not. How old are you?" - -"Sixteen." - -"Indeed! You look older. That's going to help you, you know, about a -situation. You can pass for a young man, and they won't think of -offering you boy's pay." - -"Perhaps you will be able to advise me about the kind of place I had -better apply for." - -"Of course I will. I already begin to take a great interest in you. What -kind of work have you done?" - -"Well, I have acted a little." - -"You don't say so!" ejaculated his new friend in genuine surprise, for -he had looked upon Jed as an unsophisticated country boy who probably -had never seen the inside of a theatre. "I suppose you mean," he -suggested as an afterthought, "in some village entertainment." - -"No; I played in 'The Gold King' for some time." - -"You don't say so! What part did you take?" - -"The boy's part." - -The young man regarded Jed with more respect. - -"I shouldn't have thought it," he said. "How did you happen to get such -a fine chance as that?" - -"I knew one of the actors--Harry Bertram--and the one who played the -boy's part regularly was taken sick. I only played about four or five -weeks all together." - -"Still that makes you a regular actor. Do you think of trying to get a -place at Daly's or Palmer's?" - -"Oh, no. I don't suppose I should stand any show. I could only take a -boy's part." - -"Well, we can talk over our plans later. I don't mind confessing that I -am hungry. How about yourself?" - -"I think I could eat some supper." - -"Come along, then. I'll take you to a good restaurant. It's some way -off, but it is near my room." - -"All right." - -The two rose, and leaving the park, walked up Broadway, past the Fifth -Avenue Hotel, the Hoffman House, and the St. James, till they reached a -well-known eating-house known as Smith & Green's, situated on the east -side of Broadway, between Twenty-Seventh and Twenty-Eighth Streets. - -"Come in here. I won't take you to Delmonico's, a little further down, -as you haven't a private bank to draw from. This is a nice restaurant -and moderate in its charges." - -They entered, sat down at a round table and studied the bill of fare. -The prices seemed to be moderate. Jed's dinner cost thirty-five cents, -but his companion was more lavish in his orders, and ran up a bill of -sixty-five cents. - -"That makes just a dollar," he remarked. - -It seemed considerable to Jed, who decided that he would rather order -and pay for his own meals separately hereafter. - -During the repast Jed learned that his new friend's name was Maurice -Graham. - -"Now we'll go around to my room, and you can dispose of your gripsack." - -"I shall be glad to do so. I am tired of carrying it about." - -Graham led the way to a three-story brick house near Seventh Avenue, and -mounted to a small square room on the upper story. It was plainly -furnished with a three-quarters bed, a bureau, and the usual chamber -furniture. - -"You can leave your bag anywhere, and then we will go out for a walk." - -"I think I would rather stay here and lie down." - -"All right! Make yourself at home. I will go out. Shall probably be back -by ten." - -When Graham returned at a little past ten he found Jed in bed and fast -asleep. His eyes sparkled with pleasure. - -He raised Jed's clothes from the chair on which he had thrown them and -went through the pockets expeditiously. Poor Jed's small stock of money -was quickly transferred to his own pockets. - -"He hasn't any watch," soliloquized Graham. "That's a pity." - -When his search was completed he put on his hat again. - -"I shall sleep in Jersey City to-night," he said to himself. "That will -be safer." - -He went out softly, leaving Jed alone, the victim of a cruel trick. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV. - -A STARTLING DISCOVERY. - - -Jed slept on, unconscious of his loss, till the sun flooded the room -with golden light. Then he opened his eyes and wondered for a moment -where he was. But recollection came to his aid, and he recalled the -incidents of his meeting with Graham and sharing the latter's room. - -He looked over to the other side of the bed, but his roommate was not to -be seen. - -"I suppose it is late and he has gone to his business," thought Jed -tranquilly. "Probably he didn't want to wake me up." - -This explanation seemed natural enough till he noticed that the pillow -on the right-hand side of the bed did not seem to have been used. -Lifting the quilt, he discovered that the sheet was smooth. Clearly -Graham had not slept there at all. - -"What does it mean?" thought Jed, perplexed. "Why didn't he come back -last evening?" - -This was a question which he could not answer. No suspicion, however, -had yet dawned upon him that anything was wrong. - -"Well," he said, jumping out of bed, "I must get up and try for a place. -I guess I can find that eating-house where we took supper. Let me see, -what was the name? Oh, Smith & Green. Well, I feel as if I could dispose -of a good breakfast." - -He washed his face and hands and proceeded to dress. Mechanically, but -not from any feeling of uneasiness, he thrust his hand into his pocket -in search of his wallet. The pocket was empty! - -His heart gave a jump, and he hurriedly examined his other pockets, but -it was of no avail. Then he looked about the room and on the floor, but -there was no trace of the lost wallet. - -Jed felt faint, and his legs trembled under him, as he thought of the -terrible situation in which he was placed. He began to connect Graham's -absence with his loss, and understood that his new acquaintance had -played him false. - -It was a shock to him, for his nature was trustful, and he hated to -believe that a young man who had seemed so friendly should prove so -treacherous. - -"What shall I do?" thought poor Jed. "I haven't enough money for my -breakfast, and I am _very_ hungry." - -At this point, just as he was ready to go out, there came a knock at the -door. - -Jed rose and opened it. He confronted a stout woman of middle age with a -very serious expression of countenance that seemed to indicate that she -meant business. She regarded Jed with surprise. - -"I expected to see Mr. Graham," she said. "Are you a friend of his?" - -"I only met him yesterday. He invited me to come and spend the night in -his room." - -"Is he here, or has he gone out?" - -"I don't think he slept here at all last night. He left early in the -evening, and said he would come back, but the bed doesn't seem to have -been slept in except by myself." - -"He is very liberal in offering the use of a room that he has not paid -for," said the lady sarcastically. - -"I don't know anything about that," faltered Jed. - -"No, I suppose not. But it's true. He only came here two weeks and a -half ago, and paid one week's rent in advance--four dollars. When the -next week's rent became due he said that his employer was on a visit to -Chicago, and he could not get his pay till he came back. Do you know -whether that is true?" - -"No, I don't. I never saw him before yesterday afternoon about four -o'clock in a park about half a mile from here." - -"So he wasn't at work at that time?" - -"No; he said he worked for a broker and got through at three o'clock." - -"A broker? Why he told me he was working in a wholesale house down town. -At any rate, I wish he'd pay me the eight dollars he owes me." - -"I wish he'd pay me the thirty-five dollars he owes me," said Jed -despondently. - -"You don't mean to say that you were goose enough to lend him -thirty-five dollars?" exclaimed Mrs. Gately in a crescendo voice. - -"No; I didn't lend it to him," returned Jed bitterly. "He must have -taken it out of my pocket when I was asleep." - -"Well, I declare! So he's a thief, too." - -She looked around the room, and opening a bureau examined the drawers. - -"He's gone off and taken all of his things," she reported. "That settles -it. We shall not see our money again." - -"I--I don't know what to do," said Jed sorrowfully. - -"Did he take _all_ your money?" asked Mrs. Gately, drawn from a -consideration of her own misfortune to that of her fellow-sufferer. - -"Yes, he took every cent," answered Jed mournfully. "And the worst of it -is that I am a stranger in New York." - -"Well, that is too bad!" said the landlady, an expression of sympathy -relieving the severity of her face. "Your case is worse than mine. You -actually haven't anything left?" - -"Except my gripsack." - -"And of course you haven't had any breakfast?" - -"No, ma'am." - -"Well, I do pity you. I suppose you are hungry?" - -"I don't know when I have ever felt so hungry," answered Jed. - -"I will see that you don't leave the house in that condition at any -rate. I'm a poor woman, as any one must be who has to depend on lodgers -for an income, but I'm not penniless. Come down stairs, Mr.--Mr.--" - -"Gilman," suggested Jed. - -"And I will skirmish round and scare you up something to eat." - -"You are very kind," said Jed gratefully. - -"Wait and see what you get," returned Mrs. Gately with a laugh and a -softer expression, for Jed's case appealed to her heart. - -She led the way to the front basement. A table was set in the centre of -the room. Evidently it had not yet been cleared off. - -"I'm a little behindhand this morning," remarked Mrs. Gately, beginning -to bustle round. "I don't take boarders in a general way, but I have a -young girl in the house that works at Macy's. I suppose you've heard of -Macy's?" - -"No, ma'am." - -"Never heard of Macy's? I thought everybody had heard of Macy's, -Fo'teenth Street and Sixth Avenue. Luella Dickinson works there, and I -give her breakfast in the house as a favor. Let me see, there's a little -coffee left--I'll warm it over--and there's bread and butter, and--I can -cook you a sausage, and boil a couple of eggs." - -"I hope you won't take too much trouble," said Jed. - -"I guess I can afford to take a little trouble, especially as there's no -knowing when you will have any dinner." - -Jed owned to himself with a sigh that there was a good deal of doubt on -that point. However, it isn't wise to borrow trouble too far in advance, -and the odor of the sausage as it was frying was very grateful to his -nostrils. He was sure of one meal at any rate, and that was something, -though the day before he thought he had enough money to last a month. - -"I don't think the coffee will do," said Mrs. Gately, as she bustled -round the stove in the next room. "I'll make some fresh. I don't think -coffee amounts to much when it is warmed over." - -Jed was of the same opinion, and did not utter a protest. He was very -fond of coffee, and felt that with a fresh pot of it the breakfast would -be fit for a king. - -"Haven't you got any folks, Mr. Gilman?" asked the landlady, as she -brought the pot of coffee and sat it on the table. - -"No, ma'am," answered Jed. "I am alone in the world." - -"Dear me, that's sad! And so young as you are, too!" - -"Yes, ma'am. I'm only sixteen." - -"What did you calc'late to do, if you could get a chance?" - -"Anything. I'm not particular." - -"You haven't any trade, have you?" - -"No. I've been living in the country most of the time, and did chores on -a farm." - -"Well, we haven't many farms in New York," said the landlady with a -laugh. - -"No. I suppose not. Even if there were, I don't like that kind of -work." - -"Have you never done anything else?" - -"I acted for a few weeks." - -"Gracious! You don't mean to say you've been a play actor?" - -"Yes, ma'am." - -"How Luella Dickinson would like to see you! She dotes on play actors, -but I don't think she ever met one." - -"I am afraid she would be disappointed in me. - -"Oh, I guess not. If you've played on the stage that's enough. Why can't -you call round some evening? Luella would _so_ like to see you." - -"Thank you, Mrs. Gately. If I can get anything to do, I will call." - -Jed finished his breakfast. He ate heartily, for he had no idea where he -should get another meal. - -"I guess I'll be going," he said, as he rose from the table. "You have -been very kind." - -"Oh, that's nothing. I hope you'll meet that rascally Graham and make -him give up your money." - -"I am afraid there is little hope of that. Good morning, and thank you!" - -And so Jed passed out of the hospitable house into the inhospitable -street, without a cent of money or a prospect of earning any. - - - - -CHAPTER XXV. - -WITHOUT A PENNY. - - -There is nothing that makes one feel so helpless as to be without a -penny in a strange city. If Jed had had even a dollar he would have felt -better. - -The fact of his poverty was emphasized when a boy came up to him and -asked him to buy a morning paper. Jed instinctively felt in his pocket -for a penny, but not even a cent was forthcoming. - -"I have no change," he said, by way of excuse. - -"I can change a dollar," responded the newsboy, who was more than -usually enterprising. - -"I wish _I_ could," thought Jed, but he only said, "No, it is no -matter." - -So he walked along Broadway, fairly well dressed, but, so far as money -went, a pauper. Yes, though no longer an inmate of the Scranton -poorhouse, he was even poorer than when he was there, for then he had a -home, and now he had none. - -"I wonder when it is all going to end?" reflected poor Jed despondently. -Then his anger was excited when he thought of the unprincipled rascal -who had brought him to this pass. - -"If I could only get hold of him," muttered Jed vengefully, "I would -give him something to remember me by." - -All the while Jed walked on, though his walk was aimless. He was as well -off in one part of the city as another, and only walked to fill up time. - -He found himself passing a drug store. Just outside the door he saw the -sign "Boy wanted," and with a little kindling of hope he entered the -store. - -Just behind the counter stood a man with a sandy beard, who appeared to -be the proprietor. To him Jed addressed himself. - -"I see you want a boy," he said. - -"Yes; do you want a place?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I hardly think you would be satisfied with the wages we pay, unless -you particularly wish to learn our business." - -"What do you pay, sir?" - -"Three dollars a week." - -Three dollars a week! It was certainly better than no income at all, but -Jed knew well that it would be impossible to live on this sum, and he -had no reserve fund to draw upon. - -"No," he said, "I am afraid I couldn't get along on that salary." - -"Are you entirely dependent on your earnings?" asked the druggist. - -"Yes, sir." - -"Have you parents residing in the city?" - -"No, sir; I am all alone." - -"That would be an objection. We prefer to employ those who live at -home." - -"Do most employers require that, sir?" - -"Many do." - -Here a customer came in and asked for a bottle of cough medicine, and -the druggist turned away to fill the order. Jed walked slowly out of the -store. - -"I wonder whether there is any work for me anywhere?" he asked himself -despondently. - -Jed continued his walk down Broadway. It was a bright, clear, -exhilarating day, and Jed would have enjoyed it thoroughly if he had -been better fixed, but it is hard to keep up the spirits when your -pocket is empty. - -When Jed reached City Hall Park he went in and sat down on one of the -benches. - -One of the boy bootblacks who carry on business in the park came up to -him with his box on his shoulder and asked, "Shine your boots?" - -Jed shook his head. - -"Not this morning," he replied. - -"They need it," said the boy. - -Jed looked at his boots, and was fain to admit that the boy was right. -But he was not possessed of the necessary nickel. - -"Yes, they do need it," he said, "but I haven't money enough to pay you -for doing it." - -"Only five cents." - -"I haven't five cents. I'm poorer than you are, my boy," said Jed in a -burst of confidence. - -The boy looked puzzled. - -"You don't look like it," he said after scrutinizing Jed's appearance. -"How did you come to be so poor?" - -"Had all my money stolen last night." - -"How much was there?" - -"Thirty-five dollars." - -"Whew!" whistled the bootblack. "That was a haul. Who did it?" - -"A young man I fell in with. He invited me to share his room. I woke -this morning to find that he had stolen all my money." - -"He was a snide, he was! I'd like to step on his necktie." - -"I'd like to do something of that sort myself," said Jed with a smile. - -"Would you know him if you saw him again?" - -"Yes; I shan't forget him very soon." - -"When you do see him hand him over to a cop. Just hold out your foot," -and the boy got down in a position to black Jed's shoe. - -"But I haven't any money. I can't pay you." - -"I'll do it for nothin', seein' as you're down on your luck. You can pay -me some time when times is better." - -"I am afraid you will have to wait a good while for your money." - -"Never mind! It won't kill me if I lose it." - -"You're very kind to a stranger," said Jed, grateful for the boy's -friendly proffer. - -"Oh, it ain't nothin'. You look like a good fellow. You'll get a place -quicker if your shoes look nice." - -There was something practical in this suggestion, and Jed accepted the -offer without further hesitation. - -The boy exerted himself specially, and Jed's dirty shoes soon showed a -dazzling polish. - -"There, you can see your face in 'em!" exclaimed the boy, as he rose -from his knees. - -"Thank you," said Jed. "I see you understand your business. Will you -tell me your name?" - -"Jim Parker." - -"Well, Jim, I am much obliged to you. I hope some time I can do you a -favor." - -"Oh, that's all right. So long! I hope you'll get a job." And the -independent young bootblack, with his box over his shoulder, walked -across the park in search of another job. - -Somehow Jed was cheered by this act of kindness. He felt a little better -satisfied with himself, moreover, when he saw the transformation of his -dirty shoes to the polish that marks the gentleman. - -A man rather shabbily dressed was drawn by this outward sign of -affluence to sit down beside him. He took a brief inventory of Jed, and -then doffing his hat, said deferentially, "Young gentleman, I hope you -will excuse the liberty I am taking, but I have walked all the way from -Buffalo, and am reduced almost to my last penny. In fact this nickel," -producing one from his pocket, "is all the money I have left. If you -will kindly loan me a quarter I shall esteem it a great favor." - -Jed felt like laughing. He had not a penny, yet here was a man richer -than himself asking for a loan. - -"I wish I were able to oblige you," he said, "but you are asking me for -more than I possess." - -The man glanced incredulously at Jed's polished shoes. - -"You don't look poor," he said, in a tone of sarcasm. - -"No, I don't look poor, but you are five cents richer than I." - -The man shrugged his shoulders. He evidently did not believe Jed. - -"It is quite true," continued Jed, answering the doubt on the man's -face. "Last night I was robbed of all the money I had. Had you applied -to me yesterday I would have granted your request." - -This frank statement disarmed the man's suspicion. - -"I think your are speaking the truth," he said. "Though there are plenty -who pretend to be poor to get rid of giving. Perhaps I shall surprise -you when I say that a year ago I should have been able to lend you five -thousand dollars, and have as much more left." - -"Yes, you do surprise me! How did you lose your money?" - -"I was a fool--that explains it. I bought mining stocks. I was in San -Francisco at the time, and my money melted like snow in the sun. A year -since I was worth ten thousand dollars. To-day I am worth a nickel. Do -you know what I will do with it?" - -Jed looked at him inquiringly. - -"I will buy a glass of beer, and drink to our good luck--yours and -mine." - -"I hope it will bring the good luck," said Jed smiling. - -"I would offer you a glass too, if I had another nickel." - -"Thank you, but I never drink beer. I thank you all the same." - -His companion rose and left the park, probably in search of a beer -saloon. Jed got up, too, and took another walk. By half-past twelve he -felt decidedly hungry. His breakfast had lasted him till then, but he -was young and healthy, and craved three meals a day. - -"How shall I manage to get dinner?" thought Jed seriously. - -He paused in front of the Astor House, which he knew to be a hotel, and -saw business men entering in quest of their midday lunch. - -It was tantalizing. There was plenty of food inside, but he lacked the -wherewithal to purchase a portion. - -"Why, Jed, how are you?" came unexpectedly to his ears. - -He looked up and saw a brown-bearded, pleasant-faced man, whom he -recognized as a fellow-guest at the Spray Hotel at Sea Spray. - -"When did you leave Sea Spray?" asked his friend. - -"Only yesterday." - -"Going to stay in the city?" - -"Yes, if I can get anything to do." - -"Have you been to lunch?" - -"Not yet." - -"Come in and lunch with me, then. I think we can find something inviting -at the Astor." - -"Saved!" thought Jed, as he gladly passed into the famous hostelry with -his friend. "I wonder if he has any idea how glad I am to accept his -invitation?" - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI. - -IN SEARCH OF EMPLOYMENT. - - -Jed followed his hotel friend up stairs into an upper dining-room, and -they took seats at a corner table. - -"I never like to dine alone," said Howell Foster. "I am glad I fell in -with you, Jed." - -"So am I," answered Jed. "I am more glad than you have any idea of," he -said to himself. - -"What will you order?" asked Mr. Foster, pushing over the bill of fare -to his companion. - -"I have a healthy appetite and shall enjoy anything," said Jed with a -smile. "Please order the same for me as for yourself." - -Howell Foster was rather proud of his gastronomic knowledge, and took -this as a compliment. - -"You can trust me to do that," he replied. "I am used to the place and -know what they succeed best in." - -Thereupon he ordered a dinner which Jed found delicious. No expense was -spared, and Jed, glancing at the bill when it was brought, found that -the charge was three dollars and a half. - -During the repast the host kept up a bright and chatty conversation. - -"I hope you enjoyed your dinner," he said, when it was over. - -"Actions speak louder than words," answered Jed with a smile. - -"This is a good, reliable place. I advise you to come here often." - -"What would he say if he could see the inside of my pocket-book?" -thought Jed. "I am afraid," he said aloud, "it is too expensive for my -means." - -"Yes, probably; I didn't think of that. By the way, what have you in -view?" - -"I hardly know yet." - -"Come round and see me some day," and Foster handed Jed his card. - -"Thank you, sir." - -"Will you have a cigar?" - -"No, thank you, sir. I don't smoke." - -"It would be money in my pocket if I didn't. My cigars cost me last -year five hundred dollars." - -"I wish I was sure of that for my entire income," thought Jed. - -They parted at the entrance to the hotel. It was clear from his manner -and speech that Howell Foster thought Jed in easy circumstances. - -It made the boy feel almost like an impostor, but he reflected that he -had done nothing to give Mr. Foster a false impression. - -It was about half-past one when he left the hotel. The dinner had -occupied an hour. The world was still before him, but he had eaten a -hearty meal and felt that he could get along, if necessary, till the -next morning, so far as eating was concerned. - -Where to sleep presented a perplexing problem, but it would be some time -before it required to be solved. How to spend the afternoon puzzled Jed. -He went back to City Hall Park, and on the seat he had formerly occupied -he found a copy of the New York _Herald_ which somebody had left there. -He took it up and looked over the advertisements for Help Wanted. - -He found the following: - - - WANTED.--Smart, enterprising agents to sell packages of stationery. - Fifteen dollars a week can easily be made. Call at No. 182 Nassau - Street, Room 22. - - -This struck Jed as just the thing. It could not be very hard to sell -stationery, and fifteen dollars a week would support him comfortably. - -"Where is Nassau Street?" he inquired of a bootblack who took a -temporary seat beside him. - -"There 'tis," said the street boy, pointing in the direction of the -_Tribune_ building. "You just go down in front of the Tribune." - -"Is No. 182 far off?" - -"No, it's close by. You can get there in less than no time." - -"Thank you!" and with hope in his heart Jed rose and walked in the -direction indicated. - -He found the building. At the entrance was a list of occupants of rooms. -He went up two flights of stairs, and halted in front of No. 22. He -knocked at the door and was bidden in a deep, hoarse voice to "Come in!" - -Opening the door, he found himself in the presence of a short, -humpbacked man, whose voice was quite out of proportion to his size. - -"I suppose you come to see me about the advertisement in the _Herald_," -said the dwarf. - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, gazing as if fascinated at the stunted figure, -huge head and long arms of the person before him. - -"I have engaged several agents already this morning," went on the dwarf, -turning over a large book on the desk before him. - -"Then perhaps you don't need any more?" said Jed despondently. - -"Oh, yes, I do if I can get the right ones," was the answer. - -"It is to sell packages of stationery, I believe. Can you show me some?" - -The dwarf handed Jed a flat package, on the outside of which was printed -a list of the contents. They included a pen holder, pens, a quire of -paper, a supply of envelopes, and several other articles. - -"This is the best package in the market for the money," said the dwarf. -"Observe how varied are the contents, and only a paltry twenty-five -cents for the whole." - -"Yes, it seems a good bargain," said Jed. - -"You are right there," said the dwarf confidently. "Why, you can make -money hand over hand. Our agents are actually coining it. We allow them -to retain ten cents on each package. Two or three, and sometimes five, -are sold to the same person. Would you like to have me read one or two -agents' letters?" - -"Yes, if you please." - -"Here is one from Theodore Jenkins, who is operating in Pennsylvania: - - - "'HUGO HIGGINS, ESQ. - - "'DEAR SIR: - - "'Please send me at once two hundred packages of stationery. They - sell like hot cakes. I got rid of forty yesterday, and it rained - half the day, too. I have held several agencies for different - articles, but none that paid as well as this. I shall be - disappointed if I don't make forty dollars per week. It looks as if - it might exceed that sum. - - "'Yours respectfully, - "'THEODORE JENKINS.' - - -"That letter speaks for itself," remarked the dwarf as he folded it up -and replaced it in an envelope. - -"Yes," said Jed, "it is certainly very encouraging." - -"I will read you another from a party who has been in our employ for -fourteen months. He is operating in Ohio. - - - "'DEAR SIR: - - "'You may send me three hundred packages by Adams Express, and - please don't delay, for I need them at once. I have been working - for you for fourteen months. During that time I have supported my - family and bought a house, on which I have paid cash down a - thousand dollars. In the course of the next year and a half I - expect to complete the payment and own the house clean. It was - certainly a lucky thing for me when I saw your advertisement for - agents and engaged in your service. - - "'Yours gratefully, - "'ARTHUR WATERS.' - - -"That is another letter that speaks for itself," observed Mr. Higgins. -"I have plenty more, but I don't think I need to read any others to -convince you that the business will pay any one that takes hold of it." - -"Perhaps," added Jed, "these gentlemen had experience as agents." - -"One of them had, but the other was quite green in the business." - -"You think then that I could succeed?" - -"Undoubtedly. You look smart and have a taking way with you. You can't -fail to succeed." - -This was pleasant to hear, and Jed felt strongly impelled to engage in -the service of the plausible Higgins. - -"If you will trust me with twenty packages," he said, "I will see what I -can do." - -"Certainly. That will be three dollars. You see we charge you fifteen -cents each, and you sell them for twenty-five. That gives you two -dollars. You had better take fifty packages, and then you won't have to -come back to-morrow." - -"Very well, I will take fifty." - -"All right. You may pay me seven dollars and a half, and I will get the -packages ready." - -"Do you require payment in advance?" asked Jed quickly. - -"Certainly. You are a stranger to me, and even if you were not, I -should not feel like risking so much money or money's worth. What is -there to hinder your making off with it and never coming back?" - -"I wouldn't be dishonest for a great deal more money than that." - -"I dare say you are right, but we must adhere to our business methods. -You will get your money back in two days probably." - -"But I haven't the money to pay in advance." - -"Oh, that alters the matter," said Higgins, become less gracious. "How -much have you?" - -"I am unable to pay anything," said Jed desperately. - -Mr. Hugo Higgins turned away, no longer interested in Jed. Poor Jed felt -sadly disappointed at losing so good a chance, but something happened to -mitigate his regret. - -A stout man with red hair opened the door of the office and dashed in, -carrying in his hands a large package. - -"I want my money back!" he said. "You are a big schwindler!" - - - - -CHAPTER XXVII. - -AN INTRACTABLE AGENT. - - -The new visitor was a large man, evidently a German, weighing not less -than two hundred pounds. He approached Hugo Higgins, towering above the -dwarf by at least fourteen inches, and shook his fist in his face. Mr. -Higgins shrank back as if fearful of a personal assault, and inquired in -uneasy tones: - -"Who are you, my friend?" - -"Who am I?" retorted the other, laughing gutturally. "You know me well -enough, you villain!" - -"I think I have seen you somewhere," said Hugo, not daring to show the -anger he felt at the hard name by which the other addressed him. - -"You have seen me somewhere? Come, that's good. My name is Otto Schmidt, -and I am one of your victims. You understand that, hey?" - -"No. I can't say I do." - -"Then I'll tell you. I came in here last week and bought some of your -confounded packages. I was to make big wages by selling them, hey?" - -"Certainly, I hope you did." - -"You hope I did?" repeated Mr. Otto Schmidt fiercely. "Well, I tell you. -I went round two days in Montclair, and how many packages you think I -sell, hey?" - -"About fifty," answered Hugo with a sickly smile. - -"About fifty? Ha, ha!" returned the German, laughing wildly. "I sell -just one to a young boy named Chester Noyes. That's all I sell." - -"My dear Mr. Schmidt, I am afraid you got discouraged too soon," said -Hugo suavely. - -"So I am your dear Mr. Schmidt, hey? You cost me dear enough with your -lies about the business, you scoundrel!" - -"I cannot allow you to talk to me in this way," said Hugo in a dignified -tone. - -"Oh, you won't, hey?" retorted the German, beginning to dance about the -floor. - -"Well, I won't. Maybe you prefer to have me step on your necktie, hey?" - -Hugo Higgins looked alarmed, and Jed could hardly help laughing. - -"Well, what do you want?" asked Hugo, afraid some applicant for an -agency might enter and be frightened away. - -"What do I want? I want my money back." - -"That is against our rules," said Hugo. "My good Mr. Schmidt, take the -packages and go to some other place. Other agents have told me that -Montclair is not a good town for business. Go to--to Rahway! I am sure -you will sell all your packages there." - -"No; I don't go to Rahway. I sell all my packages here." - -"But, my good friend----" - -"I am not your good friend. I am no friend to a rascal." - -"Really, this language----" - -"Never mind about the language! I ain't going to be schwindled by no -fakir. I've got forty-nine packages here, and I want you to pay me back -my money, seven dollars and thirty-five cents." - -"I can't think of such a thing." - -"Then I give you in charge for schwindling," said Otto Schmidt, -thrusting a fat fist directly under Hugo's nose. "I may be one Dutchman, -but I ain't so dumb as you think I am." - -"I don't think you dumb at all," said Hugo soothingly. "I think you are -a smart man of business." - -"You find me too schmart to be schwindled, I tell you that." - -"Still, if you don't want to go on with the business, I'll take back the -packages and give you five dollars for them." - -"And I to lose two dollars and thirty-five cents, besides all my time. -Not much, Mr. Hugo Higgins." - -"You can't expect me to give you back all the money." - -"Well, I do," said Mr. Schmidt stoutly. "I give you just two minutes to -make up your mind." - -Just then the door opened, and a young man who was evidently from the -country entered. - -"I seed your advertisement," he said. "I want to be an agent, if you -can give me a chance." - -Otto Schmidt smiled sardonically, and was about to speak, when Hugo said -hurriedly, "Come out into the hall, Mr. Schmidt, and I think we can -arrange your business satisfactorily." - -"All right! I come," and he followed Hugo out into the entry. - -"I will pay you your money," said the agent. "It is quite against my -rules, but I will make an exception in your case." - -"I want a dollar more to pay me for my time," said the German, -appreciating his advantage. - -"But, my dear sir, this is very unreasonable," said Mr. Higgins -uneasily. - -"Then I go back into the room and show you up." - -"Very well, here is your money!" and Hugo with great reluctance drew out -eight dollars and thirty-five cents and handed it to Mr. Schmidt. - -Otto Schmidt chuckled and nodded significantly at the discomfited Hugo. - -"I may be a Dutchman," he said, "but I ain't no chump." - -Hugo re-entered the office and smiled affably at the young man from the -country. - -"One of our successful agents," he said, nodding towards the door. "I -won't tell you how much that German gentleman has made by selling our -famous packages, for you might not believe me." - -"Can you give me a chance?" asked the young hayseed anxiously. - -"Well, I think I can," said Hugo with assumed hesitation, and then he -explained on what terms he sold, as he had done to Jed. - -"How many packages will you take?" he asked pleasantly. - -"I guess I'll take a dozen to begin with," said the young man from the -country. - -"A dozen!" replied Hugo, much disappointed. "My, that's no order at all. -You would have to come back for more before the day was out." - -"Well, I'll take fifteen," said the young man after reflection. - -"You'd better take fifty. Very few of our agents take less than fifty." - -"No, I ain't got much money. I'll only take fifteen to begin with." - -And to this determination he adhered, in spite of the persuasions of Mr. -Higgins. - -As Hugo wrapped up the packages and received back two dollars and -twenty-five cents, he regretted that he had so hastily agreed to buy -back Mr. Schmidt's boxes at an advance on the original cost. - -"Where would you advise me to sell?" asked the young man. - -"Country towns are best," said Hugo. "Some distance from the city, I -advise, as those who live near New York can come here and buy, and are -less ready to patronize agents." - -Jed smiled to himself. He understood that Mr. Higgins wished to guard -against a visit from the young man in case his business failed to meet -his anticipations. He lingered behind after the rural visitor had gone. - -"I hope," said Hugo, "you took no stock in what that stupid Dutchman -said." - -"Well," replied Jed, "it shows that some of your agents are not -successful." - -"A man like that could not succeed in selling anything," said Hugo -scornfully. "Now it is different with you. You look smart." - -Jed smiled. He began to understand Mr. Higgins and his methods. - -"Then you remember the letters from the agents which I read you." - -"Yes," answered Jed, but he felt convinced now that the letters were -bogus, and manufactured by Mr. Higgins himself. - -"When you can command the necessary funds I shall be glad to have you -call and buy a bundle of samples." - -"I don't think I shall care to enter into the business, Mr. Higgins," -said Jed. "It would be an experiment, and I am not in a position to try -experiments." - -Higgins looked at Jed, and saw that he was understood. - -"Very well!" he said coldly. "You must do as you like, but you are -making a mistake." - -Jed left the office and went down stairs. What had happened did not -encourage him. It seemed a good deal harder to make a living in a large -city than he supposed. - -He saw now that there were sharpers ready to fleece the young and -inexperienced. If he had not been robbed of his money, in all -probability he would have fallen a victim to the persuasive but -deceptive representations of Mr. Higgins, and have come back -disappointed like Mr. Otto Schmidt. - -He continued his walk down Nassau Street, and presently turned into -Broadway. His attention was attracted to a church with a very high spire -facing Wall Street. He inquired the name and found it was Trinity -Church. The Scranton meeting-house could easily have been tucked away in -one corner of the large edifice, and as far as height was concerned, it -was but an infant compared with a six-footer. - -He walked still further down Broadway, till he reached a green park, -which he found was called the Battery. Feeling somewhat fatigued, he sat -down on a bench near the sea-wall and looked over toward Governor's -Island. Craft of different sizes were passing, and Jed was interested -and exhilarated by the spectacle. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVIII. - -A STRANGE COMMISSION. - - -Jed's companion on the seat was a sallow-faced, black-bearded man. Jed -merely glanced at him, but presently became aware that he had become the -object of the sallow man's scrutiny. - -Finally the latter moved rather nearer Jed, and showed a disposition to -be sociable. - -"A fine day, young man," he began. - -"Yes, sir." - -"And a fine view we have before us," went on the stranger, pointing to -the harbor and the numerous craft that were passing in both directions. -"However, I suppose it is quite familiar to you?" - -"No, sir; I am a stranger in the city." - -"Indeed!" and here the stranger allowed his gaze to rest on the small -gripsack that Jed had placed on the seat beside him. "Perhaps you have -come in quest of work?" - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed. - -"Have you found anything yet?" - -"No, sir, but I have only been here since yesterday morning. Do you know -of any situation that I could fill?" - -"Well, no, no permanent position," answered the other deliberately. "I -might give you a chance to earn," here he hesitated, "two dollars this -evening. But perhaps that would not be worth your while." - -"Yes, sir, I should be glad to earn even that," said Jed eagerly. - -"Then perhaps I may employ you. Can you row a boat?" - -"Yes, sir. I think so. I have rowed on a pond up in Scranton." - -"Then you can probably row here. I would row part of the way myself." - -"When do you want me?" asked Jed. - -"Not till late this evening. I will explain when the time comes." - -Jed was disappointed. He had hoped to do the work at once, and receive -the money. Then he could buy himself some supper, for he was already -hungry. He found that his appetite was just as regular as if he were -earning a living income, instead of being impecunious and without work. - -"At what time shall I meet you, sir?" - -"At eleven o'clock, here." - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, wondering what he was to do during the -intervening time. - -As he had no money, he must defer eating till then, and it occurred to -him that he would hardly feel able to row any considerable distance -unless refreshed by food. Could he venture to ask a part of the sum he -was to earn in advance? He decided to do so. - -"I am going to ask a favor," he said hurriedly. "I have been robbed of -all my money, and I have not enough to buy my supper. If you let me have -half a dollar on account----" - -He feared that this proposal would be distasteful to his companion, but -the sallow-faced man did not seem offended. - -"Perhaps," he said thoughtfully, "I had better keep you with me, and let -you eat supper with me." - -"Very well, sir," said Jed, feeling relieved. - -The other looked relieved. - -"It is half-past five," he said. "We may as well start now." - -He rose leisurely from his seat, and Jed followed him. He walked to the -head of the Battery, and keeping near the piers, led the way to a humble -tavern called "The Sailor's Rest." - -"This will do," he said. "It is not very fashionable, but they can give -us a comfortable meal." - -Certainly the interior presented a great contrast to the Astor House, -where Jed had lunched, or rather dined. The floor was sanded, the tables -were unprovided with tablecloths. There was a bar on one side of the -room, over which presided a stout bartender with mottled cheeks and a -dirty white apron. - -"Where is the restaurant?" asked Jed's companion. - -"In there," answered the bartender with a jerk of his finger in the -direction of a back room. - -With a nod the sallow-faced man beckoned Jed to follow him. Opening a -door, he led the way into a room provided with four tables only. On each -table was a small bell. - -Jed and his guide sat down, and the latter rang the bell. - -A dirty-faced man, with a beard of several days' growth, made his -appearance. - -"We want some supper." - -"What'll you have?" - -"What can we have?" - -"Beefsteak, ham and eggs." - -"What else?" - -"Eggs without." - -"Without what?" - -"Ham." - -The sallow man shrugged his shoulders. - -"It seems we must choose between beefsteak and ham and eggs," he said. -"What will you have?" - -"Ham and eggs," answered Jed. - -"All right. Ham and eggs for two." - -"Anything else?" - -"Two bottles of lager. You drink beer, don't you?" - -"No," answered Jed. - -"Then bring the boy some tea or coffee--whichever he prefers." - -"Tea," suggested Jed. - -"Bread and butter, of course, and fried potatoes, if you can get them -ready." - -While they were waiting the man leaned back in his chair and stared out -of the window at a dirty back yard, but his thoughts seemed to be -otherwise occupied. Jed's eyes wandered about the room, but found little -to attract him in the two or three prints--one of a yacht, another of a -merchant vessel--that adorned the walls. - -On the mantel was a soiled piece of coral and a large seashell. All -seemed to harmonize with the name of the inn. Jed, however, felt but a -fleeting interest in the furnishings of the place. His mind dwelt rather -on the promised supper. - -He could not understand how in this crisis of his fortunes, when there -was so much to discourage him, he should have such an appetite. Savory -odors from the neighboring kitchen found their way into the room when -the waiter opened the door and entered to set the table. - -Jed was glad to overlook the cheap and dark-hued crockery, the rusty -knives and forks and the chipped glasses, as the odor of the ham and -eggs was wafted to his nostrils. Finally the beer and tea were brought -in, and his companion signaled to him to fall to. - -"Where did you dine?" he asked abruptly. - -"At the Astor House." - -The sallow-faced man paused with his glass, which he had just filled, -half-way to his lips. - -"Was that before you were robbed of your money?" he asked. - -"No, sir, but I met a gentleman whom I knew at the seaside, and he -invited me to dine with him." - -"Oh, that explains it. This is a very different place from the Astor -House." - -"I should think so," said Jed smiling. - -"Still we can probably satisfy our hunger." - -"Oh, yes," responded Jed, and he made a vigorous onslaught on the -contents of his plate. - -In a few minutes supper was over, and Jed felt better. It is wonderful -how much more cheerful views we take of life and the world on a full -than on an empty stomach. - -Jed experienced this. He couldn't, to be sure, look very far ahead, but -he had had three meals that day in spite of an empty purse, and the -money he was to earn would insure him a bed and three meals for the -coming day, in all probability. - -"It is half-past six" said his companion, referring to his watch--"a -good while before I shall need your services. Do you feel tired?" - -"Yes, sir; I have been on my feet all day." - -"Wait a minute." - -He went out and returned in a moment. - -"I have engaged a room for you," he said. "You can occupy it now if you -like it, and after our expedition return to pass the balance of the -night. You can leave your valise there, as it will only be in your way -on the boat." - -"Thank you, sir." - -This solved one of Jed's problems in a pleasant manner. The waiter led -the way up stairs to a small room just large enough to hold a bed and -washstand, and said, "That'll do you, I guess." - -"Oh yes," responded Jed cheerfully. - -"The gentleman says you can lie down, and he'll call you when you're -wanted." - -Jed was glad of this permission, for he felt very much in need of rest. -He took off his coat and laid down on the bed. The couch he found not a -very luxurious one. It consisted of a thin--a very thin--mattress laid -upon wooden slats, and the pillow was meagre. - -But he soon fell asleep, and slept so soundly that it seemed as if only -five minutes had elapsed when some one shook him, and opening his eyes, -they rested on his sallow-faced employer. - -"Time to get up," said the latter abruptly. - -Jed sprang from the bed, and, his eyes only half open, said, "I am -ready." - -"Follow me, then." - -He followed his guide, who walked rapidly through the dark streets till -he reached a pier not far from the Battery. There was a boat moored -alongside, rising and falling with the tide. There was one man already -in it. - -"Come along!" said his guide briefly. - -Jed descended a ladder, and took his place in the boat. His companion -seized the oars, signing to Jed to take his seat in the bow. Then he -began to row, much better then Jed could have done. - -They struck out towards Governor's Island, passed it, and proceeded a -considerable distance beyond. Here lay a yacht. There was no light on -board, so far as Jed could see, and it looked to be quite deserted. - -The rower slackened his speed (he had not yet called upon Jed to row) -and said quickly: "I want you to board that yacht. Go down into the -cabin. There you will see a box, perhaps a foot square and ten inches -deep. Bring it to me." - -"But," said Jed, in bewilderment, "is--is it yours?" - -"No," answered the sallow-faced man composedly. "It belongs to a friend -of mine, the owner of the yacht. I promised to come out and get it for -him." - - - - -CHAPTER XXIX. - -A SURPRISE PARTY. - - -The words of the sallow-faced man dissipated any suspicions which Jed -may have entertained, and he clambered on board the yacht without much -difficulty, for he was active and agile. - -"Good!" said his employer. "Now go into the cabin, and be quick about -it." - -Jed did not understand why he should be quick about it. There was plenty -of time, he thought. - -Another thing puzzled him, now that he had had a chance to think the -matter over. Why was the visit postponed till near midnight? - -A city boy would not have had his suspicions so easily allayed; but Jed -was unused to city ways, and, it may be added, to city wickedness. - -The cabin seemed to be dark. He felt his way down stairs, and struck a -match which he had in his pocket in order to see better the location of -the box. He had just picked up the latter, finding it to be heavy, when -he felt a hand laid on his arm, and looking up, met the stern gaze of a -young man about twenty-eight years of age. - -"What are you about here, young fellow?" he asked abruptly. - -Jed was a little startled, but, not being aware that he was doing -anything wrong, he replied composedly, "I was taking this box, sir." - -"I see you were; but what business have you to take the box?" - -"I was sent for it." - -"Sent for it?" repeated the young man, looking puzzled. "Who sent you -for it?" - -"The gentleman in the boat outside." - -"Oh ho! So there is a gentleman in the boat outside?" - -"Certainly, sir. Isn't it--all right?" - -"Well, I should say not, unless you consider theft right." - -"What!" exclaimed Jed aghast. "Is the man who employed me a thief?" - -"It looks very much like it." - -At this moment the sallow-faced man called in an impatient tone, "What -are you about there, you lazy young rascal? Don't be all night!" - -"Is there more than one man in the boat?" asked the young man in the -cabin. - -"Yes, sir; there are two." - -"The harbor police ought to be somewhere about. I'll rouse them if I -can." - -The young man went to the port-hole which served to light the cabin and -fired a pistol. - -"Confusion! There's some one on the yacht!" exclaimed the sallow-faced -man. "We must get off." - -Dipping his oars in the water, he rowed quickly away, leaving Jed to his -fate. But the shot had been heard on another boat not fifty rods -distant, and the piratical craft was pursued and eventually overhauled. -Meanwhile Jed remained on board the yacht, whether as a prisoner or not -he did not know. - -"Your companions have taken alarm," said the young man. "I hear them -rowing away. They have deserted you." - -"I am glad of it," said Jed. "I don't want anything more to do with -them. Will you tell me if that box contains anything valuable?" - -"Probably the contents are worth five thousand dollars." - -"Is it possible!" ejaculated Jed in amazement. - -"You see you have lost quite a prize," said the young man, eyeing him -closely. - -"Don't say that I have lost a prize," returned Jed half indignantly. "I -supposed the man who sent me for it was honest." - -"What did he tell you?" - -"He said that the box belonged to a friend, who had employed him to get -it." - -"All a lie! I am the owner of the box, and the yacht also, and I have no -acquaintance with your principal. If I had not been here he would have -got a rich prize." - -"I am glad you were here," said Jed earnestly. - -"I don't understand your connection with such a man. How much were you -to be paid for your services?" - -"Two dollars," answered Jed. - -"Didn't it strike you as singular that you should have been employed on -such an errand?" - -"Well, a little; but I am a stranger to the city, and I thought it might -be because I was inexperienced." - -"Do you mind telling me how long you have known the person who employed -you?" - -"I met him for the first time at five o'clock this afternoon on the -Battery. He asked me if I wanted a job, and that is how I came to be -engaged." - -"That sounds plausible and I am inclined to believe you." - -At this moment they were interrupted. There was a sound of oars, and -leaving the cabin, Jed and his companion saw the boat of the harbor -police under the side. It had in tow the boat in which Jed had come from -shore. - -"Was there any attempt to rob the yacht?" asked the captain of police. - -"Yes, sir," answered the owner. - -"Have you one of the thieves aboard?" - -"No, sir." - -"That's not true!" said the sallow-faced man, now a prisoner. "That boy -came with us," and he pointed to Jed. - -"Is that true?" asked the police captain. - -"This boy was sent on board by the thieves, but he was quite ignorant of -the character of his employer. He is a country boy, and was an innocent -agent of the guilty parties." - -"You are convinced then of his innocence?" - -"Entirely so." - -"We shall need his evidence against these men. Will you guarantee that -it shall be forthcoming?" - -"Yes, captain. I will give my name and his, and will call at your office -to-morrow morning." - -"That will answer." - -The young man took out one of his cards, bearing the name of Schuyler -Roper, and wrote Jed's name, which he had ascertained, underneath. - -"You will be responsible for the boy's appearance, Mr. Roper?" said the -officer respectfully, reading the name by the light of a lantern. - -"Yes; he will stay with me." - -This seemed satisfactory, and the boat rowed away. - -"I am very much obliged to you for believing in my innocence, Mr. -Roper," said Jed earnestly. - -"You have an innocent face," responded the young man kindly. "I am sure -you are a good boy." - -"I hope you won't see any reason to doubt it. I am afraid I am putting -you to trouble," continued Jed, realizing that he could not leave the -yacht, and was thrown on the hospitality of the owner. - -"Not at all. I can accommodate you easily. You must be tired, if you -have been about the city all day." - -Jed admitted that he was. In fact he felt very tired, and found it hard -work to keep his eyes open. - -"I have sleeping accommodations for six persons on board my yacht, so -that I can easily provide for you. So far from giving me trouble I -shall be glad of your company, though I don't expect any more visitors -to-night." - -Mr. Roper pointed out a comfortable bunk, and Jed lost no time in taking -possession of it. He sank into a deep sleep, which was only broken by a -gentle shake from his young host. As he opened his eyes, and they met -the unusual surroundings, he was at first bewildered. - -"Don't you know where you are?" asked Schuyler Roper, smiling. "Don't -you remember boarding my yacht with felonious intent last night?" - -"Yes," answered Jed with an answering smile. "I remember that I was -taken prisoner." - -"Then you are subject to my orders. When I am on a cruise we have meals -aboard the yacht, but I am not keeping house now. If you will assist me, -we'll direct our course to land and find breakfast somewhere." - -Jed did not know much about a yacht, but he liked the water and proved -very quick in comprehension, so that in a comparatively short time they -had reached the Battery. Here Mr. Roper found two men whom he had -engaged to help man the yacht, and leaving the Juno in their charge he -walked up Broadway with Jed. - -"We will take breakfast at the Astor House," he said. - -"I dined there yesterday," replied Jed. - -"You did!" exclaimed the other in a tone of surprise. "Yet you tell me -you are penniless?" - -"Yes, sir, but I fell in with a gentleman whom I knew at Sea Spray, a -Mr. Foster." - -"Not Howell Foster?" - -"Yes." - -"I know him very well. If he is a friend of yours, I shall feel that I -am justified in reposing confidence in you." - -Just then Mr. Foster entered the room. - -"Good morning, Jed," he said in a friendly tone. "So you like the Astor -well enough to come back?" - -"I am here by invitation of Mr. Roper." - -Mr. Foster, who was shortsighted, now for the first time observed Jed's -companion. - -"So you know Roper, too?" he said. "Why, he's one of my closest -friends. When did you pick him up, Schuyler?" - -"I caught him boarding my yacht on a marauding expedition last night," -said Roper, smiling. - -"Bless my soul! What do you mean?" - -"Sit down and take breakfast with us, and I will explain." - -"And what are you going to do with this desperate young man?" asked the -broker at the end of the story. - -"I shall invite him to accompany me to Bar Harbor on my yacht. But first -we must call on the harbor police, as our testimony will be needed to -convict the rascals who came near robbing me of five thousand dollars' -worth of valuables." - - - - -CHAPTER XXX. - -JED ENTERTAINS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE. - - -Though the trial of the harbor thieves was expedited, it was a week -before Jed and Mr. Roper were able to leave New York. Jed's testimony -settled the matter, and the two thieves were sentenced to terms of five -years' imprisonment. - -"I'll get even with you yet, young fellow!" muttered the sallow-faced -man, eyeing Jed with deep malignity as he left the witness-box. - -"Where is your trunk?" asked Mr. Roper after their first visit to the -office of the harbor police. - -"I never owned one, Mr. Roper." - -"Your valise, then." - -"It is at a small hotel near the Battery." - -"Get it and bring it on board the yacht." - -Jed did so, and Mr. Roper asked to see it. - -"You are poorly equipped, Jed," he said. "That reminds me that if I am -going to monopolize your services I must pay you some salary. How will -fifty dollars a month answer?" - -"But, Mr. Roper, I can't earn as much as that." - -"Perhaps not, but if I am willing to pay it, you can set your mind at -rest. I will see that you are better provided with clothing, -undergarments, et cetera. Here, give me a piece of paper." - -Mr. Roper drew up a list of articles which he thought Jed might need--a -very liberal list, by the way--and sent him with a note to his own -tradesmen, with directions to supply him with such articles as he might -select. He also gave him an order on his own tailor for a suit of -clothes. - -"But, Mr. Roper, it will take me a long time to pay for all these out of -my wages," protested Jed. - -Schuyler Roper laughed. - -"My dear boy," he said, "I haven't the least idea of making you pay for -them. Just look upon me as your older brother, who is able and willing -to provide for you." - -"I am deeply grateful to you, Mr. Roper," responded Jed earnestly. "I -certainly stumbled into luck when I boarded your yacht." - -"I don't know how it is," said Roper, as he eyed Jed thoughtfully, "you -didn't seem a stranger to me even when I first saw you. It seemed -natural for me to look after you. I am an only son, and you never knew -what it was to have a brother. I begin to think that I have lost a great -deal in being so much alone." - -"You may be deceived in me, Mr. Roper. You know very little of me, and -that is not at all to my advantage." - -"Well, I admit that, Jed. Considering that I caught you in the act of -robbing me, I may be said to have known you at your worst." - -"You know nothing of my past life." - -"You shall tell me all about it after a while, when we are not so busy." - -Meanwhile Jed became familiar with his duties on board the yacht, and -during the absence of Mr. Roper was regarded by the men as his -representative. - -No one could have treated him with more generous confidence than his -new friend. Jed was intrusted at times with considerable sums for -disbursements, and was proud of the confidence reposed in him. Of Mr. -Roper, except that he appeared to be a rich young man, he knew next to -nothing, till one day he fell in with his watering-place friend, Howell -Foster. - -"You are still with Schuyler?" he asked. - -"Oh yes, sir. I am going with him to Bar Harbor." - -"And then?" - -"I believe he means to keep me with him." - -"You are in luck. Schuyler is a generous, open-hearted young man, -liberal to a fault, and ready to do anything for one he takes to. I -suppose you know that he is rich?" - -"I thought he must be." - -"His father died two years since, leaving him half a million of dollars. -He spends freely, but does not squander his money. He is paying for the -college education of a poor boy in whom he feels an interest--the son of -an old bookkeeper of his father's--as I happen to know. He is a favorite -in society, but has never shown an inclination to marry." - -"Is his mother living?" asked Jed. - -"No; she died before his father. He is very much alone in the world." - -"That is why he is so generous to me, I think." - -"Perhaps so, but it is his nature to be kind. By the way, Jed, when my -family comes back from Sea Spray I would like to have you call upon us. -We live on Madison Avenue." - -"Thank you, Mr. Foster. If I am in New York I shall be glad to do so." - -"I begin to think I am getting into society," thought Jed. "It is not -over three months since I left the Scranton poorhouse, and here I am -adopted by one rich man and welcomed at the house of another." - -It was natural that Jed should feel elated by his good luck. But he was -not allowed to forget his early adversity, for on the fourth day after -entering the service of Mr. Roper he met on Broadway, just above -Chambers Street, his old enemy, Percy Dixon. - -Percy was the first to recognize him. - -"Oh it's you, is it?" he said in considerable surprise. - -Jed smiled. He felt that he could afford to disregard Percy's -impertinence. - -"My dear friend Percy," he said. "How well you remember me!" - -"Yes, I remember you, and so does Mr. Fogson of the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Remember me to the kind old man!" said Jed comically. - -"How soon are you going back?" - -"Not very soon. Of course it would be pleasant to me to be able to see -you every day, Percy, but----" - -"You needn't flatter yourself that I would take any notice of you. What -are you doing for a living?" - -"I am going yachting in a few days." - -"What! Oh, I understand. You have hired out as a sailor." - -"Well no, not exactly." - -"What yacht are you working on?" - -"Perhaps you would like to visit it?" - -"Yes, I would," said Percy, feeling puzzled and curious. - -"Come to the Battery with me, then. We'd better board the next car." - -Percy followed Jed into a Broadway car, and Jed, to his surprise, paid -the fare. - -"_I_ was going to pay the fare," said Percy. - -"Oh never mind!" returned Jed carelessly. - -"I don't want to put you to expense." - -"Oh! it's not worth minding." - -Arrived at the Battery, Jed called a boatman and said, "Row me out to -the Juno, beyond Governor's Island." - -Jed leaned back in the boat, and Percy stared at him in wonder. When -they reached the yacht one of the men produced a ladder, and Jed led the -way on board. - -"Any orders, Mr. Gilman?" asked the sailor respectfully. - -"No, Kimball; I haven't seen Mr. Roper since morning, and don't know if -he wants anything done." - -"Do you think you can spare me to go on shore for a couple of hours?" - -"Yes, you may go." - -Jed went to the side and said to the boatman, "You may take this man on -shore, and come back in an hour and a half for my friend and myself. - -"Now, Percy, allow me to offer you a little refreshment." - -Jed went to the pantry and brought out some cold meat, bread and butter, -and two bottles of ginger ale, with the necessary dishes. - -"I can't offer you anything very tempting," he said, "but the boat ride -may have given you an appetite for plain fare." - -Percy could hardly conceal his surprise. He stared at Jed as if -fascinated. - -"Won't you get into trouble by making so free with your master's -things?" - -"Who told you I had a master?" - -"Who owns this yacht?" - -"Mr. Schuyler Roper." - -"He must be rich." - -"I hear that he is worth half a million dollars," said Jed in an -off-hand manner. - -"And how did you get in with him?" asked Percy rather enviously. - -"It was an accident," answered Jed, by no means disposed to tell Percy -the particulars of his first meeting with Mr. Roper. - -"Suppose he should come now, what would he say to your making so free?" - -"That he was glad to have me entertain my friends." - -"You seem to be pretty sure of your footing with him." - -"I have reason to be. He tells me to look upon him as an older brother." - -"He may find you out some time," suggested Percy with disagreeable -significance. - -"What do you mean?" - -"He may find out that his _younger brother_ was raised in a poorhouse." - -"I have no doubt he will learn it if he gets acquainted with you." - -"What do you mean?" asked Percy coloring. - -"That you would probably tell him. By the way, has Mr. Holbrook got home -from Chicago yet?" - -"I believe not. Do you expect he will take you back?" - -"No; I prefer my present position. I shall probably sail for Bar Harbor -with Mr. Roper on Saturday." - -"It's strange how you've got on since you left the poorhouse," said -Percy uncomfortably. - -"Yes; I think even you will agree that I did well to leave it." - -"Your luck may turn," added Percy hopefully. - -"Perhaps it will, but I hope not." - -Presently the boatman came back, and Jed sent Percy back to the city, -paying the boatman in advance. - -"It beats all how that pauper gets along!" reflected Percy, but from his -expression the reflection gave him no pleasure. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXI. - -JED RETURNS GOOD FOR EVIL. - - -In the short time before the Juno left for Bar Harbor, Schuyler Roper -became quite intimate with Jed. There was never a trace of condescension -in his manner to his boy friend, but Jed was always treated as if in -birth and position he was the equal of the young patrician. Together -they walked about the city, and frequently dined together, always at -some expensive hotel or restaurant. - -"What time is it, Jed?" asked Mr. Roper one day as they were passing the -Star Theatre. - -"I am afraid I left my watch at home," answered Jed, smiling. - -"Then we shall have to supply its place." - -Schuyler Roper turned the corner of Fourteenth Street, and led the way -to Tiffany's well-known establishment on the corner of Fifteenth Street -and Union Square. - -"Let us see some gold watches," he said to a salesman. - -A tray of handsome timepieces was produced. - -"How expensive a watch would you like, sir? Is it for yourself?" - -"No, for this young gentleman. Look over these watches, Jed, and see -what one you like best." - -Jed made choice of a very neat gold watch with a handsome dial. - -"What is the price?" asked Mr. Roper. - -"A hundred and twenty-five dollars." - -Jed opened his eyes wide in astonishment. A hundred and twenty-five -dollars seemed to him a very large sum, and so unaccustomed was he to -expensive jewelry that he had not known that there were any watches so -costly. - -"Very well; we will take it. Show me some gold chains." - -Choice was made of a fifty-dollar gold chain. It was attached to the -watch, and Mr. Roper, handing it to Jed, said, "Put it in your pocket." - -"Do you really mean the watch and chain for me?" asked Jed, almost -incredulous. - -"Certainly." - -"How can I thank you, Mr. Roper?" said Jed gratefully. - -"My dear boy," rejoined Roper kindly, "I want your appearance to do me -credit. That _you_ will do me credit I feel confident." - -It was about this time that Jed met an old acquaintance--one whom he had -no reason to remember with kindly feelings. He had occasion to go across -Cortlandt Street ferry, when on board the boat he saw in front of him a -figure that seemed familiar. He walked forward till he could see the -face of the young man to whom it belonged. Then it flashed upon him that -it was Maurice Graham, the young man who had invited him to his room on -Twenty-Seventh Street and robbed him of his small stock of money. - -Now that the tide had turned, Jed did not feel so incensed against the -fellow as at first. Still he determined to let him understand that he -knew exactly how he had been swindled. - -He touched Graham on the shoulder, and the young man wheeled round with -an apprehensive look, which he did not lose when he saw and recognized -Jed. - -"Did you touch me?" he asked, with an evident intention of ignoring -Jed's acquaintance. - -"Yes, Mr. Graham. We parted rather suddenly, you remember," said Jed -significantly. - -"Oh, I see. You are----" - -"Jed Gilman." - -"I was wondering what became of you. I was called up town to the house -of a sick friend that evening, and when I went back the next day Mrs. -Gately told me you had gone away." - -"Indeed! Did she tell you that I was robbed of thirty-five dollars -during the night, and that I awoke penniless?" - -"No," answered Graham faintly. "I am surprised." - -"I thought you might be. Are you in the habit of borrowing money from -people who are asleep?" - -"What do you mean? You don't think I took the money?" - -"Yes, I think you did." - -"Why, didn't I tell you that I spent the night with a sick friend -in--in Eighty-Seventh Street. How could I rob you?" - -"You came back during the evening and found me asleep." - -"That's a mistake!" said Graham quickly. - -"It is true. Mrs. Gately let you in, as she informed me the next -morning." - -Maurice Graham looked very much disconcerted, and looked eagerly to the -Jersey shore, which they were fast approaching. - -"Do you know that I would have had no breakfast if Mrs. Gately had not -taken compassion on me?" - -"You don't look--very destitute--now." - -"I am not. I have been lucky enough to find a good position. But that -thirty-five dollars belonged to me. How much of it can you return to -me?" - -Maurice Graham colored and looked embarrassed. - -"I--the fact is," he stammered, "I'm almost broke." - -"Is this true?" - -"On my honor I've only got a dollar and ten cents in my pocket, and I -don't know what will become of me when that is gone." - -"You have got rid of it very quick." - -"I've been a fool," said Graham gloomily. "I spent it mostly on pool and -drinks. Then of course I've had to live." - -"But your situation----" - -"I haven't any." - -"Perhaps you will meet another boy from the country." - -"I treated you awful mean--I know I did," burst out Graham, "and I've -been very sorry for it. I've often wished that I had left you five -dollars." - -"Well, that would have helped me. But don't you think it would have been -better to have left me the whole?" - -"Yes, it would; but I am very unlucky." - -"I am afraid you don't deserve good luck. Isn't there anything you can -do?" - -"Yes." - -"Can't you find another broker to take you in his office?" - -"I never was in a broker's office," confessed Graham. - -"What was your business, then? I suppose you had some way of making a -living?" - -"I am a barber by trade, but I got tired of the confinement, and so I -thought I'd become a sport. I started out with a hundred dollars which -it took me a year to save up, and I got rid of it in two weeks. Then I -fell in with you." - -"And with my thirty-five dollars." - -"Yes." - -"The best thing you can do is to go back to your business." - -"I would if I could." - -"Why can't you?" - -"Because my razors are in hock." - -It is the custom of journeymen barbers to supply their own razors and a -pair of shears for hair-cutting. - -"I suppose that means in pawn?" - -"Yes." - -"When can you get a place if you get your razors back?" - -"I can go to work to-morrow." - -"What sum will get them out?" - -"Four dollars and a half." - -"Where are they?" - -"In a pawnshop on the Bowery." - -"Come with me and I will get them out for you if you will promise to go -to work." - -"I will," answered Graham earnestly. "I'll give you my word I will." - -"Come back on the next boat, then, and I will go with you to the -pawnshop." - -"It will take up your time. You don't mean to give me in charge when we -reach New York?" said Graham apprehensively. - -"No; I am willing to give you a fresh chance. I hope you will improve -it." - -Jed took out his watch to note the time. - -"Is that watch yours? It's a beauty," said Graham. - -"Yes; it came from Tiffany's." - -"Did you have it when I met you?" - -"No; if I had, that would have gone the same way as the money." - -"You must be awfully lucky!" - -"I suppose I have been. At any rate I have been honest." - -"Honesty seems to pay. I must try it." - -"I advise you to," said Jed, smiling. - -When Jed parted from Graham it occurred to him that he would call on -Mrs. Gately. She had provided him with a breakfast when he needed one, -and seemed kindly disposed towards him. - -When he rang the bell of the small house on Twenty-Seventh Street, Mrs. -Gately herself came to the door. - -"Did you wish to see me, sir?" - -"You don't remember me, Mrs. Gately?" - -The old lady peered through her glasses. - -"Why bless me!" she said, "if it isn't the young man from the country. -But you're dressed so fine I hardly knew you. I hope you're prosperin'." - -"Yes, thank you, Mrs. Gately. I have been quite lucky, but I was pretty -low in spirits as well as in pockets when I left you." - -"Why, you're lookin' fine. Won't you stay for supper? Luella Dickinson -will be home soon--she that tends at Macy's. I've often spoken to her -about you. Luella's very romantic." - -"I am not, Mrs. Gately, and I'm afraid I can't stop. I must be on board -my yacht in an hour." - -"Your yacht! Bless me, you don't mean to say you've got a yacht?" - -"Well, it belongs to a friend, but we enjoy it together." - -"Have you seen the bad young man who robbed you?" - -"Yes; I saw him this afternoon." - -"You don't say! Did you have him arrested?" - -"No; I helped him get some things out of pawn." - -"That's a real Christian act, but I don't think I'd have done it. You -deserve to prosper. I wish you could stay and meet Luella." - -"Some other time, Mrs. Gately." - -At supper the landlady told Miss Dickinson of Jed's call. Luella -expressed great regret that she had not seen him. - -"I should fall in love with Mr. Gilman, I know I would," she said. "Why -didn't you ask him to call at Macy's?" - -"I will when I see him again." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXII. - -AT BAR HARBOR. - - -About eleven o'clock one forenoon the yacht Juno came to anchor in the -harbor of Mount Desert. - -Jed gazed admiringly at the rugged shores, the picturesque village, the -background of hills, the smaller islands surrounding the main island, -like the satellites of a larger planet. - -"It is beautiful!" he said. "I never dreamed of such a place." - -"Yes," said Roper, "it is by far the most attractive island on the -American coast. I think we shall find it pleasant to stay here for a -time." - -"I shall enjoy it at any rate," said Jed. "Where shall we stay?" - -"I generally go to the Newport. It is one of the smaller hotels, but its -location is excellent, being very near the water. Besides, I am -expecting my aunt, Mrs. Frost, to arrive in a few days. She always goes -to the Newport, and has the same room every year. There is the hotel -yonder." - -Mr. Roper pointed out a pleasant but unpretentious hostelry on the left -of the pier. - -"The large house farther up the hill is Rodick's," he said. "Rodick is -an old name at Mount Desert, and the island just across from the wharf, -separated by a bar, was once called Rodick's island." - -The yacht was anchored, and Jed and Mr. Roper were rowed to shore. They -secured rooms at the Newport, and walked up the hill. - -As they passed the post-office Schuyler Roper said, "I will see if there -are any letters awaiting me. There may be one from my aunt." - -Jed waited at the door. Mr. Roper came out, holding a letter which he -regarded with some curiosity. - -"Here is a letter in an unknown hand, post-marked Scranton," he said. "I -don't know any person living there." - -"I do," said Jed. "It was my old home." - -"Then why should it be addressed to me? It ought to have been sent to -you." - -"Will you let me see the handwriting?" asked Jed. - -His heart beat a little rapidly, for he recognized the hand as that of -Percy Dixon. - -"I know who it is from," he said. - -"Is it from a friend of yours?" - -"No, an enemy." - -"I don't understand." - -"You will understand when you come to read it, Mr. Roper. It is from a -boy whom I entertained on the yacht three days before we sailed for Bar -Harbor. He has probably written you in the hope of injuring me." - -"Does he know anything to your disadvantage then?" - -"Not to the disadvantage of my character. But please read the letter, -Mr. Roper, and then you will understand." - -Schuyler Roper's curiosity was aroused, and he cut open the envelope. -The letter, which was written in a schoolboy hand, read thus: - - - DEAR SIR: - - Though I am a stranger to you, I will take the liberty to write and - let you know something of the boy who is travelling with you. He is - not fit to associate with a gentleman like yourself, for he was - brought up in the poorhouse in this place, and lived here till four - months ago, when he ran away, and has been living since by hook or - by crook. He has a great deal of cheek, and that is what has helped - him to push himself in among people who are far above him. - - Perhaps you may like to know who I am. My father, Squire Dixon, is - a prominent man in Scranton, and is Overseer of the Poor, which - makes him a sort of guardian of Jed Gilman. He could force him to - go back to his old home, but the boy gave so much trouble, being - naturally headstrong and rebellious, that he thinks it best to let - him follow his own course. Probably Jed will some time apply to be - taken back to his old home, as he is likely to be found out to be - an impostor sooner or later. - - I have taken the trouble to write you because my father thinks it - very proper that you should know the character of the boy whom you - have taken into your employ. When I was in New York lately he - invited me to go on board of your yacht in order to show off. He - made as free as if the yacht were his own, treating me to a lunch, - and ordering the men around as if he owned the yacht. I couldn't - help being amused, remembering that he was nothing but a pauper a - few months since. - - Excuse me for taking up so much of your valuable time. I have no - ill-will against Jed, but I should think better of him if he would - keep his place, and not try to intrude into fashionable society. - - Yours respectfully, - PERCY DIXON. - - -Jed noticed the face of Mr. Roper rather anxiously when he was reading -this letter. - -"Will it prejudice him against me?" he asked himself. - -He felt that in that case he should indeed be depressed, for he had come -to have a sincere attachment for his patron. He was reassured by the -smile that lighted up the young man's countenance as he finished reading -the letter. - -"This letter appears to have been written by a great friend of yours, -Jed," he said. "He is a great friend of mine, too, for he seems afraid -that I shall be injured by associating with you, and so puts me on my -guard." - -"I thought as much," said Jed. "I suppose he tells you that I was -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Yes; is this true?" - -"Yes," answered Jed soberly. - -"But how did it happen? Did your parents lose their property?" - -"I know nothing of them, Mr. Roper. I was only two years of age when I -was placed in the poorhouse. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge. They -were kind people and took good care of me." - -"Did they never tell you the circumstances of your being placed in the -institution?" - -"No; but Mrs. Avery always promised that she would tell me all she knew -on my sixteenth birthday." - -"Are you not sixteen yet?" - -"Yes; but when I reached that age Mr. and Mrs. Fogson were in charge of -the poorhouse. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were removed by the father of this -Percy Dixon who has written to you." - -"What sort of people are they?" - -"Mean, selfish and unkind to the poor people who are unfortunate enough -to be under their charge. Mr. Fogson tried to tyrannize over me, and I -rebelled." - -"I can't blame you," said Roper. - -"Finally I ran away, as Percy writes. It was high time I did, for I felt -able to earn my own living, and was ashamed to be supported by the town, -though I am sure I did work enough to pay for the miserable board I got -at the poorhouse. - -"When Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge I did not feel my position. It -seemed to me as if I were living with kind friends. When they went away -I realized that I was a pauper. Indeed, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson reminded me -of it half a dozen times a day." - -"So you ran away? What did you do first?" - -"Perhaps you will laugh, Mr. Roper, but I became an actor." - -Schuyler Roper looked amazed. - -"But how on earth did you get a chance to go on the stage?" he asked. - -"Through an actor whose acquaintance I made. He was playing in 'The Gold -King.' The young actor who took the boy's part was taken suddenly sick, -and they tried me. The manager seemed satisfied, and I played in it till -the end of the season." - -"There must be something in you, Jed, or you could not have met the -requirements of such a position. Well, and what next?" - -"I went to Sea Spray and was given the charge of a young boy, boarding -at the Spray Hotel, by his father. I lost the place through the same -Percy Dixon who wrote to you." - -"How was that?" - -"He informed the boy's aunt, in the absence of his father at Chicago, -that I was only a pauper, and Miss Maria Holbrook discharged me at -once." - -"Do you think Mr. Holbrook would have discharged you?" - -"I don't think so, for the boy was very fond of me." - -"So am I, Jed," said Mr. Roper affectionately, "and I shall not allow -young Dixon to separate us." - -"Thank you, Mr. Roper," replied Jed gratefully. - -"As to your history, you ought to know more of it. When we leave Bar -Harbor I will let you go back to Scranton and obtain from the Averys all -the information you can. You may get a clew that may lead to a -discovery of your parentage." - -"I hope so," answered Jed. "I don't like to feel that I have no -relations." - -"Meanwhile you may take this letter of your friend Percy's and answer it -as you see fit." - -A few days later Percy Dixon received the following letter: - - - MY DEAR AND CONSIDERATE FRIEND PERCY: - - Mr. Roper has asked me to answer your kind letter. He appreciates - your interest in him, but he doesn't seem to think that my company - will injure him as much as you imagine. He thinks I shall enjoy - myself better with him than in the company of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, - and therefore won't send me away. We are staying at the Newport - House, and enjoying ourselves very much. If you come down this way - call on us, and I will give you a good dinner. Tell Mr. and Mrs. - Fogson not to worry about me, as I am well and happy. - - Yours truly, - JED GILMAN. - - -"I never saw such cheek!" said Percy in mortified anger as he tore Jed's -letter to pieces. "It is strange how that young pauper prospers. But it -won't always last!" and this reflection afforded him some satisfaction. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIII. - -THE POORHOUSE RECEIVES TWO VISITORS. - - -Let us change the scene to the Scranton poorhouse. Mr. Fogson has just -come in from splitting wood. It was a task to which he was very much -averse, but he had not been able to find any one to fill Jed's place. - -"Drat that boy!" he said, as he sank into a chair. - -"What boy?" - -"Jed Gilman. He ought to be here at work instead of roaming round doing -no good to himself or anybody else." - -"Perhaps he would be glad to come back. I dare say he has seen the time -when he didn't know where his next meal was coming from," rejoined Mrs. -Fogson hopefully. - -"I hope so." - -"I don't know as I want him back," went on the woman. - -"I do! He's good for splitting wood, if he ain't good for anything -else." - -At this moment a knock was heard at the door, and Percy Dixon entered -the house. - -"How do you do, Master Percy?" said Mrs. Fogson deferentially. "I am -always glad to see you enter our humble house." - -"We were just talking of Jed Gilman before you came in," added Fogson. - -"I saw him two days since," said Percy. - -"You did!" exclaimed Fogson eagerly. "Where was he?" - -"In the streets of New York. You know I went to the city Tuesday." - -"What was he doing--blacking boots for a living?" - -"Not much! I wish he was. That boy is about the luckiest chap I ever set -eyes on." - -"What did he do?" asked Mrs. Fogson curiously. - -"Invited me to go on board his yacht." - -"What!" - -"That's just what he did." - -"He was bluffing. He wanted to deceive you." - -"No he didn't, for I accepted his invitation and went on board." - -"You don't say! Jed Gilman got a yacht!" exclaimed Fogson, his eyes -almost protruding from their sockets. - -"Well, I don't say it's his, but he acts as if it were. He hired a boat -to take me out to the Juno--that's the name of the yacht, and it's a -regular beauty--and took me on board and treated me to some lunch. He -ordered the men about just as if he were a gentleman." - -"Well, of all things!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson, looking surprised and -scandalized. "Did he explain how he came to have anything to do with the -boat?" - -"Yes; he said the owner had taken a fancy to him and was taking care of -him." - -"Did he say who the owner was?" - -"Yes; it's Schuyler Roper, a rich young man living in New York." - -"Well, what next?" - -"I stayed on board an hour or more, and then went back to the city." - -"It seems strange how that boy gets along. Mr. Roper will find him out -sooner or later." - -"I should say he would. I've written him a letter, and I brought it -along, thinking you might like to hear it read." - -So Percy read the letter already laid before the reader in the last -chapter. - -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson nodded delighted approval as Percy read his exposure -of Jed's humble past. - -"I do say that's about the best-written letter I ever heard," said Mrs. -Fogson, as Percy concluded. - -"Do you think so?" asked Percy with a gratified smile. - -"Think so! I am sure of it. Master Percy, I had no idea you had so much -talent. Did it take you long to write it?" - -"Oh no, I just dashed it off in a few minutes," answered Percy -carelessly. - -"You ought to be a lawyer; you do express things so neat. Don't you -think so, Simeon?" - -"Yes, Mrs. Fogson. I always thought Percy a smart boy. But where are you -going to send the letter?" - -"To Bar Harbor. Jed said that they were going there in a day or two. I -thought Mr. Roper ought to know what a low fellow he has with him." - -"Of course he ought. You've only done your duty in informing him against -Jed. When are you going to mail the letter?" - -"To-night. It'll go off the first thing to-morrow morning." - -"I'm very much obliged to you for letting us hear the letter, Master -Percy. I expect it'll cook Jed's goose." - -"Probably Mr. Roper will send him off as soon as he reads it. I'd just -like to be there when it is read." - -Percy left the poorhouse and went on his way to the post-office. He -sealed the letter, first reading it over again to himself complacently, -and inclined to agree with the Fogsons that it was a decidedly clever -piece of composition. - -He had hardly walked a hundred yards when he met a quiet-looking man of -medium height dressed in a gray suit. - -"Young man," said the stranger, "am I on my way to the poorhouse?" - -"Well, sir," replied Percy jocosely, "that depends on your habits." - -The other smiled. - -"I see you are a young man of original humor. Is the building used as a -poorhouse near by?" - -"Yes, sir, that is it," said Percy, pointing to the forlorn-looking -dwelling he had just left. - -"Thank you, sir," said the stranger, and resumed his walk. - -"I wonder what he wants," speculated Percy. "Perhaps he is a relation of -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. I wish I had asked him." - -The quiet-looking man was soon at the outer door of the poorhouse, and -knocked, for there was no bell. - -Mrs. Fogson answered the knock, and surveyed the stranger with some -curiosity. - -"I believe this is the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Yes, sir." - -"And you, perhaps, are in charge." - -"Yes, sir. Did you wish to see any of the paupers?" asked Mrs. Fogson, -thinking that the visitor, who was inexpensively dressed, might be -related to some of her boarders. - -"First let me inquire how long you have been in your present position, -Mrs.----" - -"Fogson." - -"Exactly, Mrs. Fogson." - -"Me and Fogson have been here about a year." - -The stranger's countenance fell. - -"Only a year!" he repeated. "Who was here before you?" - -"Mr. and Mrs. Avery; but the Overseer of the Poor thought there was need -of a change, and persuaded me and Fogson to come here." - -"Very obliging of you!" murmured the visitor. "Can you tell me how long -Mr. and Mrs. Avery were here?" - -"Fifteen years." - -The stranger brightened up. - -"They live in the village--in a small four-room house not far from the -post-office." - -"Thank you," and the visitor took out a note-book and wrote something in -it. He stood a moment silent, and then said, in a hesitating tone, "Is -there a boy in the institution named Jed Gilman?" - -Instantly the face of Mrs. Fogson expressed surprise and curiosity. - -"There was!" she answered, "but he's run away." - -"Run away!" ejaculated the stranger, looking disappointed. - -"Yes; he was a bad, rebellious boy. Me and Fogson couldn't do anything -with him." - -"It is very sad," said the visitor with a dubious smile. - -"Do you want to see him particular?" asked Mrs. Fogson. - -"Yes; I wished to see him." - -"Has he got into any scrape?" asked she with malicious eagerness. - -The visitor eyed Mrs. Fogson closely, and saw at once that she was Jed's -enemy. - -"That's about the size of it," he answered. "Of course as you are his -friend you would rather not tell me where he is." - -"Who said I was his friend? I'll tell you with pleasure. Percy Dixon -came and told me only a few minutes since. He's probably at Bar Harbor, -or he'll get there some time this week." - -"Bar Harbor!" repeated the visitor in evident surprise. - -"Yes; he's working for a Mr. Roper--Mr. Schuyler Roper. He went down -there on a yacht. If you want to arrest him, or anything, you'd better -go down there right off, for Percy Dixon has written to Mr. Roper that -Jed was brought up in the poorhouse, and will probably get bounced very -soon." - -"Thank you very much for telling me, Mrs. Fogson. I am glad you have put -me on his track." - -"You don't mind telling me what he has been doing?" asked the lady. - -"No; I might defeat the ends of justice by doing so." - -"Just so!" rejoined Mrs. Fogson. "I do wonder what that boy's done?" she -said to herself as the stranger turned into the public road. "Very -likely it's burglary, or forgery." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIV. - -THE DETECTIVE. - - -The man in drab smiled to himself as he left the presence of Mrs. -Fogson. - -"I wonder whether that woman's husband has her amiable traits?" he -speculated. "If so, the Scranton poor must be made very uncomfortable." - -As he reached the village he met Percy Dixon once more. Percy had an -ungovernable curiosity, and he crossed the street to intercept the -stranger. - -"I suppose you found the poorhouse," he said suggestively. - -"Yes; I could not miss it after your clear directions." - -"Are you related to Mr. and Mrs. Fogson?" asked Percy, rather boldly. - -"Well no," answered the stranger with a smile. "I haven't the honor." - -"Have you any relations among the paupers?" - -"Not that I am aware of. However, I called to inquire after one of -them--a boy." - -"Jed Gilman?" said Percy eagerly. - -"Yes; I believe that is his name. Are you acquainted with him?" - -"I have known him for years." - -"I suppose he is a friend of yours?" - -"Not much. Do you think I would be friends with a pauper?" - -"I don't know. I see no reason why not if he is a nice boy." - -"But Jed isn't a nice boy. He's an artful, forward, presuming young -jackanapes, and was awfully troublesome." - -"I am sorry to hear it. Mrs. Fogson seems to think of him very much as -you do." - -"I should think she would. She and Fogson couldn't do anything with -him." - -"Mrs. Fogson says he isn't there now." - -"No; he ran away after making a brutal assault on Fogson." - -The man in drab felt an inclination to smile, but suppressed it. - -"I don't know as I ought to have spoken against him," continued Percy -with a cunning look of inquiry. "You may be after him." - -The man in drab paused a moment, then assuming a look of mystery, said, -"Can you keep a secret?" - -"Yes," answered Percy eagerly. - -"Come here, then." - -Percy drew near, and the other whispered mysteriously, "_I am a -detective!_" - -"You don't say so!" ejaculated Percy, gazing at him with a species of -awe, begotten of his idea of detectives as introduced into books which -he had read. - -The other nodded. - -"And I am after Jed Gilman!" he continued. - -"Is that so?" said the delighted Percy. "What has he done?" - -"That is a secret which I am not permitted to reveal at present." - -"Do you want to find him?" - -"Very much." - -"Then I'll tell you where he is. He's gone to Bar Harbor--in Maine, you -know." - -The detective nodded. - -"He went on a yacht--the Juno--owned by Mr. Schuyler Roper--a rich New -York gentleman." - -"But how did he get into such company?" - -"Oh, Mr. Roper took pity on him and gave him a place." - -"Then you think he is comfortably situated?" - -"Yes, but he won't be long." - -"Why not?" - -"Because I have written a letter to Mr. Roper, telling him Jed's real -character. I expect he'll be bounced when that letter arrives." - -"That would upset all my plans and enable him to escape." - -Percy looked perplexed and disappointed. - -"I am sorry for that," he said. "I guess I'd better write again and tell -him to keep Jed another week." - -"Perhaps you had better do so. Say that---- But no. I will telegraph to -him to keep Jed with him till I arrive." - -"That'll do better. You couldn't possibly tell me what Jed has done?" - -"Not at present." - -"You'll let me know sometime?" - -"I think I shall be able to gratify your curiosity before long." - -"I'll give you my address, and you can write to me. I wish I knew -whether Jed had stolen anything or not." - -"I cannot say a word! My lips are sealed!" said the detective in a -solemn tone. - -Percy was impressed. The man in drab quite came up to his idea of a -detective. - -"By the way," said his companion, "I want to call on Mr. and Mrs. Avery, -who, I understand, know something of the boy's early life." - -"They live there--in that small house. I'll go with you." - -"No, I prefer to go alone. One can't be too careful." - -"All right," said Percy. "I wonder what under the canopy Jed's been -doing? It's likely he'll have to go to jail." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXV. - -MRS. AVERY'S STORY. - - -The detective crossed the street, walked up a tiny footpath and rang the -bell of the small house. - -Mrs. Avery came to the door, a gentle-faced little woman with white -hair. She looked inquiringly at the visitor. - -"Mrs. Avery, I believe?" said the man in drab. - -"That is my name." - -"I would like the favor of a few words with you, madam." - -"Come in then," and she led the way to a modest sitting-room. - -"My husband," she said, introducing him to a kindly old man, as -white-haired as herself. - -"My name is Fletcher," said the visitor, "and I have come to you for -information. But first, am I right in my belief that you were once in -charge of the Scranton poorhouse?" - -"Yes, sir. My husband and I had charge of it for fifteen years. We -should have been there now, but for Squire Dixon, the new Overseer of -the Poor, who wanted the place for some friends of his, Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson." - -"I have had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Fogson," said Fletcher with a -smile. "I am sure, now that I have seen you both, that the change was -for the worse." - -"I fear that the poor people are very shabbily treated," said Mrs. Avery -gravely. "It makes me feel very badly, but what can I do? Squire Dixon -sustains them, and he has everything to say. But you say you want some -information. I shall be glad to tell you what I can." - -"I want information touching a boy, now perhaps sixteen years of age, -bearing the name of Jed Gilman." - -Mr. and Mrs. Avery immediately showed signs of interest. - -"He has left the poorhouse," said Mr. Avery. - -"So I am told." - -"Do you inquire as a friend of the poor boy?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"Emphatically his friend. But first tell me, what kind of a boy is he?" - -"A fine, manly, spirited lad, warm-hearted and attractive." - -The detective looked pleased, but surprised. - -"That doesn't correspond with what Mrs. Fogson told me," he said. - -"I suppose not. She and her husband tried to bully Jed and overwork him, -till he was compelled to run away. I don't know where he is now." - -"But I do. He is at Bar Harbor, in the company of a rich gentleman from -New York, and I believe employed on his yacht." - -"I am thankful to hear it." - -"But what I wish to learn are the circumstances attending his being -placed at the poorhouse. I suppose you remember them?" - -"Oh yes, as well as if it were yesterday, though it is fourteen years -since." - -"Go on, madam, I am all interest." - -"It was a cold evening in November," began Mrs. Avery reflectively, "and -I was about to lock up, though it was but nine o'clock, for we kept -early hours at the poorhouse, when there was a knock at the door. I -opened it and saw before me a young woman of dark hair and complexion, -holding by the hand a pretty boy of about two years of age. - -"'Can you give me and my boy a night's lodging?' she asked. - -"We often had such applications, and never sent away a decent-looking -person. So I said yes readily enough and the two entered. They seemed -hungry, and though it was late for us I gave them some bread and milk, -of which the child in particular partook heartily. I asked the young -woman some questions but she was very close-mouthed. - -"'Wait till morning,' she said. 'The boy and I are very tired.' - -"I asked no more but gave them a bed, and I suppose they both slept -well. I was able to give them a small room to themselves. - -"In the morning when I entered I found only the boy. The young woman had -gone, but pinned to the child's clothing was this note: - - - "'I am obliged to leave the boy with you for the present. I hope - you will take care of him. His name is Jed Gilman. Some time he - will probably be called for. Don't try to find me for it will be - useless.' - - -"That was all. Mr. Avery and myself were dumfounded, but we had taken a -fancy to the boy and resolved to keep him. There was some difficulty -about it, for he was not legally entitled to be brought up at the town's -cost. However, Mr. Avery and I agreed to pay part of the expense for the -first year, and after that he was looked upon as one of the regular -inmates and cared for as such." - -"And the young woman never called again?" - -"Never." - -"Nor sent you any message, oral or written?" - -"Never." - -"Was there any article of dress, or any ornament, left with the child -that might help to identify it?" - -"Yes. Wait here a minute and I will show you something which I have -carefully preserved from that day to this." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVI. - -"WHO WAS JED?" - - -Mrs. Avery went up stairs to her own room, but reappeared in five -minutes. She had in her hand an old-fashioned gold locket. - -"This," she said, "was attached to the neck of the boy when he came into -our hands." - -"Have you opened it?" asked the detective eagerly. "Is there a picture -inside?" - -"There are two miniatures--one on each side." - -She opened the locket, and it proved to be as she said. - -One of these was a miniature of a young and handsome man, apparently -thirty years of age, the other of a young lady with a very sweet and -attractive face, probably five years younger. - -"These must represent the parents of the boy Jed," said the detective. - -"So we concluded--Mr. Avery and myself." - -"Does the lady bear any resemblance to the girl who brought the child to -you?" - -"Not the slightest. The girl was common in appearance. She probably -filled the position of a servant or nursemaid." - -"Did it occur to you that she might be in any way related to the child?" - -"Not for a moment. He was evidently the child of parents wealthy or well -to do." - -"Did you form any conjectures relative to her or her object in bringing -you the child?" - -"No. There was nothing to serve as a clew. It was all guesswork on our -part. Still the thought did occur to us that the child had been stolen -or abducted from his people for some reason unknown to us." - -The detective hesitated a moment, and then, having apparently made up -his mind to confide in the worthy couple, said: "Your guess was very -near the truth. The child, I have every reason to believe, was stolen -from its mother--the father was dead--through the machinations of an -uncle who wanted the boy's title and estate." - -"Title!" exclaimed Mrs. Avery, in great surprise. - -"Yes. This boy I believe to be the only son of the late Sir Charles -Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, Gloucestershire, England." - -"Well, well!" ejaculated Mrs. Avery. "Then if the boy had his rights -would he be Sir Jed Gilman?" - -"No," answered the detective smiling. "He has no more claim to the name -Jed Gilman than I have." - -"What is his real name?" - -"Robert Fenwick, as I have every reason to believe." - -"Why has there been no search for him till now?" - -"There has been a search covering all the intervening years; but the -mother, who is still living, had no information to guide her, and the -search has been a groping in the dark." - -"And did the wicked uncle get the title and estate?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"Yes. He is enjoying both now." - -"Is it a large estate?" - -"It would not be considered large in England. Probably it amounts to -five thousand pounds annual rental." - -"Five thousand pounds!" said Mrs. Avery. - -"Yes, or in our money about twenty-five thousand dollars." - -"And this large estate ought to belong to poor Jed?" - -"I submit that, if so, he will not need to be called poor Jed." - -"And you say that the mother is living?" - -"She is living, and in New York. She is comfortably established at the -Windsor Hotel on Fifth Avenue. It is by her that I am employed. This is -my card." - -He drew out a small card bearing the name - - - JAMES PEAKE. - - -"Yes. I am an American," he said in reply to a question by Mrs. Avery. -"I am a New York detective, and was detailed for this work by Inspector -Byrnes." - -"What sort of a person is Jed's mother?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"Still a beautiful woman, though she cannot be far from forty years of -age." - -"Does she look like the picture in the locket?" - -"There is considerable resemblance--of course, making allowance for the -difference in the ages of the two. This locket, Mrs. Avery, is most -important, and will, I think, establish the identity of Jed Gilman with -the stolen heir of the Fenwick estate. Will you permit me to take it and -show it to Lady Fenwick?" - -"Has she a title, too?" - -"Certainly. She was the wife of Sir Charles Fenwick." - -"And what is the name of the wicked uncle?" - -"Guy Fenwick. He is known as Sir Guy Fenwick, but probably, almost -positively, has no rightful claim to the title." - -"Does he know that you are looking for his nephew?" - -"I presume he has taken measures to keep acquainted with all the -movements of Lady Fenwick." - -"I wonder how the girl came to give the boy the name of Jed Gilman?" - -"I think I can explain this. The name of this treacherous nursemaid was -Jane Gilman. She selected a name as near to her own as possible. You say -you have neither seen nor heard anything of this girl since Jed was left -in your hands?" - -"We have heard nothing whatever." - -At this moment there was a ring at the door-bell--a sharp, quick, -impatient ring. - -Mrs. Avery answered it. - -She came back, her face showing excitement. - -"It is a woman of middle age," she said, "and she, too, has come to make -inquiries about Jed Gilman." - -The detective also looked excited. - -"Do you think," he asked, "it can be Jane Gilman herself come back after -all these years?" - -"That's it!" said Mrs. Avery, her face lighting up. "I wondered where I -had seen her face before. Now, though she is so much older, I recognize -in this middle-aged woman the girl who brought Jed to the door fourteen -years ago." - -"Bring her in here, hear what she has to say, and place me somewhere, so -that, myself unseen, I can hear what she says." - -This was what the detective said in a quick, decided tone. - -"Very well, sir, go in there. It is a small bedroom. You can keep the -door ajar." - -The detective lost no time in concealing himself. - -The woman came in. She was a stout, florid-complexioned woman, rather -showily dressed, with the look of an Englishwoman of the middle class. - -Before we proceed to record the interview that took place between Mr. -and Mrs. Avery and herself we must go back again to the poorhouse, and -our friends, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. - -Twenty minutes after the departure of James Peake, the detective, this -woman knocked at the door of the poorhouse. - -Her summons was answered by Mrs. Fogson. - -"What's wanted?" asked the poorhouse matron, looking inquisitively at -the new arrival. - -"Is there a boy named Jed Gilman living here?" asked the woman eagerly. - -"Jed Gilman again!" repeated Mrs. Fogson. "What do you want of Jed -Gilman?" - -"Answer my question first, if you please." - -"Such a boy was living here till lately, but he became very troublesome -and finally ran away." - -"Then he is not here now?" said the woman, looking very much -disappointed. - -"No, but I expect he'll have to come back some time. A bad penny -generally returns. You haven't told me what you have to do with him?" - -"Then I will tell you. I was the person who brought him here fourteen -years ago." - -"You don't say so?" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson, her little bead-like eyes -sparkling with curiosity. "Was he your child?" - -"Certainly not, but he was my brother's child." - -"And what was your object in bringing him here?" - -"My brother was dead, and the child was thrown upon me for support," -answered the woman after a little hesitation. "I could not support him, -and so brought him where I thought he would have a home. But you are not -the woman who was in charge of the poorhouse at that time." - -"No; that was Mrs. Avery." - -"And is Mrs. Avery still living?" - -"Yes; she lives in a small house in the village." - -"I will go and see her." - -But this did not suit the views of Mrs. Fogson, who was curious to hear -more about the antecedents of Jed. - -"Won't you come in and take a cup of tea?" she asked with unusual -hospitality. - -"I don't care for tea--it's slops," answered the visitor. "If you could -give me a thimbleful of whiskey I wouldn't mind taking it. When I am -tired and dragged out it goes to the right spot." - -"Yes, I can give you a glass," answered Mrs. Fogson. "Me and Fogson -generally keeps a little in case of sickness, though we wouldn't have -it known, as this is a temperance town." - -"You are safe with me, I won't mention it," said the caller. - -She then learned that Jed was probably at Bar Harbor; but Mrs. Fogson -found out very little from her in return. After a few minutes the -strange woman set out on her walk to the Avery cottage. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVII. - -JANE GILMAN. - - -The visitor took a seat in the rocking-chair offered her by Mrs. Avery. - -"Do you remember me?" she asked, throwing back her veil so as to give an -unobstructed view of her full, florid face. - -"Are you the girl who brought the boy Jed to me fourteen years ago?" - -"The same. I don't find you in your old place." - -"No; we--my husband and I--left the poor farm about a year since. Have -you been there?" - -"Yes, I saw the new woman, and a spiteful piece she is, I'll be bound." - -Mrs. Avery smiled. - -"I don't admire Mrs. Fogson," she said, "but I suppose that is natural." - -"She tells me the boy is no longer in the poorhouse." - -"No." - -"Can you tell me why he left?" - -"He was ill-treated by Mr. and Mrs. Fogson." - -"That woman tells me he was very troublesome." - -"We never found him so, and up to a year ago he was under our charge." - -"I surmised as much. Then he has grown up a good boy?" - -"Excellent. I feel great affection for Jed." - -"That is gratifying to my feelings, seeing I am his aunt." - -Mrs. Avery regarded her visitor with surprise. - -"Do you claim Jed as your nephew?" she asked. - -"Certainly. He is the son of my only brother." - -But for her interview with the detective Mrs. Avery would have believed -this story. As it was, she did not choose to dispute it. She only sought -to draw out her visitor so as to understand better her object in -calling. - -"Are you willing to explain why it was that you were led to place your -nephew under my care?" - -"Certainly. There is no secret about that _now_. My brother, who was a -blacksmith, failed, and was unable to support the boy." - -"What was your brother's name?" - -"Jedediah Gilman. That is why I desired to have the boy called Jed -Gilman, after his father. My name is Jane Gilman." - -"Then you are not married?" - -"No," said Miss Gilman. "Not but I might have been married half a dozen -times if I had wanted to. But the men are a shiftless lot, in my -opinion." - -"Not all of them. I never charged my husband with being shiftless." - -"Oh, well, there are exceptions. But I liked my freedom, so I am Jane -Gilman still. I may change my mind yet, and get married. There's a many -after me, and I am only thirty-two." - -Mrs. Avery was too polite to question her statement, but privately -decided that the other was ten years older. - -"Are you an American?" she asked. - -"No, I'm English, and I'm proud to own it." - -"Was Jed born in England?" - -Jane Gilman hesitated, but finally answered in the affirmative. - -"In what English town or village was he born?" - -"Oh, lor, you wouldn't know any better if I should tell you. My brother -came over here with Jed when he was a baby, to better his fortunes. He -went out to Iowa, leaving the baby with me. But I found I couldn't get a -place with a baby on my hands, and so I took it to the Scranton -poorhouse." - -"And where have you been since?" - -"I went to Philadelphia and got a position there. Since then I've been -in a many places." - -"I wonder you didn't write to me for some news of the baby." - -"I got news of him from time to time, though I don't mean to tell you -how," answered Jane Gilman with a cunning smile. "But I've been away for -the last three years, and so I didn't know that Jed had gone off." - -"You must be disappointed not to find him." - -"So I am. It seems so long since I've seen the dear child," and Jane -drew out a handkerchief of ample size and pressed it to her tearless -eyes. "Is he a nice-looking boy?" - -"He has a fine, frank, open face, but you'll excuse my saying that he -doesn't resemble you in the least." - -"No," answered Jane, not the least bit disconcerted. "He didn't look -like the Gilmans, but like his ma's family." - -"What was his mother's maiden name?" - -"Fenwick," responded Jane Gilman, having no suspicion that Mrs. Avery -had heard the name before. - -Mrs. Avery started. - -"I've heard that name before," she said. - -"Have you?" asked Jane, momentarily uneasy, but quickly recovering her -self-possession she reflected that the Averys could not possibly know -anything of Jed's real history. "I suppose there's a many Fenwicks in -the world and some of 'em in America. My brother's wife was a -good-looking woman, and the boy takes after her." - -"She died young, I suppose?" - -"Only three months after he was born." - -"Is your brother still living?" - -"No; he was killed in a railroad accident out in Iowa six months since. -He was a brakeman on the railroad. He left me a tidy sum of money, and -said that I was to look up Jed." - -"This accounts for your visit, then?" - -"Yes; I want to take my nephew with me and see to his education, as my -brother wished me to." - -"Did Mrs. Fogson give you any idea where he was?" - -"She said he had run away, but she had information that he was at Bar -Harbor, wherever that is, in the service of some rich gentleman." - -"We have heard the same thing. What do you propose to do?" - -"I'll have to go there, I suppose. But there is one thing I want to ask -you about." - -"What is that?" - -"When I left the baby with you there was a gold locket suspended from -his neck. Did you find it?" - -"Yes, I found it." - -"I'll thank you if you'll give it to me. I meant to take it at the time, -but I went away in a hurry, as you know, and I thought it would be safe -in your hands." - -"I can't let you have it to-day, Miss Gilman." - -"And why not?" demanded Jane suspiciously. - -"I deposited it with a party I had confidence in, for safe keeping," -replied Mrs. Avery. - -"Then I'll be glad to have you get it as soon as you can. I want it," -rejoined Jane Gilman sharply. - -"How am I to feel sure you are entitled to it?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"If I am not, who is, I'd like to know? I'm the one that left the boy -with you at the poorhouse." - -"I presume this is true." - -"Of course it's true. I'll tell you what, Mrs. Avery, I'm not much -pleased with your trying to keep the locket. Are you sure you haven't -sold or pawned it?" - -"Yes, I am sure of that. But perhaps I shall not have to make you wait -long for it. The gentleman in whose hands I placed it is in this house -at this very minute." - -Jane Gilman looked very much surprised. - -"Where is he?" she asked. - -Detective Peake answered for himself. He stepped into the room from the -small bedroom and held up the locket. - -"Is this the one?" he asked. - -"Yes," answered the woman eagerly. "Give it to me." - -Mr. Peake quietly put it back into his pocket. - -"Not till I have asked you a few questions," he answered. - -"What right have you to ask me questions?" asked Jane defiantly. - -"I will assume that I have the right," the detective answered. "Whose -miniatures are those in the locket?" - -"They are my brother and his wife." - -"Your brother doesn't seem to look like you, Miss Gilman." - -"Perhaps you know better than I who it is," said Jane sullenly. - -"Well, perhaps so." - -"And who do you say they are?" - -"Sir Charles and Laura Fenwick of Fenwick Hall, England." - -Jane Gilman started to her feet in astonishment. - -"Who told you?" she asked hoarsely. - -"It is not necessary for me to tell you. It is enough that I am -commissioned by the boy's mother to find him and restore him to her. -There may be trouble in store for you, Miss Jane Gilman," he added -significantly. - -Jane Gilman fanned herself vigorously and seemed very ill at ease. - -"However," continued the detective, "you can save yourself and secure a -handsome reward by giving me all the help you can, and making full -confession of your stealing the child, and telling who instigated you to -do it." - -The woman hesitated, but her hesitation was brief. - -"Will you promise this?" she asked. - -"Yes. I am the confidential agent of Lady Fenwick, who is now in -America." - -"Then I'll do it. Guy Fenwick hasn't treated me right, and I don't mind -if I do go back on him. It was he that hired me to make off with little -Robert, though I didn't let him know what I did with him." - -"And what was your present object?" - -"To take the boy away and make Sir Guy pay a good round sum for my -keeping the secret." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVIII. - -THE DETECTIVE SECURES AN ALLY. - - -"Are you in communication with Guy Fenwick? Do you know whether he is -now at Fenwick Hall?" asked the detective. - -"No, he is not there." - -"Where is he, then?" - -"At sea. In a day or two he will probably be in New York," answered Jane -Gilman coolly. - -Mr. Peake started. This was unexpected intelligence. - -"What brings him to New York?" he inquired hastily. - -"I do." - -"What do you mean by that?" - -"I wrote him some time since for a hundred pounds. He sent me five -pounds and told me that I needn't call on him again." - -"He doesn't seem much afraid of you." - -"No; he thought the boy was dead." - -"I suppose you told him so?" - -"I let him think that the boy had died of fever four years ago. That -made him feel safe, and he concluded that he had no more use for Jane -Gilman. He'll find out!" and Jane tossed her head, in an independent -manner. - -"Have you any letters from him in reference to the matter?" asked -Detective Peake. - -From a pocket of unknown depth Miss Gilman drew out an epistle which she -handed to the detective. - -"You can read it if you want to," she said. - -Mr. Peake opened the letter and read it. It ran thus: - - - MISS JANE GILMAN: - - Your letter requesting me to send you a hundred pounds is received. - Your request is certainly an audacious one. Why I should send you a - hundred pounds, or even ten pounds, I am at a loss to imagine. The - boy Robert, whose existence you think would be dangerous to me, is - dead by your own admission, and my right to the Fenwick title and - estates is undisputed and indisputable. If you expect me to support - you for the balance of your life, your expectations are doomed to - disappointment. You are strong and healthy, and are able to earn - your own living in the sphere in which you were born. Besides, if - you had been prudent you would have saved a considerable sum out of - the large pension you have received from me during the last dozen - or more years. I think it quite probable that you have a snug sum - invested and are not in any danger of suffering. - - Still I don't want to be hard upon you. I accordingly inclose a - five-pound note, which you will please consider as a final gift on - my part. - - GUY FENWICK. - - -"Miss Gilman," said Detective Peake, "will you permit me to keep this -letter--for the present?" - -"What do you want to do with it?" asked Jane suspiciously. - -"Use it against the man who calls himself Sir Guy Fenwick. In connection -with your testimony it will prove valuable evidence." - -"You have promised that I shall be well paid?" - -"Yes, I can take it upon myself to promise that." - -"Very well. You may keep the letter." - -"One question more. You tell me that Sir Guy Fenwick is on his way to -New York. Can you tell me why he is coming?" - -"Yes. I dropped him a hint, in answer to this letter, that the boy -Robert was still living, and this alarmed my gentleman," she added with -a laugh. - -"Did he write you that he was coming?" - -"Yes." - -"Have you that letter?" - -"No; but I can tell you what was in it. He wrote that he did not believe -my story, but he would come to New York, and I might call upon him at -the Brevoort House on Monday next." - -"You infer from that that he was anxious?" - -"It looks like it, doesn't it?" - -"Yes. What did you propose to say to him?" - -"That the boy was living, and that I could lay my hand upon him." - -"That is why you came to Scranton?" - -"Yes." - -"I see. The whole thing lies in a nutshell. Even without your evidence I -shall probably be able to establish the rights of my young client. But -your help will make it surer." - -"I am at your service, if you will keep your promise. What do you want -me to do?" - -"Go with me to Bar Harbor and see the boy." - -"I would like to," said Jane Gilman with an expression of pleasure. "I -haven't seen him since he was a baby. I'd like to see how he looks now." - -"When he is restored to his title and estate he will not see you -suffer." - -"When will you start for Bar Harbor?" - -"We shall leave Scranton by the next train." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIX. - -JED LEARNS WHO HE IS. - - -Mr. Roper and Jed were having a very enjoyable time at Bar Harbor. They -made trips, chiefly on foot, to the various interesting -localities--Schooner Head, Great Head, Hull's Cove and The Ovens--being -favored with unusually fine and clear weather. They had just returned at -four o'clock in the afternoon from a trip to the summit of Green -Mountain when they were informed at the hotel that a gentleman wished to -see them. - -Mr. Roper took the card and examined it. - -"James Peake," he said. "I don't know of any such person. Do you, Jed?" - -"No, sir," answered Jed. - -"You may bring him up," said Roper, turning to the bell boy. - -In less than a minute the latter reappeared, followed by a plain-looking -man, who scanned both attentively as he entered, but devoted the most -attention to Jed. - -"Mr. Peake?" said Schuyler Roper interrogatively. - -"Yes, sir." - -"You have business with me?" - -"Rather with your young friend. Is he known as Jed Gilman?" - -"Yes," answered the boy so designated. - -"I am a detective from the staff of Inspector Byrnes of New York." - -Jed blushed and looked uneasy. This announcement naturally alarmed him. - -"Am I charged with any offense?" he asked quickly. - -"No," answered Mr. Peake with a pleasant smile. "When I state my -business I am inclined to think you will be glad to see me." - -"I feel relieved, Jed," said Mr. Roper with a smile. "I took you without -a character, and I trembled lest some terrible charge was to be brought -against you." - -"Rest easy on that score, Mr. Roper," returned the detective. "My -mission may involve some one else in trouble, but not your young -friend. Will you permit me to ask him a few questions?" - -"I am sure he will be quite ready to answer any questions you may ask." - -Jed nodded assent. - -"Then, Mr. Gilman, may I inquire your age?" - -"I am sixteen." - -"What is the date of your birth?" - -Jed colored and looked embarrassed. - -"I do not know," he answered. - -"Can you tell me where you were born?" - -"No, sir," returned Jed. "I was left at the age of two years at the -Scranton poorhouse by a girl who disappeared the next morning. Of course -I was too young to know anything of my earlier history." - -"Exactly; and you spent the intervening years at that interesting -institution." - -Jed laughed. - -"It didn't prove very interesting at the last," he said. "When my good -friends the Averys were turned out, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson succeeded them, -and I concluded to leave." - -"I am not surprised to hear it. I have seen Mrs. Fogson," remarked the -detective dryly. - -"Did she give me a good character?" - -"Quite the contrary. She prepared me to find you a desperate young -ruffian." - -Jed laughed. - -"Do I come up to your expectations?" he asked. - -"Not altogether. I may conclude that you have no information in regard -to your family or parentage?" - -"No, sir. Can you"--something in the detective's face prompted the -question--"can you give me any information on the subject?" - -Jed fixed his eyes with painful intensity upon the visitor. - -"I think I can," he answered. - -"Who, then, am I?" - -"To the best of my knowledge you are the nephew of Sir Guy Fenwick, of -Fenwick Hall, Gloucestershire, England." - -Both Mr. Roper and Jed looked exceedingly surprised. - -"Sir Guy Fenwick?" repeated Roper. - -"He is so called, but I have reason to believe he is a usurper, and that -the title and estates belong to your young friend, who, if I am correct, -isn't Jed Gilman, but Sir Robert Fenwick." - -Jed looked dazed. Schuyler Roper went up to him and grasped his hand. - -"My dear Jed, or rather Robert," he said, "let me be the first to -congratulate you. But, Mr. Peake, are you prepared to substantiate Jed's -claim to his title and inheritance?" - -"I think so. I will tell you how the case stands." - -When he had concluded, Mr. Roper asked, "And where is this nurse whose -testimony is so important?" - -"At Rodick's. I brought her with me to Bar Harbor." - -"And what is your program?" - -"I should like to carry our young friend with me to New York to confront -the pseudo baronet." - -"We will be ready whenever you say. I say _we_, for I propose to -accompany Jed--I beg pardon, Sir Robert--and stand by him at this -eventful period." - -"Call me Jed, Mr. Roper, till I have proved myself entitled to the other -name," returned the "poorhouse boy." - - - - -CHAPTER XL. - -GUY FENWICK'S DEFEAT. - - -Sir Guy Fenwick sat in his handsome apartment at the Brevoort House. He -was of slender build and dark complexion, bearing a very slight -resemblance to Jed, but his expression was much less agreeable. - -"Jane Gilman was to have called this morning. She ought to be here now," -he muttered, consulting his watch. "She is certain to come," he added -with a sneer, "for she wants money. I shall never be safe from annoyance -while she lives. However, she can do me little harm." - -There was a knock at the door, and a bell boy appeared with a card. - -Sir Guy took it from his hand, and regarded it with surprise. - -"Mr. James Peake!" he repeated. "What does he want?" - -"I don't know, Sir Guy." - -"Let him come up, but the interview must be brief, for I am expecting -another party." - -Directly afterward Detective Peake entered the presence of the baronet. - -"You wish to see me, Mr.--ahem!--Mr. Peake?" - -"Yes. Mr. Fenwick?" - -"Mr. Fenwick!" repeated the Englishman, frowning. "I am Sir Guy -Fenwick." - -"I am aware that you call yourself so," said the detective quietly. - -"What do you mean by this insolence?" demanded Guy Fenwick, his face -flaming. - -"You will understand me when I say I call in behalf of Sir Robert -Fenwick, the real baronet." - -Guy Fenwick half rose from his seat. He looked angry and alarmed. - -"I don't know what you mean," he said. - -"I think you do. Sir Robert is your nephew, and the title and estate are -his by right." - -Guy Fenwick laughed--a harsh, mirthless laugh. - -"Really," he said, "this is most amusing. Robert Fenwick is dead. If -any one calls himself by that name he is an impostor." - -"That remains to be seen. I have to inform you that Sir Robert Fenwick -is in this city, in the company of his mother, who has received and -acknowledged him." - -"This is a conspiracy!" exclaimed Guy Fenwick, whose appearance showed -that he was deeply disturbed. "It is a very foolish conspiracy, I will -add. Of course I understand the object of my amiable sister-in-law in -giving her countenance to what she must know to be an imposture. Do me -the favor to inform me where you discovered the boy who impudently -claims the title and estate which I inherited from my brother." - -"Only by procuring the disappearance of that brother's lawful heir." - -"Who says this--who dares say it?" - -"You are partially acquainted with a woman named Jane Gilman?" - -Guy Fenwick's countenance changed. - -"Yes," he said after a pause, "I do know a woman of that name. She has -been writing me blackmailing letters, and threatening to injure me if I -did not send her a hundred pounds. So this is the mare's nest you have -stirred up? I congratulate you." - -"Call it a mare's nest if you like, Mr. Fenwick," said the detective -undisturbed. "You may find it a very serious matter. Shall I tell you -what we are able to prove?" - -"If you please. I should like to know the details of this base -conspiracy." - -"Fourteen years ago Jane Gilman appeared towards nightfall at the door -of a poorhouse not far away and left a child of two years old with the -people in charge. Before morning she disappeared. The child grew up a -healthy, sturdy boy; frank and handsome." - -"So he prepared himself to claim the Fenwick title in an almshouse?" - -"It wasn't his fault that he was brought up there, only his misfortune." - -"What name was given him?" - -"Jed Gilman." - -"He had better retain it." - -"Not while he has a better claim to the name of Robert Fenwick. Hanging -from his neck at the time he was placed in the poorhouse was a locket -containing miniatures of your brother, the late Sir Charles Fenwick, and -Lady Mary Fenwick, still living." - -"Have you the locket with you?" - -"It is in safe custody. You will admit that this is pretty strong -evidence of our claim. But we have in addition the confession of Jane -Gilman, who testifies that, in obedience to your instructions, she -abducted and disposed of the boy as aforesaid." - -"This is a very cunning conspiracy, Mr. Peake, if that is your name, but -it won't succeed. I shall defend my right to the title and estate; but -if this boy is poor I don't mind settling a pension of a hundred pounds -upon him, and finding him some employment." - -"In his name I decline your offer." - -"Then I defy you! What are you going to do about it?" - -"Lady Fenwick has engaged the services of one of our most famous -lawyers, and legal proceedings will be commenced at once. We will, -however, give you a week to decide on your course." - -"Give me the name of your lawyer. I will call upon him and show him -that he has consented to aid an imposture." - -Before the week ended, however, Sir Guy, to give him this title once -more, had decided that discretion was the better part of valor, and had -consented to surrender the title and estates, his nephew agreeing to pay -him an income of a thousand pounds per annum, in order that he might -still be able to live like a gentleman. - -When matters were arranged Guy Fenwick returned hastily to England, and, -making but a short stay there, went to the continent, where he would not -have the humiliation of meeting old acquaintances whom he had known in -the days of his grandeur. - - - - -CHAPTER XLI. - -CONCLUSION. - - -Not the least gratifying circumstance in his sudden change of fortune -was Jed's discovery of a mother--a gracious and beautiful woman--to whom -he was drawn in almost instinctive affection. Before leaving New York -for his native land he expressed a wish to revisit Scranton, and view -once more the scenes of his early privations. His mother not only -consented, but decided to accompany him. - -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson were engaged in their usual morning labors when a -handsome carriage stopped at the gate. A servant descended and made his -way to the front door, which Mrs. Fogson herself opened. - -"Madam," said the servant bowing, "do you receive visitors?" - -Mrs. Fogson espying the handsome carriage was dazzled, and responded -graciously: - -"We ain't fixed for company," she said, "but if you'll make allowances -I shall be happy to receive visitors. Who is it?" she inquired -curiously. - -"Lady Fenwick and Sir Robert Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, England." - -"You don't say!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson, awe-stricken. "Tell 'em to come -right in." - -Jed assisted his mother to alight and walk up to the front door, Mrs. -Fogson having retreated inside to change her dress. - -"And you say you lived in this forlorn place, Robert?" asked Lady -Fenwick with a shudder. - -"For fourteen years, mother." - -"I never can forgive Guy Fenwick--never!" - -"I am none the worse for it now, mother." - -Jed led the way into Mrs. Fogson's private sitting-room, where that lady -found them. She stopped short at the threshold. - -"Why, it's Jed Gilman!" she said sharply, with a feeling that she had -been humbugged. - -"Mrs. Fogson," said Jed, gravely, "I am Jed Gilman no more. I have found -out that I am entitled to a large estate in England, but best of all I -have found a mother, and am no longer alone in the world." - -Mr. Fogson, who had followed his wife into the room, was the first to -"take in" the surprising news. Jed's handsome suit, his gold watch-chain -and diamond scarf-pin, as well as his mother's stately figure, convinced -him that the story was true. - -"No one is more glad to hear of your good fortune, my dear boy, than -Mrs. F. and myself," he said in a gushing tone. "I have often thought -that you were a nobleman in disguise." - -"You never let me suspect it, Mr. Fogson," said Jed, amused. "Probably -you didn't want to raise my expectations." - -"Just so, Jed, I mean Sir Robert. We feel that it was an honor to have -you so long under our roof--don't we, Mrs. F.?" - -"Certainly, Simeon. If Lady Fenwick will permit me to offer an humble -collation, some of my ginger snaps; you remember them, Jed, I mean Sir -Robert." - -"You are very kind," said Lady Fenwick hastily, "but I seldom eat -between meals." - -Just then Percy Dixon, who came with a message from his father, -appeared in the door. He opened his eyes wide in amazement when he saw -Jed. - -"Jed Gilman!" he exclaimed in astonishment. - -"No, Master Percy," said Mrs. Fogson. "We have just learned that our -dear Jed is Sir Robert Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, England." - -"Jehoshaphat!" cried Percy, astounded. - -"Percy," said Jed, whose good fortune made him good-natured, "let me -introduce you to my mother, Lady Fenwick. Mother, this is Master Percy -Dixon." - -"I am glad to meet any of your friends, Robert," said Lady Fenwick, -really supposing that Jed and Percy were on intimate terms. - -"Glad to know you--to make your acquaintance, Lady Fenwick," replied -Percy. "Are you really and truly a lord, Jed?" - -"No, not a lord, but a baronet. However, that needn't make any -difference between friends like ourselves." - -"No, of course not. You know I always liked you, Jed, I mean Sir Jed." - -"Sir Robert," prompted Mr. Fogson. - -"Sir Robert. I feel sort of confused by the sudden change," explained -Percy embarrassed. - -"Call me Jed, then. In Scranton I mean to be Jed." - -"Won't you call at our house? My father, Squire Dixon, will be honored -by a visit." - -"We are to call on Mr. and Mrs. Avery first, and then if we have time we -will call on you. Won't you get into the carriage and go with us, -Percy?" - -Percy Dixon accepted the invitation with intense delight, and long -afterwards boasted of his ride with Lady Fenwick. Though Jed and his -mother were able to spend but ten minutes at the house of Squire Dixon, -the squire showed himself deeply sensible of the honor, and several -times alluded to his dear young friend Sir Robert. It was the way of the -world. Mr. and Mrs. Avery received from Lady Fenwick a handsome present -in recognition of their past kindness to Jed, and this was the first of -many. - -Jed and his mother remained at the Windsor till they were ready to -embark for England. While walking on Fifth Avenue one day he saw just -ahead his little friend, Chester Holbrook, accompanied by his aunt, Miss -Maria Holbrook. He hurried forward, and taking off his hat to Miss -Holbrook, said, "Chester, don't you remember me?" - -Chester uttered a cry of delight. - -"Why it's Jed!" he said. - -Miss Maria Holbrook, surprised at Jed's improved appearance, eyed him -with suspicion. - -"Where are you staying, Jedediah?" she inquired. "Have you a situation?" - -"I am boarding at the Windsor Hotel, Miss Holbrook. I am in no -situation." - -"Then how can you afford to board at a first-class hotel?" asked the -spinster in surprise. - -"I am with my mother, Lady Fenwick. Allow me to hand you my card." - -Jed placed in her hand a card on which was engraved the name: - - - SIR ROBERT FENWICK, BART. - - -The story had already appeared in the daily papers of New York, but -Miss Holbrook never suspected that the young English baronet was -Chester's humble guardian. - -"Are you Sir Robert Fenwick?" she ejaculated in amazement. - -"I believe so," he answered with a smile. "Now, Miss Holbrook, I have a -favor to ask. May I take Chester in and introduce him to my mother?" - -"I should also like to meet Lady Fenwick," said Miss Holbrook. - -"I shall be most happy to present you." - -"Isn't your name Jed after all?" asked Chester, as he confidingly placed -his hand in that of his former guardian. - -"You may call me so, Chester; I wish you would." - -Miss Maria Holbrook was delighted with her visit. Like many Americans, -she had a great respect for English aristocracy, and did not understand -that there was considerable difference between titles. It is wonderful -how differently she came to regard one whom she had been accustomed to -style "that boy Jedediah." She was much pleased with Lady Fenwick's -gracious reception, though she found it difficult to think of her as -Jed's mother. - -I neglected to say in the proper place that Jed did not fail to call, -when in Scranton, on his two friends Dr. and Mrs. Redmond, and gave them -a cordial invitation to visit his mother and himself if they should ever -come to England. - -He did not see fit to extend a similar invitation to Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson. Misfortune has come to these worthy people. Their mismanagement -of the poorhouse had become so notorious that the best citizens of -Scranton not only demanded their removal from the poorhouse, but at the -next town meeting defeated Squire Dixon for re-election to the position -of Overseer of the Poor. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were invited to succeed the -Fogsons, but felt that they were entitled to rest and quiet for the -balance of their lives. The liberal gifts of Jed and his mother made -them independent, and they were willing that younger persons should fill -their old positions. - -Jed devoted several years to making up the deficiencies in his -education. The only disagreeable thing in his change of fortune was his -removal from America, but he will probably arrange to spend a portion of -his time in his adopted country, to which he feels the attachment of a -loyal son. Then he has a link connecting him with it in the frequent -visits at Fenwick Hall of his friend Schuyler Roper. - -Notwithstanding his accession to the ancestral title and estate, he has -not forgotten the fourteen years during which he was known as "Jed, the -Poorhouse Boy." - - - * * * * * - - -Every Child's Library - -_Books "That Every Child Can Read" for Four Reasons_: - - - 1. 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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 <a -href="http://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you are not -located in the United States, you'll have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this ebook.</p> -<p>Title: Jed, the Poorhouse Boy</p> -<p>Author: Horatio Alger</p> -<p>Release Date: March 13, 2017 [eBook #54350]</p> -<p>Language: English</p> -<p>Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1</p> -<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JED, THE POORHOUSE BOY***</p> -<p> </p> -<h4>E-text prepared by David Edwards, Martin Pettit,<br /> - and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team<br /> - (<a href="http://www.pgdp.net">http://www.pgdp.net</a>)<br /> - from page images generously made available by<br /> - the Google Books Library Project<br /> - (<a href="https://books.google.com">https://books.google.com</a>)</h4> -<p> </p> -<table border="0" style="background-color: #ccccff;margin: 0 auto;" cellpadding="10"> - <tr> - <td valign="top"> - Note: - </td> - <td> - Images of the original pages are available through - the Google Books Library Project. See - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=gnj9LVjclz8C&hl=e"> - https://books.google.com/books?id=gnj9LVjclz8C&hl=e</a> - </td> - </tr> -</table> -<p> </p> -<hr class="full" /> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> -<p> </p> - -<div class="center"><a name="cover.jpg" id="cover.jpg"></a><img src="images/cover.jpg" alt="cover" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="center"><img src="images/titlepage.jpg" alt="titlepage" /></div> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_i" id="Page_i">[Pg i]</a></span></p> - -<h1>JED,</h1> - -<p class="bold">THE</p> - -<p class="bold2">POORHOUSE BOY</p> - -<p class="bold space-above">BY</p> - -<p class="bold2">HORATIO ALGER, JR.</p> - -<p class="bold">AUTHOR OF "RAGGED DICK," "LUCK AND PLUCK," "TATTERED TOM,"<br />ETC., ETC.</p> - -<p class="bold space-above">THE JOHN C. WINSTON CO.<br />PHILADELPHIA<br />CHICAGO TORONTO</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_ii" id="Page_ii">[Pg ii]</a></span></p> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Copyright, 1899, by</span><br />HENRY T. COATES & CO.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_iii" id="Page_iii">[Pg iii]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CONTENTS.</h2> - -<hr class="smler" /> - -<table summary="CONTENTS"> - <tr> - <td colspan="2" class="left"><span class="smaller">CHAPTER</span></td> - <td><span class="smaller">PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>I.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>II.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Mr. and Mrs. Fogson</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>III.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">The Scranton Poorhouse</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_20">20</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>IV.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">An Exciting Contest</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_30">30</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>V.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Secures an Ally</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Mr. Fogson Makes up His Mind</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_49">49</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Fogson's Mistake</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_59">59</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>VIII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Mr. Fogson is Astonished</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_68">68</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>IX.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Leaves the Poorhouse</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_77">77</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>X.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Reaches Duncan</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_87">87</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed's First Appearance on the Stage</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_96">96</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Percy Dixon is Bewildered</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_106">106</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Fogson in Pursuit</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_115">115</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIV.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed's Luck</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_125">125</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XV.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Two Old Acquaintances</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_135">135</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Miss Holbrook, Spinster</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_144">144</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Meets an Old Acquaintance</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_153">153</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XVIII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Mr. Fogson Receives a Letter</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_162">162</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XIX.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Discharged</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_167">167</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XX.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed's Poor Prospects</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_172">172</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_iv" id="Page_iv">[Pg iv]</a></span>XXI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Arrives in New York</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_182">182</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Makes Two Calls</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_192">192</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed's Bad Luck</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_202">202</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIV.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">A Startling Discovery</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_212">212</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXV.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Without a Penny</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_222">222</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">In Search of Employment</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_232">232</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">An Intractable Agent</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_241">241</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXVIII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">A Strange Commission</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_250">250</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXIX.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">A Surprise Party</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_260">260</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXX.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Entertains an Old Acquaintance</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_270">270</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Returns Good for Evil</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_280">280</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">At Bar Harbor</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_290">290</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXIII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">The Poorhouse Receives Two Visitors</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_299">299</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXIV.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">The Detective</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_308">308</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXV.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Mrs. Avery's Story</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_313">313</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXVI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">"Who Was Jed?"</span></td> - <td><a href="#Page_318">318</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXVII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jane Gilman</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_328">328</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXVIII.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">The Detective Secures an Ally</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_338">338</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XXXIX.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Jed Learns Who He Is</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_343">343</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XL.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Guy Fenwick's Defeat</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_349">349</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>XLI.</td> - <td class="left"> <span class="smcap">Conclusion</span>,</td> - <td><a href="#Page_365">365</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</a></span></p> - -<p class="bold2">JED,</p> - -<p class="bold2"><span class="smcap">The Poorhouse Boy</span>.</p> - -<hr class="smler" /> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER I.</span> <span class="smaller">JED.</span></h2> - -<p>"Here, you Jed!"</p> - -<p>Jed paused in his work with his axe suspended above him, for he was -splitting wood. He turned his face toward the side door at which stood a -woman, thin and sharp-visaged, and asked: "Well, what's wanted?"</p> - -<p>"None of your impudence, you young rascal! Come here, I say!"</p> - -<p>Jed laid down the axe and walked slowly to the back door. He was a -strongly-made and well-knit boy of nearly sixteen, but he was poorly -dressed in an old tennis shirt and a pair of overalls. Yet his face was -attractive, and an observer skilled in physiognomy would<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span> have read in -it signs of a strong character, a warm and grateful disposition, and a -resolute will.</p> - -<p>"I have not been impudent, Mrs. Fogson," he said quietly.</p> - -<p>"Don't you dare to contradict me!" snapped the woman, stamping her foot.</p> - -<p>"What's wanted?" asked Jed again.</p> - -<p>"Go down to the gate and hold it open. Squire Dixon will be here in five -minutes, and we must treat him with respect, for he is Overseer of the -Poor."</p> - -<p>Jed smiled to himself (it was well he did not betray his amusement), for -he knew that Mrs. Fogson and her husband, though tyrannical to the -inmates of the poorhouse, of which they had been placed in charge by -Squire Dixon three months before, were almost servile in the presence of -the Overseer of the Poor, with whom it was their object to stand well.</p> - -<p>"All right, ma'am!" he said bluntly, and started for the gate. He did -not appear to move fast enough for the amiable Mrs. Fogson, for she -called out in a sharp voice:<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span> "Why do you walk like a snail? Hurry up, I -tell you. I see Squire Dixon coming up the road."</p> - -<p>"I shall get to the gate before he does," announced Jed, independently, -not increasing his pace a particle.</p> - -<p>"I hate that boy!" soliloquized Mrs. Fogson, looking after him with a -frown. "He is the most independent young rascal I ever came across—he -actually disobeys and defies me. I must get Fogson to give him a -horse-whipping some of these fine days; and when he does, I'm going to -be there and see it done!" she continued, her black eyes twinkling -viciously. "Every blow he received would do me good. I'd gloat over it! -I'd flog him myself if I was strong enough."</p> - -<p>The amiable character of Mrs. Fogson may be inferred from this gentle -soliloquy. When Fogson married her he caught a Tartar, as he found to -his cost. But he was not so much to be pitied, for his own disposition -was not unlike that of his wife, but he lacked her courage and intense -malignity, and was a craven at heart.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span></p><p>As Jed walked to the gate his face became grave and almost melancholy.</p> - -<p>"I can't stand this kind of life long!" he said to himself. "Mrs. Fogson -is about the ugliest-tempered woman I ever knew, and her husband isn't -much better. What a contrast to Mr. Avery and his good wife! When they -kept the poorhouse we were all happy and contented. They had a kind word -for all. But when Squire Dixon became overseer he put in the Fogsons, -and since then we haven't heard a kind word or had a happy day."</p> - -<p>Just then Squire Dixon's top buggy neared the gate. He was a -pompous-looking man with a bald head and red face, the color, as was -well known, being imparted by too frequent potations of brandy. With him -was his only son and heir, Percy Dixon, a boy who "put on airs," and -was, in consequence, heartily detested by his schoolmates and -companions. He had small, mean features and a pair of gray eyes, while -his nose had an upward tendency, as if he were turning it up at the -world in general.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span></p><p>Jed held the gate open in silence and the top buggy passed through.</p> - -<p>Then he slowly closed the gate and walked up to the house.</p> - -<p>There stood Mrs. Fogson, her thin lips wreathed in smiles, as she ducked -her head obsequiously to the town magnate.</p> - -<p>"How do you do, Squire Dixon?" she said. "It does me good to see you. -But I needn't ask for your health, you look so fine and noble this -morning."</p> - -<p>Squire Dixon was far from being inaccessible to flattery.</p> - -<p>"I am very well, I thank you, my good friend, Mrs. Fogson," he said in a -stately tone, with a gracious smile upon his florid countenance. "And -how are you yourself?"</p> - -<p>"As well as I can be, squire, thanking you for asking, but them paupers -is trials, as I daily discover."</p> - -<p>"Nothing new in the way of trouble, I hope, Mrs. Fogson?"</p> - -<p>"Well, no; but walk in and I'll send for my husband. He would never -forgive me if I didn't send for him when you were here.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> Master Percy, -forgive me for not speaking to you before. I hear such good accounts of -you from everybody. Your father is indeed fortunate to have such a son."</p> - -<p>Percy raised his eyebrows a little. Even he was aware of his -unpopularity, and he wondered who had been speaking so well of him.</p> - -<p>"I'm all right!" he answered curtly.</p> - -<p>Squire Dixon, too, though he overestimated Percy, who was popularly -regarded as a chip of the old block, was at a loss to know why he should -be proud of him. Still it was pleasing to have one so near to him -complimented.</p> - -<p>"You are kind to speak of Percy in that way," he said.</p> - -<p>"He's so like you, the dear boy!" murmured Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>This might be a compliment, but as Percy stood low in his studies and -frequently quarreled with his school companions, Squire Dixon hardly -knew whether to feel flattered.</p> - -<p>Percy looked rather disgusted to be called a "dear boy" by a woman whom -he regarded as so much his social inferior as Mrs. Fogson,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span> but it was -difficult to resent so complimentary a speech, and he remained silent. -He looked scornfully about the plainly-furnished room, and reflected -that it would be pleasanter out of doors.</p> - -<p>"I guess I'll go out in the yard," he said abruptly.</p> - -<p>"Would you be kind enough in that case, Master Percy, to tell the boy -Jed to go and call my husband from the three-acre lot? He is at work -there."</p> - -<p>"Yes, Mrs. Fogson, I'll tell him."</p> - -<p>Percy left the room and walked up to where Jed was splitting wood.</p> - -<p>"Go and call Mr. Fogson from the three-acre lot!" he said peremptorily.</p> - -<p>Jed paused in his work.</p> - -<p>"Who says so?" he inquired.</p> - -<p>"I say so!"</p> - -<p>"Then I shan't go. You are not my boss."</p> - -<p>"You are an impudent boy."</p> - -<p>"Why am I?"</p> - -<p>"You have no business to talk back to me. You'd better go after Mr. -Fogson, if you know what's best for yourself."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span></p><p>"Did Mrs. Fogson send the message by you?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"Then I will go. Why didn't you tell me that before?"</p> - -<p>"Because it was enough that I told you. My father's the Overseer of the -Poor."</p> - -<p>"I am aware of that."</p> - -<p>"And he put the Fogsons where they are."</p> - -<p>"Then I wish he hadn't. We had a good time when Mr. Avery was here. Now -all is changed."</p> - -<p>"So you don't like Mr. and Mrs. Fogson?" asked Percy curiously.</p> - -<p>"No, I don't. But I must be going to the lot to call Mr. Fogson."</p> - -<p>"I'll go with you. I don't want to be left alone."</p> - -<p>Jed ought doubtless to have felt complimented at this offer of company -from his high-toned visitor, but he did not appear to be overwhelmed by -it.</p> - -<p>"You can go along if you like," he said.</p> - -<p>"Of course I can. I don't need to ask permission of you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span></p><p>"Certainly not. No offense was meant."</p> - -<p>"It is well for you that there isn't. So you liked Mr. and Mrs. Avery -better than the Fogsons?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed guardedly, for he understood now that Percy wanted -to "pump" him.</p> - -<p>"Why?"</p> - -<p>"Because they treated me better."</p> - -<p>"My father thinks well of the Fogsons. He says that old Avery pampered -the paupers and almost spoiled them."</p> - -<p>"I won't argue the question. I only know that we all liked Mr. and Mrs. -Avery. Now it's scold, scold, scold all day and every day, and we don't -live nearly as well as we did."</p> - -<p>"Paupers mustn't expect to live as well as at a first-class hotel!" said -Percy sarcastically.</p> - -<p>"They certainly don't live like that here."</p> - -<p>"And they won't while my father is overseer. He says he's going to put a -stop to their being pampered at the town's expense. You live well enough -now."</p> - -<p>"If you think we live so well, I wish you would come and board here for -a week."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span></p><p>"<i>Me</i>—board at a poorhouse!" ejaculated Percy in intense disgust. "You -are very kind, but I shouldn't like it."</p> - -<p>"I don't think you would."</p> - -<p>"All the same, you ought to be grateful for such a good home."</p> - -<p>"It may be a good home, but I shan't stay here long."</p> - -<p>"You shan't stay here long?" exclaimed Percy in amazement. "Do you mean -to tell me you are going to run away?"</p> - -<p>"I haven't formed any plans yet."</p> - -<p>"I'll tell my father, and he'll put a spoke in your wheel. What do you -expect to do if you leave? You haven't got any money?"</p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p>"Then don't make a fool of yourself."</p> - -<p>Jed did not reply, for they had reached the fence that bounded the -three-acre lot, and Mr. Fogson had discovered their approach.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER II.</span> <span class="smaller">MR. AND MRS. FOGSON.</span></h2> - -<p>Mr. Fogson was about as unpleasant-looking as his wife, but was not so -thin. He had stiff red hair with a tendency to stand up straight, a -blotched complexion, and red eyes, corresponding very well with the -color of his hair. He was quite as cross as his wife, but she was more -venomous and malicious. Like her he was disposed to fawn upon Squire -Dixon, the Overseer of the Poor, with whom he knew it was necessary to -stand well.</p> - -<p>Had Jed come alone he might have met with a disagreeable reception; but -Mr. Fogson's quick eye recognized in his companion the son of the -poorhouse autocrat, Squire Dixon, and he summoned up an ingratiating -smile on his rugged features.</p> - -<p>"How are you, Master Percy?" he said smoothly. "Did your pa come with -you?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, he's over to the house. Mrs. Fogson wants you to go right home, -as he may want to see you."</p> - -<p>"All right! It will give me pleasure. It always does me good to see your -pa."</p> - -<p>Percy looked at him critically, and thought that Mr. Fogson was about as -homely a man as he had ever seen. It was fortunate that the keeper of -the poorhouse could not read his thoughts, for, like most ugly men, Mr. -Fogson thought himself on the whole rather prepossessing.</p> - -<p>Fogson took his place beside Percy, and curtly desired Jed to walk -behind.</p> - -<p>Jed smiled to himself, for he understood that Mr. Fogson considered him -not entitled to a place in such superior company.</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson addressed several questions to Percy, which the latter -answered languidly, as if he considered it rather a bore to be -entertained by a man in Fogson's position. Indeed he almost snubbed him, -and Jed was pleased to find the man who made so many unpleasant speeches -to others treated in the same manner himself. As a general thing, a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span> man -who bullies others has to take his turn in being bullied himself.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Mrs. Fogson was chatting with Squire Dixon.</p> - -<p>"Nobody can tell what I have to put up with from them paupers," she -said. "You'd actilly think they paid their board by the way they talk. -The fact is, the Averys pampered and indulged them altogether too much."</p> - -<p>"That is so, Mrs. Fogson," said the squire pompously, "and that, I may -remark, was the reason I dismissed them from their responsible position. -Do they—ahem!—complain of anything in particular?"</p> - -<p>"Why, they want butter every day!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson. "Think of it! -Butter every day for paupers!"</p> - -<p>"As you justly observe, this is very unreasonable. And how often do you -give them butter?"</p> - -<p>"Once a week—on Sundays."</p> - -<p>"Very judicious. It impresses them with the difference between Sunday -and other days. It shows your religious training, Mrs. Fogson."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span></p><p>"I always aim to be religious, Squire Dixon," said Mrs. Fogson meekly.</p> - -<p>"Well, and what else?"</p> - -<p>"Likewise the old people expect tea every day. They say Mrs. Avery gave -it to them."</p> - -<p>"I dare say she did. It's an imposition on the town to spend -their—ahem!—hard-earned money on such luxuries."</p> - -<p>"That's the way I look at it, Squire Dixon."</p> - -<p>"How often do you give them meat?"</p> - -<p>"Every other day. I get the cheapest cuts from the butcher—what he has -left over. But they ain't satisfied. They want it every day."</p> - -<p>"Shocking!" exclaimed the squire, arching his brows.</p> - -<p>"So I say. Of course I get a good many sour looks, and more complaints, -but I tell 'em that if they ain't suited with their boarding-house they -can go somewhere else."</p> - -<p>"Very good! Very good indeed; ha, ha! I presume none of them have left -the poorhouse in consequence?"</p> - -<p>"No, but one has threatened to do so."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span></p><p>"Who is that?" asked Squire Dixon quickly.</p> - -<p>"The boy Jed."</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes, he was the one who opened the gate for me. Now, what sort of a -boy is he, Mrs. Fogson?"</p> - -<p>"He's an impudent young jackanapes," answered Mrs. Fogson spitefully, -"begging your pardon for using such an inelegant expression."</p> - -<p>"It is forcible, however, Mrs. Fogson. It is forcible, and I think you -are quite justified in using it. So he is impudent?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; you'd think, by the airs he puts on, that he owned the poorhouse, -instead of being a miserable pauper. Why, I venture to say he considers -himself the equal of your son, Master Percy."</p> - -<p>"No, no, Mrs. Fogson, that is a little too strong. He couldn't be so -absurd as that."</p> - -<p>"I am not so sure of that, Squire Dixon. There is no end to that boy's -impudence and—and uppishness. Why, he said the other day that the meat -wasn't fit for the hogs."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span></p><p>"And was it, Mrs. Fogson?" asked the squire in an absent-minded way.</p> - -<p>"To be sure, squire, though I must admit that it was a trifle touched, -being warm weather; but paupers can't expect first-class hotel fare—can -they, now, squire?"</p> - -<p>"To be sure not."</p> - -<p>"Then, again, Jed is always praising up Mr. and Mrs. Avery, which, as -you can imagine, isn't very pleasant for Mr. Fogson and me. I expect he -was Mr. Avery's pet, from all I hear."</p> - -<p>"Very likely he was. He was brought to the poorhouse when a mere baby, -and they took care of him from his infancy. I've heard Mrs. Avery say -she looked upon him as if he were her own child."</p> - -<p>"And that is why she pampered him—at the town's expense."</p> - -<p>"As you truly observe, at the town's expense. I am sure you and Mr. -Fogson will feel it your duty to make the poorhouse as inexpensive as -possible to the town, bearing in mind the great responsibility that has -devolved upon you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span></p><p>"Of course, squire, me and Fogson bear that in mind, but we ain't paid -any too well for our hard labor."</p> - -<p>"That reminds me, Mrs. Fogson, another month has rolled by, and——"</p> - -<p>"I understand, squire," said Mrs. Fogson. "I have got it all ready," and -she drew a sealed envelope out of her pocket and passed it to the -squire, who pocketed it with a deprecatory cough. His face brightened -up, for he knew what the envelope contained.</p> - -<p>"You can depend on me to use my official influence in your favor, Mrs. -Fogson," he said cheerfully. "As long as you show a proper appreciation -of my service in giving you the place, I will stand by you."</p> - -<p>Squire Dixon was a rich man. He was paid by the town for his services as -overseer, yet he was not above accepting five dollars a month from the -man he had installed in office. He had never distinctly asked for it, -but he had hinted in a manner not to be mistaken that it would be -politic for Mr. Fogson to allow him a percentage on their salary and -profits. They got the money back, and more,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span> for in auditing their -accounts he did not scrutinize too closely the prices they claimed to -have paid for supplies. It was an arrangement mutually advantageous, -which had never occurred to Mr. and Mrs. Avery, who in their scrupulous -honesty were altogether behind the times, according to the squire's -thinking.</p> - -<p>"And how many paupers have you in the house at present, Mrs. Fogson?" -asked the overseer.</p> - -<p>"Nineteen, squire. Would you like to look at them?"</p> - -<p>"Well, perhaps in my official capacity it would be as well."</p> - -<p>"Come in here, then," and Mrs. Fogson led the way into a large room -where sat the paupers, a forlorn, unhappy-looking company. Two of the -old ladies were knitting; one young woman, who had lost her child, and -with it her mind, was fondling a rag baby; two were braiding a rag -carpet, and others were sitting with vacant faces, looking as if life -had no attraction for them.</p> - -<p>"Will you address them, squire?" asked Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span></p><p>"Ahem!" said the squire, straightening up and looking around him with -the air of a benignant father. "I will say a few words."</p> - -<p>"Attention all!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson in a sharp voice. "Squire Dixon -has consented to make a few remarks. I hope you will appreciate your -privilege in hearing him."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER III.</span> <span class="smaller">THE SCRANTON POORHOUSE.</span></h2> - -<p>"Ahem!" began Squire Dixon, clearing his throat; "the announcement of my -friend Mrs. Fogson furnishes me with a text. I hope you all appreciate -your privileges in sharing this comfortable home at the expense of the -town. Here all your material wants are cared for, and though you are -without means, you need have no anxiety. A well-filled board is spread -for you three times a day, and you enjoy the maternal care of Mrs. -Fogson."</p> - -<p>Here there was a shrill laugh from one of the old women.</p> - -<p>Squire Dixon frowned, and Mrs. Fogson looked anything but maternal as -she scowled at the offending "boarder."</p> - -<p>"I am surprised at this unseemly interruption," said Squire Dixon -severely. "I am<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span> constrained to believe that there is at least one -person present who does not appreciate the privileges of this happy -home. You are probably all aware that I am the Overseer of the Poor, and -that it was through my agency that the services of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson -were obtained."</p> - -<p>Here it would have been in order for some one to propose "Three cheers -for Mr. and Mrs. Fogson," but instead all looked gloomy and depressed.</p> - -<p>"I don't know that I have any more to say," concluded Squire Dixon after -a pause. "I will only exhort you to do your duty in the position in -which Providence has placed you, and to give as little trouble as -possible to your good friends Mr. and Mrs. Fogson."</p> - -<p>Here there was another cackling laugh, which caused Mrs. Fogson to look -angry.</p> - -<p>"I'm on to you, Sally Stokes," she said sharply. "You'll have to go -without your supper to-night."</p> - -<p>The poor, half-witted creature immediately burst into tears, and rocked -to and fro in a dismal manner.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span></p><p>"You have done perfectly right in rebuking such unseemly behavior, Mrs. -Fogson," said Squire Dixon.</p> - -<p>"I didn't mind the insult to myself, squire," returned Mrs. Fogson -meekly. "It made me angry to have you insulted while you were making -your interesting remarks. The paupers are very ill-behaved; I give you -my word that I slave for them from morning till night, and you see how I -am repaid."</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson, virtue is its own reward," observed the squire solemnly.</p> - -<p>"It has to be in my case," said Mrs. Fogson; "but it comforts me to -think that you at least appreciate my efforts."</p> - -<p>"I do; I do, indeed! You can always rely upon me to—to—in a word, to -back you up."</p> - -<p>Here a diversion was made by the appearance of Mr. Fogson and the two -boys.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Simeon!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson impulsively. "You don't know what -you have lost."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson mechanically glanced at his vest to see whether his -watch-chain and the watch appended were gone.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></p><p>"What have I lost?" he demanded.</p> - -<p>"Squire Dixon's interesting speech to the paupers. It was truly -eloquent."</p> - -<p>"My dear Mrs. Fogson," said the squire, looking modest, "you quite -overrate my simple words."</p> - -<p>"They were simple, but they were to the point," said the lady of the -poorhouse, "and I hope—I do hope that the paupers will lay them to -heart."</p> - -<p>There was an amused smile on the face of Jed, who was sharp enough to -see through the shallow humbug which was being enacted before him. He -understood very well the interested motives of Mrs. Fogson, and why she -saw fit to flatter the town official from whom she and her husband had -received their appointment.</p> - -<p>"I wish you had heard the squire, too, Jed!" said Mrs. Fogson, detecting -the smile on the boy's face.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps, ma'am, you can tell me what he said," returned Jed demurely.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fogson was a little taken aback, but she accepted the invitation.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span></p><p>"He said you ought to consider yourself very lucky to have such a -comfortable home."</p> - -<p>"I do," said Jed with a comical look.</p> - -<p>"I am glad to hear it," said Mrs. Fogson, suspiciously, "though it -hasn't always looked that way, I am bound to say."</p> - -<p>"Are you going to stay much longer, father?" asked Percy, who was -getting tired.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps we had better go," said Squire Dixon. "We have staid quite a -while."</p> - -<p>"When do you have dinner?" asked Percy, turning to Jed.</p> - -<p>"In about an hour. I have no doubt Mrs. Fogson will invite you, if you -would like to stay."</p> - -<p>"<i>Me</i>—eat with paupers?" retorted Percy with fine scorn.</p> - -<p>"I don't think you would like it," said Jed. "I don't."</p> - -<p>"Why, you are a pauper yourself."</p> - -<p>"I don't think so. I earn my living, such as it is. I work from morning -till night."</p> - -<p>"What do they give you for dinner?" asked Percy, moved by curiosity.</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson puts a bone in the boiler and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span> makes bone soup," answered -Jed gravely. "You can't tell how good it is till you try it."</p> - -<p>"Is there anything else?"</p> - -<p>"A few soggy potatoes, and some stale bread without butter."</p> - -<p>"Don't you have tea?"</p> - -<p>"Once on Sundays. It don't do to pamper us, you know."</p> - -<p>"Do you have puddings or pies?"</p> - -<p>"No; the town can't afford it," returned Jed without a smile. "What do -you think of our bill of fare?"</p> - -<p>"Pretty mean, I think. Do Mr. and Mrs. Fogson eat with you?"</p> - -<p>"No; they eat later, in the small room adjoining."</p> - -<p>"Do they have the same dinner as you?"</p> - -<p>"Sometimes they have roast chicken, and the other day when I went into -the room there was a plum pudding on the table."</p> - -<p>Percy laughed.</p> - -<p>"Just what I thought. The old man and old woman aren't going to get -left."</p> - -<p>"I don't know about that."</p> - -<p>"What do you mean?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span></p><p>"I'll explain another time," said Jed, nodding. "I wish I was Overseer -of the Poor."</p> - -<p>"What would you do?"</p> - -<p>"I'd turn out the Fogsons and put back Mr. and Mrs. Avery."</p> - -<p>"Father says they spoiled the paupers."</p> - -<p>"At any rate they didn't starve them."</p> - -<p>"Old Fogson is saving money to the town—so father says."</p> - -<p>"Wait till the end of the year. You'll find the town will have just as -much to pay. What they save off the food they will put into their own -pockets."</p> - -<p>"What are you talking about?" asked Mrs. Fogson suspiciously.</p> - -<p>Jed did not have to reply, for Percy took offense at what he rightly -judged to be a piece of impertinence.</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson," he said, "what we are talking about is no concern of -yours."</p> - -<p>A bright red spot showed itself in either cheek of Mrs. Fogson, and she -would have annihilated the speaker if she could; but she was politic, -and remembered that Percy was the son of the overseer.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span></p><p>"I didn't mean any offense, Master Percy," she said. "It was simply a -playful remark on my part."</p> - -<p>"I'm glad to hear it," responded Percy. "You didn't look very playful."</p> - -<p>Squire Dixon was conversing with Mr. Fogson, and didn't hear this little -conversation.</p> - -<p>"I am just digging my potatoes," said Fogson deferentially. "I have some -excellent Jackson whites. I will send you round a bushel to try."</p> - -<p>"You are very kind, Mr. Fogson," said the squire, smiling urbanely. "I -shall appreciate them, you may be sure. Mr. Avery never would have made -me such an offer. It is clear to me that you are the right man in the -right place."</p> - -<p>"I am proud to hear you say so, Squire Dixon. With such an Overseer of -the Poor as you are, I am sure the interests of the town will be safe."</p> - -<p>"Thank you! Good-by."</p> - -<p>"Come again soon, squire," said Mrs. Fogson with a frosty smile. She did -not extend a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span> similar invitation to Percy, who had wounded her pride by -his unceremonious words.</p> - -<p>"They are very worthy people, Percy," said the squire as they rode away.</p> - -<p>"Do you think so, father? I don't admire your taste."</p> - -<p>"My son, I am surprised at you," but in his secret heart the squire -agreed with Percy.</p> - -<p>Soon after Squire Dixon and Percy left the poorhouse dinner was served. -It answered very well the description given by Jed. Though the boy was -hungry, he found it almost impossible to eat his portion, scanty though -it was.</p> - -<p>"Turning up your nose at your dinner as usual!" said Mrs. Fogson -sharply. "If you don't like it you can get another boarding-house."</p> - -<p>"I think I shall," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean by that?" demanded Mrs. Fogson quickly.</p> - -<p>"If the board doesn't improve I shall dry up and blow away," returned -Jed.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fogson sniffed and let the matter drop.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span></p><p>Towards the close of the afternoon, as Jed was splitting wood in the -yard, his attention was drawn to a runaway horse which was speeding down -the road at breakneck speed, while a lady's terrified face was visible -looking vainly around in search of help.</p> - -<p>Jed dropped his axe, ran to the bend of the road, and dashed out, waving -a branch which he picked up by the roadside. The horse slowed down, and -Jed, seizing the opportunity, ran to his head, seized him by the bridle, -and brought him to a permanent stop.</p> - -<p>"How brave you are!" said the lady. "Will you jump into the buggy and -drive me to my home? I don't dare to trust myself alone with the horse -again."</p> - -<p>Jed did as desired, and at the end of the ride Mrs. Redmond (she was the -wife of Dr. Redmond) gave him a dollar, accompanying it with hearty -thanks.</p> - -<p>"I suppose Fogson will try to get this dollar away from me," thought -Jed, "but he won't succeed."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER IV.</span> <span class="smaller">AN EXCITING CONTEST.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed was not mistaken.</p> - -<p>When he returned to the poorhouse supper was ready, and Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson were waiting for him with sour and angry faces.</p> - -<p>"Where have you been?" demanded Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Absent on business," announced Jed coolly.</p> - -<p>"Don't you know that your business is to stay here and work?"</p> - -<p>"I have been working all day."</p> - -<p>"No, you haven't. You have been to the village."</p> - -<p>"I had a good reason for going."</p> - -<p>"Why didn't you ask permission of me or Mrs. Fogson?"</p> - -<p>"Because there wasn't time."</p> - -<p>"You are two minutes late for supper. I've<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span> a good mind to let you go -without," said Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"It wouldn't be much of a loss," answered Jed, not looking much alarmed.</p> - -<p>"You are getting more and more impudent every day. Why do you say there -wasn't time to ask permission to leave your work?"</p> - -<p>"Because the runaway horse wouldn't stop while I was asking."</p> - -<p>"What runaway horse?" demanded Fogson with sudden interest.</p> - -<p>"While I was splitting wood I saw Dr. Redmond's wife being run away -with. She looked awfully frightened. I ran out to the bend and stopped -the horse. Then she wanted me to drive her home, for she was afraid he -would run off again."</p> - -<p>"Is that so? Well, of course that makes a difference. Did she give you -anything?"</p> - -<p>"Now it's coming," thought Jed.</p> - -<p>"Yes," he answered.</p> - -<p>"How much?" asked Mr. Fogson with a greedy look.</p> - -<p>"A dollar."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span></p><p>"Quite handsome, on my word. Well, hand it over."</p> - -<p>"What?" ejaculated Jed.</p> - -<p>"Give me the dollar!" said Fogson in a peremptory tone.</p> - -<p>"The dollar is mine."</p> - -<p>"You are a pauper. You can't hold any property. It's against the law."</p> - -<p>"Is it? Who told you so?"</p> - -<p>"No matter who told me so. I hope I understand the law."</p> - -<p>"I hope I understand my rights."</p> - -<p>"Boy, this is trifling. You'd better not make me any trouble, or you -will find yourself in a bad box."</p> - -<p>"What do you want to do with the dollar?"</p> - -<p>"None of your business! I shall keep it."</p> - -<p>"I have no doubt you will if you get it, but it is mine," said Jed -firmly.</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson," said her husband solemnly, "did you ever hear of such -perverseness?"</p> - -<p>"No. The boy is about the worst I ever see."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Fogson," said Jed, "when Mr. Avery was here I had money given me -several times,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span> though never as much as this. He never thought of asking -me for it, but always allowed me to spend it for myself."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Avery and I are two different persons," remarked Mr. Fogson with -asperity.</p> - -<p>"You are right, there," said Jed, in hearty concurrence with the -speaker.</p> - -<p>"And he was very unwise to let you keep the money. If it was five cents, -now, I wouldn't mind," continued Mr. Fogson with noteworthy liberality. -"But a dollar! You couldn't be trusted to spend a sum like that properly -at your age."</p> - -<p>"I am almost sixteen," said Jed significantly.</p> - -<p>"No matter if you are. You are still a mere boy. But I don't propose to -waste any more words. Hand over that money!"</p> - -<p>Jed felt that the critical moment had come. He must submit to a flagrant -piece of injustice or resist.</p> - -<p>He determined to resist.</p> - -<p>He met Fogson's glance firmly and resolutely, and uttered but two words: -"I won't!"</p> - -<p>"Did you ever hear such impudence, Mrs.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span> Fogson?" asked her husband, his -face becoming red and mottled in his excitement.</p> - -<p>"No, Simeon, I didn't!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"What shall I do?"</p> - -<p>"Thrash him. It's the only way to cure him of his cantankerous conduct."</p> - -<p>Jed was of good height for his age, and unusually thickset and strong. -Though poorhouse fare was hardly calculated to give him strength, he had -an intimate friend and school companion on a farm near by whose mother -often gave him a substantial meal, so that he alone of the inmates of -the poorhouse could afford to be comparatively indifferent to the mean -table kept by the managers.</p> - -<p>Jed was five feet six, and Simeon Fogson but two inches taller. Fogson, -however, was not a well man. He was a dyspeptic, and frequently indulged -in alcoholic drinks, which, as my young readers doubtless know, have a -direct tendency to impair physical vigor.</p> - -<p>"Get me the whip, Gloriana," said Mr. Fogson fiercely, addressing his -wife by her rather uncommon first name. "I will see<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span> whether this young -upstart is to rule you and me and the whole establishment."</p> - -<p>"I don't care about ruling anybody except myself," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"You can't rule yourself. I am put in authority over you."</p> - -<p>"Who put you in authority over me?" asked Jed defiantly.</p> - -<p>"The town."</p> - -<p>"And did the town give you leave to rob me? Answer me that!"</p> - -<p>"Did you ever hear the like?" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson, raising her arms in -almost incredulous surprise.</p> - -<p>By this time Mr. Fogson had the whip in his hand, and with an air of -enjoyment drew the lash through his fingers.</p> - -<p>"Take off your coat!" he said.</p> - -<p>"I would rather keep it on," replied Jed undauntedly.</p> - -<p>"It won't do you any good. I shall strike hard enough for you to feel it -even if you had two coats on."</p> - -<p>"You'd better not!" said Jed, eyeing Mr. Fogson warily.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span></p><p>"Are you going to stand the boy's impudence, Simeon?" demanded his wife -sharply.</p> - -<p>"No, I'm not;" and Simeon Fogson, flourishing the whip, brought it down -on Jed's shoulders and back.</p> - -<p>Then something happened which took the poorhouse superintendent by -surprise. Jed sprang toward him, and, grasping the whip with energy, -tore it from his grasp, and with angry and inflamed face confronted his -persecutor. Mr. Fogson turned pale, and looked undecided what to do.</p> - -<p>"Shall I hold him, Simeon?" asked his wife venomously.</p> - -<p>"No; I'm a match for a half-grown boy like him," returned Fogson, -ashamed to ask for help in so unequal a contest.</p> - -<p>He sprang forward and grabbed Jed, who accepted the gage of battle and -clinched with his adversary. A moment afterward they were rolling on the -floor, first one being uppermost, then the other.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER V.</span> <span class="smaller">JED SECURES AN ALLY.</span></h2> - -<p>It was trying to Mrs. Fogson to see her husband apparently getting the -worst of it from "that young viper," as she mentally apostrophized Jed, -and she longed to take a part, notwithstanding her husband's refusal to -accept her assistance.</p> - -<p>A bright but malicious idea struck her. She seized a tin dipper and -filled it half full from the tea-kettle, the water in which was almost -scalding. Then she seized an opportunity to empty it over Jed. But -unfortunately for the success of her amiable plan, by the time she was -ready to pour it out it was Mr. Fogson who was exposed, and he received -the whole of the water on his neck and shoulder.</p> - -<p>"Help! Help! Murder!" he shrieked in anguish. "You have scalded me, -you—you she cat!"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span></p><p>As he spoke he released his hold on Jed, who sprang to his feet and -stood watching for the next movement of the enemy.</p> - -<p>"Did I scald you, Simeon?" asked Mrs. Fogson in dismay.</p> - -<p>"Yes; I am almost dead. Get some flour and sweet oil—quick!"</p> - -<p>"I didn't mean to," said his wife repentantly. "I meant it for that -boy."</p> - -<p>"You're an idiot!" roared Fogson, stamping his foot. "Go and get the -oil—quick!"</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fogson, much frightened, hurried to obey orders, and the next -fifteen minutes were spent in allaying the anguish of her lord and -master, who made it very unpleasant for her by his bitter complaints and -upbraidings.</p> - -<p>"I think I'd better get out of this," thought Jed. "The old woman will -be trying to scald me next."</p> - -<p>He disappeared through the side door, leaving the amiable couple busily -but not pleasantly employed.</p> - -<p>He had scarcely left the house when Dr. Redmond drove up, his errand -being to see one of the inmates of the poorhouse.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span></p><p>"How are you, Jed?" he said pleasantly. "My wife tells me you did her a -great service to-day?"</p> - -<p>"I was glad to do it, doctor," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"Here's a dollar. I am sure you can use it."</p> - -<p>"But, doctor, Mrs. Redmond gave me a dollar."</p> - -<p>"Never mind! You can use both."</p> - -<p>"Thank you," said Jed. "You'd better go right in, doctor; Mrs. Fogson -has just scalded her husband, and he is in great pain."</p> - -<p>"How did it happen?" asked the doctor in amazement.</p> - -<p>"Go in and they'll tell you," said Jed. "I'll see you afterwards and -tell you whether their story is correct."</p> - -<p>When Mr. and Mrs. Fogson saw the doctor enter they were overjoyed.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Dr. Redmond," groaned Fogson, "do something to relieve me quick. -I'm in terrible pain."</p> - -<p>"What's the matter?" asked Dr. Redmond.</p> - -<p>"I am scalded."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span></p><p>"How did it happen?"</p> - -<p>"<i>She</i> did it!" said Fogson, pointing scornfully to Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>Dr. Redmond set himself at once to relieve the suffering one, making use -of the remedies that Fogson himself had suggested to his wife. When the -patient was more comfortable he turned gravely to Mrs. Fogson and asked: -"Will you explain how your husband got scalded?"</p> - -<p>"The woman poured hot water on me," interrupted Fogson with an ugly -scowl. "It would serve her right if I treated her in the same manner."</p> - -<p>"You don't mean that she did it on purpose, Mr. Fogson?" exclaimed the -doctor.</p> - -<p>"Of course I didn't," retorted Mrs. Fogson indignantly. "I meant it for -Jed."</p> - -<p>"You meant to scald Jed?" said the doctor sternly.</p> - -<p>"Yes; he assaulted my husband, and I feared he would kill him. It was -all the way I could help."</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson, I can hardly believe you would be guilty of such an -atrocious act even<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span> on your own confession, nor can I believe that Jed -would assault your husband without good cause."</p> - -<p>"It is true, whether you believe it or not," said Mrs. Fogson sullenly.</p> - -<p>Dr. Redmond's answer was to open the outer door and call "Jed!"</p> - -<p>Jed entered at once, and stood in the presence of his persecutors, calm -and undisturbed.</p> - -<p>"Jed," said the doctor, "Mrs. Fogson admits that she scalded her husband -in trying to scald you, and urges, in defense, that you assaulted Mr. -Fogson. What do you say to this?"</p> - -<p>"That Mr. Fogson struck me over the shoulder with a horsewhip, and that -I pulled it away from him. Upon this he sprang at me, and in -self-defense I grappled with him, and while we were rolling over the -floor Mrs. Fogson poured a dipper of hot water over her husband, meaning -it for me."</p> - -<p>"Is this true, Mr. Fogson?" asked the doctor.</p> - -<p>"Yes, it's about so. Mrs. Fogson acted like an idiot."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span></p><p>"If she had scalded Jed instead of you, would you say the same thing?"</p> - -<p>"Well, of course that would have been different."</p> - -<p>"I can see no difference," said Dr. Redmond sternly. "It was not an -idiotic, but a brutal and inhuman act."</p> - -<p>"Come, doctor, that's rather strong," protested Fogson uncomfortably.</p> - -<p>"It is not too strong! I don't think there is a person in the village -but would agree with me. Had the victim of the scalding been Jed, I -would have reported the matter to the authorities. Now tell me why you -attempted to horsewhip the boy?"</p> - -<p>"Because he was impudent," replied Fogson evasively.</p> - -<p>"And that was all?"</p> - -<p>"He disobeyed me."</p> - -<p>"Jed, let me hear your version of the story."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Fogson knew that I had a dollar given me by Mrs. Redmond, and he -called upon me to give it up to him. I wouldn't do it, and upon that he -tried to horsewhip me."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span></p><p>"You see he owns up to his disobeying me, doctor," put in Fogson -triumphantly.</p> - -<p>"Why did you require him to give you the dollar, Mr. Fogson?"</p> - -<p>"Because he is a pauper, and a pauper has no right to hold money."</p> - -<p>"I won't discuss that point. What did you propose to do with the dollar -in case you had obtained it from Jed?"</p> - -<p>"As you are not Overseer of the Poor, Dr. Redmond, I don't know that I -have any call to tell you. When Squire Dixon asks me I will make it all -straight with him."</p> - -<p>"Probably," answered the doctor in a significant tone, for he as well as -others understood that there was some secret compact between Mr. Fogson -and the town official, and he had earnestly opposed Squire Dixon at the -polls.</p> - -<p>"Not only you, but Squire Dixon will have to give an account of your -stewardship," he said. "If any outrage should be committed against the -boy Jed, or any one else in this establishment, you will find that -making it straight with Squire Dixon won't be sufficient."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span></p><p>"I will report what you say to Squire Dixon," said Fogson defiantly.</p> - -<p>"I wish you would. I shouldn't object to saying the same thing to his -face. Now, Mrs. Fogson, if you will lead the way I will go and see Mrs. -Connolly."</p> - -<p>"Come along, then," said Mrs. Fogson, compressing her thin lips. "I -don't believe there is anything the matter with that old woman."</p> - -<p>"I am a better judge of that matter than you, Mrs. Fogson."</p> - -<p>The poor old woman looked thin and wan, and hardly had strength to lift -up her head to meet the doctor's glance.</p> - -<p>After a brief examination he said: "Your trouble is nervous debility. -You have no strength. What you need is nourishment. Do you have tea -three times a day, Mrs. Connolly?"</p> - -<p>"Only once a week, doctor," wailed the poor old woman, bursting into -tears.</p> - -<p>"Only once a week!" repeated the doctor shocked. "What does this mean, -Mrs. Fogson?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p><p>"It means, Dr. Redmond," answered the mistress of the poorhouse, "that -this is not a first-class hotel."</p> - -<p>"I should say not," commented the doctor. "How often did you have tea, -Mrs. Connolly, when Mr. and Mrs. Avery were here?"</p> - -<p>"At breakfast and supper, and on Sundays three times a day."</p> - -<p>"Precisely. What do you say to that, Mrs. Fogson?"</p> - -<p>"I say, as everybody says, that the Averys squandered the town's money."</p> - -<p>"They certainly didn't put it into their own pockets. The town, I think -I am safe in saying, doesn't mean to starve the poor people whom it -provides for. Do I understand that you are actuated by a desire to save -the town's money?"</p> - -<p>"Of course I am, and Squire Dixon approves all I do," answered Mrs. -Fogson defiantly.</p> - -<p>"If he approves your withholding the necessities of life from those -under your charge he is unfit for his position. When the accounts of the -poorhouse are audited at the end<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span> of the year I shall make a searching -examination, and ascertain how much less they are under your -administration than under that of your predecessors."</p> - -<p>Judging from her looks, Mrs. Fogson was aching to scratch Dr. Redmond's -eyes out; but as he was not a pauper she was compelled to restrain her -anger.</p> - -<p>"Now, Mrs. Connolly," said the doctor, "you are to have tea twice a day, -and three times on Sunday. I shall see that it is given to you," he -added, with a significant glance at Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Oh, how glad I am!" said the poor creature. "God bless you, Dr. -Redmond!"</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson," went on the doctor, "do you limit yourself to tea once a -week?"</p> - -<p>"I ain't a pauper, Dr. Redmond!" replied Mrs. Fogson indignantly.</p> - -<p>"No; you are much stronger than a pauper, and could bear the deprivation -better. Let me tell you that you needn't be afraid to supply decent food -to the poor people in your charge. It won't cost any more than it did -under the Averys, for prices are, on the whole, cheaper."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span></p><p>"Perhaps if it does cost more you'll pay it out of your own pocket."</p> - -<p>"I contribute already to the support of the poorhouse, being a large -taxpayer, and I give my medical services without exacting payment. The -town is not mean, and I will see that no fault is found with reasonable -bills."</p> - -<p>"I wish you'd fall and break your neck, you old meddler," thought Mrs. -Fogson, but she did not dare to say this.</p> - -<p>"One thing more, madam!" said the doctor, who had now entered the room -where Jed and her husband were; "reserve your hot water for its -legitimate uses. No more scalding, if you please."</p> - -<p>"That's well put, doctor!" growled Fogson. "If she wants to scald -anybody else, she had better try herself."</p> - -<p>"That's all the gratitude I get for taking your part, Simeon Fogson," -said the exasperated helpmeet. "The next time, Jed may beat you black -and blue for all I care."</p> - -<p>"It strikes me," remarked the doctor dryly, "that your husband is a -match for a boy of sixteen, and need be under no <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span>apprehension. No more -horsewhips, Mr. Fogson, if <i>you</i> please, and don't trouble yourself -about any small sums that Jed may receive. Jed, jump into my buggy, and -I will take you home with me. I think Mrs. Redmond will give you some -supper."</p> - -<p>"The boy hasn't done his chores," said Mrs. Fogson maliciously.</p> - -<p>"Very well, I will make a bargain with you. Don't object to his going, -and I won't charge Mr. Fogson anything for my attendance upon him just -now."</p> - -<p>This appeal to the selfish interests of Mr. Fogson had its effect, and -Jed jumped into the doctor's buggy with eager alacrity.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VI.</span> <span class="smaller">MR. FOGSON MAKES UP HIS MIND.</span></h2> - -<p>"I don't know, Jed, whether I can make up to you for the supper you will -lose at the poorhouse," observed the doctor jocosely. "Mrs. Redmond may -not be as good a cook as Mrs. Fogson."</p> - -<p>"I will risk it," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"Is the fare much worse than it was when Mrs. Avery was in charge?"</p> - -<p>"Very much worse. I don't mind it much myself, for I often get a meal at -Fred Morrison's, but the poor old people have a hard time."</p> - -<p>"I will make it my business to see that there is an improvement."</p> - -<p>"Dr. Redmond," said Jed after a pause, "do you think it would be wrong -for me to run away from the poorhouse?"</p> - -<p>"Have you any such intention?" asked the doctor quickly.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span></p><p>"Yes; I think I can earn my own living, and a better living than I have -there. I am young and strong, and I am not afraid to try."</p> - -<p>"As to that, Jed, I don't see why there should be any objection to your -making the attempt. The town of Scranton ought not to object to -lessening the number it is required to support."</p> - -<p>"Mr. and Mrs. Fogson would object. They would miss my work."</p> - -<p>"Have you ever spoken to them on the subject?"</p> - -<p>"I did one day, and they said I would have to stay till I was -twenty-one."</p> - -<p>"That is not true."</p> - -<p>"I don't think I could stay that long," said Jed soberly. "I should be -dead before that time if I had to live with Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, and -fared no better. Besides, you see how I am dressed. I should think you -would be ashamed to have me at your table."</p> - -<p>Jed's clothes certainly were far from becoming. They were of unknown -antiquity, and were two sizes too small for him, so that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> the sleeves -and the legs of the trousers were so scant as to attract attention. In -his working hours he wore a pair of overalls, but those he took off when -he accepted Dr. Redmond's invitation.</p> - -<p>"I didn't invite your clothes, Jed; I invited you," responded the -doctor. "I confess, however, that your suit is pretty shabby. How long -have you worn it?"</p> - -<p>"It was given me nearly two years ago."</p> - -<p>"And you have had no other since?"</p> - -<p>"No. If I stayed there till I was twenty-one I expect I should have to -wear the same old things."</p> - -<p>Dr. Redmond laughed.</p> - -<p>"I am bound to say, Jed, that in that case you would cut a comical -figure. However, I don't think it will be as bad as that. My son Ross is -in college. He is now twenty. I will ask my wife to look about the house -and see if there isn't an old suit of his that will fit you. It will, at -any rate, be a good deal better than this."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, doctor; but will you save it till I am ready to leave -Scranton?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, Jed. I will have it put in a bundle, and it will be ready for you -any time you call for it."</p> - -<p>"There's another thing, doctor. I think Mr. Fogson will try to get my -money away, notwithstanding all you said."</p> - -<p>"He wouldn't dare to."</p> - -<p>"He is very cunning. He will find some excuse."</p> - -<p>Jed was right. To prove this, we will go back to the poorhouse and -relate the conversation between the well-matched pair after Dr. -Redmond's departure.</p> - -<p>"Simeon," said his wife, "if you had any spunk you wouldn't let Dr. -Redmond insult and bully you, as he did just now."</p> - -<p>"What would you have me to do?" demanded her husband irritably. "I -couldn't knock him down, could I?"</p> - -<p>"No, but you could have talked up to him."</p> - -<p>"I did; but you must remember that he is an important man in the town, -and it wouldn't be wise to make him an enemy."</p> - -<p>"Squire Dixon is still more important. If<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span> he backs you up you needn't -be afraid of this trumpery doctor."</p> - -<p>"Well, what would you advise?"</p> - -<p>"Go this evening and see the squire. Tell him what has happened, and if -he gives you authority to take Jed's money, take it."</p> - -<p>"Really, that is a good suggestion, Mrs. F. I will go soon after -supper."</p> - -<p>"It would do no good to triumph over Dr. Redmond. He is an impertinent -meddler."</p> - -<p>"So he is. I agree with you there."</p> - -<p>Soon after seven o'clock Squire Dixon was somewhat surprised when the -servant ushered Mr. Fogson into his presence.</p> - -<p>"Ah, Fogson," he exclaimed. "I was not expecting to see you. Has -anything gone wrong?"</p> - -<p>"I should think so. Jed has rebelled against my lawful authority, and -Dr. Redmond is aiding and abetting him in it."</p> - -<p>"You astonish me, Fogson. Are you sure you are not mistaken?"</p> - -<p>"I'll tell you the whole story, squire, and you can judge for yourself."</p> - -<p>Upon this Mr. Fogson gave an account of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> the scenes that had taken place -in the poorhouse, including his contest with Jed, and Mrs. Fogson's -ill-judged attempt to assist him.</p> - -<p>"Certainly, you were in bad luck," said the squire. "Is the injury -serious?"</p> - -<p>"The burn is very painful, squire. Mrs. Fogson acted like an idiot. Why -didn't she take better aim?"</p> - -<p>"To be sure, to be sure. Wasn't the boy scalded at all?"</p> - -<p>"Not a particle," answered Fogson in an aggrieved tone. "Now, what I -want to know is, didn't I have a right to take the money from Jed?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I think so. The boy would probably have made bad use of it."</p> - -<p>"The ground I take, squire, is that a pauper has no right to possess -money."</p> - -<p>"I quite agree with you. Since the town maintains him, the town should -have a right to exact any money of which he becomes accidentally -possessed."</p> - -<p>"I don't quite see that the town should have it," said Fogson. "As the -boy's official<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span> guardian, I think I ought to keep it, to use for the boy -whenever I thought it judicious."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I think that view is correct. I had only given the point a -superficial consideration."</p> - -<p>"Dr. Redmond denies this. He says I have no right to take the money from -Jed."</p> - -<p>"Dr. Redmond's view is not entitled to any weight. He has no official -right to intermeddle."</p> - -<p>"You'd think he had, by the manner in which he lectured Mrs. Fogson and -myself. I never heard such impudence."</p> - -<p>"Dr. Redmond assumes too much. He doesn't appear to understand that I, -and not he, was appointed Overseer of the Poor."</p> - -<p>"He says you are not fit for the position," said Fogson, transcending -the limits of strict accuracy, as the reader will understand.</p> - -<p>"What?" ejaculated Squire Dixon, his face flushing angrily.</p> - -<p>"That's just what he said," repeated Fogson, delighted by the effect of -his misrepresentations. "It's my belief that he wanted the office -himself."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span></p><p>"Very likely, very likely!" said the squire angrily. "Do I understand -you to say that he actually called me unfit for the position?"</p> - -<p>"Yes he did. He appears to think that he can boss you and Mrs. F. and -myself. Why, he stood by that boy, though he had actually assaulted me, -and invited him home to supper."</p> - -<p>"You don't mean this, Mr. Fogson?"</p> - -<p>"Yes I do. Jed is at this very moment at the doctor's house. What -mischief they are concocting I can't tell, but I am sure that I shall -have more trouble with the boy."</p> - -<p>Squire Dixon was very much disturbed. He was a vain man, and his pride -sustained a severe shock when told that the doctor considered him unfit -for his position.</p> - -<p>"However," resumed the crafty Fogson, "I suppose we shall have to give -in to the doctor."</p> - -<p>"Give in!" exclaimed the squire, his face turning purple. "Never, Mr. -Fogson, never!"</p> - -<p>"I hate to give in, I confess, squire, but the doctor is a prominent -man, and——"</p> - -<p>"Prominent man! I should like to know<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span> whether I am not a prominent man -also, Mr. Fogson? Moreover, I represent the town, and Dr. Redmond -doesn't."</p> - -<p>"I am glad you will stand by me, squire. With you on my side, I will not -fear."</p> - -<p>"I will stand by you, Mr. Fogson."</p> - -<p>"I should hate to be triumphed over by a mere boy."</p> - -<p>"You shall not be, Mr. Fogson."</p> - -<p>"Then will you authorize me to demand the money from him?"</p> - -<p>"I will authorize you, Mr. Fogson, and if the boy persists in refusing, -I authorize you to use coercive measures. Do you understand?"</p> - -<p>"I believe I do, squire. You will let it be understood that you have -given me authority, won't you? Suppose the boy complains to Dr. -Redmond?"</p> - -<p>"You may refer Dr. Redmond to me, Mr. Fogson," said the squire -pompously. "I think I shall be tempted to give this meddling doctor a -piece of my mind."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson took leave of the squire and pursued his way homeward with a -smile on<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span> his face. He had accomplished what he desired, and secured a -powerful ally in his campaign against the boy Jed and Dr. Redmond.</p> - -<p>He returned home a little after eight, and just before nine Jed made his -appearance at the door of the poorhouse. He was in good spirits, for he -had decided that he would soon turn his back upon the place which had -been his home for fourteen years.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VII.</span> <span class="smaller">FOGSON'S MISTAKE.</span></h2> - -<p>"So you have got home?" said Mr. Fogson with an unpleasant smile as he -opened the door to admit Jed later that evening.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"You had a pleasant time, I presume?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir," answered Jed, wondering to what all these questions tended.</p> - -<p>"I suppose Dr. Redmond put himself out to entertain such a distinguished -guest?"</p> - -<p>"No, Mr. Fogson, I don't think he did."</p> - -<p>"He didn't make arrangements to run the poorhouse, with your help, did -he?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jed with emphasis.</p> - -<p>"We ought to be thankful, Mrs. Fogson and I, humbly thankful, that we -ain't to be turned out by this high and mighty doctor."</p> - -<p>"If you don't like the doctor you had better tell him so," said Jed; "he -don't need me to defend him."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span></p><p>"Do you know where I've been to-night?" queried Fogson, changing his -tone.</p> - -<p>"How could I tell?"</p> - -<p>"I've been to see Squire Dixon."</p> - -<p>"Well, sir, I suppose you had a right to. I hope you had a pleasant -call."</p> - -<p>"I did, and what's more, I told him of Dr. Redmond's impertinent -interference with me in my management of the poorhouse. He told me not -to pay any attention to Redmond, but to be guided by him. So long as he -was satisfied with me, it was all right."</p> - -<p>"You'd better tell Dr. Redmond that when he calls here next time."</p> - -<p>"I shall; but there's something I've got to say to you. He said I had a -perfect right to take the dollar from you, for as a pauper you had no -right to hold property of any kind. That's what Squire Dixon says. Now -hand over that money, or you'll get into trouble."</p> - -<p>"I wouldn't give the money to Squire Dixon himself," answered Jed -boldly.</p> - -<p>"You wouldn't, hey? I'll tell him that. You'll give it to me to-night, -though."</p> - -<p>He put out his hand to seize Jed, but the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span> boy quietly moved aside, and -said, "You can't get the money from me to-night, Mr. Fogson."</p> - -<p>"Why can't I? There's no Dr. Redmond to take your part now. Why can't I, -I'd like to know?"</p> - -<p>"Because I haven't got it."</p> - -<p>"<span class="smcap">What!</span>" exclaimed Fogson. "Do you mean to say you've spent it already? -If you have——"</p> - -<p>"No, I haven't spent it, but I have given it to Dr. Redmond to keep for -me."</p> - -<p>Fogson showed in his face his intense disappointment. He expected to get -the money without fail, and lo! the victory was snatched from him.</p> - -<p>He glared at Jed, and seemed about to pounce upon him, but he thought -better of it.</p> - -<p>"You'll go and get the money in the morning," he said. "You and Dr. -Redmond are engaged in a conspiracy against the town and the laws, and I -am not sure but I could have you both arrested. Mind, if that money is -not handed to me to-morrow you will get a thrashing. Now go to bed!"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span></p><p>Jed was not sorry to avail himself of this permission. He had not -enjoyed the interview with Mr. Fogson, and he felt tired and in need of -rest. Accordingly he went up stairs to the attic, where there was a cot -bed under the bare rafters, which he usually occupied. There had been -another boy, three months before, who had shared the desolate room with -him, but he had been bound out to a farmer, and now Jed was the sole -occupant.</p> - -<p>Tired as he was, he did not go to sleep immediately. He undressed -himself slowly in the obscurity, for he was not allowed a lamp, and made -a movement to get into bed.</p> - -<p>But a surprise awaited him. His extended hand came in contact with a -human face, and one on which there was a mustache. Somebody was in his -bed!</p> - -<p>Naturally, Jed was startled.</p> - -<p>"Who are you?" he inquired.</p> - -<p>"Who'm I? I'm a gentleman," was the drowsy reply.</p> - -<p>"You're in my bed," said Jed, annoyed as well as surprised.</p> - -<p>"Where is <i>my</i> bed?" hiccoughed the other.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p><p>"I don't know. How did you get in here?"</p> - -<p>"I came in when no one was lookin'," answered the intruder. "Zis a -hotel?"</p> - -<p>"No; it's the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"You don't say? Dad always told me I'd end up in the poorhouse, but I -didn't expect to get there so quick."</p> - -<p>"You'd better get up and go down stairs. Fogson wouldn't like to have -you stay here all night."</p> - -<p>"Who's Fogson?"</p> - -<p>"He is the manager of the poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"Who cares for Fogson? I don't b'lieve Fogson is a gen'leman."</p> - -<p>"Nor I," inwardly assented Jed.</p> - -<p>This was the last word that he could get from the intruder, who coolly -turned over and began to snore.</p> - -<p>Fortunately for Jed, there was another cot bed—the one formerly -occupied by the other boy—and he got into it.</p> - -<p>Fatigued by the events of the day, Jed soon slept a sound and refreshing -sleep. In fact his sleep was so sound that it is doubtful<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span> whether a -thunderstorm would have awakened him.</p> - -<p>Towards morning the occupant of the other bed turned in such a way as to -lie on his back. This position, as my readers are probably aware, is -conducive to heavy snoring, and the intruder availed himself of this to -the utmost.</p> - -<p>Mr. and Mrs. Fogson slept directly underneath, and after awhile, the -door leading to the attic being open, the sound of the snoring attracted -the attention of Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Simeon!" she said, shaking her recumbent husband.</p> - -<p>"What is it, Mrs. F.?" inquired her lord and master drowsily.</p> - -<p>"Did you hear that?"</p> - -<p>"Did I hear what?"</p> - -<p>"That terrific snoring. It is loud enough to wake the dead."</p> - -<p>By this time Fogson was fairly awake.</p> - -<p>"So it is," he assented. "Who is it?"</p> - -<p>"Jed, of course. What possesses the boy to snore so?"</p> - -<p>"Can't say, I'm sure. I never heard a boy of his age make such a noise."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p><p>"It must be stopped, Simeon. It can't be more than three o'clock, and -if it continues I shan't sleep another wink."</p> - -<p>"Well, go up and stop it."</p> - -<p>"It is more suitable for you to go, Mr. Fogson. I do believe the boy is -snoring out of spite."</p> - -<p>Even Fogson laughed at this idea.</p> - -<p>"He couldn't do that unless he snored when he was awake," he replied. -"It isn't easy to snore when you are not asleep. If you don't believe -it, try it."</p> - -<p>"I am ashamed of you, Simeon. Do you think I would demean myself by any -such low action? If that snoring isn't stopped right off I shall go into -a fit."</p> - -<p>"I wouldn't like to have you do that," said Fogson, rather amused. "It -would be rather worse than hearing Jed snore."</p> - -<p>About this time there was an unusual outburst on the part of the -sleeper.</p> - -<p>"A little hot water would fix him," said Fogson. "It is a pity you had -not saved your hot water till to-night."</p> - -<p>"Cold water would do just as well."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span></p><p>"So it would. Mrs. F., that's a bright idea. I owe the boy a grudge for -giving his money to Dr. Redmond. I'll go down stairs and get a clipper -of cold water, and I'll see if I can't stop the boy's noise."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson went down stairs, chuckling, as he went, at the large joke he -was intending to perpetrate. It would not be so bad as being scalded, -but it would probably be very disagreeable to Jed to be roused from a -sound sleep by a dash of cold water.</p> - -<p>"I hope he won't wake up before I get there," thought Mr. Fogson, as he -descended to the kitchen in his stocking feet to procure the water.</p> - -<p>He pumped for a minute or two in order that the water might be colder, -and then with the dipper in hand ascended two flights of stairs to the -attic.</p> - -<p>Up there it was still profoundly dark. There was but one window, and -that was screened by a curtain. Moreover, it was very dark outside. Mr. -Fogson, however, was not embarrassed, for he knew just where Jed's bed -was situated, and, even if he had not, the loud<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span> snoring, which still -continued, would have been sufficient to guide him to the place.</p> - -<p>"It beats me how a boy can snore like that," soliloquized Fogson. "He -must have eaten something at Dr. Redmond's that didn't agree with him. -If I didn't know it was Jed I should feel frightened at such an -unearthly hubbub. However, it won't continue long," and Fogson laughed -to himself as he thought of the sensation which his dipper of water was -likely to produce.</p> - -<p>He approached a little nearer, and in spite of the darkness could see -the outlines of a form on the bed, but he could not see clearly enough -to make out the difference between it and Jed's.</p> - -<p>He poised himself carefully, and then dashed the water vigorously into -the face of the sleeping figure.</p> - -<p>The results were not exactly what he had anticipated.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER VIII.</span> <span class="smaller">MR. FOGSON IS ASTONISHED.</span></h2> - -<p>The sleeper had already slept off pretty nearly all the effects of his -potations, and the sudden cold bath restored him wholly to himself. But -it also aroused in him a feeling of anger, justifiable under the -circumstances, and, not belonging to the Peace Society, he was moved to -punish the person to whom he was indebted for his unpleasant experience.</p> - -<p>With a smothered imprecation he sprang from the bed and seized the -astonished Fogson by the throat, while he shook him violently.</p> - -<p>"You—you—scoundrel!" he ejaculated. "I'll teach you to play such a -scurvy trick on a gentleman."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson screamed in fright. He did not catch his late victim's words, -and was still under the impression that it was Jed who had tackled him.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span></p><p>Meanwhile the intruder was flinging him about and bumping him against -the floor so forcibly that Mrs. Fogson's attention was attracted. -Indeed, she was at the foot of the stairs, desiring to enjoy Jed's -dismay when drenched with the contents of the tin dipper.</p> - -<p>"What's the matter, Simeon?" she cried.</p> - -<p>"Jed's killing me!" called out Fogson in muffled tones.</p> - -<p>"You don't mean to say you ain't a match for that boy!" ejaculated Mrs. -Fogson scornfully. "I'll come up and help you."</p> - -<p>Disregarding her light attire she hurried up stairs, and was astonished -beyond measure when she saw how unceremoniously her husband was being -handled. She rushed to seize Jed, when she found her hands clutching a -mustache.</p> - -<p>"Why, it ain't Jed!" she screamed in dismay.</p> - -<p>"No, it ain't Jed," said the intruder. "Did you mean that soaking for -Jed, whoever he is?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, yes, it was—quite a mistake!" gasped Fogson.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span></p><p>"I am glad to hear you say so, for I meant to fling you down stairs, -and might have broken your neck."</p> - -<p>"Oh, what a dreadful man!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. "How came you here -and where is Jed?"</p> - -<p>"I am here!" answered Jed, who had waked up two or three minutes -previous and was enjoying the defeat of his persecutor.</p> - -<p>"Did you bring in this man?" demanded Mrs. Fogson sternly.</p> - -<p>"No. I walked in myself," answered the intruder. "I was rather -mellow—in other words I had drunk too much mixed ale, and I really -didn't know where I was. I had an idea that this was a hotel."</p> - -<p>"You made a mistake, sir. This is the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"So the boy told me when he came in. I wouldn't have taken a bed here if -I had known your playful way of pouring cold water on your guests."</p> - -<p>"Sir, apart from your assault on me, <i>me</i>, the master of the poorhouse," -said Fogson, trying to recover some of his lost dignity,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span> "you committed -a trespass in entering the house without permission and appropriating a -bed."</p> - -<p>"All right, old man, but just remember that I was drunk."</p> - -<p>"I don't think that is an excuse."</p> - -<p>"Isn't it? Just get drunk yourself, and see what you'll do."</p> - -<p>"I don't allow Mr. Fogson to get drunk," said his wife with asperity.</p> - -<p>"Maybe my wife wouldn't let me, if there was any such a person, but I -haven't been so fortunate as Mr. Fogson, if that is his name."</p> - -<p>"Mrs. F.," said her husband with a sudden thought, "you are not dressed -for company."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fogson, upon this hint, scuttled down stairs, and the intruder -resumed: "If I've taken a liberty I'm willing to apologize. What's more, -I'll pay you fifty cents for the use of your bed and stay the night -out."</p> - -<p>He was appealing to Mr. Fogson's weak point, which was a love of money.</p> - -<p>"I see you're ready to do the square thing," he said in softened -accents. "If you'll say seventy-five——"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span></p><p>"No, I won't pay over fifty. I don't care to take it another night on -those terms, if I am to be waked up by a dipper of water. You've wet the -sheet and pillow so that I may take my death of cold if I sleep here any -longer."</p> - -<p>"I'll bring you a comforter which you can lay over the wet clothes."</p> - -<p>"All right! Bring it up and I'll hand you the fifty cents."</p> - -<p>"And—and if you would like breakfast in the morning, for the small -extra sum of twenty-five cents——"</p> - -<p>"Isn't that rather steep for a poorhouse breakfast?"</p> - -<p>"You will not eat with the paupers, of course, but at a private table, -with Mrs. Fogson and myself."</p> - -<p>"All right! Your offer is accepted."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson brought up the comforter, and the visitor resumed the -slumbers which had been so unceremoniously interrupted.</p> - -<p>The sun rose early, and when its rays crept in through the side window -both Jed and his companion were awake.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span></p><p>"I say, boy, come over here and share my bed. I want to talk to you."</p> - -<p>Jed's curiosity was excited, and he accepted the invitation.</p> - -<p>He found his roommate to be a good-looking young man of perhaps thirty, -and with a pleasant expression.</p> - -<p>"So you are Jed?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"And you live in the poorhouse?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed, half-ashamed to admit it, "but I don't mean to stay -here."</p> - -<p>"Good! A smart boy like you ought not to be a pauper. You are able to -earn your own living outside. But perhaps you are attached to the queer -people who made me a visit last night."</p> - -<p>"Not much!" answered Jed emphatically.</p> - -<p>"I don't admire them much myself. I didn't see the old lady. Is she -beautiful?"</p> - -<p>Jed laughed heartily.</p> - -<p>"You'll see her at the breakfast table," he said. "Then you can judge -for yourself."</p> - -<p>"I don't think I shall do anything to excite Fogson's jealousy. Zounds, -if this isn't the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span> queerest hotel I ever struck. I am sorry to have -taken your bed from you."</p> - -<p>"I was glad not to be in it when Mr. Fogson came up."</p> - -<p>"You're right there," said the other laughing. "Whew! how the cold water -startled me. Sorry to have deprived you of it."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Fogson got a dose himself yesterday, only it was hot water."</p> - -<p>"You don't say so! Was that meant for you, too?"</p> - -<p>"Yes;" and Jed told the story of his struggle with Mr. Fogson, and his -wife's unfortunate interference.</p> - -<p>"That's a capital joke," said the visitor laughing. "Now I suppose you -wonder who I am."</p> - -<p>"Yes; I should like to know."</p> - -<p>"I'm Harry Bertram, the actor. I don't know if you ever heard of me."</p> - -<p>"I never attended the theatre in my life."</p> - -<p>"Is that so? Why, you're quite a heathen. Never went to a theatre? Well, -I <i>am</i> surprised."</p> - -<p>"Is it a good business?" asked Jed.</p> - -<p>"Sometimes, if the play happens to catch<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span> on. When you are stranded five -hundred miles from home, and your salary isn't paid, it isn't exactly -hilarious."</p> - -<p>"Are you going to play anywhere near here?" asked Jed, who was beginning -to think he would like to see a performance.</p> - -<p>"We are billed to play in Duncan to-morrow evening, or rather this -evening, for it's morning now."</p> - -<p>"Duncan is only five miles away."</p> - -<p>"If you want to attend I'll give you a pass. It's the least I can do to -pay for turning you out of your bed."</p> - -<p>"I could walk the five miles," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"Then come. I'll see you at the door and pass you in. Ask for Harry -Bertram."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Mr. Bertram."</p> - -<p>"Old Fogson won't make a fuss about your going, will he?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, he will; but I've made up my mind to leave the poorhouse, and I -might as well leave it to-day as any time."</p> - -<p>"Good! I admire your pluck."</p> - -<p>"I wish I knew what I could do to make a living."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span></p><p>"Leave that to me. I'll arrange to have you travel with the show for -two or three days and bunk with me. Have you got any—any better clothes -than those?" and Bertram pointed to the dilapidated garments lying on a -chair near by.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I am promised a good suit by a friend of mine in the village. I'll -go there and put them on before starting."</p> - -<p>"Do; the actors sometimes look pretty tough, but I never saw one dressed -like that."</p> - -<p>"Jed!" screamed Mrs. Fogson from the bottom of the stairs. "You get -right up and come down stairs!"</p> - -<p>"They're calling me," said Jed, starting up.</p> - -<p>"Will I have to get up too?"</p> - -<p>"No; Mr. and Mrs. Fogson don't breakfast till seven. They'll send me up -to call you."</p> - -<p>"All right! We'll soon be travelling together where there are no -Fogsons."</p> - -<p>"I hope so," and Jed went down stairs with new life in his step.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER IX.</span> <span class="smaller">JED LEAVES THE POORHOUSE.</span></h2> - -<p>At eight o'clock Harry Bertram was summoned to breakfast in the private -sitting-room of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. In spite of the poor fare of which -the paupers complained the Fogsons took care themselves to have -appetizing meals, and the well-spread table looked really attractive.</p> - -<p>"Sit down here, Mr. Bertram," said Mrs. Fogson, pointing to a seat. The -place opposite was vacant, as the heads of the table were occupied by -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson," said the actor, "I am going to ask a favor."</p> - -<p>"What is it?" returned the lady, wreathing her features into a frosty -smile.</p> - -<p>"I see the seat opposite me is unoccupied. Will you oblige me by letting -the boy Jed take it?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span></p><p>Mrs. Fogson's face changed.</p> - -<p>"I should prefer not to have him here," she answered in a forbidding -tone.</p> - -<p>"Of course I propose to pay for his breakfast the same price that I pay -for my own."</p> - -<p>"The boy is insubordinate and disobedient," said the lady coldly.</p> - -<p>"Still he gave me his bed last night. Some boys would have objected."</p> - -<p>"My dear," said Fogson, whose weakness for money has already been -mentioned, "I think, as the gentleman has agreed to pay for Jed's -breakfast, we may give our consent, merely to gratify him."</p> - -<p>"Very well," answered Mrs. Fogson, resolved to claim the twenty-five -cents for herself.</p> - -<p>She rose from her seat, went to the window, and opening it, called to -Jed, who was at work in the yard.</p> - -<p>He speedily made his appearance.</p> - -<p>"Sit down to the table, Jedediah," said Mr. Fogson with dignity. "Mr. -Bertram desires you to breakfast with him."</p> - -<p>Jed was very much surprised, but as he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span> noted the warm biscuit and -beefsteak, which emitted an appetizing odor, he felt that it was an -invitation not to be rejected.</p> - -<p>"I am very much obliged to Mr. Bertram," he said, "and also to you and -Mrs. Fogson."</p> - -<p>This was a politic remark to make, and he was served as liberally as the -guest.</p> - -<p>"Do you find your position a pleasant one, Mr. Fogson?" asked Bertram -politely.</p> - -<p>"No, Mr. Bertram, far from it. The paupers are a thankless, ungrateful -set, but I am sustained by a sense of duty."</p> - -<p>"The paupers were spoiled by our predecessors, Mr. and Mrs. Avery," -chimed in Mrs. Fogson. "Really, Mr. Bertram, you would be surprised to -learn how unreasonable they are. They are always complaining of their -meals."</p> - -<p>"I am sure they must be unreasonable if they complain of meals like -this, Mrs. Fogson," said the actor.</p> - -<p>"Of course we can't afford to treat them like this. The town would -object. But we give them as good fare as we can afford. Are you going to -stay long in Scranton?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span></p><p>"No; I am merely passing through. I shall sleep to-night at Duncan."</p> - -<p>"At the poorhouse?" asked Jed with a comical smile.</p> - -<p>"Yes, if I could be sure of as good fare as this," replied the actor -with an answering smile. "But that would be very doubtful."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fogson, who, cross-grained as she was, was not above flattery, -mentally pronounced Mr. Bertram a most agreeable young man—in fact, a -perfect gentleman.</p> - -<p>"I am really ashamed," continued Bertram, "to have entered your house in -such a condition, but I was feeling a little internal disturbance, and -fancied that whisky would relieve it. Unfortunately I took too much."</p> - -<p>"It might have happened to anyone," said Fogson considerately. "I am -myself a temperance man, but sometimes I find whisky beneficial to my -health."</p> - -<p>Bertram, noticing the ruddy hue of Mr. Fogson's nose, was quite ready to -believe this statement.</p> - -<p>"May I ask if you are a business man?" remarked Fogson.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p><p>"My business is acting. I belong to the Gold King Company, which is to -play at Duncan to-night."</p> - -<p>"Indeed!" said Mrs. Fogson, with a glance of curiosity. "I never saw an -actor before."</p> - -<p>"I am sorry you should see such an unworthy representative of the -Thespian art. If we were to play in Scranton, it would give me pleasure -to offer you and Mr. Fogson complimentary tickets."</p> - -<p>"I wish you were to play here," said Mrs. Fogson in a tone of regret. "I -haven't seen a play for five years."</p> - -<p>"I suppose you couldn't come to Duncan?"</p> - -<p>"No; we could not be spared. Besides, we have no horse and carriage," -said Fogson. "We must wait till you perform in Scranton."</p> - -<p>Jed was very much relieved to hear this remark, for it would have -interfered with his own plans if Mr. and Mrs. Fogson had accepted an -invitation to witness the play at Duncan.</p> - -<p>"Is it a good paying business?" asked Mr. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Well, so so. My salary is fifty dollars a week."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span></p><p>"You don't say so!" exclaimed Fogson in envious surprise. "You ought to -lay up money."</p> - -<p>"It seems so, but in the summer we generally have a long vacation. -Besides, we have to pay our hotel bills; so that, after all, we don't -have as much left as you would suppose. Besides, we have to buy our -costumes, and some of them are quite expensive."</p> - -<p>In spite of these drawbacks the Fogsons evidently looked upon Bertram as -a wealthy young man.</p> - -<p>At length they rose from the table. Jed had never before eaten such a -meal since he entered the poorhouse, and he felt in a degree envious of -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, who probably fared thus every day. When he -considered, however, how they nearly starved the poor people of whom -they had charge he felt indignant, and could not help wishing that some -time they might exchange places with the unfortunate paupers.</p> - -<p>He went out to the yard again, and resumed his work at the woodpile. -Harry Bertram strolled out and lazily watched him.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span></p><p>"I suppose you never did work of this kind, Mr. Bertram?" said Jed.</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, I lived for nearly a year with an aunt who required me to -prepare all the wood for the kitchen stove. I can tell you one thing, -though, I did not enjoy it, and when I left her I retired forever from -that line of business."</p> - -<p>"Are you going to stay in Scranton to-day?"</p> - -<p>"No; I must be getting over to Duncan. We have taken on a new actor and -shall be obliged to have a rehearsal. Will you go along with me?"</p> - -<p>"I should like to, but it would only get me into trouble. I will start -about four o'clock, and go over to Dr. Redmond's to get the suit of -clothes he promised me."</p> - -<p>"I suppose you won't have to take a trunk of clothes from here?"</p> - -<p>"About all the clothes I own are on my back. If I leave any behind me, -anyone is welcome to them."</p> - -<p>"Do you think there will be any difficulty in your getting away?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p><p>"I think I can slip off without being noticed."</p> - -<p>"Do you think they will go after you?"</p> - -<p>"They might if they suspected where I was going."</p> - -<p>"Then I shall have to help you. Join me at the theatre, and it will go -hard if, between us, we cannot foil the enemy."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Mr. Bertram. You are a real friend."</p> - -<p>"Some people say I am everybody's friend but my own. You can judge for -yourself about that when you know me better."</p> - -<p>Harry Bertram walked off whistling, and Jed was left to his reflections. -It is needless to say that he felt in an excited mood, for it seemed to -him that he had come to a turning-point in his life. As far back as he -could remember he had been an inmate of the Scranton poorhouse.</p> - -<p>When Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge he had not minded this much, such -was the kindness with which he was treated by those good people. But -when, through the influence of Squire Dixon, they were removed and<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span> Mr. -and Mrs. Fogson put in their place he began to feel the bitterness of -his position. The three months which had passed since then seemed to him -like so many years. But now he had resolved, once for all, to end his -thralldom, and go out into the great world and see what he could do for -himself.</p> - -<p>Circumstances favored him.</p> - -<p>About half-past three Mr. Fogson called him down.</p> - -<p>"I want you to go to Squire Dixon's and carry this letter," he said.</p> - -<p>Jed's heart leaped with joy. It at once occurred to him that Squire -Dixon lived only about twenty rods from Dr. Redmond, and that he could -call at the doctor's house after doing his errand.</p> - -<p>"Is there any answer?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"No; I have asked the squire to call here this evening, if he can. He is -the overseer, and I wish to consult him."</p> - -<p>"Very well, sir."</p> - -<p>Jed took the letter, glad that no answer would be required. Even if -there had been, he would have neglected to bring it, for he<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span> could not -afford to throw away this chance of escape.</p> - -<p>The distance from the poorhouse to Squire Dixon's residence was about -three-quarters of a mile. Jed covered it in less than fifteen minutes.</p> - -<p>In the front yard Percy Dixon was strutting about with the airy -consequence habitual to him.</p> - -<p>"What brings you here?" he asked rudely.</p> - -<p>"I've come with a note for your father. After I've delivered it I will -stop a little while and play with you if you want me to."</p> - -<p>"You needn't trouble yourself. I don't care to play with paupers."</p> - -<p>"Don't call me that again, Percy Dixon!" said Jed, his patience worn -out.</p> - -<p>"What will happen if I do?" demanded Percy tauntingly.</p> - -<p>"I may be obliged to give you a thrashing."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER X.</span> <span class="smaller">JED REACHES DUNCAN.</span></h2> - -<p>Percy Dixon's face flushed with resentment.</p> - -<p>"Do you know who you are talking to?" he demanded.</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed coolly. "I am talking to a boy who thinks a great -deal more of himself than any one else does."</p> - -<p>"I would punish you, but I don't want to dirty my hands with you. I'll -tell my father, and he'll see that old Fogson flogs you."</p> - -<p>Jed smiled. He never meant to see Fogson again if he could help it, but -he was too wise to impart his plans to Percy.</p> - -<p>At this moment his father came up to the gate, and as he opened it his -attention was drawn to Jed.</p> - -<p>"Have you come here with any message for me?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"I have a note for you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span></p><p>"Give it to me."</p> - -<p>"Humph!" said the squire, casting his eye over the note. "Mr. Fogson -asks me to call this evening. I will do so."</p> - -<p>"Very well, sir."</p> - -<p>"Father," interrupted Percy, "there is to be a play performed at Duncan -this evening."</p> - -<p>"Is there?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; I saw a bill in the post-office. It's the 'Gold King,' I believe. -May I go?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know," said the squire, hesitating. "Mr. Fogson wants me to -call at the poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"If you don't care about going, I can drive mother and Alice over. You -know you promised we should attend the next theatrical performance -anywhere near."</p> - -<p>"If your mother and Alice would like to go I have no objection. You must -drive carefully, and you can leave the horses in the hotel stable."</p> - -<p>"All right," said Percy joyfully. "Did you ever go to a theatre?" he -asked Jed in a patronizing tone.</p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span></p><p>"I have been quite often," said Percy complacently. "But, of course, -paupers can't attend amusements."</p> - -<p>"You may change your mind this evening," thought Jed.</p> - -<p>Jed went at once to the doctor's house. Dr. Redmond had just arrived -from a round of visits.</p> - -<p>"Good morning, Jed," he said pleasantly.</p> - -<p>"Good morning, Dr. Redmond."</p> - -<p>"Do you want to see me?"</p> - -<p>"I have come to claim your promise," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"What is that?"</p> - -<p>"You promised me a suit of clothes when I got ready to leave the -poorhouse."</p> - -<p>Dr. Redmond's face instantly assumed a look of interest.</p> - -<p>"And you have decided to take this important step?" he said.</p> - -<p>"Yes, doctor. I am tired of being called a pauper. I am sure I can earn -my own living, and I mean to try it."</p> - -<p>"I don't know but you are right, Jed. At any rate, you have my best -wishes. Come<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span> into the house, and I will ask Mrs. Redmond to look up the -suit. If I am not mistaken you will need other things also—socks, -handkerchiefs, and underclothing."</p> - -<p>"I need them, no doubt, but I don't want to ask too much."</p> - -<p>"I think Mrs. Redmond can fit you out. And, by the way, I think you can -manage a little supper. In what direction are you going?"</p> - -<p>"To Duncan."</p> - -<p>"Why there, in particular?"</p> - -<p>"I have a friend there."</p> - -<p>"Who is it?"</p> - -<p>"Harry Bertram, the actor."</p> - -<p>Dr. Redmond looked surprised.</p> - -<p>"How did you get acquainted with him?"</p> - -<p>Jed told the story. The incident of Fogson's assault on the sleeping -actor and his defeat amused the doctor not a little.</p> - -<p>"He may be of service to you," he said. "At any rate, an actor sees a -good deal of the world, and he may be able to give you some advice. Now -put on your clothes and see what a transformation they will make."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p><p>Mrs. Redmond took Jed up to a small chamber belonging to her absent -son, and laid the clothing on the bed, advising Jed to go into the -bathroom close by and take a good bath.</p> - -<p>When, half an hour or more later, he descended to the floor below, Dr. -Redmond started in surprise. In place of the poorhouse drudge there -stood before him a good-looking boy, attired in a brown suit, with clean -linen and his hair neatly brushed. Dr. and Mrs. Redmond exchanged -glances.</p> - -<p>"I wouldn't believe clothes made such a difference," exclaimed the -doctor.</p> - -<p>"Nor I," chimed in his wife.</p> - -<p>The same idea came into the mind of each. Jed's personal appearance -would do credit to any family, however exclusive. Yet he had been -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse, and associated with paupers all -his life.</p> - -<p>"I mustn't forget to give you your money," said the doctor, and he put a -roll of bills into Jed's hand.</p> - -<p>"But here is five dollars!" said Jed. "It was only two you had of mine."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span>"Take the five. You will need it. It is small enough capital for a boy -to go forth into the world with to seek his fortune. Now how are you -going to Duncan?"</p> - -<p>"I am going to walk."</p> - -<p>"I am afraid you will get very tired," said Mrs. Redmond in a tone of -sympathy.</p> - -<p>"No, ma'am, it is only five miles."</p> - -<p>"And five miles is a trifle to a strong boy like Jed."</p> - -<p>"Won't you wait till after supper?" asked Mrs. Redmond.</p> - -<p>"No, thank you. It would get me there too late."</p> - -<p>"Then I will make up some sandwiches for you. Your walk will make you -hungry."</p> - -<p>Jed started with a small valise in which were packed some extra -underclothing, and he carried in his hand a substantial lunch wrapped in -paper.</p> - -<p>It was far better than the supper which he missed at the poorhouse.</p> - -<p>He was rather afraid of meeting some one whom he knew, particularly -Percy Dixon, who he was sure would be delighted to thwart<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> his plan by -reporting him; but fortunately he escaped observation. He passed two men -whom he knew very well, but in his new dress they did not know him.</p> - -<p>Jed had walked about half way when a man in a top buggy overtook him, -and, stopping his horse, called out, "Is this the road to Duncan?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"Is it a straight road all the way?"</p> - -<p>"Not quite, sir. There are one or two turns."</p> - -<p>"I am sorry to hear it. I am not acquainted hereabouts, and I shouldn't -like to lose my way. Are you going to Duncan?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"Then jump in, unless you prefer walking. With a good guide I shall be -all right."</p> - -<p>"I would rather ride, and I will accept your invitation with pleasure."</p> - -<p>"Then we are both suited."</p> - -<p>Jed's new acquaintance was a stout man of middle age, with a prompt, -alert manner, and looked like a business man. He had a quick, impulsive -way with him.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span></p><p>"Are you travelling?" he asked, noticing Jed's valise.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"Going to see the world, eh?"</p> - -<p>"I'm going in search of a living, sir," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"Got parents?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir. I'm alone in the world."</p> - -<p>"Well, you've got a tough job before you."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, I don't doubt it; but I am young and healthy, and I think I -ought to be able to earn my living. Are you a business man?"</p> - -<p>"No, not exactly. Why do you ask?"</p> - -<p>"I thought you might have a place for me if you were."</p> - -<p>"I am not in the right sort of business for you, my lad. I am the -manager of the Gold King Dramatic Company."</p> - -<p>"Then you are acquainted with Harry Bertram?" said Jed eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Yes, he is one of my actors. What do you know of Harry Bertram?"</p> - -<p>"He slept in the same room with me last night. He told me to come to -Duncan, and he would see what he could do for me."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p><p>"Ha, indeed! Well, Harry is a good fellow, and a good friend. He has -one fault. He is a little too convivial."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir; I thought so. Is he a good actor?"</p> - -<p>"Excellent in his line. He gets a very good salary, but I am afraid he -doesn't save very much of it. Are you going to see the play this -evening?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; Mr. Bertram thought he could get me in."</p> - -<p>"You won't need to ask him for a pass. Here is one;" and the manager -scribbled on a leaf from his note-book</p> - -<div class="box"> -<p class="center"><i>Admit Bearer.</i></p> - -<p class="right"><span class="smcap">Mordaunt.</span></p></div> - -<p>"Thank you, sir," said Jed, as he pocketed the pass. "I suppose you are -Mr. Mordaunt?"</p> - -<p>"John Mordaunt, manager of the Gold King Company. In my humbler days I -was known to my friends as Jack Mordaunt."</p> - -<p>By this time they had reached Duncan, and drove at once to the hotel.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XI.</span> <span class="smaller">JED'S FIRST APPEARANCE ON THE STAGE.</span></h2> - -<p>Several gentlemen were sitting on the piazza in front of the hotel. -Among them was Jed's acquaintance of the night before, Harry Bertram.</p> - -<p>When he saw Mr. Mordaunt in the buggy he advanced to greet him.</p> - -<p>"I am glad to see you, Mr. Mordaunt," he said. "I wanted to consult -you."</p> - -<p>"Any hitch, Bertram?" asked the manager.</p> - -<p>"Yes. Young Clinton is sick and can't play to-night."</p> - -<p>"What's the matter with the boy?"</p> - -<p>"He is threatened with fever."</p> - -<p>"Couldn't he play to-night? His part is a small one, but it is -important."</p> - -<p>"The doctor absolutely forbids his appearing on the stage."</p> - -<p>"That is awkward. If we were in the city<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span> we might get a substitute, but -a common country boy would make a mess of the part."</p> - -<p>"You have a boy with you. Do you think he would do?"</p> - -<p>"You have known him longer than I. I refer the matter to you."</p> - -<p>"Why, it's Jed!" exclaimed Bertram, examining our hero closely.</p> - -<p>"Didn't you know me, Mr. Bertram?" asked Jed smilingly.</p> - -<p>"Who could, with such a change of dress? You must have met some good -fairy. And how did you fall in with Mr. Mordaunt?"</p> - -<p>"He kindly offered me a ride."</p> - -<p>"Then you have left Scranton for good?"</p> - -<p>"For good, I hope. If I can help you in any way I will do my best."</p> - -<p>"Try him, Bertram," said the manager. "He is very presentable. Take him -in hand, and see if you can't get him ready to take Ralph Clinton's -place."</p> - -<p>"Then no time is to be lost. Come up to my room, Jed, and I will tell -you what you are expected to do—that is, if you have had supper."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span></p><p>"I ate my supper on the road before I fell in with Mr. Mordaunt."</p> - -<p>"Follow me, then, Jed."</p> - -<p>Harry Bertram led the way to a comfortable chamber on the second floor.</p> - -<p>"Now sit down, and I'll tell you what you will have to do. First, do you -think you have the nerve to stand before an audience and play the part -of a telegraph boy?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir. I am not troubled with bashfulness."</p> - -<p>"Have you ever spoken in public?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, at school examinations."</p> - -<p>"Then I think you'll do. Here is your part."</p> - -<p>He handed Jed a small manuscript book containing the lines of his rôle, -with the cues.</p> - -<p>"You see it isn't long. I may be able to give you a little rehearsal, as -you appear only in the first and last acts."</p> - -<p>The next half hour was devoted to teaching Jed his part. Bertram was -delighted with the aptitude shown by his pupil.</p> - -<p>"Have you never attended a theatre?" he asked, almost incredulously.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p><p>"Never, Mr. Bertram."</p> - -<p>"Then I can only say that you have the dramatic instinct, luckily for -us. If you are sure you won't be afraid before the footlights, you'll -do."</p> - -<p>"Then I shall do," said Jed. "I never should think of being nervous."</p> - -<p>"One thing more—nothing will be said of any substitution. To the -audience you will be Ralph Clinton, as put down on the bill."</p> - -<p>"That will suit me. I am afraid if I were announced as <span class="smcap">Jed, the -Poorhouse Boy</span>, it wouldn't help you," continued Jed with a smile.</p> - -<p>"You may have to continue in the part a week or more. As to the pay, I -can't speak of that yet. Mr. Mordaunt will arrange with you."</p> - -<p>"If I can earn my board I shall be satisfied."</p> - -<p>"I can promise you that, and fully as good board as you have been -accustomed to."</p> - -<p>"I hope it won't be worse," said Jed laughing.</p> - -<p>"When you go to the theatre I will see if<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span> Ralph Clinton's uniform will -fit you. I haven't much doubt on that point, as you seem to be about the -same size."</p> - -<p>The performance was to commence at eight. Harry Bertram and his protégé -went to the hall, which was to be used as a theatre, early, so that Jed -might be introduced to his fellow-actors and receive a little -instruction as to the business of his part.</p> - -<p>He was very quick to comprehend, and forgot nothing, so that Bertram -felt quite easy in regard to him, though it was his first appearance on -any stage.</p> - -<p>Jed was very well received by the other members of the company, all of -whom expressed satisfaction at having the gap so quickly filled.</p> - -<p>"I am glad to make your acquaintance, my boy," said George Osprey, the -leading man. "Where have you played?"</p> - -<p>"Nowhere, sir. This is my first appearance."</p> - -<p>"I hope you won't funk."</p> - -<p>"If that means break down, I am sure I won't."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span></p><p>"Good! Your confidence will pull you through."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Osprey, introduce me, please," lisped an elderly young lady, of -affected manners.</p> - -<p>"This is Miss Celesta Raffles, Mr. ——, I don't think I know your -name."</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman, but I believe I am to be billed as Ralph Clinton."</p> - -<p>"I am delighted to meet you, Mr. Gilman," said Miss Raffles. "I am sure -you will be an honor to our noble profession."</p> - -<p>"I hope so, Miss Raffles," said Jed smilingly, "but I shall be able to -tell better to-morrow."</p> - -<p>"I always sympathize with youth—with impulsive, enthusiastic youth," -gushed Miss Raffles.</p> - -<p>"If they are of the male sex," interpolated Mr. Osprey. "Mr. Gilman, I -must warn you that Miss Raffles is a dangerous woman. She will do her -best to make an impression on your heart."</p> - -<p>"Oh, you wicked slanderer!" said the delighted Celesta. "Mr. Gilman, I -am not dangerous at all. I will merely ask you to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span> look upon me as your -sister—your elder sister."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Miss Raffles," said Jed, showing a tact and self-possession -hardly to be expected of one with his training. "Is Mr. Osprey one of -your brothers?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, she told me that she would be a sister to me. I have never—never -recovered from the blow."</p> - -<p>"I may change my mind," said Celesta, who admired the handsome leading -man. "If you try again, you may meet with better success——"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Osprey warily. "I never ask the same favor a second time. -I leave you to Mr. Gilman. May you be happy, my children!"</p> - -<p>As Celesta Raffles looked to be thirty-five, and Jed was but sixteen, he -was a good deal amused, but Miss Raffles was disposed to take the matter -in earnest.</p> - -<p>"Don't let him prejudice you against me, Mr. Gilman!" she murmured. "We -shall soon be better acquainted, I am sure. Do you know, I am to be your -mother in the play?<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> It is a little absurd, as I am only twenty-three, -but we have to do strange things on the stage."</p> - -<p>"She's thirty-six if she's a day," whispered Osprey, "but if you want to -keep in her good graces you must believe her own reports of her age."</p> - -<p>"Time to dress, Jed!" said Harry Bertram. "It will take you longer than -usual, as it is the first time. Your nerve won't fail you, will it?"</p> - -<p>Jed shook his head.</p> - -<p>"I feel as cool as ever I did," he answered.</p> - -<p>Fortunately the telegraph boy's uniform fitted him exactly. He hardly -knew himself as he looked at his reflection in the little mirror in his -dressing-room.</p> - -<p>"I wonder if Mr. and Mrs. Fogson would recognize me if they should see -me on the stage?" thought Jed.</p> - -<p>Then it occurred to him that Percy Dixon and his mother would be -present. He smiled to himself as he thought of Percy's bewilderment when -he saw him under such a strange change of circumstances.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span></p><p>It is not necessary to give the plot of the Gold King. It is sufficient -to say that Jed, the telegraph boy, had been stolen from his parents in -early life, the Gold King being his father. He is obliged to earn his -own living as a boy, but in the last act he is restored to his friends -and his old station in life.</p> - -<p>In the first act Jed appeared in his predecessor's uniform. In the last -he wore his own suit, this being quite as well adapted to the character -as Ralph Clinton's street costume.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Dixon and Percy occupied seats in the third row from the front. -They always paid the highest prices, and secured the most eligible -seats.</p> - -<p>At the end of ten minutes Jed's cue was called and he appeared on the -stage. Percy, who was watching the play with the greatest attention, -started in amazement when he saw the boy actor.</p> - -<p>"Mother," he whispered, "that boy is the perfect image of Jed, the -poorhouse boy."</p> - -<p>"Is he, indeed? Very singular, on my word!"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span></p><p>"And he has the same voice," continued Percy, still more excited.</p> - -<p>"But I suppose it can't be he," said Mrs. Dixon inquiringly.</p> - -<p>"No, I think not," answered Percy. "Jed doesn't know anything about -acting, and this boy is perfectly at home on the stage."</p> - -<p>This was indeed true. Jed was quite self-possessed. Moreover, he never -hesitated for a word or stumbled, but was letter-perfect. His scene was -with George Osprey, as member of a fashionable club, who had inquired -into his history. "Yes," said Jed, repeating his part, "yes, Mr. -Glendower, I am a poor boy, but those who look down upon me will one day -find their mistake—they may find that the poor telegraph boy whom they -once despised is able to look down upon them."</p> - -<p>As he uttered these words, Jed, perhaps intentionally, let his glance -rest on Percy Dixon, while the latter gazed at him open-mouthed.</p> - -<p>"I believe it is Jed, after all, mother!" he ejaculated.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XII.</span> <span class="smaller">PERCY DIXON IS BEWILDERED.</span></h2> - -<p>At the end of the first act Jed and George Osprey were called before the -curtain. Jed had been instructed to bow his thanks, and did so. Percy -watched his face eagerly, for this brought Jed within a few feet of him.</p> - -<p>"Mother," he said, "if that boy isn't Jed, it is his twin brother."</p> - -<p>"But, Percy," said his mother, who was a practical woman, "I never heard -that the boy had a twin brother."</p> - -<p>"Oh, pshaw! I meant that he is exactly like him."</p> - -<p>"But this boy is Ralph Clinton. The bill says so."</p> - -<p>"I know it," said Percy, with a puzzled expression. "I don't understand -it at all."</p> - -<p>"The boy you mean is probably in bed at the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span></p><p>"Perhaps he is. I don't see, for my part, how he could be here, or know -how to act."</p> - -<p>The play proceeded. It was in five acts, and Jed was not called upon to -appear again till the last one. He proved himself up to the requirements -of the part, and evidently produced a favorable impression on the -audience.</p> - -<p>"Mother," said Percy, "I would like to wait at the stage door till the -actors come out."</p> - -<p>"But, Percy, it is already late. We ought to be starting for home."</p> - -<p>"But, mother, you know father is Overseer of the Poor, and if this boy -is Jed, he has run away from the Scranton poorhouse, and father will be -held responsible."</p> - -<p>"Why should he?"</p> - -<p>"Because the paupers are under his charge. If one of them runs away he -will be blamed."</p> - -<p>"Well, if you think we ought to stop," said the lady undecidedly. "But I -don't see what you expect to accomplish."</p> - -<p>"I want to see that boy face to face. I want to speak to him, and find -out for certain who he is."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span></p><p>"Well, don't be any longer than you can help."</p> - -<p>"I won't."</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Jed and Harry Bertram were conversing in the greenroom.</p> - -<p>"You did yourself proud, my boy," said Bertram. "You acted as well as -Clinton, and in some respects better."</p> - -<p>"I am glad to hear you say so, Mr. Bertram," said Jed, gratified.</p> - -<p>"I could hardly believe that this was your first appearance on the -stage. Weren't you frightened at all?"</p> - -<p>"Not a bit. I enjoyed it."</p> - -<p>"Did you see any of your Scranton friends in the audience?"</p> - -<p>"I saw none of my Scranton <i>friends</i>," answered Jed, "but I saw two -Scranton acquaintances."</p> - -<p>"Who were they?"</p> - -<p>"Percy Dixon, son of the Overseer of the Poor, and his mother."</p> - -<p>"Where were they sitting?"</p> - -<p>"In the third row from the stage."</p> - -<p>"Do you think they recognized you?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span></p><p>"I saw Percy watching me very closely I am sure he noticed my -resemblance to his old acquaintance Jed, but he couldn't understand how -it was possible for me to be the same boy."</p> - -<p>"Then you baffled him?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know. I shouldn't wonder if he would be waiting outside to get -a view of me."</p> - -<p>"And if he does?"</p> - -<p>"He will do all he can to get me back to the poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"Then I'll tell you what to do. Go out of the stage door arm in arm with -me, and I will address you as Ralph. If he speaks, appear not to know -him."</p> - -<p>"That will be a capital joke," said Jed taking in the humor of the -situation.</p> - -<p>"Between us, I think we can bluff him off."</p> - -<p>Jed had appeared in the last act in his street costume, and had no -preparations to make, but Bertram had to exchange his stage for his -ordinary dress. When they were ready they emerged from the stage door -arm in arm. A glance showed Jed that Percy was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span> waiting to intercept -him. He did not appear to notice Percy, but passed on.</p> - -<p>Percy hastened forward, and touched him on the arm.</p> - -<p>"Look here, I want to speak to you," he said.</p> - -<p>"Speak on, my boy," said Jed, assuming the style of his new profession.</p> - -<p>"How did you come here?" demanded Percy bluntly.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean?"</p> - -<p>"I mean that you are Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>"My dear Ralph, what does this person mean?" said Bertram.</p> - -<p>"He evidently mistakes me for some one he knows," said Jed coolly. "May -I ask your name, young man?"</p> - -<p>"You know me well enough," said Percy angrily, for Jed had not tried to -change his voice. "I am Percy Dixon."</p> - -<p>"Percy Dixon?" repeated Jed. "Where have I met you?"</p> - -<p>"Where have you met me?" retorted Percy. "At the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"Do you reside there?" asked Jed with admirable composure.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span></p><p>"Do I live at the poorhouse?" repeated Percy, exasperated. "Of course I -don't."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Dixon had heard this colloquy, as she was sitting in the carriage -only six feet away.</p> - -<p>"Percy," she said, "I told you you had made a mistake."</p> - -<p>"I don't believe I have," said Percy in a sulky tone.</p> - -<p>"For whom do you take me, Mr. Dixon?" asked Jed.</p> - -<p>"For Jed Gilman, a poorhouse boy."</p> - -<p>"I feel very much complimented," said Jed smoothly. "I hope Jed is a -nice boy."</p> - -<p>"No, he isn't. He is an impudent young rascal."</p> - -<p>"Then how dare you compare my friend Ralph to a boy like that?" demanded -Bertram savagely. "You must be crazy, or do you mean to deliberately -insult him?"</p> - -<p>Poor Percy was overwhelmed. He wasn't half so certain now that he was -right. True, there was a wonderful resemblance between the young actor -and Jed, but then it seemed impossible that Jed should have left the -poorhouse suddenly (and Percy remembered <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span>seeing him that very afternoon -at his own home) and developed into a member of a dramatic company.</p> - -<p>"I may have made a mistake," he said doubtfully.</p> - -<p>"I am glad you realize this possibility," said Bertram. "Did you witness -the play this evening?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"Do you think your friend Jed——"</p> - -<p>"He is not my friend."</p> - -<p>"Well, do you think that Jed, whatever he is, could act like my friend -Ralph?"</p> - -<p>"No, I don't think he could," Percy admitted.</p> - -<p>"Probably this Jed is a very ordinary boy?"</p> - -<p>"I should say so. Ordinary is no name for it. He is stupid."</p> - -<p>"Then you will see for yourself that it is not very likely that he -should become an accomplished actor all at once. If it were you it might -be different. You are evidently a young man of social position, while -this Jed is a poor boy, and I presume without education."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, he is very ignorant," answered Percy, falling into the trap. "Is -it—hard to learn to act?" he added.</p> - -<p>"Not if you have talent and education. Do you think of trying the -stage?"</p> - -<p>"I might some time," said Percy, flattered by the question.</p> - -<p>"If you do, I hope you will succeed. Now, Mr. Dixon, I must bid you good -night, as my friend Ralph and myself are fatigued with our acting and -must get to bed."</p> - -<p>"Good evening!" said Jed, raising his hat gravely.</p> - -<p>"Good evening!" returned Percy, more puzzled than ever.</p> - -<p>He jumped into the carriage and started to drive home.</p> - -<p>"Then it wasn't Jed?" said his mother.</p> - -<p>"I suppose not," answered Percy, "but I never in all my life saw such a -resemblance."</p> - -<p>"Very likely," replied Mrs. Dixon placidly. "There was a woman in -Trenton who looked just like me, so that no one could tell us apart."</p> - -<p>"Yes," admitted Percy; "I must be <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span>mistaken. This boy had a very nice -suit on, while Jed was dressed in rags."</p> - -<p>When they reached home Squire Dixon was abed and asleep. Percy came down -late to breakfast.</p> - -<p>"By the way, Percy," said his father, as he helped him to breakfast, -"Fogson has just been over to report that the boy Jed has mysteriously -disappeared. He never went back after bringing me the message yesterday -afternoon."</p> - -<p>Percy dropped his knife and fork and stared at his father in open-eyed -amazement.</p> - -<p>"Then it was Jed, after all!" he exclaimed.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIII.</span> <span class="smaller">FOGSON IN PURSUIT.</span></h2> - -<p>"What do you mean, Percy?" asked Squire Dixon, referring to his son's -exclamation at the close of the preceding chapter. "Do you know anything -of Jed?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; I saw him last evening at Duncan."</p> - -<p>"But what took him there? What was he doing?"</p> - -<p>"He was on the stage. He was playing in 'The Gold King.'"</p> - -<p>"What do you mean by this absurd statement?" demanded his father -angrily.</p> - -<p>"It is true. Ask mother if it isn't."</p> - -<p>"I think Percy is right," said Mrs. Dixon. "The young actor bears a -wonderful resemblance to the boy Jed."</p> - -<p>"But Jed doesn't know anything about acting."</p> - -<p>"That is why I thought I was mistaken. But if Jed has run away it must -be he."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span></p><p>"Why didn't you manage to speak to him after the play?"</p> - -<p>"I did, and he denied that he was Jed. He calls himself Ralph Clinton."</p> - -<p>"Really, this is a most surprising circumstance," said the squire. "The -boy is a hardened young villain. His running away from those who are -lawfully set over him in authority is a most audacious and highhanded -outrage."</p> - -<p>"That's what I think," chimed in Percy. "What shall you do about it? -Shan't you go after him?"</p> - -<p>"I think it my duty to do so. As soon as breakfast is over, ask Mr. -Fogson to come round here. Tell him I have news of the fugitive."</p> - -<p>Three-quarters of an hour later Simeon Fogson was admitted into the -august presence of the Overseer of the Poor.</p> - -<p>"I hear you have news of Jed Gilman," he said. "That is what your son -Percy tells me."</p> - -<p>"It is true, Mr. Fogson. The young scapegrace has joined a company of -actors. What is he coming to?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span></p><p>"To the gallows, I think," answered Fogson. "But how did you learn -this?"</p> - -<p>"Percy saw him on the stage last evening."</p> - -<p>"And he actually played a part?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"In his ragged suit?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Percy. "He had a telegraph boy's suit first, and -afterwards a nice brown suit—as nice as mine."</p> - -<p>"Where did he get 'em?" asked Fogson.</p> - -<p>"That's the question!" returned the squire solemnly. "There is a strange -mystery about the boy's goings on. Have you observed anything queer in -his conduct of late?"</p> - -<p>"I have noticed that he has been unusually impudent. Ha, I have it!" -said Fogson, suddenly, slapping his thigh.</p> - -<p>"What have you?" asked Percy.</p> - -<p>"There was an actor stayed at the poorhouse night before last—an actor -named Bertram. It is he that has lured Jed astray."</p> - -<p>"There was an actor by that name in the play last evening."</p> - -<p>"Then that settles it. Squire Dixon, what shall I do?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p><p>"I think, Mr. Fogson, you had better go at once to Duncan—I will lend -you my buggy—and secure the boy, tying him hand and foot, if necessary, -and take him back to the poorhouse."</p> - -<p>Simeon Fogson smiled grimly. It was an errand that suited him.</p> - -<p>"I will do so," he said, "and I will lose no time."</p> - -<p>"Don't ask for Jed Gilman," suggested Percy. "Ask for Ralph Clinton. -That's the name he goes by now."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson drew out a stub of a lead-pencil and put down this name. In -twenty minutes he was on his way, and an hour later he drew up in front -of the hotel in Duncan.</p> - -<p>He left the buggy and entered the public room of the inn.</p> - -<p>"Is there such a boy as Ralph Clinton here?" he asked the clerk.</p> - -<p>"Yes; do you want to see him?"</p> - -<p>"I should like very much to see him," answered Fogson grimly.</p> - -<p>"He is in No. 12. Jim, show the gentleman up. He is sick."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p><p>Fogson nodded.</p> - -<p>"I dare say," he added significantly. "I guess his acting made him -sick."</p> - -<p>"Yes, that's what I heard. Is he your son?"</p> - -<p>"No, but I am his guardian."</p> - -<p>Fogson was quite elated at so easily getting on the track of the -fugitive.</p> - -<p>"Sick!" he repeated to himself, as he ascended the staircase. "I guess -he'll be sick before he gets through with me."</p> - -<p>The servant knocked at No. 12, and a boy's voice was heard to say "Come -in!"</p> - -<p>The door was opened, and Fogson, rushing in, grasped the arm of a boy -sitting in a rocking-chair.</p> - -<p>"I've got you, you young rascal!" he exclaimed.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean, you lunatic?" demanded the boy in a clear voice, -higher pitched than was Jed's.</p> - -<p>Then for the first time Fogson, who was shortsighted, found out that the -boy was not Jed, but a youth of lighter complexion and slighter -physique.</p> - -<p>He fell back in confusion.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span></p><p>"I was told you were Ralph Clinton," he explained, looking rather -foolish.</p> - -<p>"I am Ralph Clinton."</p> - -<p>"But I want Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>"Then why don't you look for Jed Gilman? What have I got to do with -him?"</p> - -<p>"Do you act with the Gold King Company?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, when I am well."</p> - -<p>"Did you act last evening?"</p> - -<p>"No; there was another boy that took my place."</p> - -<p>"That's the one I want. He ran away from me."</p> - -<p>"Are you his father?"</p> - -<p>"No, I'm his guardian."</p> - -<p>"I don't like your looks," said Ralph, who was a very free-spoken young -man. "I don't blame him for running away from you."</p> - -<p>Fogson scowled.</p> - -<p>"I believe you're as bad as he," he growled. "There's one thing -sure—I'm going to get the boy back. Where is he?"</p> - -<p>"On the road, I expect. He will take my place till I get well."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span></p><p>"Not much, he won't. Have the rest of the actors left Duncan?"</p> - -<p>"You'd better ask down stairs. I'm not going to help you get the boy -back."</p> - -<p>Fogson had nothing to do but to go down again to the public room. The -clerk told him that the company were to play that evening at Bolton, -twelve miles away, and were probably there now, having taken the morning -train.</p> - -<p>"Twelve miles away!" thought Fogson in dismay. "I can't drive so far as -that. Squire Dixon wouldn't like to have me drive his horse so many -miles. What shall I do?"</p> - -<p>This was a question easier asked than answered. If he had not been -burdened with the horse and buggy he would have taken the next train for -Bolton. As it was, he didn't feel at liberty to do this.</p> - -<p>He wished Squire Dixon were at hand, so that he might ask his advice, -for he felt quite unable to decide for himself what was best to be done. -As he stood beside his team in a state of indecision he heard the sound -of approaching wheels, and looking up, recognized Dr. Redmond's -carriage.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span></p><p>"What brings you to Duncan, Mr. Fogson?" asked the doctor with a -peculiar smile.</p> - -<p>"I've come after that rascal Jed."</p> - -<p>"Is he here?" asked the doctor innocently.</p> - -<p>"He has run away from the poorhouse and joined some strolling players. -He played in the theatre last evening."</p> - -<p>"Did he, indeed?" asked the doctor, really surprised. "He must be a -smart boy to take up acting so suddenly."</p> - -<p>"He is a very impudent boy."</p> - -<p>"Is he? Then I should think you would be glad to get rid of him."</p> - -<p>"I don't mean to let him off so easily. I'm going to bring him back to -the poorhouse, and when I get hold of him I'll——"</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson nodded his head significantly. It was clear that he intended -that the way of the transgressor should be hard.</p> - -<p>"It strikes me, Mr. Fogson, that you are acting in a very foolish -manner," said the doctor.</p> - -<p>"Why am I?"</p> - -<p>"I will tell you. Jed has got tired of being supported by the town, and -he has taken<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> the matter into his own hands. In other words, he proposes -to relieve the town of the expense of his maintenance. The town will -doubtless be glad to have one dependent less on its hands. You appear to -want to get him back, and make the town once more responsible for his -support. Is it not so?"</p> - -<p>Fogson looked blank. The matter had never presented itself to him in -that light before.</p> - -<p>"You certainly won't make yourself very popular by this action," -proceeded Dr. Redmond. "As a good citizen you ought to be glad that the -town's expenses are lessened."</p> - -<p>"Would you have me let the boy go?" Fogson ejaculated.</p> - -<p>"Certainly, I would. Jed is able to support himself, and there is no -earthly reason for keeping him in the poorhouse. I advise you to -represent the matter to Squire Dixon, and see what he thinks about it."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson drove home slowly. He found it hard to have Jed escape from -his clutches, but Squire Dixon, upon consultation, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span>reluctantly decided -that perhaps it was best to drop the matter then and there. No one was -more disappointed over this decision than Percy Dixon.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIV.</span> <span class="smaller">JED'S LUCK.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed continued to act in the part assigned to him. He knew that he was -liable to be superseded at any time by Ralph Clinton, but he did not -care to borrow trouble.</p> - -<p>As a matter of fact, however, he was allowed to play till the end of the -season, but this was not very far off. Warm weather had set in, and -audiences became small.</p> - -<p>One day Harry Bertram called Jed aside.</p> - -<p>"Well, Jed," he said, "I am afraid we must part."</p> - -<p>"Why, Mr. Bertram?"</p> - -<p>"The weather has become so warm that we are no longer paying expenses. -Mr. Mordaunt has decided to close the season on Saturday night."</p> - -<p>Jed looked blank. He didn't know what would come next.</p> - -<p>"I thought we might hold out another<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span> week, and we might if the weather -had remained comfortable, but people won't come to see 'The Gold King' -or any other play when the thermometer stands at eighty degrees."</p> - -<p>"What shall you do, Mr. Bertram?"</p> - -<p>"Fall back on my trade, if possible."</p> - -<p>"What is that?"</p> - -<p>"I am a telegraph operator, and I may be able to fill in the summer in -some Western Union office. I have to work at summer prices, but as long -as I make my board and lodging I shall be content."</p> - -<p>"I wish <i>I</i> had a trade," said Jed thoughtfully.</p> - -<p>"You don't feel like going back to your old home?"</p> - -<p>"In the Scranton poorhouse? Not much!" answered Jed energetically. "I'll -starve first. Have you got any place engaged?"</p> - -<p>"No, but I have worked two summers at Sea Spray, an Atlantic coast -summer resort. I shall go there and see if there is an opening."</p> - -<p>"Is it far away?"</p> - -<p>"About fifty miles. I'll tell you what, Jed,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span> you had better come with -me. Something may turn up for you."</p> - -<p>"What is the fare, Mr. Bertram?"</p> - -<p>"About a dollar and a half. You will have some money coming to you. You -haven't been paid anything yet, have you?"</p> - -<p>"No; I didn't suppose I was entitled to any."</p> - -<p>"You will get something. I will speak to the treasurer and arrange -matters for you."</p> - -<p>Accordingly on Saturday evening, after the last performance, Jed was -made happy by receiving twelve dollars, or at the rate of four dollars -per week for the time he had been employed.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Mordaunt directs me to say that he would pay you more if the -business would permit," said the treasurer.</p> - -<p>"Tell him this is more than I expected," said Jed elated.</p> - -<p>"That isn't professional," remarked Bertram smiling. "Actors generally -claim to be worth a good deal more than they are paid."</p> - -<p>"I haven't been on the stage long enough to be professional," said Jed.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span></p><p>Early on Monday morning Jed and his friend Bertram took the cars for -Sea Spray. As they neared the coast, the ocean breeze entered cool and -refreshing through the open windows. Presently the cars stopped, only -two hundred feet from the bluff, and Jed for the first time gazed with -delight at the Atlantic billows rolling in on the beach.</p> - -<p>"This is beautiful!" he exclaimed. "I hope I can stay here all summer."</p> - -<p>"Have you never seen the sea before?"</p> - -<p>"No; I have never travelled before. All my life has been spent at -Scranton."</p> - -<p>"Take a walk with me along Ocean Avenue, and I will see what chance -there is of my obtaining employment."</p> - -<p>Harry Bertram made his way to the principal hotel, where he knew there -was a Western Union office. He told Jed to sit down in the reading-room -while he sought for information.</p> - -<p>In ten minutes he came back with a smile of satisfaction on his face.</p> - -<p>"I am in great luck," he said. "The operator here has just been summoned -home<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> by the serious illness of his father in Chicago. He was -considering whom he could get to take his place when I presented myself. -The result is that I am engaged to take charge of the telegraph office -at twelve dollars a week and my board."</p> - -<p>"Then you are provided for."</p> - -<p>"Yes. I can get through the summer very well."</p> - -<p>"I should think so. You will have the twelve dollars a week clear."</p> - -<p>"No; I must get a room outside. However, my predecessor has recommended -his—in a private house about a quarter of a mile from the shore—at -only four dollars a week."</p> - -<p>"Then I suppose we must part," said Jed with a tinge of sadness.</p> - -<p>"No, Jed. You shall room with me, and your room will cost you nothing. -As to meals, I can see you through till you secure some work."</p> - -<p>"But I don't want to be a burden upon you, Mr. Bertram."</p> - -<p>"I don't mean that you shall be, any longer than is necessary. It will -go hard if a boy<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span> like you can't find something to do that will buy his -meals at a crowded watering-place."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Mr. Bertram. I have money enough left to buy my meals for -two weeks at least."</p> - -<p>"If we were at a regular office I could employ you as messenger, but -most of the messages will come to guests in the hotel."</p> - -<p>"I don't know exactly what I can do, but I am ready to do anything."</p> - -<p>"Except black boots," said Bertram with a smile.</p> - -<p>"I don't think I should like to do that if there is anything else to be -found."</p> - -<p>"I couldn't think of allowing a member of our honorable profession to -undertake such menial employment."</p> - -<p>Harry Bertram went to work that evening. Jed kept him company in the -office a part of the time, and during the three succeeding days went -from one hotel to another to see if he could obtain anything to do.</p> - -<p>But every position had been filled for the season. Jed began to fear -that there was no work for him at Sea Spray.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span></p><p>On the fourth morning, as he was sitting with Bertram, a gentleman whom -he had several times seen—a guest of the house—approached them.</p> - -<p>"Is this boy your brother?" he asked of Bertram.</p> - -<p>"No, but he is my valued friend. In fact, I may call myself his guardian -for the time being."</p> - -<p>"Yes," assented Jed with a smile.</p> - -<p>"He does not assist you?"</p> - -<p>"No, he knows nothing of telegraphy."</p> - -<p>"Would you like employment?" asked the gentleman, turning to Jed.</p> - -<p>"I am very anxious to get work," said Jed quickly.</p> - -<p>"Then I think I may be able to meet your wishes. How old are you?"</p> - -<p>"Sixteen."</p> - -<p>"You may have seen a boy of ten walking about with me?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"He is my son. He and I are here alone, but until yesterday I had a -nurse in my employ whose sole business was to look after<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span> Chester. I -felt entire confidence in her, but discovered last evening that she had -purloined some jewelry belonging to me. Of course I discharged her -instantly, and in consequence am obliged to find some one in her place.</p> - -<p>"Chester objects to another nurse. It hurts his boyish pride to have a -woman accompanying him everywhere. It appears to me that a boy old -enough to look after him will suit him much better. But perhaps you -would not like being encumbered with a small boy?"</p> - -<p>"I should like it very much, sir," said Jed. "I like young boys, and I -am sure I should like your son."</p> - -<p>"Come up stairs, then. I will see how he likes you."</p> - -<p>Jed followed his new acquaintance up to a suite of two rooms on the -second floor. A young boy was at the window. He looked inquiringly at -his father and Jed.</p> - -<p>"Come here, Chester," said the former. "Are you quite sure you don't -want another nurse?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered the boy. "Some of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span> boys in the hotel call me 'sissy' -because I have a girl always with me."</p> - -<p>"Would you prefer this boy?"</p> - -<p>Chester took a long, close look at Jed, who met his glance with a smile.</p> - -<p>"Yes," said the little boy confidently. "I shall like him much better -than a girl."</p> - -<p>"That settles it," said Mr. Holbrook in a tone of satisfaction. "What is -your name?"</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>"What was your last employment?"</p> - -<p>"I took the boy's part in 'The Gold King.'"</p> - -<p>"Are you an actor?" asked Chester, much interested.</p> - -<p>"Not much of one."</p> - -<p>"You must have some talent," remarked Mr. Holbrook, "or Mr. Mordaunt, -who is a manager of reputation, would not have employed you. Is your -season over?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"I think you will suit me. I am obliged to be in New York every day on -business, and this leaves Chester alone. I wish you to act as his -companion, to go with him on the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span> beach and in bathing, and to look -after him while I am away. Are you boarding here?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir; I could not afford it."</p> - -<p>"I shall arrange to have you take meals here with Chester, but after -eight o'clock in the evenings you will be your own master. Now as to the -matter of compensation. Will ten dollars a week satisfy you?"</p> - -<p>"Ten dollars a week and my meals?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"I didn't expect so much."</p> - -<p>"I like to pay liberally, and expect to be well served."</p> - -<p>"When shall I commence, sir?"</p> - -<p>"At once. I want to take the next train for the city. As I go down -stairs I will tell them that you are to take your meals here. Now, -Chester, I will leave you with your new friend, as I have barely time to -reach the next train for New York."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XV.</span> <span class="smaller">TWO ODD ACQUAINTANCES.</span></h2> - -<p>"Ten dollars a week!" repeated Harry Bertram, to who Jed communicated -his good luck. "Why, that is famous!"</p> - -<p>"Ten dollars a week and my meals!"</p> - -<p>"Better still. That is better than acting."</p> - -<p>"I don't know how I shall suit Mr. Holbrook."</p> - -<p>"You will suit him if you suit the boy."</p> - -<p>By this time Chester made his appearance.</p> - -<p>"I want to walk on the beach," he said. "Come, Jed."</p> - -<p>And the boy put his hand confidingly in that of Jed.</p> - -<p>They descended the steps that led from the bluff to the beach, and -walked leisurely up and down on the sand. Presently Chester expressed a -wish to sit down, and before long was engaged with a small wooden spade -in making a sand fortification.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span></p><p>Relieved from duty, since his young charge could come to no harm, Jed -had leisure to watch the crowds passing him in both directions.</p> - -<p>Presently a thin, dark-complexioned man, of perhaps thirty-five, after -walking up and down the beach, came to a stop, and, apparently without -motive, seated himself on the sand beside Chester and his youthful -guardian.</p> - -<p>"A pleasant day," he remarked, looking at Jed.</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed politely.</p> - -<p>He was not favorably impressed by the stranger's appearance, but -recognized the claims of courtesy.</p> - -<p>"Is this little boy your brother?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"I thought perhaps you brought him down to the beach."</p> - -<p>"I did."</p> - -<p>"I have seen him about before—with a girl."</p> - -<p>"That was Clara, my old nurse," said Chester, who caught the drift of -the conversation.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span> "I haven't got any nurse now," he added proudly. "I -saw you talking to Clara one day," he added, after a closer examination -of the stranger's features.</p> - -<p>"Oh, no, my little boy!" said the man, seeming annoyed. "I don't know -Clara, as you call her."</p> - -<p>"Then you look just like the man that was talking with her."</p> - -<p>The stranger opened his mouth and smiled unpleasantly.</p> - -<p>"I dare say there are people that look like me," he said, "though I -can't say I ever met one. What is your name, my little friend?"</p> - -<p>"I am not your friend," said Chester, who did not appear favorably -impressed by his new acquaintance.</p> - -<p>"My little enemy, then."</p> - -<p>"My name is Chester Holbrook."</p> - -<p>"And how old are you?"</p> - -<p>"Ten years old. How old are you?"</p> - -<p>Again the man's lips opened in an unpleasant smile.</p> - -<p>"You have an inquiring mind, Chester," he said. "I am—thirty years -old."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span></p><p>"You look older than that."</p> - -<p>"I am afraid that is not polite, Chester," said Jed gently.</p> - -<p>"Why isn't it?" asked Chester innocently.</p> - -<p>"People don't like to be thought older than they are."</p> - -<p>"Oh, never mind," said the dark man. "A child is licensed to say what he -pleases. So he is your charge?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"I don't think I have seen you here before. Have you known Mr. Holbrook -long?"</p> - -<p>"No." Then upon the impulse of the moment Jed inquired, "Do you know -him?"</p> - -<p>The man's face changed, and he looked a shade embarrassed.</p> - -<p>"Why do you think I know him?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"I don't think it, but as you seemed interested in the boy, I asked you -the question."</p> - -<p>"Oh, that's it. I have seen Mr. Holbrook, and I may have spoken to him. -I can't be sure on the subject, as I meet a good many people. Are you -going in bathing?"</p> - -<p>"Do you want to bathe, Chester?" asked Jed.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span></p><p>"No; papa told me not to go to-day, as I have a cold."</p> - -<p>"I thought perhaps I would have had your company in the surf. Well, I -must be going or I shall be late for the bath."</p> - -<p>The stranger got up slowly and sauntered away.</p> - -<p>"I don't like that man. Do you, Jed?" asked Chester.</p> - -<p>"Not very much. I never saw him before."</p> - -<p>"I have seen him. I saw him one day last week."</p> - -<p>"Did you see him on the beach?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; he came up and talked with Clara."</p> - -<p>"But he said you were mistaken about that."</p> - -<p>"I was not mistaken," said Chester positively. "I remember him very -well."</p> - -<p>"Do you remember what he was talking about?" asked Jed, struck by what -the boy said.</p> - -<p>"Yes; he was asking questions about me."</p> - -<p>"He seems a good deal interested in you. Perhaps he is especially fond -of small boys."</p> - -<p>Chester shook his head.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span></p><p>"I don't think he is," he answered.</p> - -<p>When the bathing hour was over they ascended the steps and took seats in -a summer house on the bluff.</p> - -<p>Ten minutes later a tall woman, with piercing black eyes and a swarthy -complexion, entered the arbor and sat down beside them.</p> - -<p>"Do you want your fortune told?" she asked of Jed.</p> - -<p>He shook his head.</p> - -<p>"I don't believe in fortune-tellers," he said.</p> - -<p>"Don't you? Let me convince you of my power. Give me your hand."</p> - -<p>There seemed a fascination about the woman, and almost involuntarily he -suffered her to take his hand.</p> - -<p>"You look prosperous," she began abruptly, "but your life has been full -of poverty and privation. Is this true?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed, impressed in spite of himself by the woman's words.</p> - -<p>"Shall I tell you where your early years were passed?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jed, with a quick look at Chester. He did not care to -have the boy<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span> hear that his life had been passed in the Scranton -poorhouse.</p> - -<p>"You are right. The knowledge could do no good and might embarrass you. -You admit that I have told the truth?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"Then shall I tell you of the future?"</p> - -<p>Jed did not answer, but the woman took his assent for granted and went -on. "You will be rich—some day."</p> - -<p>"Shall I? I am glad to hear that. But I don't know where the wealth is -to come from."</p> - -<p>"It is not necessary for you to know. It will be enough if it comes."</p> - -<p>"I agree with you there," said Jed, smiling. "Will it be soon?"</p> - -<p>"That is a question which I might answer, but I will not."</p> - -<p>"I don't care to know, as long as I am to be prosperous some day. Shall -I ever go back to—to the place where my earlier years were passed?"</p> - -<p>"You may, but not to live. That part of your life is over."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span></p><p>"I am glad of that at any rate. One question more. Shall I meet my—any -one belonging to me—any one to whom I am related?"</p> - -<p>Jed fixed his eyes anxiously upon the fortune-teller, for skeptical as -he was at first, he was beginning to have some confidence in her claims -to knowledge.</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"When?"</p> - -<p>"Don't seek to know more. Let me look at this boy's hand. Do you want me -to tell your fortune, my pretty?"</p> - -<p>Chester laughed.</p> - -<p>"Yes," he said. "Perhaps you can tell me if I will ever be a soldier. I -would like to be a General."</p> - -<p>"No; you will never be a soldier, but you will have a fight before you."</p> - -<p>"A fight? What kind of a fight?"</p> - -<p>The fortune-teller turned to Jed and said rapidly, "This boy is -threatened with a serious danger. He has an enemy."</p> - -<p>"How can a young boy have an enemy?"</p> - -<p>"There are few who do not have enemies," said the woman sententiously.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span></p><p>"Can you describe the enemy?"</p> - -<p>"He is a dark man, not tall, but taller than you. He is thin."</p> - -<p>"I met such a man on the beach," said Jed, surprised. "I met him only -this morning. Is he the one you mean?"</p> - -<p>"When you meet such a man beware of him!" said the woman, and without -waiting for a reply she rose from her seat and walked away rapidly.</p> - -<p>"What a funny old woman!" said Chester. "I am hungry. Let us go up to -the hotel. It is time for lunch."</p> - -<p>Jed's face became thoughtful. What he had heard left a deep impression -upon his mind.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVI.</span> <span class="smaller">MISS HOLBROOK, SPINSTER.</span></h2> - -<p>It was at first on Jed's mind to tell Mr. Holbrook of his encounter with -the young man upon the beach and his subsequent conversation with the -fortune-teller and her predictions in regard to Chester. But he was -afraid of being laughed at.</p> - -<p>Moreover, as the days passed the impression made upon his mind became -weaker, and was only recalled when from time to time he saw the young -man on the sands or walking on the bluff.</p> - -<p>He got on very well with Chester. The boy became strongly attached to -him, much to the satisfaction of his father.</p> - -<p>"So you like Jed, do you?" said Mr. Holbrook one evening, on his return -from the city.</p> - -<p>"Yes, papa, I like him ever so much."</p> - -<p>"Do you like him as much as Clara?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span></p><p>"Why, I don't like her at all."</p> - -<p>Time wore on till the middle of August. Jed enjoyed his generous meals -and the sea bathing which he shared in company with his young charge. He -still lodged with Harry Bertram, but he shared the expense of the room.</p> - -<p>But a change was coming, and an unwelcome one.</p> - -<p>"Chester," said his father one evening, "I am going away for a week or -ten days."</p> - -<p>"Take me with you, papa!"</p> - -<p>"No, I cannot. I am called to Chicago on business, and you will be much -better off here at the beach."</p> - -<p>"Jed will stay with me?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, and I have sent for your Aunt Maria to come and look after you -while I am gone."</p> - -<p>"But I don't like Aunt Maria," objected the little boy. "She's always -scolding me. She doesn't like boys."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps not," said Mr. Holbrook with a smile. "If Maria had married it -might have been different, but I believe few maiden ladies are fond of -children."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span></p><p>"Then why do you have her come here, papa? Jed can take care of me."</p> - -<p>"I have great confidence in Jed, Chester, but you will need some one to -look after your clothes and oversee you in other ways."</p> - -<p>"Isn't there any one else you can send for, papa? I don't like old -maids."</p> - -<p>"Don't trouble me with your objections, Chester. It will only be for a -little while, remember. I am sure you can get along with your aunt for -ten days."</p> - -<p>"I will try to," answered the boy with a look of resignation.</p> - -<p>The next day Miss Maria Holbrook came to Sea Spray with her brother. She -was a tall, slender lady of middle age, with a thin face, and looked as -if she were dissatisfied with a large proportion of her -fellow-creatures.</p> - -<p>Chester looked at her, but did not show any disposition to welcome her -to the beach.</p> - -<p>"You may kiss me, Chester," said the lady with an acid smile.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Aunt Maria, but I am not particular about it."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span></p><p>"Well, upon my word!" ejaculated the spinster. "My own brother's child, -too!"</p> - -<p>"Kiss your aunt, Chester," said his father.</p> - -<p>"No, it is not necessary," put in Miss Holbrook sharply. "I don't want -any hypocritical caresses. Robert, I am afraid you are spoiling that -boy."</p> - -<p>"Oh, no, Maria, not quite so bad as that. Chester is a middling good -boy."</p> - -<p>Miss Maria Holbrook sniffed incredulously.</p> - -<p>"I am afraid you judge him too leniently," she said.</p> - -<p>"Well, you can tell better after you have had time to observe him. It is -two years now since you have seen Chester."</p> - -<p>"Let us hope that my first impressions may be modified," said the -spinster in a tone that indicated great doubt whether such would be the -case.</p> - -<p>"Jed, you may go. Chester will not need you any more this evening," said -Mr. Holbrook.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, sir," said Jed, and walked away.</p> - -<p>"Who is that boy?" asked the spinster<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span> abruptly, looking at him through -her eyeglasses.</p> - -<p>"He is in charge of Chester while I am in the city."</p> - -<p>"Why, he is only a boy!"</p> - -<p>"Is that against him?"</p> - -<p>"I thought Chester had a nurse."</p> - -<p>"So he did, but she proved dishonest."</p> - -<p>"Then why didn't you engage another?"</p> - -<p>"Because Chester felt sensitive about having a girl following him. The -other boys in the hotel laughed at him."</p> - -<p>"Let them laugh!" said Miss Holbrook severely. "Are you to have your -plans changed by a set of graceless boys?"</p> - -<p>"As to that, Maria, I find this boy more satisfactory, both to Chester -and myself."</p> - -<p>"Humph! What is his name?"</p> - -<p>"Jed."</p> - -<p>"A very plebeian name."</p> - -<p>"It isn't exactly fashionable, but names are not important."</p> - -<p>"I beg your pardon. I think names <i>are</i> important."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps that is the reason you have never<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span> changed yours, Maria. You -might have been Mrs. Boggs if you had been less particular."</p> - -<p>"I would rather remain unmarried all my life. But where did you pick up -this boy?"</p> - -<p>"I met him in the hotel."</p> - -<p>"Was he boarding here?"</p> - -<p>"No; I think he was boarding somewhere in the village."</p> - -<p>"Do you know anything of his family?"</p> - -<p>"No."</p> - -<p>"Do you know anything of his antecedents?" continued Miss Holbrook.</p> - -<p>"Yes; he played a part last season in the 'Gold King.'"</p> - -<p>"Heavens and earth!" ejaculated the spinster, holding up her hands in -horror. "Do you mean to tell me that you have placed your son in the -charge of a young play actor?"</p> - -<p>Mr. Holbrook laughed.</p> - -<p>"Why not?"</p> - -<p>"I am surprised that you should ask. You know as well as I do the -character of actors."</p> - -<p>"I know that some of them are very estimable gentlemen. As to Jed, he -has not been long on the stage, I believe."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span></p><p>"Do you know anything of his family? Is he respectably connected?"</p> - -<p>"I didn't think it important to inquire. It seems to me that the boy's -own character is much more to the point. I have found Jed faithful and -reliable, without bad habits, and I feel that Chester is safe in his -hands."</p> - -<p>"Oh you men, you men!" exclaimed Miss Holbrook. "You don't seem to have -any judgment."</p> - -<p>"I suppose," said Mr. Holbrook with good-natured sarcasm, "that all the -good judgment is monopolized by the old maids. What a pity they have no -children to bring up."</p> - -<p>"Brother!" said Miss Holbrook in a freezing tone.</p> - -<p>"I beg your pardon, Maria, but please credit me with a little good -sense."</p> - -<p>Miss Holbrook went up to the room assigned her with an offended -expression, and had nothing further to say about Jed that evening.</p> - -<p>The next morning Jed reported for duty just as Mr. Holbrook was leaving -for his journey.</p> - -<p>"Look after Chester while I am gone, Jed,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span> said Mr. Holbrook -pleasantly. "This is my sister, Miss Maria Holbrook, who will take my -place here while I am gone."</p> - -<p>Jed took off his hat politely, and Miss Holbrook honored him with a -slight inclination of her head and a forbidding look.</p> - -<p>"Good-by, Maria! I will telegraph you on my arrival in Chicago."</p> - -<p>"Good-by, brother! You need have no apprehensions about Chester while I -am here."</p> - -<p>"I shall rest quite easy. Between you and Jed I am sure he will come to -no harm."</p> - -<p>Miss Holbrook pursed up her mouth at the conjunction of her name with -Jed's, but said nothing.</p> - -<p>"Shall I go and take a walk with Jed?" asked Chester.</p> - -<p>"Yes, in a moment. I wish to speak to the young man first."</p> - -<p>"What young man?"</p> - -<p>"Jedediah."</p> - -<p>"Jedediah!" echoed Chester with a merry laugh. "How funny that sounds!"</p> - -<p>"I apprehend that Jedediah is your right name," said Miss Holbrook -severely.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span></p><p>"I suppose so," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"You <i>suppose</i> so?"</p> - -<p>"I mean that I have always been called Jed. I don't remember ever having -been called by the full name."</p> - -<p>"Don't your parents call you so?"</p> - -<p>"My parents are not living."</p> - -<p>"When did they die?"</p> - -<p>Jed looked troubled.</p> - -<p>"When I was a baby," he answered gravely.</p> - -<p>"Indeed! Then who brought you up?"</p> - -<p>"Mr. and Mrs. Avery."</p> - -<p>"Were they any relations of yours?"</p> - -<p>"No, but they were very kind to me."</p> - -<p>"Come along, Jed! There's the steamboat just leaving the pier!" called -Chester impatiently.</p> - -<p>Without waiting to be further questioned Jed answered the call of his -young charge. He was glad to get away, for he felt that the spinster -might ask him some questions which he would find it difficult to answer.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVII.</span> <span class="smaller">JED MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed was not long in finding that Chester's aunt looked upon him, if not -with hostility, at least with distrust. This was an unpleasant -discovery. Mr. Holbrook had always appeared to have confidence in him, -and approved his management of his son.</p> - -<p>While Chester and Jed were walking on the beach Miss Holbrook took a -seat upon the bluff and watched them through her spectacles, as Jed -could not help seeing.</p> - -<p>"I say, Jed," asked the little boy, "how do you like Aunt Maria?"</p> - -<p>"I don't feel very well acquainted with her yet," answered Jed -cautiously.</p> - -<p>"<i>I</i> don't like her!" said Chester emphatically.</p> - -<p>"Why not?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, she's always scolding and finding<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span> fault. Papa says it's because -she's an old maid."</p> - -<p>Jed smiled.</p> - -<p>"I wish papa had not sent for her," went on Chester. "We could get along -well enough without her."</p> - -<p>"I think <i>we</i> should get along very well together, Chester."</p> - -<p>"I am sure we should. Have you got any old maid aunts?"</p> - -<p>"Not that I know of," replied Jed soberly, as he had forced upon him the -thought of his solitary condition.</p> - -<p>"Then you are lucky. I'll give you Aunt Maria if you want her."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps she might not consent to be given away, Chester."</p> - -<p>Half an hour later Jed met with a surprise, and one not altogether -agreeable.</p> - -<p>"Hello! you here!" exclaimed an amazed voice that sounded familiar to -Jed.</p> - -<p>He looked up and saw Percy Dixon approaching.</p> - -<p>"Oh, it's you, Percy?" he said. "When did you arrive?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span></p><p>"This morning. Father and I are staying at the Spray House." This was -the largest hotel, and Percy mentioned the name with evident pride.</p> - -<p>"It is a nice hotel," responded Jed.</p> - -<p>"I should say so. Why, it's the most expensive one here. But you haven't -told me how you came here."</p> - -<p>"I have been here for some weeks."</p> - -<p>"Where do you live?"</p> - -<p>"I have a room in the village, but I take my meals at the Spray House."</p> - -<p>"You take your meals at the Spray House?" ejaculated Percy.</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"How can you afford it?"</p> - -<p>"This boy's father pays my board. I look after Chester."</p> - -<p>"What's your name?" asked Chester, who was by no means bashful.</p> - -<p>"Percy Dixon," answered Percy politely, for he judged that Chester -belonged to a rich family.</p> - -<p>"So you know Jed?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. I have that honor," returned Percy<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span> with a curl of the lip. "When -did you leave off acting?" he asked, turning to Jed.</p> - -<p>"At the end of the season. Few dramatic companies play during the -summer."</p> - -<p>"Are you going to play with them again?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know yet. The boy whose place I took may be ready to take his -own part in the fall."</p> - -<p>"I saw your old friends Mr. and Mrs. Fogson just before I came away," -said Percy significantly. "Wouldn't you like to know how they are?"</p> - -<p>"No; I feel no particular interest in them."</p> - -<p>"They are interested in you. Fogson says he's bound to get you back some -time."</p> - -<p>"I don't care to talk of them," said Jed coldly.</p> - -<p>"Are you going in bathing?" asked Chester.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I think so. Do you go in?"</p> - -<p>"Shall we go in, Jed?" asked the little boy.</p> - -<p>"Yes, if you like, Chester."</p> - -<p>The three boys repaired to the bathing-houses and prepared for their -bath.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span></p><p>As they walked up to the hotel together afterwards, Percy remarked: "It -seems strange to see you in such a place as this."</p> - -<p>"I suppose so."</p> - -<p>"It's funny how you get on. How did you get the chance to take care of -the little boy?"</p> - -<p>Jed explained.</p> - -<p>"Is Chester's father rich?"</p> - -<p>"I presume so, from what I hear."</p> - -<p>"Is he here now?"</p> - -<p>"No; he is in Chicago for a week or ten days."</p> - -<p>"And is there no one except you to take care of the boy?"</p> - -<p>"There is an aunt of Chester's in the hotel—his father's sister. There -she is now!" and Jed pointed out Miss Maria Holbrook.</p> - -<p>Percy noticed her attentively, and was observed in turn by the spinster, -who privately resolved to seek some information about Jed from one who -appeared to know him.</p> - -<p>After dinner, while on the piazza, Miss Holbrook noticed Percy sitting -but a few feet distant.</p> - -<p>"Ahem!" she began. "Young man, will<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span> you do me the favor to move your -chair a little nearer?"</p> - -<p>Percy did so gladly. He wished for a chance to become acquainted with -Jed's employers.</p> - -<p>"Thank you. May I ask your name?"</p> - -<p>"Percy Dixon."</p> - -<p>"I noticed that you seemed to be acquainted with the boy who is in -charge of my young nephew Chester."</p> - -<p>"Yes, ma'am, I know him."</p> - -<p>"Have you known him long?"</p> - -<p>"As far back as I can remember."</p> - -<p>"Did you live in the same town?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, ma'am."</p> - -<p>"Where?"</p> - -<p>"Scranton."</p> - -<p>"You must pardon my curiosity, but my brother—Chester's father—engaged -this boy without apparently knowing much about him, except that he had -been on the stage."</p> - -<p>"He wasn't on the stage long."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps not, but probably he didn't get any good from it. What is your -opinion of him. Though, as you are his friend——"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span></p><p>"I am <i>not</i> his friend!" said Percy bluntly.</p> - -<p>"Then you haven't a high opinion of him?" said Miss Holbrook eagerly.</p> - -<p>"No; I never liked him."</p> - -<p>"I don't like him myself, though I can't tell exactly why not, and I am -bound to say that Chester and his father seem infatuated with him."</p> - -<p>"I think you are quite right, Miss Holbrook."</p> - -<p>"I can't help thinking there is some mystery about him."</p> - -<p>"You are right, Miss Holbrook. There <i>is</i> a mystery about him."</p> - -<p>"I was sure of it," exclaimed the spinster. "What is the character of -his relations?"</p> - -<p>"He has none that I know of."</p> - -<p>"I believe he told me his parents were dead, and that he was brought up -by a Mr. and Mrs. Avery."</p> - -<p>"Ho, ho!" laughed Percy.</p> - -<p>"Why do you laugh?"</p> - -<p>"At his being brought up by Mr. and Mrs. Avery."</p> - -<p>"Isn't it true, then?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span></p><p>"Yes; but he probably didn't tell you that Mr. and Mrs. Avery had -charge of the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"What!" ejaculated the spinster.</p> - -<p>"It is as I say. Until a few weeks since Jed was an inmate of the -Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"And this boy is actually in charge of my nephew!" exclaimed Miss -Holbrook, overwhelmed with horror.</p> - -<p>"Yes; I was very much surprised to see Jed in such company."</p> - -<p>"My poor brother must be quite unaware of this astounding fact!"</p> - -<p>"No doubt, Miss Holbrook. Jed is cunning. He wouldn't be very apt to -tell your brother that he is a pauper."</p> - -<p>"A pauper! What a horrid thought! And that boy has actually the -effrontery to push himself in among people of position. I can hardly -believe it."</p> - -<p>"If you have any doubt about it, Miss Holbrook, just write a note to Mr. -Simeon Fogson, and ask him what he thinks of Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>"But I thought it was Mr. Avery who kept the poorhouse."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span></p><p>"He did; but when my father became Overseer of the Poor," said Percy -with conscious pride, "he removed the Averys and put in Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson, whom he considered more fit for the office. The Averys were weak -people and pampered the paupers."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Simeon Fogson, Scranton," Miss Holbrook entered on her tablets.</p> - -<p>"Really, Mr. Dixon, I am very much obliged to you for the important -information you have given me, and so ought my brother to be. He has -been very careless and indiscreet in engaging a boy of unknown -antecedents, but it is fortunate that Chester has an aunt who is keenly -alive to his interests."</p> - -<p>As she rose to go to her room to write to Mr. Fogson, Percy smiled.</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman will find that his goose is cooked," he said to himself. -"Won't he be astonished when the thunderbolt falls?"</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XVIII.</span> <span class="smaller">MR. FOGSON RECEIVES A LETTER.</span></h2> - -<p>Let us go back to the Scranton poorhouse. Mr. Fogson was sawing wood -near the house. It was a task which Jed had been accustomed to do, but -in his absence it devolved upon Mr. Fogson, who was very much -disinclined to that form of labor, but still more to paying for having -it done.</p> - -<p>He had thought of requiring Isaac Needham, one of the paupers, to do the -sawing; but the old man, who was over seventy-five, proved physically -unable to do the work, and very much against his will Mr. Fogson found -himself compelled to undertake it himself.</p> - -<p>"Drat that Jed!" he muttered, as he stopped to mop his forehead with his -red cotton handkerchief. "It's an outrage for him to throw his work on -me. I wish I had him here this blessed minute and could give him a taste -of the strap."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span></p><p>At this point a neighbor's boy, Joe Coakley, entered the yard.</p> - -<p>"Here's a letter for you, Mr. Fogson," he said. "I guess it's from a -lady."</p> - -<p>With considerable surprise Mr. Fogson took the letter in his hand. The -envelope was square, and of fine paper, while the address was in a -lady's handwriting.</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson examined the postmark curiously.</p> - -<p>"Sea Spray!" he repeated. "Why, that's a fashionable watering-place. Who -can have written me from there?"</p> - -<p>Just then Mrs. Fogson came out from the side door.</p> - -<p>"What letter have you there?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"It is from a lady, Mrs. F.," answered her husband with a grin.</p> - -<p>"What business has a lady writing to you?" demanded Mrs. Fogson -suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"Really I don't know, as I have not read the letter."</p> - -<p>"Give it to me!"</p> - -<p>"No, thank you. I read my own letters."</p> - -<p>"Mr. Fogson, if you are engaged in a <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span>private correspondence with any -lady I intend to find out all about it."</p> - -<p>"Don't be a fool, Mrs. F.; I don't know who the writer is, and I have -never had a letter from her before."</p> - -<p>By this time he had opened the envelope, and his face quickly assumed an -expression of interest.</p> - -<p>"It's about Jed," he exclaimed. "I'll read it to you."</p> - -<p>This was the letter:</p> - -<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">My Dear Sir</span>:</p> - -<p>I am informed that you can give me information as to the past -history of Jedediah Gilman. Some weeks ago my brother, Robert -Holbrook, a well-known merchant of New York, engaged the boy as a -companion and personal attendant of his young son Chester, without -knowing much about him or taking the trouble to inquire. Having -seen the boy, I have doubts as to whether he is a suitable -companion for a boy in my nephew's high social station. I learn -from young Mr. Percy Dixon, of your town, that you can give me full -information as to the boy's antecedents. I shall feel indebted to -you if you will take the trouble to communicate with me by letter.</p> - -<p>My brother is now in Chicago, and I am in temporary charge of my -nephew. I feel that it is my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span> duty to inquire into the character of -a boy who by his intimate association with him may, if he is -unworthy, do incalculable harm to his young and trustful nature.</p> - -<p class="right">Yours very truly,<span class="s7"> </span><br /> -<span class="smcap">Maria Holbrook</span>,<span class="s5"> </span><br /> -<i>Spray Hotel</i>,<span class="s3"> </span><br />Sea Spray, N. J.</p></blockquote> - -<p>"Well, upon my word!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. "So that young villain has -wormed his way into the confidence of a rich New York merchant!"</p> - -<p>"Like a snake in the grass," suggested Simeon Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Exactly. It makes me shudder to think what an impostor he is. It is -providential that Percy Dixon should find him out and show him up."</p> - -<p>"I'll show him up!" said Fogson, nodding. "I'll just write to Miss -Holbrook, and tell her of his goin's on. I reckon he won't keep his -place long after they get my letter."</p> - -<p>"You'd better let me write the letter, Simeon."</p> - -<p>"No, Mrs. F., the letter was addressed to me, and I'm goin' to answer -it."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p><p>"Just as you like, Mr. Fogson, but you are well aware that you are weak -in your spelling."</p> - -<p>"Never mind, Mrs. F., I reckon I can make myself understood."</p> - -<p>"Just as you like, Fogson. Only make it strong enough."</p> - -<p>"You can trust me for that."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XIX.</span> <span class="smaller">DISCHARGED.</span></h2> - -<p>In a front room on the second floor of the Spray Hotel sat Miss Maria -Holbrook with a letter in her hand. It was written on the cheapest -note-paper, and inclosed in a plebeian brown envelope.</p> - -<p>Of course it will be understood that it was the epistolary effort of Mr. -Simeon Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Just as I thought!" soliloquized the lady. "This boy seems to be a -disreputable character of the lowest antecedents, and utterly unworthy -to associate even as a servant with a member of my family."</p> - -<p>Here Chester entered in his usual impetuous manner.</p> - -<p>"Oh, Aunt Maria," he cried, "I had a bully bath."</p> - -<p>"I am shocked to hear you use such a low term as 'bully,' Chester," said -his aunt. "No doubt you learned it of Jedediah."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span></p><p>"No, I didn't. Jed never uses the word. At least I never heard him."</p> - -<p>"Will you tell Jedediah that I wish to see him at once on important -business?"</p> - -<p>"It seems funny to hear you call him Jedediah, Aunt Maria."</p> - -<p>"I apprehend that it is his right name; 'Jed' sounds low."</p> - -<p>"Well, I'll tell him to come up."</p> - -<p>When Jed made his appearance Miss Holbrook said: "You may go below, -Chester. I wish to speak to Jedediah in private."</p> - -<p>"What's up now, I wonder?" thought Jed.</p> - -<p>The lady turned upon him a severe look.</p> - -<p>"Jedediah," she said, "is it true that your earlier years were spent at -the Scranton poorhouse?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, madam," answered Jed, coloring.</p> - -<p>"Did you apprise my brother of this fact when he engaged you?"</p> - -<p>"No, madam. I suppose you learned it from Percy Dixon."</p> - -<p>"I learned it from young Mr. Dixon, but I could hardly believe it. He -referred me to Mr. Simeon Fogson, of Scranton, and I have<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span> a letter from -that gentleman in my hand. You probably will not care to read it."</p> - -<p>"I should like very much to read it, Miss Holbrook. I should like to -know whether Mr. Fogson tells the truth."</p> - -<p>"Here is the letter, then."</p> - -<p>Jed read it with conflicting emotions.</p> - -<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Respected Madam</span>:</p> - -<p>I am glad to give you the informashun you ask about that young -villen Jed Gilman, who ran away from the Poor House some weeks -since after a violent assault on me, his offishul guardeen. Words -cannot tell you how much trouble I have had with that boy.</p> - -<p>Likewise he has been very impident to Mrs. Fogson. The reeson is -that he was too much indulged by my predicesors in offis Mr. and -Mrs. Avery. I have tried to do my dooty by the boy, but as Squire -Dixon, the Overseer will tell you my efforts has been in vane. I am -not supprised that your brother was took in by Jed for he is the -artfulest boy I ever seen. I hope for the sake of your young -nefew's welfare you will discharge him at once and not allow him to -corrup his youthful mind.</p> - -<p class="right">Yours respectfully,<span class="s5"> </span><br /> -<span class="smcap">Simeon Fogson</span>.</p></blockquote> - -<p>"Well," said Miss Holbrook triumphantly,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span> "that doesn't seem to commend -you very highly."</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jed, returning the letter to the envelope. "It is such a -letter as I should expect Mr. Fogson to write."</p> - -<p>"Why?"</p> - -<p>"Because he is unfit for his place," answered Jed boldly. "He half -starves the poor people under his charge, treats them roughly, and is -detested by all."</p> - -<p>"He says you are impudent and troublesome."</p> - -<p>"I did not allow him to impose upon me."</p> - -<p>"He says you ran away."</p> - -<p>"I had a right to leave, as I felt able to support myself. I was -recommended to do so by Dr. Redmond, the best physician in Scranton, who -is a friend of mine."</p> - -<p>"I have listened to your side of the story," said Miss Holbrook coldly, -"and the terms in which you speak of Mr. Fogson convince me that his -charges are correct. Of course you will not expect me to keep you in -charge of my nephew."</p> - -<p>"Will you wait till Mr. Holbrook returns?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span> pleaded Jed, who felt sad at -the prospect of parting with Chester.</p> - -<p>"No; I shall not feel justified in doing so. I will pay you up to date, -and assume the charge of Chester myself."</p> - -<p>She drew a bill from her pocket and handed it to Jed, who took it -mechanically and left the room with a sober face. He was dismissed from -his position in disgrace, a disgrace which he felt was not deserved.</p> - -<p>What was he to do next?</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XX.</span> <span class="smaller">JED'S POOR PROSPECTS.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed walked around to the office of his friend Harry Bertram.</p> - -<p>The telegraph operator noticed at once that he looked disturbed.</p> - -<p>"What has happened, Jed?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"I am discharged! That is all."</p> - -<p>"Discharged? Who discharged you?"</p> - -<p>"Miss Holbrook."</p> - -<p>"What is her reason? What have you done?" asked Bertram, much surprised.</p> - -<p>"I have done nothing, but she has discovered that I was brought up in -the Scranton poorhouse," announced Jed despondently.</p> - -<p>"As if that made you any the worse!" ejaculated Bertram indignantly.</p> - -<p>"It isn't to my credit, at any rate. I am ashamed of it myself."</p> - -<p>"I don't know why you should be ashamed.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span> You have left it, and are now -earning your own living."</p> - -<p>"I was, but I am out of work now, and I may find it hard to get another -position."</p> - -<p>"You can perhaps go back to the stage."</p> - -<p>"If I can take my part in the 'Gold King' I shall be satisfied," said -Jed hopefully. "When will the season commence?"</p> - -<p>"September 7—three weeks from next Thursday."</p> - -<p>At that moment one of the bell boys came to the telegraph office with a -letter in his hand.</p> - -<p>"I have a letter for you, Mr. Bertram," he said.</p> - -<p>"Ha! This is from Mordaunt. Now we shall know."</p> - -<p>He tore open the envelope hastily. His countenance fell, and he handed -it in silence to Jed.</p> - -<p>This is the letter.</p> - -<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Dear Bertram:</span></p> - -<p>Season of the Gold King opens at Jersey City on the seventh of -September. As we shall have two new actors I shall call rehearsals -for the Tuesday<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span> previous. Please report at Middleton Agency in New -York on the first.</p> - -<p class="right"><span class="smcap">John Mordaunt</span>, Manager.</p> - -<p>P. S.—Ralph Clinton has recovered from his sickness, and will be -ready to resume his part.</p></blockquote> - -<p>"That settles it!" said Jed soberly, as he handed back the letter. "That -opening is closed to me."</p> - -<p>"I am awfully sorry, Jed," returned Bertram in a tone of sympathy. -"Perhaps if you enroll your name at the agency you can get a chance in -some other play. I will speak a good word for you, and so I am sure will -Mordaunt."</p> - -<p>Jed shook his head.</p> - -<p>"I don't think my chance would be very good," he said, "as I have had so -little experience. Besides, it is three weeks from now. I must try to -get work before then."</p> - -<p>"Stay here, Jed. I will pay your expenses."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Mr. Bertram, but I have more than money enough for that, and -you will need all yours. It will be better for me to leave Sea Spray, -and go out in the world in search of work."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span></p><p>"I hate to have you go, Jed. I shall feel lonesome."</p> - -<p>"So shall I, Mr. Bertram, but we are sure to meet again," said Jed with -forced cheerfulness.</p> - -<p>"You must promise if things don't go well with you to write to me. You -can learn from the <i>Clipper</i> or any of the dramatic papers where we are -playing."</p> - -<p>"I'll promise that, Harry," said Jed, pressing the hand of his friend.</p> - -<p>"That's right, Jed! Don't call me Mr. Bertram again."</p> - -<p>"I will remember."</p> - -<p>"Don't go till to-morrow."</p> - -<p>"No, I won't. I shall need a little time to get ready."</p> - -<p>At this point a message came for Bertram to transmit, and Jed walked -over to the beach, feeling dull and despondent. As he sauntered on -slowly with his eyes on the sand some one called out, "Hallo, there!"</p> - -<p>Looking up, he met the gaze of Percy Dixon.</p> - -<p>"Where's Chester?" asked Percy.</p> - -<p>"In the hotel, I suppose."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span></p><p>"Why isn't he with you?"</p> - -<p>"Because he is no longer under my charge," answered Jed eyeing Percy -fixedly.</p> - -<p>"Ho, ho! you don't mean to say that you're bounced!" queried Percy, with -a look of malicious pleasure.</p> - -<p>"That is about the size of it."</p> - -<p>"Well, I <i>am</i> surprised," returned Percy cheerfully. "What have you been -up to?"</p> - -<p>"Nothing."</p> - -<p>"Then why are you discharged?" asked Percy with a look of innocent -wonder.</p> - -<p>"I don't think <i>you</i> need ask, Percy Dixon," said Jed coldly. "If you had -not made your appearance at Sea Spray I should have kept my place."</p> - -<p>"Ho, ho! What have I been doing, I should like to know?" asked Percy -smiling.</p> - -<p>"I don't need to tell you. You told Miss Holbrook that I had been -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"Well, it's true, isn't it?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, it is true, but you understood very well what would be the result -of your communication."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span></p><p>"As she asked me about you, I had to tell."</p> - -<p>"You gave her the name of Mr. Fogson, and led to her writing to him."</p> - -<p>"So he's written, has he."</p> - -<p>"Yes; Miss Holbrook showed me the letter this morning."</p> - -<p>"What did he say?" asked Percy, smiling.</p> - -<p>"Probably Miss Holbrook will show you the letter if you ask her."</p> - -<p>"I will. I should like to see what old Fogson says. He don't admire you -very much."</p> - -<p>"There is no love lost between us."</p> - -<p>"Well, what are you going to do?" inquired Percy, whose weak point was -curiosity.</p> - -<p>"I shall try to get another position."</p> - -<p>"Do you expect to go back to the stage?"</p> - -<p>"No; my old part in the 'Gold King' has been taken by the actor whose -place I filled during his sickness."</p> - -<p>"Then you haven't anything in view."</p> - -<p>"Nothing particular."</p> - -<p>"Then I advise you to go back to the poorhouse. Fogson will be glad to -see you. I will arrange it with father."</p> - -<p>"You are very kind, but I have no more<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span> idea of returning to the -poorhouse than you have of making your home there."</p> - -<p>"I'll thank you not to mention my name in connection with the -poorhouse," said Percy, coloring and speaking angrily.</p> - -<p>"I will make the same request of you."</p> - -<p>"You are getting on your high horse," remarked Percy sarcastically.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps so. Good morning."</p> - -<p>"That fellow's the proudest beggar I ever saw," mused Percy, as he stood -still on the beach and watched Jed's receding figure. "It's so -ridiculous, too! A boy brought up in a poorhouse! I wonder if he has any -idea what a fool he is making of himself."</p> - -<p>"Why is Percy so malicious?" thought Jed, as he pursued his way, -feeling, if anything, a little more despondent than before. "If our -situations were changed I should delight in helping him along. He seems -determined to force me back to the poorhouse. But I won't go! I'll -starve first."</p> - -<p>To one who has been steadily employed enforced idleness is tedious and -tiresome. As Jed paced the sands his life seemed perfectly<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span> aimless, and -he wondered how he was going to get through the day.</p> - -<p>Moreover he missed Chester. The boy's warm heart and affectionate ways -had endeared him to his young guardian, and Jed felt sad to think that -in all probability he should never again be on terms of intimacy with -the little fellow.</p> - -<p>Plunged in thought and despondent he sauntered along till suddenly he -heard a young fresh voice, that brought a brighter look to his face.</p> - -<p>"Jed, Jed!"</p> - -<p>Jed turned, and saw only a couple of rods distant the boy of whom he had -been thinking, walking beside his tall and stately aunt, who, after -discharging Jed, had felt obliged to undertake the charge of her young -nephew herself.</p> - -<p>"Why, Chester!" said Jed with a bright smile.</p> - -<p>Chester broke away from his aunt, and running up to Jed took his hand -confidingly.</p> - -<p>"Aunt Maria says you are going away!" he broke out. "What makes you go -away?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span></p><p>"Your aunt has sent me away," announced Jed.</p> - -<p>"But I won't let you go," said the little boy, taking a firmer grip of -Jed's hand.</p> - -<p>"Come back directly, Chester!" said Miss Holbrook frowning.</p> - -<p>"I want to stay with Jed," said Chester rebelliously.</p> - -<p>"But I don't want you to stay with him. Come back directly, you naughty -boy!" exclaimed Miss Holbrook angrily.</p> - -<p>"I'd rather stay with Jed!"</p> - -<p>"Jedediah!" said Miss Holbrook, turning a look of displeasure upon Jed. -"I am sorry that you incite Chester to acts of disobedience."</p> - -<p>"Miss Holbrook," returned Jed independently, "I don't think I have done -what you charge me with. I like Chester, and I cannot drive him away."</p> - -<p>"That is all very well, but I understand your motives. You want to force -me to take you back."</p> - -<p>"Excuse me, I have no such thought. If your brother will take me back I -shall be glad to return to him."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p><p>"I will see that he does not recall you. Chester, if you don't come -back at once I will punish you."</p> - -<p>Looking at his aunt's angry face, Chester very reluctantly felt -compelled to obey.</p> - -<p>"Kiss me, Jed!" he said.</p> - -<p>Jed bent over and kissed the little boy. Tears nearly came to his eyes -when he felt that it might be for the last time.</p> - -<p>"I trust, Jedediah," said Miss Holbrook stiffly, "that your sense of -propriety will prevent your speaking to Chester again."</p> - -<p>"Miss Holbrook," said Jed with a tremor in his voice, "as I am to leave -Sea Spray to-morrow morning I shall hardly meet Chester again."</p> - -<p>Then, as Chester walked away unwillingly with his aunt, Jed's heart sank -within him. In all the world he seemed to be alone, and he cared little -at that moment what was to become of him in the future.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXI.</span> <span class="smaller">JED ARRIVES IN NEW YORK.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed counted over his money and found he had thirty-nine dollars and -thirty-seven cents. He would have had more, but he had supplied himself -with clothes, so that he was on the whole very well provided in that -way.</p> - -<p>He resolutely refused to borrow from Harry Bertram, though the actor -pressed a loan upon him.</p> - -<p>"No, Harry," he said, "I have almost forty dollars, and I am sure that -will last me till I can earn some more."</p> - -<p>"Well, perhaps so," replied the actor, "but you have no idea how fast -money melts away. What are your plans?"</p> - -<p>"I am afraid I haven't any," answered Jed, looking perplexed. "I want to -make a living, but I don't know what I am fit for."</p> - -<p>"Where do you mean to go?"</p> - -<p>"I think I should like to go to New<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span> York," answered Jed. "I have never -been there."</p> - -<p>"You will find the city very dull at this time of year. Business is very -quiet in August."</p> - -<p>"But there must be a good many chances in a city of over a million -inhabitants."</p> - -<p>"Well, perhaps you may as well find out for yourself. I am afraid you -will be disappointed."</p> - -<p>Jed attached considerable importance to the opinion of his friend -Bertram, but in his own mind there was a conviction that the other -exaggerated the chances of failure. He was of a sanguine temperament -himself, and this made him hopeful.</p> - -<p>There were two ways of reaching New York from Sea Spray. One was a -combination of cars and boat, the other took one all the way by steamer. -This, on the whole, Jed preferred.</p> - -<p>With his modest gripsack in his hand he passed over the gang-plank and -took a seat forward. Next to him was a tall, thin man, dressed in shabby -attire, who did not appear<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span> to have shaved for several days. Though the -weather was warm, he had his coat buttoned tight across his chest, -possibly to conceal the lack of a vest.</p> - -<p>When the boat had been perhaps fifteen minutes under way, he turned and -eyed Jed with some attention.</p> - -<p>"Are you staying at Sea Spray this summer, young man?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"I have spent some weeks there," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"I suppose you are going to New York for the day?"</p> - -<p>"No; I am going for good. That is I hope I am going for good."</p> - -<p>"You are going to fill a business position, perhaps?"</p> - -<p>"I hope so, but I have none engaged."</p> - -<p>"Are you acquainted in New York?"</p> - -<p>"No; I have never been there. This will be my first visit."</p> - -<p>"Indeed! This is very interesting. I should be glad to help you to a -position."</p> - -<p>Jed thought privately that his new acquaintance must stand quite as much -in need<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span> of a place as he, but courtesy led him to say, "Thank you."</p> - -<p>"Have you any particular choice as to the business you take up?"</p> - -<p>"No; anything that will enable me to pay my expenses will satisfy me."</p> - -<p>"Just so. You have heard of H. B. Claflin, probably?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; he is a dry goods merchant."</p> - -<p>"On a very large scale. I have a mind to give you a letter to him."</p> - -<p>"Do you know him?" asked Jed doubtfully.</p> - -<p>"Yes; Horace and I used to go to school together. He was older than I, -but we were pretty intimate."</p> - -<p>"Why don't you apply for a position for yourself?"</p> - -<p>"Dry goods are not in my line. I am an editor—that is, an editorial -writer."</p> - -<p>"Indeed!"</p> - -<p>Jed had read from time to time squibs and witty paragraphs touching the -poverty of editors, and this seemed to explain the shabby appearance of -his new friend.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span></p><p>"What paper do you write for?" he ventured to ask.</p> - -<p>"I contribute editorially to most of the city dailies. Sometimes I get -as high as fifteen and twenty dollars a column."</p> - -<p>Jed was rather surprised at this. He concluded that Mr. Hamilton -Barry—for this was the name the stranger had given—was not a very good -financial manager.</p> - -<p>"That seems a high price," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"Yes, but brain-work ought to be paid handsomely. Do you ever write for -publication yourself?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, no," said Jed, flattered nevertheless by the question. "I haven't -education enough."</p> - -<p>"I thought if you did I might get you something to do. But perhaps -business is more in your line?"</p> - -<p>"I think it will be."</p> - -<p>"Then I had better write you a note to Mr. Claflin. When we get to the -city I will run into some hotel and write you a letter of -recommendation."</p> - -<p>"But, Mr. Barry, you don't know me. How can you recommend me?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span></p><p>"My dear boy, I judge you by your appearance. Besides, I know something -of phrenology, and you have a good head—a very good head. I read in it -honesty, integrity, enterprise and fidelity. Those qualities certainly -ought to qualify you to succeed in business."</p> - -<p>"I don't know anything about phrenology, but I hope it's true."</p> - -<p>"My young friend you may rely implicitly on the verdict of the wonderful -science."</p> - -<p>"I shall be glad to," said Jed smiling, "since, as you say, it is so -favorable to me."</p> - -<p>When they reached the pier Hamilton Barry passed his arm familiarly -through Jed's, and led the way to a small public house, the office of -which seemed also to be a bar.</p> - -<p>"Won't you take a glass of something?" asked the editor.</p> - -<p>"I don't drink," answered Jed, rather embarrassed.</p> - -<p>"Take a glass of sarsaparilla. It won't harm an infant."</p> - -<p>"Thank you. I don't mind."</p> - -<p>Upon this Mr. Barry stepped up to the bar<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span> and ordered one sarsaparilla -and one whisky straight. While Jed was solemnly drinking the first, the -editor poured down the whisky at one gulp.</p> - -<p>Then he felt in his pockets for the fifteen cents which were due. But -somehow no silver was forthcoming.</p> - -<p>"Upon my word," he exclaimed, "I must have left my money at home. Mr. -Gilman, can you oblige me with a quarter?"</p> - -<p>Jed produced the required coin. Taking it, Barry paid the score, and -quietly pocketed the change.</p> - -<p>"Now for the letter!" he said. "Where is your writing-room?"</p> - -<p>"Haven't got any," answered the barkeeper.</p> - -<p>"Can't you scare up a sheet of paper and an envelope?"</p> - -<p>After some time these were produced, also a pen and a bottle of ink. -Barry sat down at one of the tables generally used for bar customers, -and in a short time produced a letter which he handed to Jed.</p> - -<p>It ran thus:</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span></p><blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Dear Horace</span>:</p> - -<p>This letter will be handed to you by a talented young friend, who -is in search of a business position. Mr. J. Gilman is in my -judgment possessed of superior business qualifications, and will -prove a valuable man in your store. I advise you to engage him at once.</p> - -<p class="right">Your old friend,<span class="s5"> </span><br /> -<span class="smcap">Hamilton Barry</span>.</p></blockquote> - -<p>This note was placed in an envelope directed to Horace B. Claflin. In -the corner Barry wrote: "To introduce Mr. J. Gilman."</p> - -<p>"There," he said. "Take this letter round to Claflin and he will -undoubtedly give you a good place."</p> - -<p>He spoke with so much confidence that Jed was led to think himself in -luck to be the recipient of such a testimonial.</p> - -<p>"Thank you," he said. "I feel very much obliged."</p> - -<p>"Oh don't mention it!" said Barry in an airy way. "It gives me pleasure -to assist you, Mr. Gilman, I assure you. When you have ascended round by -round until you are at the top of the ladder, I trust you will not -forget your chance acquaintance, Hamilton Barry."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span></p><p>"I certainly will not, Mr. Barry," said Jed warmly, grasping the hand -of the editor. "I hope some day to thank you as I wish."</p> - -<p>"My dear boy, the sentiment does you credit. I know you are sincere."</p> - -<p>"Certainly," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"It is because I know this that I venture to suggest that you may do me -a favor at once."</p> - -<p>"What is it?"</p> - -<p>"Let me have a fiver till next Monday. I shall then call at the office -of the <i>Tribune</i> for twenty dollars due me for two editorials published -early this week."</p> - -<p>This request rather staggered Jed. Now that he had paid his fare to New -York he had only about thirty-seven dollars, and five dollars would cut -rather seriously into his small balance.</p> - -<p>"I am afraid," he said awkwardly, "that I can hardly spare five dollars. -If two dollars would help you——"</p> - -<p>"It would materially," interposed Barry. "Of course it is only a loan. -Meet me here next Monday, at six o'clock, say, after your<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span> duties are -over at Claflin's, and I will gladly repay you."</p> - -<p>This off-hand allusion to Claflin, taking for granted his engagement -there, made Jed ashamed of his temporary distrust, and he drew from his -pocketbook a two-dollar note, which he handed to Mr. Barry.</p> - -<p>"Thanks," said the editor, as he carelessly slipped it into his pocket. -"Be here on Monday at six o'clock sharp."</p> - -<p>Then with a jaunty air he touched his hat and walked rapidly around the -corner.</p> - -<p>"I think I will go around to Claflin's at once," decided Jed. "I may as -well strike while the iron is hot."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXII.</span> <span class="smaller">JED MAKES TWO CALLS.</span></h2> - -<p>On Church Street Jed found an imposing-looking building which a passing -policeman informed him was Claflin's place of business. The size rather -impressed Jed, accustomed as he had been hitherto to the small stores in -Scranton, but he felt that it was no time for diffidence. So he opened -the outer door and entered.</p> - -<p>He found himself in a scene of activity. The shelves were filled with -goods, and behind the counters were numerous salesmen. No one took any -notice of Jed at first till a tall, stout man, in walking across the -room, espied him.</p> - -<p>"Any one waiting on you, young man?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"Here, Wilkins," said the floor-walker,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span> "attend to this young man. What -house do you represent?"</p> - -<p>"None, sir," answered Jed uncomfortably, feeling out of place.</p> - -<p>"Ah, you want to buy at retail. Go into the next room."</p> - -<p>"No, sir, I didn't come to buy anything," stammered Jed. "I have a -letter for Mr. Claflin."</p> - -<p>The great merchant is now dead, but at the time of Jed's call he was -living.</p> - -<p>"Wilkins, you may take the letter and carry it to Mr. Claflin."</p> - -<p>Wilkins took the letter from Jed's hands, walked across the room, and -ascended to Mr. Claflin's office on the second floor. He reappeared -within five minutes and signaled to Jed to approach.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Claflin will see you," he said. "Follow me."</p> - -<p>Presently Jed found himself in the presence of the great merchant, who -surveyed him curiously.</p> - -<p>"Are you Mr. J. Gilman?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir," answered Jed, blushing.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p><p>"You bring a letter from—" here Mr. Claflin referred to a note—"from -a man who calls himself Hamilton Barry?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"I don't know any such man. How did he happen to offer you a letter?"</p> - -<p>"I told him I wanted a position."</p> - -<p>"Exactly. Did he say he knew me?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir. He said he used to go to school with you."</p> - -<p>Mr. Claflin laughed.</p> - -<p>"Did he borrow any money from you?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed, surprised that the merchant should have guessed -this.</p> - -<p>"Not much, I hope."</p> - -<p>"Two dollars."</p> - -<p>"That was all?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir; he treated me to some sarsaparilla and did not have the money -to pay for it."</p> - -<p>"He is evidently a fraud and an impostor. Did he say he ever worked for -me?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir; he said he was an editor—that he wrote articles for the daily -papers."</p> - -<p>"When did he offer to repay you?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span></p><p>"Next Monday, when he had received pay from the <i>Tribune</i> for some -articles he had written."</p> - -<p>"What was the man's appearance?"</p> - -<p>"He was tall, and not very well dressed."</p> - -<p>"It is hardly likely that he ever wrote an article for the <i>Tribune</i> or -any other of the city dailies. I hope he did not get all your money?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir. I have considerable besides."</p> - -<p>"I advise you to take good care of it, and to steer clear of -questionable acquaintances."</p> - -<p>Mr. Claflin turned to a letter which he was writing, and Jed felt that -he was dismissed. Mr. Claflin had said nothing about taking him into his -employment, and he went down stairs feeling mortified and depressed.</p> - -<p>Mingled with these feelings was one of anger at having been so cruelly -deceived by his steamboat acquaintance.</p> - -<p>"I'd just like to meet him again!" soliloquized Jed, involuntarily -doubling up his fist.</p> - -<p>"I wonder whether he really writes for the <i>Tribune</i>?" he asked himself.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span></p><p>He decided to solve this question at once, though he had not much doubt -on the subject. He wanted to know exactly what he had to depend on.</p> - -<p>He walked up to Broadway, then down to the City Hall Park, and asked a -boy whom he met, "Where is the <i>Tribune</i> office?"</p> - -<p>"There it is across the park," said the boy, pointing to a tall building -with a lofty tower. "What do you want to do—sell papers?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jed. "I want to ask about one of the editors."</p> - -<p>"You're from the country, ain't you?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. What makes you think so?"</p> - -<p>"Because all the boys in the city know the <i>Tribune</i> building. Say, what -do you do for a livin'?" inquired the boy confidentially.</p> - -<p>This was rather a puzzling question, but Jed, remembering that he had -been on the stage for a time, felt justified in answering, "I am an -actor."</p> - -<p>"Cracky! you don't say. You ain't little Lord Fauntleroy, are you?"</p> - -<p>"No; I played the telegraph boy in the play of 'The Gold King.'"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span></p><p>"How did you like it?" asked the newsboy, becoming interested.</p> - -<p>"Very much."</p> - -<p>"Are you goin' to play it again?"</p> - -<p>"No; I took the place of the regular actor for a few weeks while he was -sick. Now he is well, and I am not needed."</p> - -<p>"Say, does actin' pay well?" asked the boy curiously.</p> - -<p>"I was paid pretty well."</p> - -<p>"Do you think you could get me a chance?"</p> - -<p>"I am afraid I can't get another chance myself."</p> - -<p>The newsboy had no more questions to ask, and Jed, following directions, -crossed the park and the street beyond to the <i>Tribune</i> building.</p> - -<p>He entered the office, and walked up to a window, beyond which stood a -young man who was handing out papers to a purchaser who wanted some back -numbers.</p> - -<p>Jed presented himself next, and the clerk looked at him inquiringly.</p> - -<p>"Do you wish to subscribe?" asked the clerk, as Jed remained silent.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span></p><p>"No; I want to ask whether you have an editor named Hamilton Barry?"</p> - -<p>"I don't think so. Why do you ask?"</p> - -<p>"He borrowed some money of me, and said he would pay me when he -collected some money due him from the <i>Tribune</i>."</p> - -<p>The clerk smiled.</p> - -<p>"I am sure none of our editors borrow money from boys," he said. "You -have been imposed upon, young man."</p> - -<p>"I guess you are right," responded Jed, coloring.</p> - -<p>"If you like, I will send up to the city editor to inquire if there is a -man named Barry in his department."</p> - -<p>"I guess I won't trouble you."</p> - -<p>Jed turned away quite satisfied in his own mind that he had been -cleverly swindled and would never see his two dollars again. He -reflected that it might have been more, and stoutly resolved not to let -any designing persons wheedle him out of any more money.</p> - -<p>He had never visited New York before, and the streets were all new to -him. So he strolled about for a couple of hours, gazing<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span> curiously at -shops, buildings, streets, and street scenes.</p> - -<p>This naturally led to a feeling of hunger, and at twelve o'clock he -began to look around for a restaurant. He found one on Fulton Street, -and went in.</p> - -<p>He took a seat on the right-hand side, about midway up the room, and -consulted the bill of fare. He found that roast meats were fifteen and -twenty-five cents, the latter being for large plates. Tea and coffee -were five cents each, and pie or pudding was ten cents.</p> - -<p>He ordered a large plate of roast beef, feeling quite hungry, and a cup -of coffee.</p> - -<p>Jed had about half finished his dinner when his attention was drawn by a -familiar voice at the next table. Looking up, he saw that two men had -entered the restaurant since he had been served and were sitting with -their backs to him. One of them he recognized, with a thrill of -excitement, as his acquaintance of the morning, Hamilton Barry.</p> - -<p>"I say, Barry," said his companion, "you've had a streak of luck. How do -you happen to be in funds?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span></p><p>"I negotiated a loan, my boy."</p> - -<p>"That is interesting. Would the party accommodate me, do you think?"</p> - -<p>"Depends upon your invention, my boy. I told him a plausible story, and -did him a favor."</p> - -<p>"Explain."</p> - -<p>"He was looking for a position, and I gave him a letter of introduction -to H. B. Claflin."</p> - -<p>The friend burst into a fit of laughter.</p> - -<p>"I admire your cheek," he said. "What do you know of Claflin?"</p> - -<p>"I told him that Claflin and I went to school together."</p> - -<p>"A lie, of course?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; I never set eyes on the man in my life."</p> - -<p>"And on the strength of that you negotiated a loan."</p> - -<p>"Precisely."</p> - -<p>"How much?"</p> - -<p>"I struck him for a five, but he only let me have two."</p> - -<p>"Which, of course, you promised to repay."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span></p><p>"I told him I would repay him next Monday when the <i>Tribune</i> paid me -for two editorial articles I wrote for them."</p> - -<p>This tickled the fancy of both, and they burst into uproarious laughter.</p> - -<p>It may be imagined with what feelings of indignation poor Jed listened -to these rascals, and understood how adroitly he had been swindled. He -felt tempted to get up and address the man who had swindled him in -fitting terms, but concluded to wait until he had finished his dinner.</p> - -<p>He felt particularly angry when Barry ordered a high-priced dish—a -plate of roast turkey—to be paid for with his money.</p> - -<p>At last his dinner was over, and taking the check in his hand, Jed made -his way to the table in front.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Barry," he said as calmly as he could, "I believe you owe me two -dollars. I shall be glad if you will pay me now."</p> - -<p>Barry looked up quickly, and actually seemed embarrassed when he -recognized Jed.</p> - -<p>"Confusion!" he ejaculated. "The kid!"</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIII.</span> <span class="smaller">JED'S BAD LUCK.</span></h2> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed coolly, "it is the kid. I have called upon Mr. -Claflin, and also at the office of the <i>Tribune</i>. Probably you can guess -what I was told at both places."</p> - -<p>Mr. Barry felt that he was in a tight place, but reflecting that Jed was -only a boy, he determined to bluff him off.</p> - -<p>"I don't know what you are talking about, boy," he said. "I know nothing -of Mr. Claflin, and have nothing to do with the <i>Tribune</i> office."</p> - -<p>"I am aware of that, but you gave me a letter of introduction to H. B. -Claflin, and borrowed two dollars of me, promising to pay me when you -settled with the <i>Tribune</i> for editorial contributions."</p> - -<p>"There is not a word of truth in this," said Barry, fidgeting in his -chair.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span></p><p>"I have been listening to your conversation for fifteen minutes," -continued Jed, "and I heard you give an account of the matter to your -friend here."</p> - -<p>Barry hesitated a moment. Even his brazen hardihood was scarcely -adequate to the emergency. He was the more uneasy because a policeman -was sitting at the next table but one.</p> - -<p>"It was only a practical joke, boy," he said hurriedly. "I'll pay you -back the two dollars."</p> - -<p>"That will be satisfactory," returned Jed.</p> - -<p>"But I can't do it to-day. I'll meet you on Monday afternoon, as I said. -I am in rather a hurry now and must be going."</p> - -<p>He rose from the table precipitately, and went up to the desk followed -by his friend.</p> - -<p>"Shall I stop him?" thought Jed.</p> - -<p>He decided not to do so, as he felt sure Barry could not pay him. The -loss was not a serious one, but it would not do to make a second -mistake. He paid his check and left the restaurant.</p> - -<p>Jed knew very little of New York, even<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span> for a country boy. Some Scranton -people doubtless had visited the great city, but, as an inmate of a -poorhouse, he had not been thrown in their way. Accordingly he was like -a mariner without a compass. He could only follow where impulse led.</p> - -<p>He turned into Broadway, and with his gripsack in his hand walked up the -great thoroughfare, looking in at shop windows as he strolled along. -Travelling in this leisurely manner, it was perhaps four o'clock when he -reached Union Square.</p> - -<p>He was by this time fatigued and ready to rest on one of the benches -which he found in the park. One person was sitting there already. It was -a slender young man with a diamond ring on one of the fingers of his -right hand. At least it looked to be a diamond.</p> - -<p>He was dressed in rather a showy manner. He was perhaps twenty-two, but -so slender that he must have weighed a dozen or fifteen pounds less than -Jed, who was only sixteen. He looked casually at the country boy as the -latter sat down, and presently turned and addressed him.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p><p>"It is a warm day," he said.</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed, who felt lonely and was glad to be social with some -one.</p> - -<p>"I judge from your bag," he glanced at the gripsack, "that you are a -visitor to New York."</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed frankly. "I have never been in New York before."</p> - -<p>"That was my case two years ago. Now I feel quite like an old resident. -Are you staying at a hotel?"</p> - -<p>"No; that is what I should like to ask about. I must spend the night -somewhere. Can you recommend a <i>cheap</i> hotel?"</p> - -<p>"Why do you go to a hotel? No hotel is cheap in the long run. It is much -better to hire a room in a lodging-house and take your meals at -restaurants."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I suppose it would be. But I don't know where to find such a -lodging-house."</p> - -<p>"Come, I'll make you an offer. I have a room on Twenty-Seventh Street. -You shall pay for my supper, and I will let you stay in my room without -charge till to-morrow. Then if you like it well enough to room with me, -I shall be glad to have you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span></p><p>"Thank you; how much do you pay for your room?"</p> - -<p>"Four dollars a week. That will be two dollars a piece. That is cheap -for the city. You can't get a room at a hotel for less than a dollar a -night."</p> - -<p>"Is that so?" asked Jed. "That would be seven dollars a week."</p> - -<p>"Precisely."</p> - -<p>"I couldn't afford to pay that."</p> - -<p>"There is no reason why you should. I couldn't afford it myself. Well, -do you accept my offer? Do just as you please. Of course I have no -motive except to give a helping hand to a stranger in the city."</p> - -<p>"You are very kind," said Jed gratefully. "I know so little of New York -that I feel quite helpless."</p> - -<p>"Quite natural. I've been through it all."</p> - -<p>"Are you—in business?" rather wondering how his companion should be -free at that hour.</p> - -<p>"Yes, I am in a broker's office down town. We have easy hours. I am off -for the day at three o'clock."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span></p><p>"Are you well paid? But perhaps you don't care to tell."</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes, I don't mind. I get twenty dollars a week."</p> - -<p>"I wish I could get twelve," said Jed wistfully. "I shall have to get -work soon."</p> - -<p>"You have some money to keep you while you are waiting for work?" said -the other quickly.</p> - -<p>"Yes. I have about thirty-five dollars."</p> - -<p>The young man's face brightened up.</p> - -<p>"I am glad for you," he said. "You can make that last a good while, if -you are guided by me, and keep down your expenses."</p> - -<p>"That is exactly what I want to do," responded Jed earnestly.</p> - -<p>"Oh well, I will put my experience at your service. I hope you will -conclude to room with me. I feel rather lonesome at times. Of course I -could easily get a roommate, but I am rather particular."</p> - -<p>"You might not like me," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"I am sure I shall. I can tell in five minutes whether I am going to -like a person or not. How old are you?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span></p><p>"Sixteen."</p> - -<p>"Indeed! You look older. That's going to help you, you know, about a -situation. You can pass for a young man, and they won't think of -offering you boy's pay."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you will be able to advise me about the kind of place I had -better apply for."</p> - -<p>"Of course I will. I already begin to take a great interest in you. What -kind of work have you done?"</p> - -<p>"Well, I have acted a little."</p> - -<p>"You don't say so!" ejaculated his new friend in genuine surprise, for -he had looked upon Jed as an unsophisticated country boy who probably -had never seen the inside of a theatre. "I suppose you mean," he -suggested as an afterthought, "in some village entertainment."</p> - -<p>"No; I played in 'The Gold King' for some time."</p> - -<p>"You don't say so! What part did you take?"</p> - -<p>"The boy's part."</p> - -<p>The young man regarded Jed with more respect.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span></p><p>"I shouldn't have thought it," he said. "How did you happen to get such -a fine chance as that?"</p> - -<p>"I knew one of the actors—Harry Bertram—and the one who played the -boy's part regularly was taken sick. I only played about four or five -weeks all together."</p> - -<p>"Still that makes you a regular actor. Do you think of trying to get a -place at Daly's or Palmer's?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, no. I don't suppose I should stand any show. I could only take a -boy's part."</p> - -<p>"Well, we can talk over our plans later. I don't mind confessing that I -am hungry. How about yourself?"</p> - -<p>"I think I could eat some supper."</p> - -<p>"Come along, then. I'll take you to a good restaurant. It's some way -off, but it is near my room."</p> - -<p>"All right."</p> - -<p>The two rose, and leaving the park, walked up Broadway, past the Fifth -Avenue Hotel, the Hoffman House, and the St. James, till they reached a -well-known eating-house known as Smith & Green's, situated on the east -side<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span> of Broadway, between Twenty-Seventh and Twenty-Eighth Streets.</p> - -<p>"Come in here. I won't take you to Delmonico's, a little further down, -as you haven't a private bank to draw from. This is a nice restaurant -and moderate in its charges."</p> - -<p>They entered, sat down at a round table and studied the bill of fare. -The prices seemed to be moderate. Jed's dinner cost thirty-five cents, -but his companion was more lavish in his orders, and ran up a bill of -sixty-five cents.</p> - -<p>"That makes just a dollar," he remarked.</p> - -<p>It seemed considerable to Jed, who decided that he would rather order -and pay for his own meals separately hereafter.</p> - -<p>During the repast Jed learned that his new friend's name was Maurice -Graham.</p> - -<p>"Now we'll go around to my room, and you can dispose of your gripsack."</p> - -<p>"I shall be glad to do so. I am tired of carrying it about."</p> - -<p>Graham led the way to a three-story brick house near Seventh Avenue, and -mounted to a small square room on the upper story. It was plainly -furnished with a three-quarters<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span> bed, a bureau, and the usual chamber -furniture.</p> - -<p>"You can leave your bag anywhere, and then we will go out for a walk."</p> - -<p>"I think I would rather stay here and lie down."</p> - -<p>"All right! Make yourself at home. I will go out. Shall probably be back -by ten."</p> - -<p>When Graham returned at a little past ten he found Jed in bed and fast -asleep. His eyes sparkled with pleasure.</p> - -<p>He raised Jed's clothes from the chair on which he had thrown them and -went through the pockets expeditiously. Poor Jed's small stock of money -was quickly transferred to his own pockets.</p> - -<p>"He hasn't any watch," soliloquized Graham. "That's a pity."</p> - -<p>When his search was completed he put on his hat again.</p> - -<p>"I shall sleep in Jersey City to-night," he said to himself. "That will -be safer."</p> - -<p>He went out softly, leaving Jed alone, the victim of a cruel trick.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIV.</span> <span class="smaller">A STARTLING DISCOVERY.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed slept on, unconscious of his loss, till the sun flooded the room -with golden light. Then he opened his eyes and wondered for a moment -where he was. But recollection came to his aid, and he recalled the -incidents of his meeting with Graham and sharing the latter's room.</p> - -<p>He looked over to the other side of the bed, but his roommate was not to -be seen.</p> - -<p>"I suppose it is late and he has gone to his business," thought Jed -tranquilly. "Probably he didn't want to wake me up."</p> - -<p>This explanation seemed natural enough till he noticed that the pillow -on the right-hand side of the bed did not seem to have been used. -Lifting the quilt, he discovered that the sheet was smooth. Clearly -Graham had not slept there at all.</p> - -<p>"What does it mean?" thought Jed, <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span>perplexed. "Why didn't he come back -last evening?"</p> - -<p>This was a question which he could not answer. No suspicion, however, -had yet dawned upon him that anything was wrong.</p> - -<p>"Well," he said, jumping out of bed, "I must get up and try for a place. -I guess I can find that eating-house where we took supper. Let me see, -what was the name? Oh, Smith & Green. Well, I feel as if I could dispose -of a good breakfast."</p> - -<p>He washed his face and hands and proceeded to dress. Mechanically, but -not from any feeling of uneasiness, he thrust his hand into his pocket -in search of his wallet. The pocket was empty!</p> - -<p>His heart gave a jump, and he hurriedly examined his other pockets, but -it was of no avail. Then he looked about the room and on the floor, but -there was no trace of the lost wallet.</p> - -<p>Jed felt faint, and his legs trembled under him, as he thought of the -terrible situation in which he was placed. He began to connect Graham's -absence with his loss, and <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span>understood that his new acquaintance had -played him false.</p> - -<p>It was a shock to him, for his nature was trustful, and he hated to -believe that a young man who had seemed so friendly should prove so -treacherous.</p> - -<p>"What shall I do?" thought poor Jed. "I haven't enough money for my -breakfast, and I am <i>very</i> hungry."</p> - -<p>At this point, just as he was ready to go out, there came a knock at the -door.</p> - -<p>Jed rose and opened it. He confronted a stout woman of middle age with a -very serious expression of countenance that seemed to indicate that she -meant business. She regarded Jed with surprise.</p> - -<p>"I expected to see Mr. Graham," she said. "Are you a friend of his?"</p> - -<p>"I only met him yesterday. He invited me to come and spend the night in -his room."</p> - -<p>"Is he here, or has he gone out?"</p> - -<p>"I don't think he slept here at all last night. He left early in the -evening, and said he would come back, but the bed doesn't seem to have -been slept in except by myself."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span></p><p>"He is very liberal in offering the use of a room that he has not paid -for," said the lady sarcastically.</p> - -<p>"I don't know anything about that," faltered Jed.</p> - -<p>"No, I suppose not. But it's true. He only came here two weeks and a -half ago, and paid one week's rent in advance—four dollars. When the -next week's rent became due he said that his employer was on a visit to -Chicago, and he could not get his pay till he came back. Do you know -whether that is true?"</p> - -<p>"No, I don't. I never saw him before yesterday afternoon about four -o'clock in a park about half a mile from here."</p> - -<p>"So he wasn't at work at that time?"</p> - -<p>"No; he said he worked for a broker and got through at three o'clock."</p> - -<p>"A broker? Why he told me he was working in a wholesale house down town. -At any rate, I wish he'd pay me the eight dollars he owes me."</p> - -<p>"I wish he'd pay me the thirty-five dollars he owes me," said Jed -despondently.</p> - -<p>"You don't mean to say that you were<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span> goose enough to lend him -thirty-five dollars?" exclaimed Mrs. Gately in a crescendo voice.</p> - -<p>"No; I didn't lend it to him," returned Jed bitterly. "He must have -taken it out of my pocket when I was asleep."</p> - -<p>"Well, I declare! So he's a thief, too."</p> - -<p>She looked around the room, and opening a bureau examined the drawers.</p> - -<p>"He's gone off and taken all of his things," she reported. "That settles -it. We shall not see our money again."</p> - -<p>"I—I don't know what to do," said Jed sorrowfully.</p> - -<p>"Did he take <i>all</i> your money?" asked Mrs. Gately, drawn from a -consideration of her own misfortune to that of her fellow-sufferer.</p> - -<p>"Yes, he took every cent," answered Jed mournfully. "And the worst of it -is that I am a stranger in New York."</p> - -<p>"Well, that is too bad!" said the landlady, an expression of sympathy -relieving the severity of her face. "Your case is worse than mine. You -actually haven't anything left?"</p> - -<p>"Except my gripsack."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span></p><p>"And of course you haven't had any breakfast?"</p> - -<p>"No, ma'am."</p> - -<p>"Well, I do pity you. I suppose you are hungry?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know when I have ever felt so hungry," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"I will see that you don't leave the house in that condition at any -rate. I'm a poor woman, as any one must be who has to depend on lodgers -for an income, but I'm not penniless. Come down stairs, Mr.—Mr.—"</p> - -<p>"Gilman," suggested Jed.</p> - -<p>"And I will skirmish round and scare you up something to eat."</p> - -<p>"You are very kind," said Jed gratefully.</p> - -<p>"Wait and see what you get," returned Mrs. Gately with a laugh and a -softer expression, for Jed's case appealed to her heart.</p> - -<p>She led the way to the front basement. A table was set in the centre of -the room. Evidently it had not yet been cleared off.</p> - -<p>"I'm a little behindhand this morning," remarked Mrs. Gately, beginning -to bustle round. "I don't take boarders in a general<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span> way, but I have a -young girl in the house that works at Macy's. I suppose you've heard of -Macy's?"</p> - -<p>"No, ma'am."</p> - -<p>"Never heard of Macy's? I thought everybody had heard of Macy's, -Fo'teenth Street and Sixth Avenue. Luella Dickinson works there, and I -give her breakfast in the house as a favor. Let me see, there's a little -coffee left—I'll warm it over—and there's bread and butter, and—I can -cook you a sausage, and boil a couple of eggs."</p> - -<p>"I hope you won't take too much trouble," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"I guess I can afford to take a little trouble, especially as there's no -knowing when you will have any dinner."</p> - -<p>Jed owned to himself with a sigh that there was a good deal of doubt on -that point. However, it isn't wise to borrow trouble too far in advance, -and the odor of the sausage as it was frying was very grateful to his -nostrils. He was sure of one meal at any rate, and that was something, -though the day before he thought he had enough money to last a month.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span></p><p>"I don't think the coffee will do," said Mrs. Gately, as she bustled -round the stove in the next room. "I'll make some fresh. I don't think -coffee amounts to much when it is warmed over."</p> - -<p>Jed was of the same opinion, and did not utter a protest. He was very -fond of coffee, and felt that with a fresh pot of it the breakfast would -be fit for a king.</p> - -<p>"Haven't you got any folks, Mr. Gilman?" asked the landlady, as she -brought the pot of coffee and sat it on the table.</p> - -<p>"No, ma'am," answered Jed. "I am alone in the world."</p> - -<p>"Dear me, that's sad! And so young as you are, too!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, ma'am. I'm only sixteen."</p> - -<p>"What did you calc'late to do, if you could get a chance?"</p> - -<p>"Anything. I'm not particular."</p> - -<p>"You haven't any trade, have you?"</p> - -<p>"No. I've been living in the country most of the time, and did chores on -a farm."</p> - -<p>"Well, we haven't many farms in New York," said the landlady with a -laugh.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span></p><p>"No. I suppose not. Even if there were, I don't like that kind of -work."</p> - -<p>"Have you never done anything else?"</p> - -<p>"I acted for a few weeks."</p> - -<p>"Gracious! You don't mean to say you've been a play actor?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, ma'am."</p> - -<p>"How Luella Dickinson would like to see you! She dotes on play actors, -but I don't think she ever met one."</p> - -<p>"I am afraid she would be disappointed in me.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I guess not. If you've played on the stage that's enough. Why can't -you call round some evening? Luella would <i>so</i> like to see you."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Mrs. Gately. If I can get anything to do, I will call."</p> - -<p>Jed finished his breakfast. He ate heartily, for he had no idea where he -should get another meal.</p> - -<p>"I guess I'll be going," he said, as he rose from the table. "You have -been very kind."</p> - -<p>"Oh, that's nothing. I hope you'll meet<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span> that rascally Graham and make -him give up your money."</p> - -<p>"I am afraid there is little hope of that. Good morning, and thank you!"</p> - -<p>And so Jed passed out of the hospitable house into the inhospitable -street, without a cent of money or a prospect of earning any.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXV.</span> <span class="smaller">WITHOUT A PENNY.</span></h2> - -<p>There is nothing that makes one feel so helpless as to be without a -penny in a strange city. If Jed had had even a dollar he would have felt -better.</p> - -<p>The fact of his poverty was emphasized when a boy came up to him and -asked him to buy a morning paper. Jed instinctively felt in his pocket -for a penny, but not even a cent was forthcoming.</p> - -<p>"I have no change," he said, by way of excuse.</p> - -<p>"I can change a dollar," responded the newsboy, who was more than -usually enterprising.</p> - -<p>"I wish <i>I</i> could," thought Jed, but he only said, "No, it is no -matter."</p> - -<p>So he walked along Broadway, fairly well dressed, but, so far as money -went, a pauper. Yes, though no longer an inmate of the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[Pg 223]</a></span>Scranton -poorhouse, he was even poorer than when he was there, for then he had a -home, and now he had none.</p> - -<p>"I wonder when it is all going to end?" reflected poor Jed despondently. -Then his anger was excited when he thought of the unprincipled rascal -who had brought him to this pass.</p> - -<p>"If I could only get hold of him," muttered Jed vengefully, "I would -give him something to remember me by."</p> - -<p>All the while Jed walked on, though his walk was aimless. He was as well -off in one part of the city as another, and only walked to fill up time.</p> - -<p>He found himself passing a drug store. Just outside the door he saw the -sign "Boy wanted," and with a little kindling of hope he entered the -store.</p> - -<p>Just behind the counter stood a man with a sandy beard, who appeared to -be the proprietor. To him Jed addressed himself.</p> - -<p>"I see you want a boy," he said.</p> - -<p>"Yes; do you want a place?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[Pg 224]</a></span></p><p>"I hardly think you would be satisfied with the wages we pay, unless -you particularly wish to learn our business."</p> - -<p>"What do you pay, sir?"</p> - -<p>"Three dollars a week."</p> - -<p>Three dollars a week! It was certainly better than no income at all, but -Jed knew well that it would be impossible to live on this sum, and he -had no reserve fund to draw upon.</p> - -<p>"No," he said, "I am afraid I couldn't get along on that salary."</p> - -<p>"Are you entirely dependent on your earnings?" asked the druggist.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"Have you parents residing in the city?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir; I am all alone."</p> - -<p>"That would be an objection. We prefer to employ those who live at -home."</p> - -<p>"Do most employers require that, sir?"</p> - -<p>"Many do."</p> - -<p>Here a customer came in and asked for a bottle of cough medicine, and -the druggist turned away to fill the order. Jed walked slowly out of the -store.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span></p><p>"I wonder whether there is any work for me anywhere?" he asked himself -despondently.</p> - -<p>Jed continued his walk down Broadway. It was a bright, clear, -exhilarating day, and Jed would have enjoyed it thoroughly if he had -been better fixed, but it is hard to keep up the spirits when your -pocket is empty.</p> - -<p>When Jed reached City Hall Park he went in and sat down on one of the -benches.</p> - -<p>One of the boy bootblacks who carry on business in the park came up to -him with his box on his shoulder and asked, "Shine your boots?"</p> - -<p>Jed shook his head.</p> - -<p>"Not this morning," he replied.</p> - -<p>"They need it," said the boy.</p> - -<p>Jed looked at his boots, and was fain to admit that the boy was right. -But he was not possessed of the necessary nickel.</p> - -<p>"Yes, they do need it," he said, "but I haven't money enough to pay you -for doing it."</p> - -<p>"Only five cents."</p> - -<p>"I haven't five cents. I'm poorer than you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span> are, my boy," said Jed in a -burst of confidence.</p> - -<p>The boy looked puzzled.</p> - -<p>"You don't look like it," he said after scrutinizing Jed's appearance. -"How did you come to be so poor?"</p> - -<p>"Had all my money stolen last night."</p> - -<p>"How much was there?"</p> - -<p>"Thirty-five dollars."</p> - -<p>"Whew!" whistled the bootblack. "That was a haul. Who did it?"</p> - -<p>"A young man I fell in with. He invited me to share his room. I woke -this morning to find that he had stolen all my money."</p> - -<p>"He was a snide, he was! I'd like to step on his necktie."</p> - -<p>"I'd like to do something of that sort myself," said Jed with a smile.</p> - -<p>"Would you know him if you saw him again?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; I shan't forget him very soon."</p> - -<p>"When you do see him hand him over to a cop. Just hold out your foot," -and the boy got down in a position to black Jed's shoe.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span></p><p>"But I haven't any money. I can't pay you."</p> - -<p>"I'll do it for nothin', seein' as you're down on your luck. You can pay -me some time when times is better."</p> - -<p>"I am afraid you will have to wait a good while for your money."</p> - -<p>"Never mind! It won't kill me if I lose it."</p> - -<p>"You're very kind to a stranger," said Jed, grateful for the boy's -friendly proffer.</p> - -<p>"Oh, it ain't nothin'. You look like a good fellow. You'll get a place -quicker if your shoes look nice."</p> - -<p>There was something practical in this suggestion, and Jed accepted the -offer without further hesitation.</p> - -<p>The boy exerted himself specially, and Jed's dirty shoes soon showed a -dazzling polish.</p> - -<p>"There, you can see your face in 'em!" exclaimed the boy, as he rose -from his knees.</p> - -<p>"Thank you," said Jed. "I see you understand your business. Will you -tell me your name?"</p> - -<p>"Jim Parker."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p><p>"Well, Jim, I am much obliged to you. I hope some time I can do you a -favor."</p> - -<p>"Oh, that's all right. So long! I hope you'll get a job." And the -independent young bootblack, with his box over his shoulder, walked -across the park in search of another job.</p> - -<p>Somehow Jed was cheered by this act of kindness. He felt a little better -satisfied with himself, moreover, when he saw the transformation of his -dirty shoes to the polish that marks the gentleman.</p> - -<p>A man rather shabbily dressed was drawn by this outward sign of -affluence to sit down beside him. He took a brief inventory of Jed, and -then doffing his hat, said deferentially, "Young gentleman, I hope you -will excuse the liberty I am taking, but I have walked all the way from -Buffalo, and am reduced almost to my last penny. In fact this nickel," -producing one from his pocket, "is all the money I have left. If you -will kindly loan me a quarter I shall esteem it a great favor."</p> - -<p>Jed felt like laughing. He had not a penny, yet here was a man richer -than himself asking for a loan.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span></p><p>"I wish I were able to oblige you," he said, "but you are asking me for -more than I possess."</p> - -<p>The man glanced incredulously at Jed's polished shoes.</p> - -<p>"You don't look poor," he said, in a tone of sarcasm.</p> - -<p>"No, I don't look poor, but you are five cents richer than I."</p> - -<p>The man shrugged his shoulders. He evidently did not believe Jed.</p> - -<p>"It is quite true," continued Jed, answering the doubt on the man's -face. "Last night I was robbed of all the money I had. Had you applied -to me yesterday I would have granted your request."</p> - -<p>This frank statement disarmed the man's suspicion.</p> - -<p>"I think your are speaking the truth," he said. "Though there are plenty -who pretend to be poor to get rid of giving. Perhaps I shall surprise -you when I say that a year ago I should have been able to lend you five -thousand dollars, and have as much more left."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, you do surprise me! How did you lose your money?"</p> - -<p>"I was a fool—that explains it. I bought mining stocks. I was in San -Francisco at the time, and my money melted like snow in the sun. A year -since I was worth ten thousand dollars. To-day I am worth a nickel. Do -you know what I will do with it?"</p> - -<p>Jed looked at him inquiringly.</p> - -<p>"I will buy a glass of beer, and drink to our good luck—yours and -mine."</p> - -<p>"I hope it will bring the good luck," said Jed smiling.</p> - -<p>"I would offer you a glass too, if I had another nickel."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, but I never drink beer. I thank you all the same."</p> - -<p>His companion rose and left the park, probably in search of a beer -saloon. Jed got up, too, and took another walk. By half-past twelve he -felt decidedly hungry. His breakfast had lasted him till then, but he -was young and healthy, and craved three meals a day.</p> - -<p>"How shall I manage to get dinner?" thought Jed seriously.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span></p><p>He paused in front of the Astor House, which he knew to be a hotel, and -saw business men entering in quest of their midday lunch.</p> - -<p>It was tantalizing. There was plenty of food inside, but he lacked the -wherewithal to purchase a portion.</p> - -<p>"Why, Jed, how are you?" came unexpectedly to his ears.</p> - -<p>He looked up and saw a brown-bearded, pleasant-faced man, whom he -recognized as a fellow-guest at the Spray Hotel at Sea Spray.</p> - -<p>"When did you leave Sea Spray?" asked his friend.</p> - -<p>"Only yesterday."</p> - -<p>"Going to stay in the city?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, if I can get anything to do."</p> - -<p>"Have you been to lunch?"</p> - -<p>"Not yet."</p> - -<p>"Come in and lunch with me, then. I think we can find something inviting -at the Astor."</p> - -<p>"Saved!" thought Jed, as he gladly passed into the famous hostelry with -his friend. "I wonder if he has any idea how glad I am to accept his -invitation?"</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVI.</span> <span class="smaller">IN SEARCH OF EMPLOYMENT.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed followed his hotel friend up stairs into an upper dining-room, and -they took seats at a corner table.</p> - -<p>"I never like to dine alone," said Howell Foster. "I am glad I fell in -with you, Jed."</p> - -<p>"So am I," answered Jed. "I am more glad than you have any idea of," he -said to himself.</p> - -<p>"What will you order?" asked Mr. Foster, pushing over the bill of fare -to his companion.</p> - -<p>"I have a healthy appetite and shall enjoy anything," said Jed with a -smile. "Please order the same for me as for yourself."</p> - -<p>Howell Foster was rather proud of his gastronomic knowledge, and took -this as a compliment.</p> - -<p>"You can trust me to do that," he replied. "I am used to the place and -know what they succeed best in."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span></p><p>Thereupon he ordered a dinner which Jed found delicious. No expense was -spared, and Jed, glancing at the bill when it was brought, found that -the charge was three dollars and a half.</p> - -<p>During the repast the host kept up a bright and chatty conversation.</p> - -<p>"I hope you enjoyed your dinner," he said, when it was over.</p> - -<p>"Actions speak louder than words," answered Jed with a smile.</p> - -<p>"This is a good, reliable place. I advise you to come here often."</p> - -<p>"What would he say if he could see the inside of my pocket-book?" -thought Jed. "I am afraid," he said aloud, "it is too expensive for my -means."</p> - -<p>"Yes, probably; I didn't think of that. By the way, what have you in -view?"</p> - -<p>"I hardly know yet."</p> - -<p>"Come round and see me some day," and Foster handed Jed his card.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, sir."</p> - -<p>"Will you have a cigar?"</p> - -<p>"No, thank you, sir. I don't smoke."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span></p><p>"It would be money in my pocket if I didn't. My cigars cost me last -year five hundred dollars."</p> - -<p>"I wish I was sure of that for my entire income," thought Jed.</p> - -<p>They parted at the entrance to the hotel. It was clear from his manner -and speech that Howell Foster thought Jed in easy circumstances.</p> - -<p>It made the boy feel almost like an impostor, but he reflected that he -had done nothing to give Mr. Foster a false impression.</p> - -<p>It was about half-past one when he left the hotel. The dinner had -occupied an hour. The world was still before him, but he had eaten a -hearty meal and felt that he could get along, if necessary, till the -next morning, so far as eating was concerned.</p> - -<p>Where to sleep presented a perplexing problem, but it would be some time -before it required to be solved. How to spend the afternoon puzzled Jed. -He went back to City Hall Park, and on the seat he had formerly occupied -he found a copy of the New York <i>Herald</i> which somebody had left there. -He<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> took it up and looked over the advertisements for Help Wanted.</p> - -<p>He found the following:</p> - -<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Wanted.</span>—Smart, enterprising agents to sell packages of stationery. -Fifteen dollars a week can easily be made. Call at No. 182 Nassau -Street, Room 22.</p></blockquote> - -<p>This struck Jed as just the thing. It could not be very hard to sell -stationery, and fifteen dollars a week would support him comfortably.</p> - -<p>"Where is Nassau Street?" he inquired of a bootblack who took a -temporary seat beside him.</p> - -<p>"There 'tis," said the street boy, pointing in the direction of the -<i>Tribune</i> building. "You just go down in front of the Tribune."</p> - -<p>"Is No. 182 far off?"</p> - -<p>"No, it's close by. You can get there in less than no time."</p> - -<p>"Thank you!" and with hope in his heart Jed rose and walked in the -direction indicated.</p> - -<p>He found the building. At the entrance was a list of occupants of rooms. -He went up<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> two flights of stairs, and halted in front of No. 22. He -knocked at the door and was bidden in a deep, hoarse voice to "Come in!"</p> - -<p>Opening the door, he found himself in the presence of a short, -humpbacked man, whose voice was quite out of proportion to his size.</p> - -<p>"I suppose you come to see me about the advertisement in the <i>Herald</i>," -said the dwarf.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir," answered Jed, gazing as if fascinated at the stunted figure, -huge head and long arms of the person before him.</p> - -<p>"I have engaged several agents already this morning," went on the dwarf, -turning over a large book on the desk before him.</p> - -<p>"Then perhaps you don't need any more?" said Jed despondently.</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes, I do if I can get the right ones," was the answer.</p> - -<p>"It is to sell packages of stationery, I believe. Can you show me some?"</p> - -<p>The dwarf handed Jed a flat package, on the outside of which was printed -a list of the contents. They included a pen holder, pens, a quire of -paper, a supply of envelopes, and several other articles.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span></p><p>"This is the best package in the market for the money," said the dwarf. -"Observe how varied are the contents, and only a paltry twenty-five -cents for the whole."</p> - -<p>"Yes, it seems a good bargain," said Jed.</p> - -<p>"You are right there," said the dwarf confidently. "Why, you can make -money hand over hand. Our agents are actually coining it. We allow them -to retain ten cents on each package. Two or three, and sometimes five, -are sold to the same person. Would you like to have me read one or two -agents' letters?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, if you please."</p> - -<p>"Here is one from Theodore Jenkins, who is operating in Pennsylvania:</p> - -<blockquote><p>"'<span class="smcap">Hugo Higgins, Esq.</span></p> - -<p><span class="s5"> </span>"'<span class="smcap">Dear Sir</span>:</p> - -<p>"'Please send me at once two hundred packages of stationery. They -sell like hot cakes. I got rid of forty yesterday, and it rained -half the day, too. I have held several agencies for different -articles, but none that paid as well as this. I shall be -disappointed if I don't make forty dollars per week. It looks as if -it might exceed that sum.</p> - -<p class="right">"'Yours respectfully,<span class="s5"> </span><br /> -"'<span class="smcap">Theodore Jenkins</span>.'</p></blockquote> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span></p><p>"That letter speaks for itself," remarked the dwarf as he folded it up -and replaced it in an envelope.</p> - -<p>"Yes," said Jed, "it is certainly very encouraging."</p> - -<p>"I will read you another from a party who has been in our employ for -fourteen months. He is operating in Ohio.</p> - -<blockquote><p>"'<span class="smcap">Dear Sir</span>:</p> - -<p>"'You may send me three hundred packages by Adams Express, and -please don't delay, for I need them at once. I have been working -for you for fourteen months. During that time I have supported my -family and bought a house, on which I have paid cash down a -thousand dollars. In the course of the next year and a half I -expect to complete the payment and own the house clean. It was -certainly a lucky thing for me when I saw your advertisement for -agents and engaged in your service.</p> - -<p class="right">"'Yours gratefully,<span class="s5"> </span><br /> -"'<span class="smcap">Arthur Waters</span>.</p></blockquote> - -<p>"That is another letter that speaks for itself," observed Mr. Higgins. -"I have plenty more, but I don't think I need to read any others to -convince you that the business will pay any one that takes hold of it."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span></p><p>"Perhaps," added Jed, "these gentlemen had experience as agents."</p> - -<p>"One of them had, but the other was quite green in the business."</p> - -<p>"You think then that I could succeed?"</p> - -<p>"Undoubtedly. You look smart and have a taking way with you. You can't -fail to succeed."</p> - -<p>This was pleasant to hear, and Jed felt strongly impelled to engage in -the service of the plausible Higgins.</p> - -<p>"If you will trust me with twenty packages," he said, "I will see what I -can do."</p> - -<p>"Certainly. That will be three dollars. You see we charge you fifteen -cents each, and you sell them for twenty-five. That gives you two -dollars. You had better take fifty packages, and then you won't have to -come back to-morrow."</p> - -<p>"Very well, I will take fifty."</p> - -<p>"All right. You may pay me seven dollars and a half, and I will get the -packages ready."</p> - -<p>"Do you require payment in advance?" asked Jed quickly.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span></p><p>"Certainly. You are a stranger to me, and even if you were not, I -should not feel like risking so much money or money's worth. What is -there to hinder your making off with it and never coming back?"</p> - -<p>"I wouldn't be dishonest for a great deal more money than that."</p> - -<p>"I dare say you are right, but we must adhere to our business methods. -You will get your money back in two days probably."</p> - -<p>"But I haven't the money to pay in advance."</p> - -<p>"Oh, that alters the matter," said Higgins, become less gracious. "How -much have you?"</p> - -<p>"I am unable to pay anything," said Jed desperately.</p> - -<p>Mr. Hugo Higgins turned away, no longer interested in Jed. Poor Jed felt -sadly disappointed at losing so good a chance, but something happened to -mitigate his regret.</p> - -<p>A stout man with red hair opened the door of the office and dashed in, -carrying in his hands a large package.</p> - -<p>"I want my money back!" he said. "You are a big schwindler!"</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVII.</span> <span class="smaller">AN INTRACTABLE AGENT.</span></h2> - -<p>The new visitor was a large man, evidently a German, weighing not less -than two hundred pounds. He approached Hugo Higgins, towering above the -dwarf by at least fourteen inches, and shook his fist in his face. Mr. -Higgins shrank back as if fearful of a personal assault, and inquired in -uneasy tones:</p> - -<p>"Who are you, my friend?"</p> - -<p>"Who am I?" retorted the other, laughing gutturally. "You know me well -enough, you villain!"</p> - -<p>"I think I have seen you somewhere," said Hugo, not daring to show the -anger he felt at the hard name by which the other addressed him.</p> - -<p>"You have seen me somewhere? Come, that's good. My name is Otto Schmidt, -and I am one of your victims. You understand that, hey?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span></p><p>"No. I can't say I do."</p> - -<p>"Then I'll tell you. I came in here last week and bought some of your -confounded packages. I was to make big wages by selling them, hey?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly, I hope you did."</p> - -<p>"You hope I did?" repeated Mr. Otto Schmidt fiercely. "Well, I tell you. -I went round two days in Montclair, and how many packages you think I -sell, hey?"</p> - -<p>"About fifty," answered Hugo with a sickly smile.</p> - -<p>"About fifty? Ha, ha!" returned the German, laughing wildly. "I sell -just one to a young boy named Chester Noyes. That's all I sell."</p> - -<p>"My dear Mr. Schmidt, I am afraid you got discouraged too soon," said -Hugo suavely.</p> - -<p>"So I am your dear Mr. Schmidt, hey? You cost me dear enough with your -lies about the business, you scoundrel!"</p> - -<p>"I cannot allow you to talk to me in this way," said Hugo in a dignified -tone.</p> - -<p>"Oh, you won't, hey?" retorted the German, beginning to dance about the -floor.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span></p><p>"Well, I won't. Maybe you prefer to have me step on your necktie, hey?"</p> - -<p>Hugo Higgins looked alarmed, and Jed could hardly help laughing.</p> - -<p>"Well, what do you want?" asked Hugo, afraid some applicant for an -agency might enter and be frightened away.</p> - -<p>"What do I want? I want my money back."</p> - -<p>"That is against our rules," said Hugo. "My good Mr. Schmidt, take the -packages and go to some other place. Other agents have told me that -Montclair is not a good town for business. Go to—to Rahway! I am sure -you will sell all your packages there."</p> - -<p>"No; I don't go to Rahway. I sell all my packages here."</p> - -<p>"But, my good friend——"</p> - -<p>"I am not your good friend. I am no friend to a rascal."</p> - -<p>"Really, this language——"</p> - -<p>"Never mind about the language! I ain't going to be schwindled by no -fakir. I've got forty-nine packages here, and I want you to pay me back -my money, seven dollars and thirty-five cents."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span></p><p>"I can't think of such a thing."</p> - -<p>"Then I give you in charge for schwindling," said Otto Schmidt, -thrusting a fat fist directly under Hugo's nose. "I may be one Dutchman, -but I ain't so dumb as you think I am."</p> - -<p>"I don't think you dumb at all," said Hugo soothingly. "I think you are -a smart man of business."</p> - -<p>"You find me too schmart to be schwindled, I tell you that."</p> - -<p>"Still, if you don't want to go on with the business, I'll take back the -packages and give you five dollars for them."</p> - -<p>"And I to lose two dollars and thirty-five cents, besides all my time. -Not much, Mr. Hugo Higgins."</p> - -<p>"You can't expect me to give you back all the money."</p> - -<p>"Well, I do," said Mr. Schmidt stoutly. "I give you just two minutes to -make up your mind."</p> - -<p>Just then the door opened, and a young man who was evidently from the -country entered.</p> - -<p>"I seed your advertisement," he said. "I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span> want to be an agent, if you -can give me a chance."</p> - -<p>Otto Schmidt smiled sardonically, and was about to speak, when Hugo said -hurriedly, "Come out into the hall, Mr. Schmidt, and I think we can -arrange your business satisfactorily."</p> - -<p>"All right! I come," and he followed Hugo out into the entry.</p> - -<p>"I will pay you your money," said the agent. "It is quite against my -rules, but I will make an exception in your case."</p> - -<p>"I want a dollar more to pay me for my time," said the German, -appreciating his advantage.</p> - -<p>"But, my dear sir, this is very unreasonable," said Mr. Higgins -uneasily.</p> - -<p>"Then I go back into the room and show you up."</p> - -<p>"Very well, here is your money!" and Hugo with great reluctance drew out -eight dollars and thirty-five cents and handed it to Mr. Schmidt.</p> - -<p>Otto Schmidt chuckled and nodded significantly at the discomfited Hugo.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span></p><p>"I may be a Dutchman," he said, "but I ain't no chump."</p> - -<p>Hugo re-entered the office and smiled affably at the young man from the -country.</p> - -<p>"One of our successful agents," he said, nodding towards the door. "I -won't tell you how much that German gentleman has made by selling our -famous packages, for you might not believe me."</p> - -<p>"Can you give me a chance?" asked the young hayseed anxiously.</p> - -<p>"Well, I think I can," said Hugo with assumed hesitation, and then he -explained on what terms he sold, as he had done to Jed.</p> - -<p>"How many packages will you take?" he asked pleasantly.</p> - -<p>"I guess I'll take a dozen to begin with," said the young man from the -country.</p> - -<p>"A dozen!" replied Hugo, much disappointed. "My, that's no order at all. -You would have to come back for more before the day was out."</p> - -<p>"Well, I'll take fifteen," said the young man after reflection.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span></p><p>"You'd better take fifty. Very few of our agents take less than fifty."</p> - -<p>"No, I ain't got much money. I'll only take fifteen to begin with."</p> - -<p>And to this determination he adhered, in spite of the persuasions of Mr. -Higgins.</p> - -<p>As Hugo wrapped up the packages and received back two dollars and -twenty-five cents, he regretted that he had so hastily agreed to buy -back Mr. Schmidt's boxes at an advance on the original cost.</p> - -<p>"Where would you advise me to sell?" asked the young man.</p> - -<p>"Country towns are best," said Hugo. "Some distance from the city, I -advise, as those who live near New York can come here and buy, and are -less ready to patronize agents."</p> - -<p>Jed smiled to himself. He understood that Mr. Higgins wished to guard -against a visit from the young man in case his business failed to meet -his anticipations. He lingered behind after the rural visitor had gone.</p> - -<p>"I hope," said Hugo, "you took no stock in what that stupid Dutchman -said."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span></p><p>"Well," replied Jed, "it shows that some of your agents are not -successful."</p> - -<p>"A man like that could not succeed in selling anything," said Hugo -scornfully. "Now it is different with you. You look smart."</p> - -<p>Jed smiled. He began to understand Mr. Higgins and his methods.</p> - -<p>"Then you remember the letters from the agents which I read you."</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed, but he felt convinced now that the letters were -bogus, and manufactured by Mr. Higgins himself.</p> - -<p>"When you can command the necessary funds I shall be glad to have you -call and buy a bundle of samples."</p> - -<p>"I don't think I shall care to enter into the business, Mr. Higgins," -said Jed. "It would be an experiment, and I am not in a position to try -experiments."</p> - -<p>Higgins looked at Jed, and saw that he was understood.</p> - -<p>"Very well!" he said coldly. "You must do as you like, but you are -making a mistake."</p> - -<p>Jed left the office and went down stairs. What had happened did not -encourage him.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span> It seemed a good deal harder to make a living in a large -city than he supposed.</p> - -<p>He saw now that there were sharpers ready to fleece the young and -inexperienced. If he had not been robbed of his money, in all -probability he would have fallen a victim to the persuasive but -deceptive representations of Mr. Higgins, and have come back -disappointed like Mr. Otto Schmidt.</p> - -<p>He continued his walk down Nassau Street, and presently turned into -Broadway. His attention was attracted to a church with a very high spire -facing Wall Street. He inquired the name and found it was Trinity -Church. The Scranton meeting-house could easily have been tucked away in -one corner of the large edifice, and as far as height was concerned, it -was but an infant compared with a six-footer.</p> - -<p>He walked still further down Broadway, till he reached a green park, -which he found was called the Battery. Feeling somewhat fatigued, he sat -down on a bench near the sea-wall and looked over toward Governor's -Island. Craft of different sizes were passing, and Jed was interested -and exhilarated by the spectacle.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXVIII.</span> <span class="smaller">A STRANGE COMMISSION.</span></h2> - -<p>Jed's companion on the seat was a sallow-faced, black-bearded man. Jed -merely glanced at him, but presently became aware that he had become the -object of the sallow man's scrutiny.</p> - -<p>Finally the latter moved rather nearer Jed, and showed a disposition to -be sociable.</p> - -<p>"A fine day, young man," he began.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"And a fine view we have before us," went on the stranger, pointing to -the harbor and the numerous craft that were passing in both directions. -"However, I suppose it is quite familiar to you?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir; I am a stranger in the city."</p> - -<p>"Indeed!" and here the stranger allowed his gaze to rest on the small -gripsack that Jed had placed on the seat beside him. "Perhaps you have -come in quest of work?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span></p><p>"Yes, sir," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"Have you found anything yet?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir, but I have only been here since yesterday morning. Do you know -of any situation that I could fill?"</p> - -<p>"Well, no, no permanent position," answered the other deliberately. "I -might give you a chance to earn," here he hesitated, "two dollars this -evening. But perhaps that would not be worth your while."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, I should be glad to earn even that," said Jed eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Then perhaps I may employ you. Can you row a boat?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir. I think so. I have rowed on a pond up in Scranton."</p> - -<p>"Then you can probably row here. I would row part of the way myself."</p> - -<p>"When do you want me?" asked Jed.</p> - -<p>"Not till late this evening. I will explain when the time comes."</p> - -<p>Jed was disappointed. He had hoped to do the work at once, and receive -the money. Then he could buy himself some supper, for he was already -hungry. He found that his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span> appetite was just as regular as if he were -earning a living income, instead of being impecunious and without work.</p> - -<p>"At what time shall I meet you, sir?"</p> - -<p>"At eleven o'clock, here."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir," answered Jed, wondering what he was to do during the -intervening time.</p> - -<p>As he had no money, he must defer eating till then, and it occurred to -him that he would hardly feel able to row any considerable distance -unless refreshed by food. Could he venture to ask a part of the sum he -was to earn in advance? He decided to do so.</p> - -<p>"I am going to ask a favor," he said hurriedly. "I have been robbed of -all my money, and I have not enough to buy my supper. If you let me have -half a dollar on account——"</p> - -<p>He feared that this proposal would be distasteful to his companion, but -the sallow-faced man did not seem offended.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps," he said thoughtfully, "I had better keep you with me, and let -you eat supper with me."</p> - -<p>"Very well, sir," said Jed, feeling relieved.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_253" id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span></p><p>The other looked relieved.</p> - -<p>"It is half-past five," he said. "We may as well start now."</p> - -<p>He rose leisurely from his seat, and Jed followed him. He walked to the -head of the Battery, and keeping near the piers, led the way to a humble -tavern called "The Sailor's Rest."</p> - -<p>"This will do," he said. "It is not very fashionable, but they can give -us a comfortable meal."</p> - -<p>Certainly the interior presented a great contrast to the Astor House, -where Jed had lunched, or rather dined. The floor was sanded, the tables -were unprovided with tablecloths. There was a bar on one side of the -room, over which presided a stout bartender with mottled cheeks and a -dirty white apron.</p> - -<p>"Where is the restaurant?" asked Jed's companion.</p> - -<p>"In there," answered the bartender with a jerk of his finger in the -direction of a back room.</p> - -<p>With a nod the sallow-faced man beckoned<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_254" id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span> Jed to follow him. Opening a -door, he led the way into a room provided with four tables only. On each -table was a small bell.</p> - -<p>Jed and his guide sat down, and the latter rang the bell.</p> - -<p>A dirty-faced man, with a beard of several days' growth, made his -appearance.</p> - -<p>"We want some supper."</p> - -<p>"What'll you have?"</p> - -<p>"What can we have?"</p> - -<p>"Beefsteak, ham and eggs."</p> - -<p>"What else?"</p> - -<p>"Eggs without."</p> - -<p>"Without what?"</p> - -<p>"Ham."</p> - -<p>The sallow man shrugged his shoulders.</p> - -<p>"It seems we must choose between beefsteak and ham and eggs," he said. -"What will you have?"</p> - -<p>"Ham and eggs," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"All right. Ham and eggs for two."</p> - -<p>"Anything else?"</p> - -<p>"Two bottles of lager. You drink beer, don't you?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jed.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_255" id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span></p><p>"Then bring the boy some tea or coffee—whichever he prefers."</p> - -<p>"Tea," suggested Jed.</p> - -<p>"Bread and butter, of course, and fried potatoes, if you can get them -ready."</p> - -<p>While they were waiting the man leaned back in his chair and stared out -of the window at a dirty back yard, but his thoughts seemed to be -otherwise occupied. Jed's eyes wandered about the room, but found little -to attract him in the two or three prints—one of a yacht, another of a -merchant vessel—that adorned the walls.</p> - -<p>On the mantel was a soiled piece of coral and a large seashell. All -seemed to harmonize with the name of the inn. Jed, however, felt but a -fleeting interest in the furnishings of the place. His mind dwelt rather -on the promised supper.</p> - -<p>He could not understand how in this crisis of his fortunes, when there -was so much to discourage him, he should have such an appetite. Savory -odors from the neighboring kitchen found their way into the room when -the waiter opened the door and entered to set the table.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_256" id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span></p><p>Jed was glad to overlook the cheap and dark-hued crockery, the rusty -knives and forks and the chipped glasses, as the odor of the ham and -eggs was wafted to his nostrils. Finally the beer and tea were brought -in, and his companion signaled to him to fall to.</p> - -<p>"Where did you dine?" he asked abruptly.</p> - -<p>"At the Astor House."</p> - -<p>The sallow-faced man paused with his glass, which he had just filled, -half-way to his lips.</p> - -<p>"Was that before you were robbed of your money?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"No, sir, but I met a gentleman whom I knew at the seaside, and he -invited me to dine with him."</p> - -<p>"Oh, that explains it. This is a very different place from the Astor -House."</p> - -<p>"I should think so," said Jed smiling.</p> - -<p>"Still we can probably satisfy our hunger."</p> - -<p>"Oh, yes," responded Jed, and he made a vigorous onslaught on the -contents of his plate.</p> - -<p>In a few minutes supper was over, and Jed felt better. It is wonderful -how much more cheerful views we take of life and the world on a full -than on an empty stomach.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_257" id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span></p><p>Jed experienced this. He couldn't, to be sure, look very far ahead, but -he had had three meals that day in spite of an empty purse, and the -money he was to earn would insure him a bed and three meals for the -coming day, in all probability.</p> - -<p>"It is half-past six" said his companion, referring to his watch—"a -good while before I shall need your services. Do you feel tired?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir; I have been on my feet all day."</p> - -<p>"Wait a minute."</p> - -<p>He went out and returned in a moment.</p> - -<p>"I have engaged a room for you," he said. "You can occupy it now if you -like it, and after our expedition return to pass the balance of the -night. You can leave your valise there, as it will only be in your way -on the boat."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, sir."</p> - -<p>This solved one of Jed's problems in a pleasant manner. The waiter led -the way up stairs to a small room just large enough to hold a bed and -washstand, and said, "That'll do you, I guess."</p> - -<p>"Oh yes," responded Jed cheerfully.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_258" id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span></p><p>"The gentleman says you can lie down, and he'll call you when you're -wanted."</p> - -<p>Jed was glad of this permission, for he felt very much in need of rest. -He took off his coat and laid down on the bed. The couch he found not a -very luxurious one. It consisted of a thin—a very thin—mattress laid -upon wooden slats, and the pillow was meagre.</p> - -<p>But he soon fell asleep, and slept so soundly that it seemed as if only -five minutes had elapsed when some one shook him, and opening his eyes, -they rested on his sallow-faced employer.</p> - -<p>"Time to get up," said the latter abruptly.</p> - -<p>Jed sprang from the bed, and, his eyes only half open, said, "I am -ready."</p> - -<p>"Follow me, then."</p> - -<p>He followed his guide, who walked rapidly through the dark streets till -he reached a pier not far from the Battery. There was a boat moored -alongside, rising and falling with the tide. There was one man already -in it.</p> - -<p>"Come along!" said his guide briefly.</p> - -<p>Jed descended a ladder, and took his place in the boat. His companion -seized the oars,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_259" id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span> signing to Jed to take his seat in the bow. Then he -began to row, much better then Jed could have done.</p> - -<p>They struck out towards Governor's Island, passed it, and proceeded a -considerable distance beyond. Here lay a yacht. There was no light on -board, so far as Jed could see, and it looked to be quite deserted.</p> - -<p>The rower slackened his speed (he had not yet called upon Jed to row) -and said quickly: "I want you to board that yacht. Go down into the -cabin. There you will see a box, perhaps a foot square and ten inches -deep. Bring it to me."</p> - -<p>"But," said Jed, in bewilderment, "is—is it yours?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered the sallow-faced man composedly. "It belongs to a friend -of mine, the owner of the yacht. I promised to come out and get it for him."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_260" id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXIX.</span> <span class="smaller">A SURPRISE PARTY.</span></h2> - -<p>The words of the sallow-faced man dissipated any suspicions which Jed -may have entertained, and he clambered on board the yacht without much -difficulty, for he was active and agile.</p> - -<p>"Good!" said his employer. "Now go into the cabin, and be quick about -it."</p> - -<p>Jed did not understand why he should be quick about it. There was plenty -of time, he thought.</p> - -<p>Another thing puzzled him, now that he had had a chance to think the -matter over. Why was the visit postponed till near midnight?</p> - -<p>A city boy would not have had his suspicions so easily allayed; but Jed -was unused to city ways, and, it may be added, to city wickedness.</p> - -<p>The cabin seemed to be dark. He felt his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_261" id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span> way down stairs, and struck a -match which he had in his pocket in order to see better the location of -the box. He had just picked up the latter, finding it to be heavy, when -he felt a hand laid on his arm, and looking up, met the stern gaze of a -young man about twenty-eight years of age.</p> - -<p>"What are you about here, young fellow?" he asked abruptly.</p> - -<p>Jed was a little startled, but, not being aware that he was doing -anything wrong, he replied composedly, "I was taking this box, sir."</p> - -<p>"I see you were; but what business have you to take the box?"</p> - -<p>"I was sent for it."</p> - -<p>"Sent for it?" repeated the young man, looking puzzled. "Who sent you -for it?"</p> - -<p>"The gentleman in the boat outside."</p> - -<p>"Oh ho! So there is a gentleman in the boat outside?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly, sir. Isn't it—all right?"</p> - -<p>"Well, I should say not, unless you consider theft right."</p> - -<p>"What!" exclaimed Jed aghast. "Is the man who employed me a thief?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_262" id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span></p><p>"It looks very much like it."</p> - -<p>At this moment the sallow-faced man called in an impatient tone, "What -are you about there, you lazy young rascal? Don't be all night!"</p> - -<p>"Is there more than one man in the boat?" asked the young man in the -cabin.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir; there are two."</p> - -<p>"The harbor police ought to be somewhere about. I'll rouse them if I -can."</p> - -<p>The young man went to the port-hole which served to light the cabin and -fired a pistol.</p> - -<p>"Confusion! There's some one on the yacht!" exclaimed the sallow-faced -man. "We must get off."</p> - -<p>Dipping his oars in the water, he rowed quickly away, leaving Jed to his -fate. But the shot had been heard on another boat not fifty rods -distant, and the piratical craft was pursued and eventually overhauled. -Meanwhile Jed remained on board the yacht, whether as a prisoner or not -he did not know.</p> - -<p>"Your companions have taken alarm," said the young man. "I hear them -rowing away. They have deserted you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_263" id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span></p><p>"I am glad of it," said Jed. "I don't want anything more to do with -them. Will you tell me if that box contains anything valuable?"</p> - -<p>"Probably the contents are worth five thousand dollars."</p> - -<p>"Is it possible!" ejaculated Jed in amazement.</p> - -<p>"You see you have lost quite a prize," said the young man, eyeing him -closely.</p> - -<p>"Don't say that I have lost a prize," returned Jed half indignantly. "I -supposed the man who sent me for it was honest."</p> - -<p>"What did he tell you?"</p> - -<p>"He said that the box belonged to a friend, who had employed him to get -it."</p> - -<p>"All a lie! I am the owner of the box, and the yacht also, and I have no -acquaintance with your principal. If I had not been here he would have -got a rich prize."</p> - -<p>"I am glad you were here," said Jed earnestly.</p> - -<p>"I don't understand your connection with such a man. How much were you -to be paid for your services?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_264" id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span></p><p>"Two dollars," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"Didn't it strike you as singular that you should have been employed on -such an errand?"</p> - -<p>"Well, a little; but I am a stranger to the city, and I thought it might -be because I was inexperienced."</p> - -<p>"Do you mind telling me how long you have known the person who employed -you?"</p> - -<p>"I met him for the first time at five o'clock this afternoon on the -Battery. He asked me if I wanted a job, and that is how I came to be -engaged."</p> - -<p>"That sounds plausible and I am inclined to believe you."</p> - -<p>At this moment they were interrupted. There was a sound of oars, and -leaving the cabin, Jed and his companion saw the boat of the harbor -police under the side. It had in tow the boat in which Jed had come from -shore.</p> - -<p>"Was there any attempt to rob the yacht?" asked the captain of police.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir," answered the owner.</p> - -<p>"Have you one of the thieves aboard?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_265" id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span></p><p>"No, sir."</p> - -<p>"That's not true!" said the sallow-faced man, now a prisoner. "That boy -came with us," and he pointed to Jed.</p> - -<p>"Is that true?" asked the police captain.</p> - -<p>"This boy was sent on board by the thieves, but he was quite ignorant of -the character of his employer. He is a country boy, and was an innocent -agent of the guilty parties."</p> - -<p>"You are convinced then of his innocence?"</p> - -<p>"Entirely so."</p> - -<p>"We shall need his evidence against these men. Will you guarantee that -it shall be forthcoming?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, captain. I will give my name and his, and will call at your office -to-morrow morning."</p> - -<p>"That will answer."</p> - -<p>The young man took out one of his cards, bearing the name of Schuyler -Roper, and wrote Jed's name, which he had ascertained, underneath.</p> - -<p>"You will be responsible for the boy's appearance, Mr. Roper?" said the -officer <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_266" id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span>respectfully, reading the name by the light of a lantern.</p> - -<p>"Yes; he will stay with me."</p> - -<p>This seemed satisfactory, and the boat rowed away.</p> - -<p>"I am very much obliged to you for believing in my innocence, Mr. -Roper," said Jed earnestly.</p> - -<p>"You have an innocent face," responded the young man kindly. "I am sure -you are a good boy."</p> - -<p>"I hope you won't see any reason to doubt it. I am afraid I am putting -you to trouble," continued Jed, realizing that he could not leave the -yacht, and was thrown on the hospitality of the owner.</p> - -<p>"Not at all. I can accommodate you easily. You must be tired, if you -have been about the city all day."</p> - -<p>Jed admitted that he was. In fact he felt very tired, and found it hard -work to keep his eyes open.</p> - -<p>"I have sleeping accommodations for six persons on board my yacht, so -that I can easily provide for you. So far from giving<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_267" id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span> me trouble I -shall be glad of your company, though I don't expect any more visitors -to-night."</p> - -<p>Mr. Roper pointed out a comfortable bunk, and Jed lost no time in taking -possession of it. He sank into a deep sleep, which was only broken by a -gentle shake from his young host. As he opened his eyes, and they met -the unusual surroundings, he was at first bewildered.</p> - -<p>"Don't you know where you are?" asked Schuyler Roper, smiling. "Don't -you remember boarding my yacht with felonious intent last night?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed with an answering smile. "I remember that I was -taken prisoner."</p> - -<p>"Then you are subject to my orders. When I am on a cruise we have meals -aboard the yacht, but I am not keeping house now. If you will assist me, -we'll direct our course to land and find breakfast somewhere."</p> - -<p>Jed did not know much about a yacht, but he liked the water and proved -very quick in comprehension, so that in a comparatively<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_268" id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span> short time they -had reached the Battery. Here Mr. Roper found two men whom he had -engaged to help man the yacht, and leaving the Juno in their charge he -walked up Broadway with Jed.</p> - -<p>"We will take breakfast at the Astor House," he said.</p> - -<p>"I dined there yesterday," replied Jed.</p> - -<p>"You did!" exclaimed the other in a tone of surprise. "Yet you tell me -you are penniless?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, but I fell in with a gentleman whom I knew at Sea Spray, a -Mr. Foster."</p> - -<p>"Not Howell Foster?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"I know him very well. If he is a friend of yours, I shall feel that I -am justified in reposing confidence in you."</p> - -<p>Just then Mr. Foster entered the room.</p> - -<p>"Good morning, Jed," he said in a friendly tone. "So you like the Astor -well enough to come back?"</p> - -<p>"I am here by invitation of Mr. Roper."</p> - -<p>Mr. Foster, who was shortsighted, now for the first time observed Jed's -companion.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_269" id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span></p><p>"So you know Roper, too?" he said. "Why, he's one of my closest -friends. When did you pick him up, Schuyler?"</p> - -<p>"I caught him boarding my yacht on a marauding expedition last night," -said Roper, smiling.</p> - -<p>"Bless my soul! What do you mean?"</p> - -<p>"Sit down and take breakfast with us, and I will explain."</p> - -<p>"And what are you going to do with this desperate young man?" asked the -broker at the end of the story.</p> - -<p>"I shall invite him to accompany me to Bar Harbor on my yacht. But first -we must call on the harbor police, as our testimony will be needed to -convict the rascals who came near robbing me of five thousand dollars' -worth of valuables."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_270" id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXX.</span> <span class="smaller">JED ENTERTAINS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE.</span></h2> - -<p>Though the trial of the harbor thieves was expedited, it was a week -before Jed and Mr. Roper were able to leave New York. Jed's testimony -settled the matter, and the two thieves were sentenced to terms of five -years' imprisonment.</p> - -<p>"I'll get even with you yet, young fellow!" muttered the sallow-faced -man, eyeing Jed with deep malignity as he left the witness-box.</p> - -<p>"Where is your trunk?" asked Mr. Roper after their first visit to the -office of the harbor police.</p> - -<p>"I never owned one, Mr. Roper."</p> - -<p>"Your valise, then."</p> - -<p>"It is at a small hotel near the Battery."</p> - -<p>"Get it and bring it on board the yacht."</p> - -<p>Jed did so, and Mr. Roper asked to see it.</p> - -<p>"You are poorly equipped, Jed," he said. "That reminds me that if I am -going to <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_271" id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span>monopolize your services I must pay you some salary. How will -fifty dollars a month answer?"</p> - -<p>"But, Mr. Roper, I can't earn as much as that."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps not, but if I am willing to pay it, you can set your mind at -rest. I will see that you are better provided with clothing, -undergarments, et cetera. Here, give me a piece of paper."</p> - -<p>Mr. Roper drew up a list of articles which he thought Jed might need—a -very liberal list, by the way—and sent him with a note to his own -tradesmen, with directions to supply him with such articles as he might -select. He also gave him an order on his own tailor for a suit of -clothes.</p> - -<p>"But, Mr. Roper, it will take me a long time to pay for all these out of -my wages," protested Jed.</p> - -<p>Schuyler Roper laughed.</p> - -<p>"My dear boy," he said, "I haven't the least idea of making you pay for -them. Just look upon me as your older brother, who is able and willing -to provide for you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_272" id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span></p><p>"I am deeply grateful to you, Mr. Roper," responded Jed earnestly. "I -certainly stumbled into luck when I boarded your yacht."</p> - -<p>"I don't know how it is," said Roper, as he eyed Jed thoughtfully, "you -didn't seem a stranger to me even when I first saw you. It seemed -natural for me to look after you. I am an only son, and you never knew -what it was to have a brother. I begin to think that I have lost a great -deal in being so much alone."</p> - -<p>"You may be deceived in me, Mr. Roper. You know very little of me, and -that is not at all to my advantage."</p> - -<p>"Well, I admit that, Jed. Considering that I caught you in the act of -robbing me, I may be said to have known you at your worst."</p> - -<p>"You know nothing of my past life."</p> - -<p>"You shall tell me all about it after a while, when we are not so busy."</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Jed became familiar with his duties on board the yacht, and -during the absence of Mr. Roper was regarded by the men as his -representative.</p> - -<p>No one could have treated him with more<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_273" id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span> generous confidence than his -new friend. Jed was intrusted at times with considerable sums for -disbursements, and was proud of the confidence reposed in him. Of Mr. -Roper, except that he appeared to be a rich young man, he knew next to -nothing, till one day he fell in with his watering-place friend, Howell -Foster.</p> - -<p>"You are still with Schuyler?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, sir. I am going with him to Bar Harbor."</p> - -<p>"And then?"</p> - -<p>"I believe he means to keep me with him."</p> - -<p>"You are in luck. Schuyler is a generous, open-hearted young man, -liberal to a fault, and ready to do anything for one he takes to. I -suppose you know that he is rich?"</p> - -<p>"I thought he must be."</p> - -<p>"His father died two years since, leaving him half a million of dollars. -He spends freely, but does not squander his money. He is paying for the -college education of a poor boy in whom he feels an interest—the son of -an old bookkeeper of his father's—as I happen to know. He is a favorite -in society, but has never shown an inclination to marry."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_274" id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span></p><p>"Is his mother living?" asked Jed.</p> - -<p>"No; she died before his father. He is very much alone in the world."</p> - -<p>"That is why he is so generous to me, I think."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps so, but it is his nature to be kind. By the way, Jed, when my -family comes back from Sea Spray I would like to have you call upon us. -We live on Madison Avenue."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Mr. Foster. If I am in New York I shall be glad to do so."</p> - -<p>"I begin to think I am getting into society," thought Jed. "It is not -over three months since I left the Scranton poorhouse, and here I am -adopted by one rich man and welcomed at the house of another."</p> - -<p>It was natural that Jed should feel elated by his good luck. But he was -not allowed to forget his early adversity, for on the fourth day after -entering the service of Mr. Roper he met on Broadway, just above -Chambers Street, his old enemy, Percy Dixon.</p> - -<p>Percy was the first to recognize him.</p> - -<p>"Oh it's you, is it?" he said in considerable surprise.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_275" id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span></p><p>Jed smiled. He felt that he could afford to disregard Percy's -impertinence.</p> - -<p>"My dear friend Percy," he said. "How well you remember me!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I remember you, and so does Mr. Fogson of the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"Remember me to the kind old man!" said Jed comically.</p> - -<p>"How soon are you going back?"</p> - -<p>"Not very soon. Of course it would be pleasant to me to be able to see -you every day, Percy, but——"</p> - -<p>"You needn't flatter yourself that I would take any notice of you. What -are you doing for a living?"</p> - -<p>"I am going yachting in a few days."</p> - -<p>"What! Oh, I understand. You have hired out as a sailor."</p> - -<p>"Well no, not exactly."</p> - -<p>"What yacht are you working on?"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you would like to visit it?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I would," said Percy, feeling puzzled and curious.</p> - -<p>"Come to the Battery with me, then. We'd better board the next car."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_276" id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a></span></p><p>Percy followed Jed into a Broadway car, and Jed, to his surprise, paid -the fare.</p> - -<p>"<i>I</i> was going to pay the fare," said Percy.</p> - -<p>"Oh never mind!" returned Jed carelessly.</p> - -<p>"I don't want to put you to expense."</p> - -<p>"Oh! it's not worth minding."</p> - -<p>Arrived at the Battery, Jed called a boatman and said, "Row me out to -the Juno, beyond Governor's Island."</p> - -<p>Jed leaned back in the boat, and Percy stared at him in wonder. When -they reached the yacht one of the men produced a ladder, and Jed led the -way on board.</p> - -<p>"Any orders, Mr. Gilman?" asked the sailor respectfully.</p> - -<p>"No, Kimball; I haven't seen Mr. Roper since morning, and don't know if -he wants anything done."</p> - -<p>"Do you think you can spare me to go on shore for a couple of hours?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, you may go."</p> - -<p>Jed went to the side and said to the boatman, "You may take this man on -shore, and come back in an hour and a half for my friend and myself.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_277" id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span></p><p>"Now, Percy, allow me to offer you a little refreshment."</p> - -<p>Jed went to the pantry and brought out some cold meat, bread and butter, -and two bottles of ginger ale, with the necessary dishes.</p> - -<p>"I can't offer you anything very tempting," he said, "but the boat ride -may have given you an appetite for plain fare."</p> - -<p>Percy could hardly conceal his surprise. He stared at Jed as if -fascinated.</p> - -<p>"Won't you get into trouble by making so free with your master's -things?"</p> - -<p>"Who told you I had a master?"</p> - -<p>"Who owns this yacht?"</p> - -<p>"Mr. Schuyler Roper."</p> - -<p>"He must be rich."</p> - -<p>"I hear that he is worth half a million dollars," said Jed in an -off-hand manner.</p> - -<p>"And how did you get in with him?" asked Percy rather enviously.</p> - -<p>"It was an accident," answered Jed, by no means disposed to tell Percy -the particulars of his first meeting with Mr. Roper.</p> - -<p>"Suppose he should come now, what would he say to your making so free?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_278" id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span></p><p>"That he was glad to have me entertain my friends."</p> - -<p>"You seem to be pretty sure of your footing with him."</p> - -<p>"I have reason to be. He tells me to look upon him as an older brother."</p> - -<p>"He may find you out some time," suggested Percy with disagreeable -significance.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean?"</p> - -<p>"He may find out that his <i>younger brother</i> was raised in a poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"I have no doubt he will learn it if he gets acquainted with you."</p> - -<p>"What do you mean?" asked Percy coloring.</p> - -<p>"That you would probably tell him. By the way, has Mr. Holbrook got home -from Chicago yet?"</p> - -<p>"I believe not. Do you expect he will take you back?"</p> - -<p>"No; I prefer my present position. I shall probably sail for Bar Harbor -with Mr. Roper on Saturday."</p> - -<p>"It's strange how you've got on since you left the poorhouse," said -Percy uncomfortably.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_279" id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span></p><p>"Yes; I think even you will agree that I did well to leave it."</p> - -<p>"Your luck may turn," added Percy hopefully.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps it will, but I hope not."</p> - -<p>Presently the boatman came back, and Jed sent Percy back to the city, -paying the boatman in advance.</p> - -<p>"It beats all how that pauper gets along!" reflected Percy, but from his -expression the reflection gave him no pleasure.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_280" id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXI.</span> <span class="smaller">JED RETURNS GOOD FOR EVIL.</span></h2> - -<p>In the short time before the Juno left for Bar Harbor, Schuyler Roper -became quite intimate with Jed. There was never a trace of condescension -in his manner to his boy friend, but Jed was always treated as if in -birth and position he was the equal of the young patrician. Together -they walked about the city, and frequently dined together, always at -some expensive hotel or restaurant.</p> - -<p>"What time is it, Jed?" asked Mr. Roper one day as they were passing the -Star Theatre.</p> - -<p>"I am afraid I left my watch at home," answered Jed, smiling.</p> - -<p>"Then we shall have to supply its place."</p> - -<p>Schuyler Roper turned the corner of Fourteenth Street, and led the way -to Tiffany's well-known establishment on the corner of Fifteenth Street -and Union Square.</p> - -<p>"Let us see some gold watches," he said to a salesman.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_281" id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span></p><p>A tray of handsome timepieces was produced.</p> - -<p>"How expensive a watch would you like, sir? Is it for yourself?"</p> - -<p>"No, for this young gentleman. Look over these watches, Jed, and see -what one you like best."</p> - -<p>Jed made choice of a very neat gold watch with a handsome dial.</p> - -<p>"What is the price?" asked Mr. Roper.</p> - -<p>"A hundred and twenty-five dollars."</p> - -<p>Jed opened his eyes wide in astonishment. A hundred and twenty-five -dollars seemed to him a very large sum, and so unaccustomed was he to -expensive jewelry that he had not known that there were any watches so -costly.</p> - -<p>"Very well; we will take it. Show me some gold chains."</p> - -<p>Choice was made of a fifty-dollar gold chain. It was attached to the -watch, and Mr. Roper, handing it to Jed, said, "Put it in your pocket."</p> - -<p>"Do you really mean the watch and chain for me?" asked Jed, almost -incredulous.</p> - -<p>"Certainly."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_282" id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a></span></p><p>"How can I thank you, Mr. Roper?" said Jed gratefully.</p> - -<p>"My dear boy," rejoined Roper kindly, "I want your appearance to do me -credit. That <i>you</i> will do me credit I feel confident."</p> - -<p>It was about this time that Jed met an old acquaintance—one whom he had -no reason to remember with kindly feelings. He had occasion to go across -Cortlandt Street ferry, when on board the boat he saw in front of him a -figure that seemed familiar. He walked forward till he could see the -face of the young man to whom it belonged. Then it flashed upon him that -it was Maurice Graham, the young man who had invited him to his room on -Twenty-Seventh Street and robbed him of his small stock of money.</p> - -<p>Now that the tide had turned, Jed did not feel so incensed against the -fellow as at first. Still he determined to let him understand that he -knew exactly how he had been swindled.</p> - -<p>He touched Graham on the shoulder, and the young man wheeled round with -an apprehensive look, which he did not lose when he saw and recognized -Jed.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_283" id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span></p><p>"Did you touch me?" he asked, with an evident intention of ignoring -Jed's acquaintance.</p> - -<p>"Yes, Mr. Graham. We parted rather suddenly, you remember," said Jed -significantly.</p> - -<p>"Oh, I see. You are——"</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>"I was wondering what became of you. I was called up town to the house -of a sick friend that evening, and when I went back the next day Mrs. -Gately told me you had gone away."</p> - -<p>"Indeed! Did she tell you that I was robbed of thirty-five dollars -during the night, and that I awoke penniless?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered Graham faintly. "I am surprised."</p> - -<p>"I thought you might be. Are you in the habit of borrowing money from -people who are asleep?"</p> - -<p>"What do you mean? You don't think I took the money?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I think you did."</p> - -<p>"Why, didn't I tell you that I spent the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_284" id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span> night with a sick friend -in—in Eighty-Seventh Street. How could I rob you?"</p> - -<p>"You came back during the evening and found me asleep."</p> - -<p>"That's a mistake!" said Graham quickly.</p> - -<p>"It is true. Mrs. Gately let you in, as she informed me the next -morning."</p> - -<p>Maurice Graham looked very much disconcerted, and looked eagerly to the -Jersey shore, which they were fast approaching.</p> - -<p>"Do you know that I would have had no breakfast if Mrs. Gately had not -taken compassion on me?"</p> - -<p>"You don't look—very destitute—now."</p> - -<p>"I am not. I have been lucky enough to find a good position. But that -thirty-five dollars belonged to me. How much of it can you return to -me?"</p> - -<p>Maurice Graham colored and looked embarrassed.</p> - -<p>"I—the fact is," he stammered, "I'm almost broke."</p> - -<p>"Is this true?"</p> - -<p>"On my honor I've only got a dollar and ten cents in my pocket, and I -don't<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_285" id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span> know what will become of me when that is gone."</p> - -<p>"You have got rid of it very quick."</p> - -<p>"I've been a fool," said Graham gloomily. "I spent it mostly on pool and -drinks. Then of course I've had to live."</p> - -<p>"But your situation——"</p> - -<p>"I haven't any."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you will meet another boy from the country."</p> - -<p>"I treated you awful mean—I know I did," burst out Graham, "and I've -been very sorry for it. I've often wished that I had left you five -dollars."</p> - -<p>"Well, that would have helped me. But don't you think it would have been -better to have left me the whole?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, it would; but I am very unlucky."</p> - -<p>"I am afraid you don't deserve good luck. Isn't there anything you can -do?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"Can't you find another broker to take you in his office?"</p> - -<p>"I never was in a broker's office," confessed Graham.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_286" id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span></p><p>"What was your business, then? I suppose you had some way of making a -living?"</p> - -<p>"I am a barber by trade, but I got tired of the confinement, and so I -thought I'd become a sport. I started out with a hundred dollars which -it took me a year to save up, and I got rid of it in two weeks. Then I -fell in with you."</p> - -<p>"And with my thirty-five dollars."</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"The best thing you can do is to go back to your business."</p> - -<p>"I would if I could."</p> - -<p>"Why can't you?"</p> - -<p>"Because my razors are in hock."</p> - -<p>It is the custom of journeymen barbers to supply their own razors and a -pair of shears for hair-cutting.</p> - -<p>"I suppose that means in pawn?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"When can you get a place if you get your razors back?"</p> - -<p>"I can go to work to-morrow."</p> - -<p>"What sum will get them out?"</p> - -<p>"Four dollars and a half."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_287" id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span></p><p>"Where are they?"</p> - -<p>"In a pawnshop on the Bowery."</p> - -<p>"Come with me and I will get them out for you if you will promise to go -to work."</p> - -<p>"I will," answered Graham earnestly. "I'll give you my word I will."</p> - -<p>"Come back on the next boat, then, and I will go with you to the -pawnshop."</p> - -<p>"It will take up your time. You don't mean to give me in charge when we -reach New York?" said Graham apprehensively.</p> - -<p>"No; I am willing to give you a fresh chance. I hope you will improve -it."</p> - -<p>Jed took out his watch to note the time.</p> - -<p>"Is that watch yours? It's a beauty," said Graham.</p> - -<p>"Yes; it came from Tiffany's."</p> - -<p>"Did you have it when I met you?"</p> - -<p>"No; if I had, that would have gone the same way as the money."</p> - -<p>"You must be awfully lucky!"</p> - -<p>"I suppose I have been. At any rate I have been honest."</p> - -<p>"Honesty seems to pay. I must try it."</p> - -<p>"I advise you to," said Jed, smiling.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_288" id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a></span></p><p>When Jed parted from Graham it occurred to him that he would call on -Mrs. Gately. She had provided him with a breakfast when he needed one, -and seemed kindly disposed towards him.</p> - -<p>When he rang the bell of the small house on Twenty-Seventh Street, Mrs. -Gately herself came to the door.</p> - -<p>"Did you wish to see me, sir?"</p> - -<p>"You don't remember me, Mrs. Gately?"</p> - -<p>The old lady peered through her glasses.</p> - -<p>"Why bless me!" she said, "if it isn't the young man from the country. -But you're dressed so fine I hardly knew you. I hope you're prosperin'."</p> - -<p>"Yes, thank you, Mrs. Gately. I have been quite lucky, but I was pretty -low in spirits as well as in pockets when I left you."</p> - -<p>"Why, you're lookin' fine. Won't you stay for supper? Luella Dickinson -will be home soon—she that tends at Macy's. I've often spoken to her -about you. Luella's very romantic."</p> - -<p>"I am not, Mrs. Gately, and I'm afraid I can't stop. I must be on board -my yacht in an hour."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_289" id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span></p><p>"Your yacht! Bless me, you don't mean to say you've got a yacht?"</p> - -<p>"Well, it belongs to a friend, but we enjoy it together."</p> - -<p>"Have you seen the bad young man who robbed you?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; I saw him this afternoon."</p> - -<p>"You don't say! Did you have him arrested?"</p> - -<p>"No; I helped him get some things out of pawn."</p> - -<p>"That's a real Christian act, but I don't think I'd have done it. You -deserve to prosper. I wish you could stay and meet Luella."</p> - -<p>"Some other time, Mrs. Gately."</p> - -<p>At supper the landlady told Miss Dickinson of Jed's call. Luella -expressed great regret that she had not seen him.</p> - -<p>"I should fall in love with Mr. Gilman, I know I would," she said. "Why -didn't you ask him to call at Macy's?"</p> - -<p>"I will when I see him again."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_290" id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXII.</span> <span class="smaller">AT BAR HARBOR.</span></h2> - -<p>About eleven o'clock one forenoon the yacht Juno came to anchor in the -harbor of Mount Desert.</p> - -<p>Jed gazed admiringly at the rugged shores, the picturesque village, the -background of hills, the smaller islands surrounding the main island, -like the satellites of a larger planet.</p> - -<p>"It is beautiful!" he said. "I never dreamed of such a place."</p> - -<p>"Yes," said Roper, "it is by far the most attractive island on the -American coast. I think we shall find it pleasant to stay here for a -time."</p> - -<p>"I shall enjoy it at any rate," said Jed. "Where shall we stay?"</p> - -<p>"I generally go to the Newport. It is one of the smaller hotels, but its -location is excellent, being very near the water. Besides, I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_291" id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span> am -expecting my aunt, Mrs. Frost, to arrive in a few days. She always goes -to the Newport, and has the same room every year. There is the hotel -yonder."</p> - -<p>Mr. Roper pointed out a pleasant but unpretentious hostelry on the left -of the pier.</p> - -<p>"The large house farther up the hill is Rodick's," he said. "Rodick is -an old name at Mount Desert, and the island just across from the wharf, -separated by a bar, was once called Rodick's island."</p> - -<p>The yacht was anchored, and Jed and Mr. Roper were rowed to shore. They -secured rooms at the Newport, and walked up the hill.</p> - -<p>As they passed the post-office Schuyler Roper said, "I will see if there -are any letters awaiting me. There may be one from my aunt."</p> - -<p>Jed waited at the door. Mr. Roper came out, holding a letter which he -regarded with some curiosity.</p> - -<p>"Here is a letter in an unknown hand, post-marked Scranton," he said. "I -don't know any person living there."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_292" id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a></span></p><p>"I do," said Jed. "It was my old home."</p> - -<p>"Then why should it be addressed to me? It ought to have been sent to -you."</p> - -<p>"Will you let me see the handwriting?" asked Jed.</p> - -<p>His heart beat a little rapidly, for he recognized the hand as that of -Percy Dixon.</p> - -<p>"I know who it is from," he said.</p> - -<p>"Is it from a friend of yours?"</p> - -<p>"No, an enemy."</p> - -<p>"I don't understand."</p> - -<p>"You will understand when you come to read it, Mr. Roper. It is from a -boy whom I entertained on the yacht three days before we sailed for Bar -Harbor. He has probably written you in the hope of injuring me."</p> - -<p>"Does he know anything to your disadvantage then?"</p> - -<p>"Not to the disadvantage of my character. But please read the letter, -Mr. Roper, and then you will understand."</p> - -<p>Schuyler Roper's curiosity was aroused, and he cut open the envelope. -The letter, which was written in a schoolboy hand, read thus:</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_293" id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span></p><blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Dear Sir</span>:</p> - -<p>Though I am a stranger to you, I will take the liberty to write and -let you know something of the boy who is travelling with you. He is -not fit to associate with a gentleman like yourself, for he was -brought up in the poorhouse in this place, and lived here till four -months ago, when he ran away, and has been living since by hook or -by crook. He has a great deal of cheek, and that is what has helped -him to push himself in among people who are far above him.</p> - -<p>Perhaps you may like to know who I am. My father, Squire Dixon, is -a prominent man in Scranton, and is Overseer of the Poor, which -makes him a sort of guardian of Jed Gilman. He could force him to -go back to his old home, but the boy gave so much trouble, being -naturally headstrong and rebellious, that he thinks it best to let -him follow his own course. Probably Jed will some time apply to be -taken back to his old home, as he is likely to be found out to be -an impostor sooner or later.</p> - -<p>I have taken the trouble to write you because my father thinks it -very proper that you should know the character of the boy whom you -have taken into your employ. When I was in New York lately he -invited me to go on board of your yacht in order to show off. He -made as free as if the yacht were his own, treating me to a lunch, -and ordering the men around as if he owned the yacht. I couldn't -help being amused, remembering that he was nothing but a pauper a -few months since.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_294" id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a></span></p><p>Excuse me for taking up so much of your valuable time. I have no -ill-will against Jed, but I should think better of him if he would -keep his place, and not try to intrude into fashionable society.</p> - -<p class="right">Yours respectfully,<span class="s3"> </span><br /> -<span class="smcap">Percy Dixon</span>.</p></blockquote> - -<p>Jed noticed the face of Mr. Roper rather anxiously when he was reading -this letter.</p> - -<p>"Will it prejudice him against me?" he asked himself.</p> - -<p>He felt that in that case he should indeed be depressed, for he had come -to have a sincere attachment for his patron. He was reassured by the -smile that lighted up the young man's countenance as he finished reading -the letter.</p> - -<p>"This letter appears to have been written by a great friend of yours, -Jed," he said. "He is a great friend of mine, too, for he seems afraid -that I shall be injured by associating with you, and so puts me on my -guard."</p> - -<p>"I thought as much," said Jed. "I suppose he tells you that I was -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_295" id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span></p><p>"Yes; is this true?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Jed soberly.</p> - -<p>"But how did it happen? Did your parents lose their property?"</p> - -<p>"I know nothing of them, Mr. Roper. I was only two years of age when I -was placed in the poorhouse. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge. They -were kind people and took good care of me."</p> - -<p>"Did they never tell you the circumstances of your being placed in the -institution?"</p> - -<p>"No; but Mrs. Avery always promised that she would tell me all she knew -on my sixteenth birthday."</p> - -<p>"Are you not sixteen yet?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; but when I reached that age Mr. and Mrs. Fogson were in charge of -the poorhouse. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were removed by the father of this -Percy Dixon who has written to you."</p> - -<p>"What sort of people are they?"</p> - -<p>"Mean, selfish and unkind to the poor people who are unfortunate enough -to be under their charge. Mr. Fogson tried to tyrannize over me, and I -rebelled."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_296" id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span></p><p>"I can't blame you," said Roper.</p> - -<p>"Finally I ran away, as Percy writes. It was high time I did, for I felt -able to earn my own living, and was ashamed to be supported by the town, -though I am sure I did work enough to pay for the miserable board I got -at the poorhouse.</p> - -<p>"When Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge I did not feel my position. It -seemed to me as if I were living with kind friends. When they went away -I realized that I was a pauper. Indeed, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson reminded me -of it half a dozen times a day."</p> - -<p>"So you ran away? What did you do first?"</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you will laugh, Mr. Roper, but I became an actor."</p> - -<p>Schuyler Roper looked amazed.</p> - -<p>"But how on earth did you get a chance to go on the stage?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Through an actor whose acquaintance I made. He was playing in 'The Gold -King.' The young actor who took the boy's part was taken suddenly sick, -and they tried me. The manager seemed satisfied, and I played in it till -the end of the season."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_297" id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span></p><p>"There must be something in you, Jed, or you could not have met the -requirements of such a position. Well, and what next?"</p> - -<p>"I went to Sea Spray and was given the charge of a young boy, boarding -at the Spray Hotel, by his father. I lost the place through the same -Percy Dixon who wrote to you."</p> - -<p>"How was that?"</p> - -<p>"He informed the boy's aunt, in the absence of his father at Chicago, -that I was only a pauper, and Miss Maria Holbrook discharged me at -once."</p> - -<p>"Do you think Mr. Holbrook would have discharged you?"</p> - -<p>"I don't think so, for the boy was very fond of me."</p> - -<p>"So am I, Jed," said Mr. Roper affectionately, "and I shall not allow -young Dixon to separate us."</p> - -<p>"Thank you, Mr. Roper," replied Jed gratefully.</p> - -<p>"As to your history, you ought to know more of it. When we leave Bar -Harbor I will let you go back to Scranton and obtain from the Averys all -the information you can.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_298" id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span> You may get a clew that may lead to a -discovery of your parentage."</p> - -<p>"I hope so," answered Jed. "I don't like to feel that I have no -relations."</p> - -<p>"Meanwhile you may take this letter of your friend Percy's and answer it -as you see fit."</p> - -<p>A few days later Percy Dixon received the following letter:</p> - -<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">My Dear and Considerate Friend Percy</span>:</p> - -<p>Mr. Roper has asked me to answer your kind letter. He appreciates -your interest in him, but he doesn't seem to think that my company -will injure him as much as you imagine. He thinks I shall enjoy -myself better with him than in the company of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, -and therefore won't send me away. We are staying at the Newport -House, and enjoying ourselves very much. If you come down this way -call on us, and I will give you a good dinner. Tell Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson not to worry about me, as I am well and happy.</p> - -<p class="right">Yours truly,<span class="s3"> </span><br /> -<span class="smcap">Jed Gilman</span>.</p></blockquote> - -<p>"I never saw such cheek!" said Percy in mortified anger as he tore Jed's -letter to pieces. "It is strange how that young pauper prospers. But it -won't always last!" and this reflection afforded him some satisfaction.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_299" id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE POORHOUSE RECEIVES TWO VISITORS.</span></h2> - -<p>Let us change the scene to the Scranton poorhouse. Mr. Fogson has just -come in from splitting wood. It was a task to which he was very much -averse, but he had not been able to find any one to fill Jed's place.</p> - -<p>"Drat that boy!" he said, as he sank into a chair.</p> - -<p>"What boy?"</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman. He ought to be here at work instead of roaming round doing -no good to himself or anybody else."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps he would be glad to come back. I dare say he has seen the time -when he didn't know where his next meal was coming from," rejoined Mrs. -Fogson hopefully.</p> - -<p>"I hope so."</p> - -<p>"I don't know as I want him back," went on the woman.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_300" id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span></p><p>"I do! He's good for splitting wood, if he ain't good for anything -else."</p> - -<p>At this moment a knock was heard at the door, and Percy Dixon entered -the house.</p> - -<p>"How do you do, Master Percy?" said Mrs. Fogson deferentially. "I am -always glad to see you enter our humble house."</p> - -<p>"We were just talking of Jed Gilman before you came in," added Fogson.</p> - -<p>"I saw him two days since," said Percy.</p> - -<p>"You did!" exclaimed Fogson eagerly. "Where was he?"</p> - -<p>"In the streets of New York. You know I went to the city Tuesday."</p> - -<p>"What was he doing—blacking boots for a living?"</p> - -<p>"Not much! I wish he was. That boy is about the luckiest chap I ever set -eyes on."</p> - -<p>"What did he do?" asked Mrs. Fogson curiously.</p> - -<p>"Invited me to go on board his yacht."</p> - -<p>"What!"</p> - -<p>"That's just what he did."</p> - -<p>"He was bluffing. He wanted to deceive you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_301" id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span></p><p>"No he didn't, for I accepted his invitation and went on board."</p> - -<p>"You don't say! Jed Gilman got a yacht!" exclaimed Fogson, his eyes -almost protruding from their sockets.</p> - -<p>"Well, I don't say it's his, but he acts as if it were. He hired a boat -to take me out to the Juno—that's the name of the yacht, and it's a -regular beauty—and took me on board and treated me to some lunch. He -ordered the men about just as if he were a gentleman."</p> - -<p>"Well, of all things!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson, looking surprised and -scandalized. "Did he explain how he came to have anything to do with the -boat?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; he said the owner had taken a fancy to him and was taking care of -him."</p> - -<p>"Did he say who the owner was?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; it's Schuyler Roper, a rich young man living in New York."</p> - -<p>"Well, what next?"</p> - -<p>"I stayed on board an hour or more, and then went back to the city."</p> - -<p>"It seems strange how that boy gets along. Mr. Roper will find him out -sooner or later."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_302" id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span></p><p>"I should say he would. I've written him a letter, and I brought it -along, thinking you might like to hear it read."</p> - -<p>So Percy read the letter already laid before the reader in the last -chapter.</p> - -<p>Mr. and Mrs. Fogson nodded delighted approval as Percy read his exposure -of Jed's humble past.</p> - -<p>"I do say that's about the best-written letter I ever heard," said Mrs. -Fogson, as Percy concluded.</p> - -<p>"Do you think so?" asked Percy with a gratified smile.</p> - -<p>"Think so! I am sure of it. Master Percy, I had no idea you had so much -talent. Did it take you long to write it?"</p> - -<p>"Oh no, I just dashed it off in a few minutes," answered Percy -carelessly.</p> - -<p>"You ought to be a lawyer; you do express things so neat. Don't you -think so, Simeon?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, Mrs. Fogson. I always thought Percy a smart boy. But where are you -going to send the letter?"</p> - -<p>"To Bar Harbor. Jed said that they were going there in a day or two. I -thought Mr.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_303" id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span> Roper ought to know what a low fellow he has with him."</p> - -<p>"Of course he ought. You've only done your duty in informing him against -Jed. When are you going to mail the letter?"</p> - -<p>"To-night. It'll go off the first thing to-morrow morning."</p> - -<p>"I'm very much obliged to you for letting us hear the letter, Master -Percy. I expect it'll cook Jed's goose."</p> - -<p>"Probably Mr. Roper will send him off as soon as he reads it. I'd just -like to be there when it is read."</p> - -<p>Percy left the poorhouse and went on his way to the post-office. He -sealed the letter, first reading it over again to himself complacently, -and inclined to agree with the Fogsons that it was a decidedly clever -piece of composition.</p> - -<p>He had hardly walked a hundred yards when he met a quiet-looking man of -medium height dressed in a gray suit.</p> - -<p>"Young man," said the stranger, "am I on my way to the poorhouse?"</p> - -<p>"Well, sir," replied Percy jocosely, "that depends on your habits."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_304" id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span></p><p>The other smiled.</p> - -<p>"I see you are a young man of original humor. Is the building used as a -poorhouse near by?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir, that is it," said Percy, pointing to the forlorn-looking -dwelling he had just left.</p> - -<p>"Thank you, sir," said the stranger, and resumed his walk.</p> - -<p>"I wonder what he wants," speculated Percy. "Perhaps he is a relation of -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. I wish I had asked him."</p> - -<p>The quiet-looking man was soon at the outer door of the poorhouse, and -knocked, for there was no bell.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fogson answered the knock, and surveyed the stranger with some -curiosity.</p> - -<p>"I believe this is the Scranton poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"And you, perhaps, are in charge."</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir. Did you wish to see any of the paupers?" asked Mrs. Fogson, -thinking that the visitor, who was inexpensively dressed, might be -related to some of her boarders.</p> - -<p>"First let me inquire how long you have been in your present position, -Mrs.——"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_305" id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span></p><p>"Fogson."</p> - -<p>"Exactly, Mrs. Fogson."</p> - -<p>"Me and Fogson have been here about a year."</p> - -<p>The stranger's countenance fell.</p> - -<p>"Only a year!" he repeated. "Who was here before you?"</p> - -<p>"Mr. and Mrs. Avery; but the Overseer of the Poor thought there was need -of a change, and persuaded me and Fogson to come here."</p> - -<p>"Very obliging of you!" murmured the visitor. "Can you tell me how long -Mr. and Mrs. Avery were here?"</p> - -<p>"Fifteen years."</p> - -<p>The stranger brightened up.</p> - -<p>"They live in the village—in a small four-room house not far from the -post-office."</p> - -<p>"Thank you," and the visitor took out a note-book and wrote something in -it. He stood a moment silent, and then said, in a hesitating tone, "Is -there a boy in the institution named Jed Gilman?"</p> - -<p>Instantly the face of Mrs. Fogson expressed surprise and curiosity.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_306" id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span></p><p>"There was!" she answered, "but he's run away."</p> - -<p>"Run away!" ejaculated the stranger, looking disappointed.</p> - -<p>"Yes; he was a bad, rebellious boy. Me and Fogson couldn't do anything -with him."</p> - -<p>"It is very sad," said the visitor with a dubious smile.</p> - -<p>"Do you want to see him particular?" asked Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Yes; I wished to see him."</p> - -<p>"Has he got into any scrape?" asked she with malicious eagerness.</p> - -<p>The visitor eyed Mrs. Fogson closely, and saw at once that she was Jed's -enemy.</p> - -<p>"That's about the size of it," he answered. "Of course as you are his -friend you would rather not tell me where he is."</p> - -<p>"Who said I was his friend? I'll tell you with pleasure. Percy Dixon -came and told me only a few minutes since. He's probably at Bar Harbor, -or he'll get there some time this week."</p> - -<p>"Bar Harbor!" repeated the visitor in evident surprise.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_307" id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span></p><p>"Yes; he's working for a Mr. Roper—Mr. Schuyler Roper. He went down -there on a yacht. If you want to arrest him, or anything, you'd better -go down there right off, for Percy Dixon has written to Mr. Roper that -Jed was brought up in the poorhouse, and will probably get bounced very -soon."</p> - -<p>"Thank you very much for telling me, Mrs. Fogson. I am glad you have put -me on his track."</p> - -<p>"You don't mind telling me what he has been doing?" asked the lady.</p> - -<p>"No; I might defeat the ends of justice by doing so."</p> - -<p>"Just so!" rejoined Mrs. Fogson. "I do wonder what that boy's done?" she -said to herself as the stranger turned into the public road. "Very -likely it's burglary, or forgery."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_308" id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXIV.</span> <span class="smaller">THE DETECTIVE.</span></h2> - -<p>The man in drab smiled to himself as he left the presence of Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"I wonder whether that woman's husband has her amiable traits?" he -speculated. "If so, the Scranton poor must be made very uncomfortable."</p> - -<p>As he reached the village he met Percy Dixon once more. Percy had an -ungovernable curiosity, and he crossed the street to intercept the -stranger.</p> - -<p>"I suppose you found the poorhouse," he said suggestively.</p> - -<p>"Yes; I could not miss it after your clear directions."</p> - -<p>"Are you related to Mr. and Mrs. Fogson?" asked Percy, rather boldly.</p> - -<p>"Well no," answered the stranger with a smile. "I haven't the honor."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_309" id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span></p><p>"Have you any relations among the paupers?"</p> - -<p>"Not that I am aware of. However, I called to inquire after one of -them—a boy."</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman?" said Percy eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Yes; I believe that is his name. Are you acquainted with him?"</p> - -<p>"I have known him for years."</p> - -<p>"I suppose he is a friend of yours?"</p> - -<p>"Not much. Do you think I would be friends with a pauper?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know. I see no reason why not if he is a nice boy."</p> - -<p>"But Jed isn't a nice boy. He's an artful, forward, presuming young -jackanapes, and was awfully troublesome."</p> - -<p>"I am sorry to hear it. Mrs. Fogson seems to think of him very much as -you do."</p> - -<p>"I should think she would. She and Fogson couldn't do anything with -him."</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson says he isn't there now."</p> - -<p>"No; he ran away after making a brutal assault on Fogson."</p> - -<p>The man in drab felt an inclination to smile, but suppressed it.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_310" id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span></p><p>"I don't know as I ought to have spoken against him," continued Percy -with a cunning look of inquiry. "You may be after him."</p> - -<p>The man in drab paused a moment, then assuming a look of mystery, said, -"Can you keep a secret?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered Percy eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Come here, then."</p> - -<p>Percy drew near, and the other whispered mysteriously, "<i>I am a -detective!</i>"</p> - -<p>"You don't say so!" ejaculated Percy, gazing at him with a species of -awe, begotten of his idea of detectives as introduced into books which -he had read.</p> - -<p>The other nodded.</p> - -<p>"And I am after Jed Gilman!" he continued.</p> - -<p>"Is that so?" said the delighted Percy. "What has he done?"</p> - -<p>"That is a secret which I am not permitted to reveal at present."</p> - -<p>"Do you want to find him?"</p> - -<p>"Very much."</p> - -<p>"Then I'll tell you where he is. He's gone to Bar Harbor—in Maine, you -know."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_311" id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span></p><p>The detective nodded.</p> - -<p>"He went on a yacht—the Juno—owned by Mr. Schuyler Roper—a rich New -York gentleman."</p> - -<p>"But how did he get into such company?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, Mr. Roper took pity on him and gave him a place."</p> - -<p>"Then you think he is comfortably situated?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, but he won't be long."</p> - -<p>"Why not?"</p> - -<p>"Because I have written a letter to Mr. Roper, telling him Jed's real -character. I expect he'll be bounced when that letter arrives."</p> - -<p>"That would upset all my plans and enable him to escape."</p> - -<p>Percy looked perplexed and disappointed.</p> - -<p>"I am sorry for that," he said. "I guess I'd better write again and tell -him to keep Jed another week."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you had better do so. Say that—— But no. I will telegraph to -him to keep Jed with him till I arrive."</p> - -<p>"That'll do better. You couldn't possibly tell me what Jed has done?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_312" id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span></p><p>"Not at present."</p> - -<p>"You'll let me know sometime?"</p> - -<p>"I think I shall be able to gratify your curiosity before long."</p> - -<p>"I'll give you my address, and you can write to me. I wish I knew -whether Jed had stolen anything or not."</p> - -<p>"I cannot say a word! My lips are sealed!" said the detective in a -solemn tone.</p> - -<p>Percy was impressed. The man in drab quite came up to his idea of a -detective.</p> - -<p>"By the way," said his companion, "I want to call on Mr. and Mrs. Avery, -who, I understand, know something of the boy's early life."</p> - -<p>"They live there—in that small house. I'll go with you."</p> - -<p>"No, I prefer to go alone. One can't be too careful."</p> - -<p>"All right," said Percy. "I wonder what under the canopy Jed's been -doing? It's likely he'll have to go to jail."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_313" id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXV.</span> <span class="smaller">MRS. AVERY'S STORY.</span></h2> - -<p>The detective crossed the street, walked up a tiny footpath and rang the -bell of the small house.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Avery came to the door, a gentle-faced little woman with white -hair. She looked inquiringly at the visitor.</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Avery, I believe?" said the man in drab.</p> - -<p>"That is my name."</p> - -<p>"I would like the favor of a few words with you, madam."</p> - -<p>"Come in then," and she led the way to a modest sitting-room.</p> - -<p>"My husband," she said, introducing him to a kindly old man, as -white-haired as herself.</p> - -<p>"My name is Fletcher," said the visitor, "and I have come to you for -information. But first, am I right in my belief that you<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_314" id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a></span> were once in -charge of the Scranton poorhouse?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir. My husband and I had charge of it for fifteen years. We -should have been there now, but for Squire Dixon, the new Overseer of -the Poor, who wanted the place for some friends of his, Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson."</p> - -<p>"I have had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Fogson," said Fletcher with a -smile. "I am sure, now that I have seen you both, that the change was -for the worse."</p> - -<p>"I fear that the poor people are very shabbily treated," said Mrs. Avery -gravely. "It makes me feel very badly, but what can I do? Squire Dixon -sustains them, and he has everything to say. But you say you want some -information. I shall be glad to tell you what I can."</p> - -<p>"I want information touching a boy, now perhaps sixteen years of age, -bearing the name of Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>Mr. and Mrs. Avery immediately showed signs of interest.</p> - -<p>"He has left the poorhouse," said Mr. Avery.</p> - -<p>"So I am told."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_315" id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span></p><p>"Do you inquire as a friend of the poor boy?" asked Mrs. Avery.</p> - -<p>"Emphatically his friend. But first tell me, what kind of a boy is he?"</p> - -<p>"A fine, manly, spirited lad, warm-hearted and attractive."</p> - -<p>The detective looked pleased, but surprised.</p> - -<p>"That doesn't correspond with what Mrs. Fogson told me," he said.</p> - -<p>"I suppose not. She and her husband tried to bully Jed and overwork him, -till he was compelled to run away. I don't know where he is now."</p> - -<p>"But I do. He is at Bar Harbor, in the company of a rich gentleman from -New York, and I believe employed on his yacht."</p> - -<p>"I am thankful to hear it."</p> - -<p>"But what I wish to learn are the circumstances attending his being -placed at the poorhouse. I suppose you remember them?"</p> - -<p>"Oh yes, as well as if it were yesterday, though it is fourteen years -since."</p> - -<p>"Go on, madam, I am all interest."</p> - -<p>"It was a cold evening in November," began Mrs. Avery reflectively, "and -I was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_316" id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span> about to lock up, though it was but nine o'clock, for we kept -early hours at the poorhouse, when there was a knock at the door. I -opened it and saw before me a young woman of dark hair and complexion, -holding by the hand a pretty boy of about two years of age.</p> - -<p>"'Can you give me and my boy a night's lodging?' she asked.</p> - -<p>"We often had such applications, and never sent away a decent-looking -person. So I said yes readily enough and the two entered. They seemed -hungry, and though it was late for us I gave them some bread and milk, -of which the child in particular partook heartily. I asked the young -woman some questions but she was very close-mouthed.</p> - -<p>"'Wait till morning,' she said. 'The boy and I are very tired.'</p> - -<p>"I asked no more but gave them a bed, and I suppose they both slept -well. I was able to give them a small room to themselves.</p> - -<p>"In the morning when I entered I found only the boy. The young woman had -gone, but pinned to the child's clothing was this note:</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_317" id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span></p><blockquote><p>"'I am obliged to leave the boy with you for the present. I hope -you will take care of him. His name is Jed Gilman. Some time he -will probably be called for. Don't try to find me for it will be -useless.'</p></blockquote> - -<p>"That was all. Mr. Avery and myself were dumfounded, but we had taken a -fancy to the boy and resolved to keep him. There was some difficulty -about it, for he was not legally entitled to be brought up at the town's -cost. However, Mr. Avery and I agreed to pay part of the expense for the -first year, and after that he was looked upon as one of the regular -inmates and cared for as such."</p> - -<p>"And the young woman never called again?"</p> - -<p>"Never."</p> - -<p>"Nor sent you any message, oral or written?"</p> - -<p>"Never."</p> - -<p>"Was there any article of dress, or any ornament, left with the child -that might help to identify it?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. Wait here a minute and I will show you something which I have -carefully preserved from that day to this."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_318" id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXVI.</span> <span class="smaller">"WHO WAS JED?"</span></h2> - -<p>Mrs. Avery went up stairs to her own room, but reappeared in five -minutes. She had in her hand an old-fashioned gold locket.</p> - -<p>"This," she said, "was attached to the neck of the boy when he came into -our hands."</p> - -<p>"Have you opened it?" asked the detective eagerly. "Is there a picture -inside?"</p> - -<p>"There are two miniatures—one on each side."</p> - -<p>She opened the locket, and it proved to be as she said.</p> - -<p>One of these was a miniature of a young and handsome man, apparently -thirty years of age, the other of a young lady with a very sweet and -attractive face, probably five years younger.</p> - -<p>"These must represent the parents of the boy Jed," said the detective.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_319" id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span></p><p>"So we concluded—Mr. Avery and myself."</p> - -<p>"Does the lady bear any resemblance to the girl who brought the child to you?"</p> - -<p>"Not the slightest. The girl was common in appearance. She probably -filled the position of a servant or nursemaid."</p> - -<p>"Did it occur to you that she might be in any way related to the child?"</p> - -<p>"Not for a moment. He was evidently the child of parents wealthy or well -to do."</p> - -<p>"Did you form any conjectures relative to her or her object in bringing -you the child?"</p> - -<p>"No. There was nothing to serve as a clew. It was all guesswork on our -part. Still the thought did occur to us that the child had been stolen -or abducted from his people for some reason unknown to us."</p> - -<p>The detective hesitated a moment, and then, having apparently made up -his mind to confide in the worthy couple, said: "Your guess was very -near the truth. The child, I have every reason to believe, was stolen -from its mother—the father was dead—through the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_320" id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span> machinations of an -uncle who wanted the boy's title and estate."</p> - -<p>"Title!" exclaimed Mrs. Avery, in great surprise.</p> - -<p>"Yes. This boy I believe to be the only son of the late Sir Charles -Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, Gloucestershire, England."</p> - -<p>"Well, well!" ejaculated Mrs. Avery. "Then if the boy had his rights -would he be Sir Jed Gilman?"</p> - -<p>"No," answered the detective smiling. "He has no more claim to the name -Jed Gilman than I have."</p> - -<p>"What is his real name?"</p> - -<p>"Robert Fenwick, as I have every reason to believe."</p> - -<p>"Why has there been no search for him till now?"</p> - -<p>"There has been a search covering all the intervening years; but the -mother, who is still living, had no information to guide her, and the -search has been a groping in the dark."</p> - -<p>"And did the wicked uncle get the title and estate?" asked Mrs. Avery.</p> - -<p>"Yes. He is enjoying both now."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_321" id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span></p><p>"Is it a large estate?"</p> - -<p>"It would not be considered large in England. Probably it amounts to -five thousand pounds annual rental."</p> - -<p>"Five thousand pounds!" said Mrs. Avery.</p> - -<p>"Yes, or in our money about twenty-five thousand dollars."</p> - -<p>"And this large estate ought to belong to poor Jed?"</p> - -<p>"I submit that, if so, he will not need to be called poor Jed."</p> - -<p>"And you say that the mother is living?"</p> - -<p>"She is living, and in New York. She is comfortably established at the -Windsor Hotel on Fifth Avenue. It is by her that I am employed. This is -my card."</p> - -<p>He drew out a small card bearing the name</p> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">James Peake</span>.</p> - -<p>"Yes. I am an American," he said in reply to a question by Mrs. Avery. -"I am a New York detective, and was detailed for this work by Inspector -Byrnes."</p> - -<p>"What sort of a person is Jed's mother?" asked Mrs. Avery.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_322" id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span></p><p>"Still a beautiful woman, though she cannot be far from forty years of -age."</p> - -<p>"Does she look like the picture in the locket?"</p> - -<p>"There is considerable resemblance—of course, making allowance for the -difference in the ages of the two. This locket, Mrs. Avery, is most -important, and will, I think, establish the identity of Jed Gilman with -the stolen heir of the Fenwick estate. Will you permit me to take it and -show it to Lady Fenwick?"</p> - -<p>"Has she a title, too?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly. She was the wife of Sir Charles Fenwick."</p> - -<p>"And what is the name of the wicked uncle?"</p> - -<p>"Guy Fenwick. He is known as Sir Guy Fenwick, but probably, almost -positively, has no rightful claim to the title."</p> - -<p>"Does he know that you are looking for his nephew?"</p> - -<p>"I presume he has taken measures to keep acquainted with all the -movements of Lady Fenwick."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_323" id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span></p><p>"I wonder how the girl came to give the boy the name of Jed Gilman?"</p> - -<p>"I think I can explain this. The name of this treacherous nursemaid was -Jane Gilman. She selected a name as near to her own as possible. You say -you have neither seen nor heard anything of this girl since Jed was left -in your hands?"</p> - -<p>"We have heard nothing whatever."</p> - -<p>At this moment there was a ring at the door-bell—a sharp, quick, -impatient ring.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Avery answered it.</p> - -<p>She came back, her face showing excitement.</p> - -<p>"It is a woman of middle age," she said, "and she, too, has come to make -inquiries about Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>The detective also looked excited.</p> - -<p>"Do you think," he asked, "it can be Jane Gilman herself come back after -all these years?"</p> - -<p>"That's it!" said Mrs. Avery, her face lighting up. "I wondered where I -had seen her face before. Now, though she is so much older, I recognize -in this middle-aged woman<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_324" id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span> the girl who brought Jed to the door fourteen -years ago."</p> - -<p>"Bring her in here, hear what she has to say, and place me somewhere, so -that, myself unseen, I can hear what she says."</p> - -<p>This was what the detective said in a quick, decided tone.</p> - -<p>"Very well, sir, go in there. It is a small bedroom. You can keep the -door ajar."</p> - -<p>The detective lost no time in concealing himself.</p> - -<p>The woman came in. She was a stout, florid-complexioned woman, rather -showily dressed, with the look of an Englishwoman of the middle class.</p> - -<p>Before we proceed to record the interview that took place between Mr. -and Mrs. Avery and herself we must go back again to the poorhouse, and -our friends, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p>Twenty minutes after the departure of James Peake, the detective, this -woman knocked at the door of the poorhouse.</p> - -<p>Her summons was answered by Mrs. Fogson.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_325" id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span></p><p>"What's wanted?" asked the poorhouse matron, looking inquisitively at -the new arrival.</p> - -<p>"Is there a boy named Jed Gilman living here?" asked the woman eagerly.</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman again!" repeated Mrs. Fogson. "What do you want of Jed -Gilman?"</p> - -<p>"Answer my question first, if you please."</p> - -<p>"Such a boy was living here till lately, but he became very troublesome -and finally ran away."</p> - -<p>"Then he is not here now?" said the woman, looking very much -disappointed.</p> - -<p>"No, but I expect he'll have to come back some time. A bad penny -generally returns. You haven't told me what you have to do with him?"</p> - -<p>"Then I will tell you. I was the person who brought him here fourteen -years ago."</p> - -<p>"You don't say so?" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson, her little bead-like eyes -sparkling with curiosity. "Was he your child?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly not, but he was my brother's child."</p> - -<p>"And what was your object in bringing him here?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_326" id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a></span></p><p>"My brother was dead, and the child was thrown upon me for support," -answered the woman after a little hesitation. "I could not support him, -and so brought him where I thought he would have a home. But you are not -the woman who was in charge of the poorhouse at that time."</p> - -<p>"No; that was Mrs. Avery."</p> - -<p>"And is Mrs. Avery still living?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; she lives in a small house in the village."</p> - -<p>"I will go and see her."</p> - -<p>But this did not suit the views of Mrs. Fogson, who was curious to hear -more about the antecedents of Jed.</p> - -<p>"Won't you come in and take a cup of tea?" she asked with unusual -hospitality.</p> - -<p>"I don't care for tea—it's slops," answered the visitor. "If you could -give me a thimbleful of whiskey I wouldn't mind taking it. When I am -tired and dragged out it goes to the right spot."</p> - -<p>"Yes, I can give you a glass," answered Mrs. Fogson. "Me and Fogson -generally keeps a little in case of sickness, though we<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_327" id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span> wouldn't have -it known, as this is a temperance town."</p> - -<p>"You are safe with me, I won't mention it," said the caller.</p> - -<p>She then learned that Jed was probably at Bar Harbor; but Mrs. Fogson -found out very little from her in return. After a few minutes the -strange woman set out on her walk to the Avery cottage.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_328" id="Page_328">[Pg 328]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXVII.</span> <span class="smaller">JANE GILMAN.</span></h2> - -<p>The visitor took a seat in the rocking-chair offered her by Mrs. Avery.</p> - -<p>"Do you remember me?" she asked, throwing back her veil so as to give an -unobstructed view of her full, florid face.</p> - -<p>"Are you the girl who brought the boy Jed to me fourteen years ago?"</p> - -<p>"The same. I don't find you in your old place."</p> - -<p>"No; we—my husband and I—left the poor farm about a year since. Have -you been there?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I saw the new woman, and a spiteful piece she is, I'll be bound."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Avery smiled.</p> - -<p>"I don't admire Mrs. Fogson," she said, "but I suppose that is natural."</p> - -<p>"She tells me the boy is no longer in the poorhouse."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_329" id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span></p><p>"No."</p> - -<p>"Can you tell me why he left?"</p> - -<p>"He was ill-treated by Mr. and Mrs. Fogson."</p> - -<p>"That woman tells me he was very troublesome."</p> - -<p>"We never found him so, and up to a year ago he was under our charge."</p> - -<p>"I surmised as much. Then he has grown up a good boy?"</p> - -<p>"Excellent. I feel great affection for Jed."</p> - -<p>"That is gratifying to my feelings, seeing I am his aunt."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Avery regarded her visitor with surprise.</p> - -<p>"Do you claim Jed as your nephew?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"Certainly. He is the son of my only brother."</p> - -<p>But for her interview with the detective Mrs. Avery would have believed -this story. As it was, she did not choose to dispute it. She only sought -to draw out her visitor so as to understand better her object in -calling.</p> - -<p>"Are you willing to explain why it was<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_330" id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a></span> that you were led to place your -nephew under my care?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly. There is no secret about that <i>now</i>. My brother, who was a -blacksmith, failed, and was unable to support the boy."</p> - -<p>"What was your brother's name?"</p> - -<p>"Jedediah Gilman. That is why I desired to have the boy called Jed -Gilman, after his father. My name is Jane Gilman."</p> - -<p>"Then you are not married?"</p> - -<p>"No," said Miss Gilman. "Not but I might have been married half a dozen -times if I had wanted to. But the men are a shiftless lot, in my -opinion."</p> - -<p>"Not all of them. I never charged my husband with being shiftless."</p> - -<p>"Oh, well, there are exceptions. But I liked my freedom, so I am Jane -Gilman still. I may change my mind yet, and get married. There's a many -after me, and I am only thirty-two."</p> - -<p>Mrs. Avery was too polite to question her statement, but privately -decided that the other was ten years older.</p> - -<p>"Are you an American?" she asked.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_331" id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span></p><p>"No, I'm English, and I'm proud to own it."</p> - -<p>"Was Jed born in England?"</p> - -<p>Jane Gilman hesitated, but finally answered in the affirmative.</p> - -<p>"In what English town or village was he born?"</p> - -<p>"Oh, lor, you wouldn't know any better if I should tell you. My brother -came over here with Jed when he was a baby, to better his fortunes. He -went out to Iowa, leaving the baby with me. But I found I couldn't get a -place with a baby on my hands, and so I took it to the Scranton -poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"And where have you been since?"</p> - -<p>"I went to Philadelphia and got a position there. Since then I've been -in a many places."</p> - -<p>"I wonder you didn't write to me for some news of the baby."</p> - -<p>"I got news of him from time to time, though I don't mean to tell you -how," answered Jane Gilman with a cunning smile. "But I've been away for -the last three years, and so I didn't know that Jed had gone off."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_332" id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a></span></p><p>"You must be disappointed not to find him."</p> - -<p>"So I am. It seems so long since I've seen the dear child," and Jane -drew out a handkerchief of ample size and pressed it to her tearless -eyes. "Is he a nice-looking boy?"</p> - -<p>"He has a fine, frank, open face, but you'll excuse my saying that he -doesn't resemble you in the least."</p> - -<p>"No," answered Jane, not the least bit disconcerted. "He didn't look -like the Gilmans, but like his ma's family."</p> - -<p>"What was his mother's maiden name?"</p> - -<p>"Fenwick," responded Jane Gilman, having no suspicion that Mrs. Avery -had heard the name before.</p> - -<p>Mrs. Avery started.</p> - -<p>"I've heard that name before," she said.</p> - -<p>"Have you?" asked Jane, momentarily uneasy, but quickly recovering her -self-possession she reflected that the Averys could not possibly know -anything of Jed's real history. "I suppose there's a many Fenwicks in -the world and some of 'em in America. My<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_333" id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span> brother's wife was a -good-looking woman, and the boy takes after her."</p> - -<p>"She died young, I suppose?"</p> - -<p>"Only three months after he was born."</p> - -<p>"Is your brother still living?"</p> - -<p>"No; he was killed in a railroad accident out in Iowa six months since. -He was a brakeman on the railroad. He left me a tidy sum of money, and -said that I was to look up Jed."</p> - -<p>"This accounts for your visit, then?"</p> - -<p>"Yes; I want to take my nephew with me and see to his education, as my -brother wished me to."</p> - -<p>"Did Mrs. Fogson give you any idea where he was?"</p> - -<p>"She said he had run away, but she had information that he was at Bar -Harbor, wherever that is, in the service of some rich gentleman."</p> - -<p>"We have heard the same thing. What do you propose to do?"</p> - -<p>"I'll have to go there, I suppose. But there is one thing I want to ask -you about."</p> - -<p>"What is that?"</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_334" id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a></span></p><p>"When I left the baby with you there was a gold locket suspended from -his neck. Did you find it?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I found it."</p> - -<p>"I'll thank you if you'll give it to me. I meant to take it at the time, -but I went away in a hurry, as you know, and I thought it would be safe -in your hands."</p> - -<p>"I can't let you have it to-day, Miss Gilman."</p> - -<p>"And why not?" demanded Jane suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"I deposited it with a party I had confidence in, for safe keeping," -replied Mrs. Avery.</p> - -<p>"Then I'll be glad to have you get it as soon as you can. I want it," -rejoined Jane Gilman sharply.</p> - -<p>"How am I to feel sure you are entitled to it?" asked Mrs. Avery.</p> - -<p>"If I am not, who is, I'd like to know? I'm the one that left the boy -with you at the poorhouse."</p> - -<p>"I presume this is true."</p> - -<p>"Of course it's true. I'll tell you what,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_335" id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span> Mrs. Avery, I'm not much -pleased with your trying to keep the locket. Are you sure you haven't -sold or pawned it?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I am sure of that. But perhaps I shall not have to make you wait -long for it. The gentleman in whose hands I placed it is in this house -at this very minute."</p> - -<p>Jane Gilman looked very much surprised.</p> - -<p>"Where is he?" she asked.</p> - -<p>Detective Peake answered for himself. He stepped into the room from the -small bedroom and held up the locket.</p> - -<p>"Is this the one?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered the woman eagerly. "Give it to me."</p> - -<p>Mr. Peake quietly put it back into his pocket.</p> - -<p>"Not till I have asked you a few questions," he answered.</p> - -<p>"What right have you to ask me questions?" asked Jane defiantly.</p> - -<p>"I will assume that I have the right," the detective answered. "Whose -miniatures are those in the locket?"</p> - -<p>"They are my brother and his wife."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_336" id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a></span></p><p>"Your brother doesn't seem to look like you, Miss Gilman."</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you know better than I who it is," said Jane sullenly.</p> - -<p>"Well, perhaps so."</p> - -<p>"And who do you say they are?"</p> - -<p>"Sir Charles and Laura Fenwick of Fenwick Hall, England."</p> - -<p>Jane Gilman started to her feet in astonishment.</p> - -<p>"Who told you?" she asked hoarsely.</p> - -<p>"It is not necessary for me to tell you. It is enough that I am -commissioned by the boy's mother to find him and restore him to her. -There may be trouble in store for you, Miss Jane Gilman," he added -significantly.</p> - -<p>Jane Gilman fanned herself vigorously and seemed very ill at ease.</p> - -<p>"However," continued the detective, "you can save yourself and secure a -handsome reward by giving me all the help you can, and making full -confession of your stealing the child, and telling who instigated you to -do it."</p> - -<p>The woman hesitated, but her hesitation was brief.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_337" id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span></p><p>"Will you promise this?" she asked.</p> - -<p>"Yes. I am the confidential agent of Lady Fenwick, who is now in -America."</p> - -<p>"Then I'll do it. Guy Fenwick hasn't treated me right, and I don't mind -if I do go back on him. It was he that hired me to make off with little -Robert, though I didn't let him know what I did with him."</p> - -<p>"And what was your present object?"</p> - -<p>"To take the boy away and make Sir Guy pay a good round sum for my -keeping the secret."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_338" id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXVIII.</span> <span class="smaller">THE DETECTIVE SECURES AN ALLY.</span></h2> - -<p>"Are you in communication with Guy Fenwick? Do you know whether he is -now at Fenwick Hall?" asked the detective.</p> - -<p>"No, he is not there."</p> - -<p>"Where is he, then?"</p> - -<p>"At sea. In a day or two he will probably be in New York," answered Jane -Gilman coolly.</p> - -<p>Mr. Peake started. This was unexpected intelligence.</p> - -<p>"What brings him to New York?" he inquired hastily.</p> - -<p>"I do."</p> - -<p>"What do you mean by that?"</p> - -<p>"I wrote him some time since for a hundred pounds. He sent me five -pounds and told me that I needn't call on him again."</p> - -<p>"He doesn't seem much afraid of you."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_339" id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span></p><p>"No; he thought the boy was dead."</p> - -<p>"I suppose you told him so?"</p> - -<p>"I let him think that the boy had died of fever four years ago. That -made him feel safe, and he concluded that he had no more use for Jane -Gilman. He'll find out!" and Jane tossed her head, in an independent -manner.</p> - -<p>"Have you any letters from him in reference to the matter?" asked -Detective Peake.</p> - -<p>From a pocket of unknown depth Miss Gilman drew out an epistle which she -handed to the detective.</p> - -<p>"You can read it if you want to," she said.</p> - -<p>Mr. Peake opened the letter and read it. It ran thus:</p> - -<blockquote><p><span class="smcap">Miss Jane Gilman</span>:</p> - -<p>Your letter requesting me to send you a hundred pounds is received. -Your request is certainly an audacious one. Why I should send you a -hundred pounds, or even ten pounds, I am at a loss to imagine. The -boy Robert, whose existence you think would be dangerous to me, is -dead by your own admission, and my right to the Fenwick title and -estates is undisputed and indisputable. If you expect me to support -you for the balance of your life, your<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_340" id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a></span> expectations are doomed to -disappointment. You are strong and healthy, and are able to earn -your own living in the sphere in which you were born. Besides, if -you had been prudent you would have saved a considerable sum out of -the large pension you have received from me during the last dozen -or more years. I think it quite probable that you have a snug sum -invested and are not in any danger of suffering.</p> - -<p>Still I don't want to be hard upon you. I accordingly inclose a -five-pound note, which you will please consider as a final gift on -my part.</p> - -<p class="right"><span class="smcap">Guy Fenwick.</span></p></blockquote> - -<p>"Miss Gilman," said Detective Peake, "will you permit me to keep this -letter—for the present?"</p> - -<p>"What do you want to do with it?" asked Jane suspiciously.</p> - -<p>"Use it against the man who calls himself Sir Guy Fenwick. In connection -with your testimony it will prove valuable evidence."</p> - -<p>"You have promised that I shall be well paid?"</p> - -<p>"Yes, I can take it upon myself to promise that."</p> - -<p>"Very well. You may keep the letter."</p> - -<p>"One question more. You tell me that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_341" id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span> Sir Guy Fenwick is on his way to -New York. Can you tell me why he is coming?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. I dropped him a hint, in answer to this letter, that the boy -Robert was still living, and this alarmed my gentleman," she added with -a laugh.</p> - -<p>"Did he write you that he was coming?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"Have you that letter?"</p> - -<p>"No; but I can tell you what was in it. He wrote that he did not believe -my story, but he would come to New York, and I might call upon him at -the Brevoort House on Monday next."</p> - -<p>"You infer from that that he was anxious?"</p> - -<p>"It looks like it, doesn't it?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. What did you propose to say to him?"</p> - -<p>"That the boy was living, and that I could lay my hand upon him."</p> - -<p>"That is why you came to Scranton?"</p> - -<p>"Yes."</p> - -<p>"I see. The whole thing lies in a nutshell. Even without your evidence I -shall probably<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_342" id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a></span> be able to establish the rights of my young client. But -your help will make it surer."</p> - -<p>"I am at your service, if you will keep your promise. What do you want -me to do?"</p> - -<p>"Go with me to Bar Harbor and see the boy."</p> - -<p>"I would like to," said Jane Gilman with an expression of pleasure. "I -haven't seen him since he was a baby. I'd like to see how he looks now."</p> - -<p>"When he is restored to his title and estate he will not see you -suffer."</p> - -<p>"When will you start for Bar Harbor?"</p> - -<p>"We shall leave Scranton by the next train."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_343" id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XXXIX.</span> <span class="smaller">JED LEARNS WHO HE IS.</span></h2> - -<p>Mr. Roper and Jed were having a very enjoyable time at Bar Harbor. They -made trips, chiefly on foot, to the various interesting -localities—Schooner Head, Great Head, Hull's Cove and The Ovens—being -favored with unusually fine and clear weather. They had just returned at -four o'clock in the afternoon from a trip to the summit of Green -Mountain when they were informed at the hotel that a gentleman wished to -see them.</p> - -<p>Mr. Roper took the card and examined it.</p> - -<p>"James Peake," he said. "I don't know of any such person. Do you, Jed?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir," answered Jed.</p> - -<p>"You may bring him up," said Roper, turning to the bell boy.</p> - -<p>In less than a minute the latter reappeared, followed by a plain-looking -man, who scanned<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_344" id="Page_344">[Pg 344]</a></span> both attentively as he entered, but devoted the most -attention to Jed.</p> - -<p>"Mr. Peake?" said Schuyler Roper interrogatively.</p> - -<p>"Yes, sir."</p> - -<p>"You have business with me?"</p> - -<p>"Rather with your young friend. Is he known as Jed Gilman?"</p> - -<p>"Yes," answered the boy so designated.</p> - -<p>"I am a detective from the staff of Inspector Byrnes of New York."</p> - -<p>Jed blushed and looked uneasy. This announcement naturally alarmed him.</p> - -<p>"Am I charged with any offense?" he asked quickly.</p> - -<p>"No," answered Mr. Peake with a pleasant smile. "When I state my -business I am inclined to think you will be glad to see me."</p> - -<p>"I feel relieved, Jed," said Mr. Roper with a smile. "I took you without -a character, and I trembled lest some terrible charge was to be brought -against you."</p> - -<p>"Rest easy on that score, Mr. Roper," returned the detective. "My -mission may <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_345" id="Page_345">[Pg 345]</a></span>involve some one else in trouble, but not your young -friend. Will you permit me to ask him a few questions?"</p> - -<p>"I am sure he will be quite ready to answer any questions you may ask."</p> - -<p>Jed nodded assent.</p> - -<p>"Then, Mr. Gilman, may I inquire your age?"</p> - -<p>"I am sixteen."</p> - -<p>"What is the date of your birth?"</p> - -<p>Jed colored and looked embarrassed.</p> - -<p>"I do not know," he answered.</p> - -<p>"Can you tell me where you were born?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir," returned Jed. "I was left at the age of two years at the -Scranton poorhouse by a girl who disappeared the next morning. Of course -I was too young to know anything of my earlier history."</p> - -<p>"Exactly; and you spent the intervening years at that interesting -institution."</p> - -<p>Jed laughed.</p> - -<p>"It didn't prove very interesting at the last," he said. "When my good -friends the Averys were turned out, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson succeeded them, -and I concluded to leave."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_346" id="Page_346">[Pg 346]</a></span></p><p>"I am not surprised to hear it. I have seen Mrs. Fogson," remarked the -detective dryly.</p> - -<p>"Did she give me a good character?"</p> - -<p>"Quite the contrary. She prepared me to find you a desperate young -ruffian."</p> - -<p>Jed laughed.</p> - -<p>"Do I come up to your expectations?" he asked.</p> - -<p>"Not altogether. I may conclude that you have no information in regard -to your family or parentage?"</p> - -<p>"No, sir. Can you"—something in the detective's face prompted the -question—"can you give me any information on the subject?"</p> - -<p>Jed fixed his eyes with painful intensity upon the visitor.</p> - -<p>"I think I can," he answered.</p> - -<p>"Who, then, am I?"</p> - -<p>"To the best of my knowledge you are the nephew of Sir Guy Fenwick, of -Fenwick Hall, Gloucestershire, England."</p> - -<p>Both Mr. Roper and Jed looked exceedingly surprised.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_347" id="Page_347">[Pg 347]</a></span></p><p>"Sir Guy Fenwick?" repeated Roper.</p> - -<p>"He is so called, but I have reason to believe he is a usurper, and that -the title and estates belong to your young friend, who, if I am correct, -isn't Jed Gilman, but Sir Robert Fenwick."</p> - -<p>Jed looked dazed. Schuyler Roper went up to him and grasped his hand.</p> - -<p>"My dear Jed, or rather Robert," he said, "let me be the first to -congratulate you. But, Mr. Peake, are you prepared to substantiate Jed's -claim to his title and inheritance?"</p> - -<p>"I think so. I will tell you how the case stands."</p> - -<p>When he had concluded, Mr. Roper asked, "And where is this nurse whose -testimony is so important?"</p> - -<p>"At Rodick's. I brought her with me to Bar Harbor."</p> - -<p>"And what is your program?"</p> - -<p>"I should like to carry our young friend with me to New York to confront -the pseudo baronet."</p> - -<p>"We will be ready whenever you say. I say <i>we</i>, for I propose to -accompany Jed—I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_348" id="Page_348">[Pg 348]</a></span> beg pardon, Sir Robert—and stand by him at this -eventful period."</p> - -<p>"Call me Jed, Mr. Roper, till I have proved myself entitled to the other -name," returned the "poorhouse boy."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_349" id="Page_349">[Pg 349]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XL.</span> <span class="smaller">GUY FENWICK'S DEFEAT.</span></h2> - -<p>Sir Guy Fenwick sat in his handsome apartment at the Brevoort House. He -was of slender build and dark complexion, bearing a very slight -resemblance to Jed, but his expression was much less agreeable.</p> - -<p>"Jane Gilman was to have called this morning. She ought to be here now," -he muttered, consulting his watch. "She is certain to come," he added -with a sneer, "for she wants money. I shall never be safe from annoyance -while she lives. However, she can do me little harm."</p> - -<p>There was a knock at the door, and a bell boy appeared with a card.</p> - -<p>Sir Guy took it from his hand, and regarded it with surprise.</p> - -<p>"Mr. James Peake!" he repeated. "What does he want?"</p> - -<p>"I don't know, Sir Guy."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_350" id="Page_350">[Pg 350]</a></span></p><p>"Let him come up, but the interview must be brief, for I am expecting -another party."</p> - -<p>Directly afterward Detective Peake entered the presence of the baronet.</p> - -<p>"You wish to see me, Mr.—ahem!—Mr. Peake?"</p> - -<p>"Yes. Mr. Fenwick?"</p> - -<p>"Mr. Fenwick!" repeated the Englishman, frowning. "I am Sir Guy -Fenwick."</p> - -<p>"I am aware that you call yourself so," said the detective quietly.</p> - -<p>"What do you mean by this insolence?" demanded Guy Fenwick, his face -flaming.</p> - -<p>"You will understand me when I say I call in behalf of Sir Robert -Fenwick, the real baronet."</p> - -<p>Guy Fenwick half rose from his seat. He looked angry and alarmed.</p> - -<p>"I don't know what you mean," he said.</p> - -<p>"I think you do. Sir Robert is your nephew, and the title and estate are -his by right."</p> - -<p>Guy Fenwick laughed—a harsh, mirthless laugh.</p> - -<p>"Really," he said, "this is most amusing.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_351" id="Page_351">[Pg 351]</a></span> Robert Fenwick is dead. If -any one calls himself by that name he is an impostor."</p> - -<p>"That remains to be seen. I have to inform you that Sir Robert Fenwick -is in this city, in the company of his mother, who has received and -acknowledged him."</p> - -<p>"This is a conspiracy!" exclaimed Guy Fenwick, whose appearance showed -that he was deeply disturbed. "It is a very foolish conspiracy, I will -add. Of course I understand the object of my amiable sister-in-law in -giving her countenance to what she must know to be an imposture. Do me -the favor to inform me where you discovered the boy who impudently -claims the title and estate which I inherited from my brother."</p> - -<p>"Only by procuring the disappearance of that brother's lawful heir."</p> - -<p>"Who says this—who dares say it?"</p> - -<p>"You are partially acquainted with a woman named Jane Gilman?"</p> - -<p>Guy Fenwick's countenance changed.</p> - -<p>"Yes," he said after a pause, "I do know a woman of that name. She has -been writing me blackmailing letters, and threatening to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_352" id="Page_352">[Pg 352]</a></span> injure me if I -did not send her a hundred pounds. So this is the mare's nest you have -stirred up? I congratulate you."</p> - -<p>"Call it a mare's nest if you like, Mr. Fenwick," said the detective -undisturbed. "You may find it a very serious matter. Shall I tell you -what we are able to prove?"</p> - -<p>"If you please. I should like to know the details of this base -conspiracy."</p> - -<p>"Fourteen years ago Jane Gilman appeared towards nightfall at the door -of a poorhouse not far away and left a child of two years old with the -people in charge. Before morning she disappeared. The child grew up a -healthy, sturdy boy; frank and handsome."</p> - -<p>"So he prepared himself to claim the Fenwick title in an almshouse?"</p> - -<p>"It wasn't his fault that he was brought up there, only his misfortune."</p> - -<p>"What name was given him?"</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman."</p> - -<p>"He had better retain it."</p> - -<p>"Not while he has a better claim to the name of Robert Fenwick. Hanging -from his neck at the time he was placed in the <span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_353" id="Page_353">[Pg 353]</a></span>poorhouse was a locket -containing miniatures of your brother, the late Sir Charles Fenwick, and -Lady Mary Fenwick, still living."</p> - -<p>"Have you the locket with you?"</p> - -<p>"It is in safe custody. You will admit that this is pretty strong -evidence of our claim. But we have in addition the confession of Jane -Gilman, who testifies that, in obedience to your instructions, she -abducted and disposed of the boy as aforesaid."</p> - -<p>"This is a very cunning conspiracy, Mr. Peake, if that is your name, but -it won't succeed. I shall defend my right to the title and estate; but -if this boy is poor I don't mind settling a pension of a hundred pounds -upon him, and finding him some employment."</p> - -<p>"In his name I decline your offer."</p> - -<p>"Then I defy you! What are you going to do about it?"</p> - -<p>"Lady Fenwick has engaged the services of one of our most famous -lawyers, and legal proceedings will be commenced at once. We will, -however, give you a week to decide on your course."</p> - -<p>"Give me the name of your lawyer. I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_354" id="Page_354">[Pg 354]</a></span> will call upon him and show him -that he has consented to aid an imposture."</p> - -<p>Before the week ended, however, Sir Guy, to give him this title once -more, had decided that discretion was the better part of valor, and had -consented to surrender the title and estates, his nephew agreeing to pay -him an income of a thousand pounds per annum, in order that he might -still be able to live like a gentleman.</p> - -<p>When matters were arranged Guy Fenwick returned hastily to England, and, -making but a short stay there, went to the continent, where he would not -have the humiliation of meeting old acquaintances whom he had known in -the days of his grandeur.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_355" id="Page_355">[Pg 355]</a></span></p> - -<h2><span>CHAPTER XLI.</span> <span class="smaller">CONCLUSION.</span></h2> - -<p>Not the least gratifying circumstance in his sudden change of fortune -was Jed's discovery of a mother—a gracious and beautiful woman—to whom -he was drawn in almost instinctive affection. Before leaving New York -for his native land he expressed a wish to revisit Scranton, and view -once more the scenes of his early privations. His mother not only -consented, but decided to accompany him.</p> - -<p>Mr. and Mrs. Fogson were engaged in their usual morning labors when a -handsome carriage stopped at the gate. A servant descended and made his -way to the front door, which Mrs. Fogson herself opened.</p> - -<p>"Madam," said the servant bowing, "do you receive visitors?"</p> - -<p>Mrs. Fogson espying the handsome carriage was dazzled, and responded -graciously:</p> - -<p>"We ain't fixed for company," she said,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_356" id="Page_356">[Pg 356]</a></span> "but if you'll make allowances -I shall be happy to receive visitors. Who is it?" she inquired -curiously.</p> - -<p>"Lady Fenwick and Sir Robert Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, England."</p> - -<p>"You don't say!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson, awe-stricken. "Tell 'em to come -right in."</p> - -<p>Jed assisted his mother to alight and walk up to the front door, Mrs. -Fogson having retreated inside to change her dress.</p> - -<p>"And you say you lived in this forlorn place, Robert?" asked Lady -Fenwick with a shudder.</p> - -<p>"For fourteen years, mother."</p> - -<p>"I never can forgive Guy Fenwick—never!"</p> - -<p>"I am none the worse for it now, mother."</p> - -<p>Jed led the way into Mrs. Fogson's private sitting-room, where that lady -found them. She stopped short at the threshold.</p> - -<p>"Why, it's Jed Gilman!" she said sharply, with a feeling that she had -been humbugged.</p> - -<p>"Mrs. Fogson," said Jed, gravely, "I am Jed Gilman no more. I have found -out that I am entitled to a large estate in England, but<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_357" id="Page_357">[Pg 357]</a></span> best of all I -have found a mother, and am no longer alone in the world."</p> - -<p>Mr. Fogson, who had followed his wife into the room, was the first to -"take in" the surprising news. Jed's handsome suit, his gold watch-chain -and diamond scarf-pin, as well as his mother's stately figure, convinced -him that the story was true.</p> - -<p>"No one is more glad to hear of your good fortune, my dear boy, than -Mrs. F. and myself," he said in a gushing tone. "I have often thought -that you were a nobleman in disguise."</p> - -<p>"You never let me suspect it, Mr. Fogson," said Jed, amused. "Probably -you didn't want to raise my expectations."</p> - -<p>"Just so, Jed, I mean Sir Robert. We feel that it was an honor to have -you so long under our roof—don't we, Mrs. F.?"</p> - -<p>"Certainly, Simeon. If Lady Fenwick will permit me to offer an humble -collation, some of my ginger snaps; you remember them, Jed, I mean Sir -Robert."</p> - -<p>"You are very kind," said Lady Fenwick hastily, "but I seldom eat -between meals."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_358" id="Page_358">[Pg 358]</a></span></p><p>Just then Percy Dixon, who came with a message from his father, -appeared in the door. He opened his eyes wide in amazement when he saw -Jed.</p> - -<p>"Jed Gilman!" he exclaimed in astonishment.</p> - -<p>"No, Master Percy," said Mrs. Fogson. "We have just learned that our -dear Jed is Sir Robert Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, England."</p> - -<p>"Jehoshaphat!" cried Percy, astounded.</p> - -<p>"Percy," said Jed, whose good fortune made him good-natured, "let me -introduce you to my mother, Lady Fenwick. Mother, this is Master Percy -Dixon."</p> - -<p>"I am glad to meet any of your friends, Robert," said Lady Fenwick, -really supposing that Jed and Percy were on intimate terms.</p> - -<p>"Glad to know you—to make your acquaintance, Lady Fenwick," replied -Percy. "Are you really and truly a lord, Jed?"</p> - -<p>"No, not a lord, but a baronet. However, that needn't make any -difference between friends like ourselves."</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_359" id="Page_359">[Pg 359]</a></span></p><p>"No, of course not. You know I always liked you, Jed, I mean Sir Jed."</p> - -<p>"Sir Robert," prompted Mr. Fogson.</p> - -<p>"Sir Robert. I feel sort of confused by the sudden change," explained -Percy embarrassed.</p> - -<p>"Call me Jed, then. In Scranton I mean to be Jed."</p> - -<p>"Won't you call at our house? My father, Squire Dixon, will be honored -by a visit."</p> - -<p>"We are to call on Mr. and Mrs. Avery first, and then if we have time we -will call on you. Won't you get into the carriage and go with us, -Percy?"</p> - -<p>Percy Dixon accepted the invitation with intense delight, and long -afterwards boasted of his ride with Lady Fenwick. Though Jed and his -mother were able to spend but ten minutes at the house of Squire Dixon, -the squire showed himself deeply sensible of the honor, and several -times alluded to his dear young friend Sir Robert. It was the way of the -world. Mr. and Mrs. Avery received from Lady Fenwick a handsome present -in recognition of their past kindness to Jed, and this was the first of -many.</p> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_360" id="Page_360">[Pg 360]</a></span></p><p>Jed and his mother remained at the Windsor till they were ready to -embark for England. While walking on Fifth Avenue one day he saw just -ahead his little friend, Chester Holbrook, accompanied by his aunt, Miss -Maria Holbrook. He hurried forward, and taking off his hat to Miss -Holbrook, said, "Chester, don't you remember me?"</p> - -<p>Chester uttered a cry of delight.</p> - -<p>"Why it's Jed!" he said.</p> - -<p>Miss Maria Holbrook, surprised at Jed's improved appearance, eyed him -with suspicion.</p> - -<p>"Where are you staying, Jedediah?" she inquired. "Have you a situation?"</p> - -<p>"I am boarding at the Windsor Hotel, Miss Holbrook. I am in no -situation."</p> - -<p>"Then how can you afford to board at a first-class hotel?" asked the -spinster in surprise.</p> - -<p>"I am with my mother, Lady Fenwick. Allow me to hand you my card."</p> - -<p>Jed placed in her hand a card on which was engraved the name:</p> - -<p class="center"><span class="smcap">Sir Robert Fenwick, Bart.</span></p> - -<p>The story had already appeared in the daily<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_361" id="Page_361">[Pg 361]</a></span> papers of New York, but -Miss Holbrook never suspected that the young English baronet was -Chester's humble guardian.</p> - -<p>"Are you Sir Robert Fenwick?" she ejaculated in amazement.</p> - -<p>"I believe so," he answered with a smile. "Now, Miss Holbrook, I have a -favor to ask. May I take Chester in and introduce him to my mother?"</p> - -<p>"I should also like to meet Lady Fenwick," said Miss Holbrook.</p> - -<p>"I shall be most happy to present you."</p> - -<p>"Isn't your name Jed after all?" asked Chester, as he confidingly placed -his hand in that of his former guardian.</p> - -<p>"You may call me so, Chester; I wish you would."</p> - -<p>Miss Maria Holbrook was delighted with her visit. Like many Americans, -she had a great respect for English aristocracy, and did not understand -that there was considerable difference between titles. It is wonderful -how differently she came to regard one whom she had been accustomed to -style "that boy Jedediah." She was much pleased with Lady<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_362" id="Page_362">[Pg 362]</a></span> Fenwick's -gracious reception, though she found it difficult to think of her as -Jed's mother.</p> - -<p>I neglected to say in the proper place that Jed did not fail to call, -when in Scranton, on his two friends Dr. and Mrs. Redmond, and gave them -a cordial invitation to visit his mother and himself if they should ever -come to England.</p> - -<p>He did not see fit to extend a similar invitation to Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson. Misfortune has come to these worthy people. Their mismanagement -of the poorhouse had become so notorious that the best citizens of -Scranton not only demanded their removal from the poorhouse, but at the -next town meeting defeated Squire Dixon for re-election to the position -of Overseer of the Poor. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were invited to succeed the -Fogsons, but felt that they were entitled to rest and quiet for the -balance of their lives. The liberal gifts of Jed and his mother made -them independent, and they were willing that younger persons should fill -their old positions.</p> - -<p>Jed devoted several years to making up the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_363" id="Page_363">[Pg 363]</a></span> deficiencies in his -education. The only disagreeable thing in his change of fortune was his -removal from America, but he will probably arrange to spend a portion of -his time in his adopted country, to which he feels the attachment of a -loyal son. Then he has a link connecting him with it in the frequent -visits at Fenwick Hall of his friend Schuyler Roper.</p> - -<p>Notwithstanding his accession to the ancestral title and estate, he has -not forgotten the fourteen years during which he was known as "Jed, the -Poorhouse Boy."</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_365" id="Page_365">[Pg 365]</a></span></p> - -<div class="box2"> -<h2>Every Child's Library</h2> - -<hr class="dble" /> - -<p class="bold"><i>Books "That Every Child Can<br />Read" for Four Reasons</i>:</p> - - -<p>1. Because the subjects have all proved their lasting popularity.</p> - -<p>2. Because of the simple language in which they are written.</p> - -<p>3. Because they have been carefully edited, and anything that might -prove objectionable for children's reading has been eliminated.</p> - -<p>4. 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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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - - - - -Title: Jed, the Poorhouse Boy - - -Author: Horatio Alger - - - -Release Date: March 13, 2017 [eBook #54350] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII) - - -***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JED, THE POORHOUSE BOY*** - - -E-text prepared by David Edwards, Martin Pettit, and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team (http://www.pgdp.net) from page images -generously made available by the Google Books Library Project -(https://books.google.com) - - - -Note: Images of the original pages are available through - the Google Books Library Project. See - https://books.google.com/books?id=gnj9LVjclz8C&hl=e - - - - - -JED, THE POORHOUSE BOY - -by - -HORATIO ALGER, JR. - -Author of "Ragged Dick," "Luck and Pluck," "Tattered Tom," -etc., etc. - - - - - - -The John C. Winston Co. -Philadelphia -Chicago Toronto - -Copyright, 1899, by -Henry T. Coates & Co. - - - - -CONTENTS. - -CHAPTER PAGE - I. JED, 1 - - II. MR. AND MRS. FOGSON, 11 - - III. THE SCRANTON POORHOUSE, 20 - - IV. AN EXCITING CONTEST, 30 - - V. JED SECURES AN ALLY, 37 - - VI. MR. FOGSON MAKES UP HIS MIND, 49 - - VII. FOGSON'S MISTAKE, 59 - - VIII. MR. FOGSON IS ASTONISHED, 68 - - IX. JED LEAVES THE POORHOUSE, 77 - - X. JED REACHES DUNCAN, 87 - - XI. JED'S FIRST APPEARANCE ON THE STAGE, 96 - - XII. PERCY DIXON IS BEWILDERED, 106 - - XIII. FOGSON IN PURSUIT, 115 - - XIV. JED'S LUCK, 125 - - XV. TWO OLD ACQUAINTANCES, 135 - - XVI. MISS HOLBROOK, SPINSTER, 144 - - XVII. JED MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE, 153 - - XVIII. MR. FOGSON RECEIVES A LETTER, 162 - - XIX. DISCHARGED, 167 - - XX. JED'S POOR PROSPECTS, 172 - - XXI. JED ARRIVES IN NEW YORK, 182 - - XXII. JED MAKES TWO CALLS, 192 - - XXIII. JED'S BAD LUCK, 202 - - XXIV. A STARTLING DISCOVERY, 212 - - XXV. WITHOUT A PENNY, 222 - - XXVI. IN SEARCH OF EMPLOYMENT, 232 - - XXVII. AN INTRACTABLE AGENT, 241 - - XXVIII. A STRANGE COMMISSION, 250 - - XXIX. A SURPRISE PARTY, 260 - - XXX. JED ENTERTAINS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE, 270 - - XXXI. JED RETURNS GOOD FOR EVIL, 280 - - XXXII. AT BAR HARBOR, 290 - - XXXIII. THE POORHOUSE RECEIVES TWO VISITORS, 299 - - XXXIV. THE DETECTIVE, 308 - - XXXV. MRS. AVERY'S STORY, 313 - - XXXVI. "WHO WAS JED?" 318 - - XXXVII. JANE GILMAN, 328 - -XXXVIII. THE DETECTIVE SECURES AN ALLY, 338 - - XXXIX. JED LEARNS WHO HE IS, 343 - - XL. GUY FENWICK'S DEFEAT, 349 - - XLI. CONCLUSION, 365 - - - - -JED, - -THE POORHOUSE BOY. - - - - -CHAPTER I. - -JED. - - -"Here, you Jed!" - -Jed paused in his work with his axe suspended above him, for he was -splitting wood. He turned his face toward the side door at which stood a -woman, thin and sharp-visaged, and asked: "Well, what's wanted?" - -"None of your impudence, you young rascal! Come here, I say!" - -Jed laid down the axe and walked slowly to the back door. He was a -strongly-made and well-knit boy of nearly sixteen, but he was poorly -dressed in an old tennis shirt and a pair of overalls. Yet his face was -attractive, and an observer skilled in physiognomy would have read in -it signs of a strong character, a warm and grateful disposition, and a -resolute will. - -"I have not been impudent, Mrs. Fogson," he said quietly. - -"Don't you dare to contradict me!" snapped the woman, stamping her foot. - -"What's wanted?" asked Jed again. - -"Go down to the gate and hold it open. Squire Dixon will be here in five -minutes, and we must treat him with respect, for he is Overseer of the -Poor." - -Jed smiled to himself (it was well he did not betray his amusement), for -he knew that Mrs. Fogson and her husband, though tyrannical to the -inmates of the poorhouse, of which they had been placed in charge by -Squire Dixon three months before, were almost servile in the presence of -the Overseer of the Poor, with whom it was their object to stand well. - -"All right, ma'am!" he said bluntly, and started for the gate. He did -not appear to move fast enough for the amiable Mrs. Fogson, for she -called out in a sharp voice: "Why do you walk like a snail? Hurry up, I -tell you. I see Squire Dixon coming up the road." - -"I shall get to the gate before he does," announced Jed, independently, -not increasing his pace a particle. - -"I hate that boy!" soliloquized Mrs. Fogson, looking after him with a -frown. "He is the most independent young rascal I ever came across--he -actually disobeys and defies me. I must get Fogson to give him a -horse-whipping some of these fine days; and when he does, I'm going to -be there and see it done!" she continued, her black eyes twinkling -viciously. "Every blow he received would do me good. I'd gloat over it! -I'd flog him myself if I was strong enough." - -The amiable character of Mrs. Fogson may be inferred from this gentle -soliloquy. When Fogson married her he caught a Tartar, as he found to -his cost. But he was not so much to be pitied, for his own disposition -was not unlike that of his wife, but he lacked her courage and intense -malignity, and was a craven at heart. - -As Jed walked to the gate his face became grave and almost melancholy. - -"I can't stand this kind of life long!" he said to himself. "Mrs. Fogson -is about the ugliest-tempered woman I ever knew, and her husband isn't -much better. What a contrast to Mr. Avery and his good wife! When they -kept the poorhouse we were all happy and contented. They had a kind word -for all. But when Squire Dixon became overseer he put in the Fogsons, -and since then we haven't heard a kind word or had a happy day." - -Just then Squire Dixon's top buggy neared the gate. He was a -pompous-looking man with a bald head and red face, the color, as was -well known, being imparted by too frequent potations of brandy. With him -was his only son and heir, Percy Dixon, a boy who "put on airs," and -was, in consequence, heartily detested by his schoolmates and -companions. He had small, mean features and a pair of gray eyes, while -his nose had an upward tendency, as if he were turning it up at the -world in general. - -Jed held the gate open in silence and the top buggy passed through. - -Then he slowly closed the gate and walked up to the house. - -There stood Mrs. Fogson, her thin lips wreathed in smiles, as she ducked -her head obsequiously to the town magnate. - -"How do you do, Squire Dixon?" she said. "It does me good to see you. -But I needn't ask for your health, you look so fine and noble this -morning." - -Squire Dixon was far from being inaccessible to flattery. - -"I am very well, I thank you, my good friend, Mrs. Fogson," he said in a -stately tone, with a gracious smile upon his florid countenance. "And -how are you yourself?" - -"As well as I can be, squire, thanking you for asking, but them paupers -is trials, as I daily discover." - -"Nothing new in the way of trouble, I hope, Mrs. Fogson?" - -"Well, no; but walk in and I'll send for my husband. He would never -forgive me if I didn't send for him when you were here. Master Percy, -forgive me for not speaking to you before. I hear such good accounts of -you from everybody. Your father is indeed fortunate to have such a son." - -Percy raised his eyebrows a little. Even he was aware of his -unpopularity, and he wondered who had been speaking so well of him. - -"I'm all right!" he answered curtly. - -Squire Dixon, too, though he overestimated Percy, who was popularly -regarded as a chip of the old block, was at a loss to know why he should -be proud of him. Still it was pleasing to have one so near to him -complimented. - -"You are kind to speak of Percy in that way," he said. - -"He's so like you, the dear boy!" murmured Mrs. Fogson. - -This might be a compliment, but as Percy stood low in his studies and -frequently quarreled with his school companions, Squire Dixon hardly -knew whether to feel flattered. - -Percy looked rather disgusted to be called a "dear boy" by a woman whom -he regarded as so much his social inferior as Mrs. Fogson, but it was -difficult to resent so complimentary a speech, and he remained silent. -He looked scornfully about the plainly-furnished room, and reflected -that it would be pleasanter out of doors. - -"I guess I'll go out in the yard," he said abruptly. - -"Would you be kind enough in that case, Master Percy, to tell the boy -Jed to go and call my husband from the three-acre lot? He is at work -there." - -"Yes, Mrs. Fogson, I'll tell him." - -Percy left the room and walked up to where Jed was splitting wood. - -"Go and call Mr. Fogson from the three-acre lot!" he said peremptorily. - -Jed paused in his work. - -"Who says so?" he inquired. - -"I say so!" - -"Then I shan't go. You are not my boss." - -"You are an impudent boy." - -"Why am I?" - -"You have no business to talk back to me. You'd better go after Mr. -Fogson, if you know what's best for yourself." - -"Did Mrs. Fogson send the message by you?" - -"Yes." - -"Then I will go. Why didn't you tell me that before?" - -"Because it was enough that I told you. My father's the Overseer of the -Poor." - -"I am aware of that." - -"And he put the Fogsons where they are." - -"Then I wish he hadn't. We had a good time when Mr. Avery was here. Now -all is changed." - -"So you don't like Mr. and Mrs. Fogson?" asked Percy curiously. - -"No, I don't. But I must be going to the lot to call Mr. Fogson." - -"I'll go with you. I don't want to be left alone." - -Jed ought doubtless to have felt complimented at this offer of company -from his high-toned visitor, but he did not appear to be overwhelmed by -it. - -"You can go along if you like," he said. - -"Of course I can. I don't need to ask permission of you." - -"Certainly not. No offense was meant." - -"It is well for you that there isn't. So you liked Mr. and Mrs. Avery -better than the Fogsons?" - -"Yes," answered Jed guardedly, for he understood now that Percy wanted -to "pump" him. - -"Why?" - -"Because they treated me better." - -"My father thinks well of the Fogsons. He says that old Avery pampered -the paupers and almost spoiled them." - -"I won't argue the question. I only know that we all liked Mr. and Mrs. -Avery. Now it's scold, scold, scold all day and every day, and we don't -live nearly as well as we did." - -"Paupers mustn't expect to live as well as at a first-class hotel!" said -Percy sarcastically. - -"They certainly don't live like that here." - -"And they won't while my father is overseer. He says he's going to put a -stop to their being pampered at the town's expense. You live well enough -now." - -"If you think we live so well, I wish you would come and board here for -a week." - -"_Me_--board at a poorhouse!" ejaculated Percy in intense disgust. "You -are very kind, but I shouldn't like it." - -"I don't think you would." - -"All the same, you ought to be grateful for such a good home." - -"It may be a good home, but I shan't stay here long." - -"You shan't stay here long?" exclaimed Percy in amazement. "Do you mean -to tell me you are going to run away?" - -"I haven't formed any plans yet." - -"I'll tell my father, and he'll put a spoke in your wheel. What do you -expect to do if you leave? You haven't got any money?" - -"No." - -"Then don't make a fool of yourself." - -Jed did not reply, for they had reached the fence that bounded the -three-acre lot, and Mr. Fogson had discovered their approach. - - - - -CHAPTER II. - -MR. AND MRS. FOGSON. - - -Mr. Fogson was about as unpleasant-looking as his wife, but was not so -thin. He had stiff red hair with a tendency to stand up straight, a -blotched complexion, and red eyes, corresponding very well with the -color of his hair. He was quite as cross as his wife, but she was more -venomous and malicious. Like her he was disposed to fawn upon Squire -Dixon, the Overseer of the Poor, with whom he knew it was necessary to -stand well. - -Had Jed come alone he might have met with a disagreeable reception; but -Mr. Fogson's quick eye recognized in his companion the son of the -poorhouse autocrat, Squire Dixon, and he summoned up an ingratiating -smile on his rugged features. - -"How are you, Master Percy?" he said smoothly. "Did your pa come with -you?" - -"Yes, he's over to the house. Mrs. Fogson wants you to go right home, -as he may want to see you." - -"All right! It will give me pleasure. It always does me good to see your -pa." - -Percy looked at him critically, and thought that Mr. Fogson was about as -homely a man as he had ever seen. It was fortunate that the keeper of -the poorhouse could not read his thoughts, for, like most ugly men, Mr. -Fogson thought himself on the whole rather prepossessing. - -Fogson took his place beside Percy, and curtly desired Jed to walk -behind. - -Jed smiled to himself, for he understood that Mr. Fogson considered him -not entitled to a place in such superior company. - -Mr. Fogson addressed several questions to Percy, which the latter -answered languidly, as if he considered it rather a bore to be -entertained by a man in Fogson's position. Indeed he almost snubbed him, -and Jed was pleased to find the man who made so many unpleasant speeches -to others treated in the same manner himself. As a general thing, a man -who bullies others has to take his turn in being bullied himself. - -Meanwhile Mrs. Fogson was chatting with Squire Dixon. - -"Nobody can tell what I have to put up with from them paupers," she -said. "You'd actilly think they paid their board by the way they talk. -The fact is, the Averys pampered and indulged them altogether too much." - -"That is so, Mrs. Fogson," said the squire pompously, "and that, I may -remark, was the reason I dismissed them from their responsible position. -Do they--ahem!--complain of anything in particular?" - -"Why, they want butter every day!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson. "Think of it! -Butter every day for paupers!" - -"As you justly observe, this is very unreasonable. And how often do you -give them butter?" - -"Once a week--on Sundays." - -"Very judicious. It impresses them with the difference between Sunday -and other days. It shows your religious training, Mrs. Fogson." - -"I always aim to be religious, Squire Dixon," said Mrs. Fogson meekly. - -"Well, and what else?" - -"Likewise the old people expect tea every day. They say Mrs. Avery gave -it to them." - -"I dare say she did. It's an imposition on the town to spend -their--ahem!--hard-earned money on such luxuries." - -"That's the way I look at it, Squire Dixon." - -"How often do you give them meat?" - -"Every other day. I get the cheapest cuts from the butcher--what he has -left over. But they ain't satisfied. They want it every day." - -"Shocking!" exclaimed the squire, arching his brows. - -"So I say. Of course I get a good many sour looks, and more complaints, -but I tell 'em that if they ain't suited with their boarding-house they -can go somewhere else." - -"Very good! Very good indeed; ha, ha! I presume none of them have left -the poorhouse in consequence?" - -"No, but one has threatened to do so." - -"Who is that?" asked Squire Dixon quickly. - -"The boy Jed." - -"Oh, yes, he was the one who opened the gate for me. Now, what sort of a -boy is he, Mrs. Fogson?" - -"He's an impudent young jackanapes," answered Mrs. Fogson spitefully, -"begging your pardon for using such an inelegant expression." - -"It is forcible, however, Mrs. Fogson. It is forcible, and I think you -are quite justified in using it. So he is impudent?" - -"Yes; you'd think, by the airs he puts on, that he owned the poorhouse, -instead of being a miserable pauper. Why, I venture to say he considers -himself the equal of your son, Master Percy." - -"No, no, Mrs. Fogson, that is a little too strong. He couldn't be so -absurd as that." - -"I am not so sure of that, Squire Dixon. There is no end to that boy's -impudence and--and uppishness. Why, he said the other day that the meat -wasn't fit for the hogs." - -"And was it, Mrs. Fogson?" asked the squire in an absent-minded way. - -"To be sure, squire, though I must admit that it was a trifle touched, -being warm weather; but paupers can't expect first-class hotel fare--can -they, now, squire?" - -"To be sure not." - -"Then, again, Jed is always praising up Mr. and Mrs. Avery, which, as -you can imagine, isn't very pleasant for Mr. Fogson and me. I expect he -was Mr. Avery's pet, from all I hear." - -"Very likely he was. He was brought to the poorhouse when a mere baby, -and they took care of him from his infancy. I've heard Mrs. Avery say -she looked upon him as if he were her own child." - -"And that is why she pampered him--at the town's expense." - -"As you truly observe, at the town's expense. I am sure you and Mr. -Fogson will feel it your duty to make the poorhouse as inexpensive as -possible to the town, bearing in mind the great responsibility that has -devolved upon you." - -"Of course, squire, me and Fogson bear that in mind, but we ain't paid -any too well for our hard labor." - -"That reminds me, Mrs. Fogson, another month has rolled by, and----" - -"I understand, squire," said Mrs. Fogson. "I have got it all ready," and -she drew a sealed envelope out of her pocket and passed it to the -squire, who pocketed it with a deprecatory cough. His face brightened -up, for he knew what the envelope contained. - -"You can depend on me to use my official influence in your favor, Mrs. -Fogson," he said cheerfully. "As long as you show a proper appreciation -of my service in giving you the place, I will stand by you." - -Squire Dixon was a rich man. He was paid by the town for his services as -overseer, yet he was not above accepting five dollars a month from the -man he had installed in office. He had never distinctly asked for it, -but he had hinted in a manner not to be mistaken that it would be -politic for Mr. Fogson to allow him a percentage on their salary and -profits. They got the money back, and more, for in auditing their -accounts he did not scrutinize too closely the prices they claimed to -have paid for supplies. It was an arrangement mutually advantageous, -which had never occurred to Mr. and Mrs. Avery, who in their scrupulous -honesty were altogether behind the times, according to the squire's -thinking. - -"And how many paupers have you in the house at present, Mrs. Fogson?" -asked the overseer. - -"Nineteen, squire. Would you like to look at them?" - -"Well, perhaps in my official capacity it would be as well." - -"Come in here, then," and Mrs. Fogson led the way into a large room -where sat the paupers, a forlorn, unhappy-looking company. Two of the -old ladies were knitting; one young woman, who had lost her child, and -with it her mind, was fondling a rag baby; two were braiding a rag -carpet, and others were sitting with vacant faces, looking as if life -had no attraction for them. - -"Will you address them, squire?" asked Mrs. Fogson. - -"Ahem!" said the squire, straightening up and looking around him with -the air of a benignant father. "I will say a few words." - -"Attention all!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson in a sharp voice. "Squire Dixon -has consented to make a few remarks. I hope you will appreciate your -privilege in hearing him." - - - - -CHAPTER III. - -THE SCRANTON POORHOUSE. - - -"Ahem!" began Squire Dixon, clearing his throat; "the announcement of my -friend Mrs. Fogson furnishes me with a text. I hope you all appreciate -your privileges in sharing this comfortable home at the expense of the -town. Here all your material wants are cared for, and though you are -without means, you need have no anxiety. A well-filled board is spread -for you three times a day, and you enjoy the maternal care of Mrs. -Fogson." - -Here there was a shrill laugh from one of the old women. - -Squire Dixon frowned, and Mrs. Fogson looked anything but maternal as -she scowled at the offending "boarder." - -"I am surprised at this unseemly interruption," said Squire Dixon -severely. "I am constrained to believe that there is at least one -person present who does not appreciate the privileges of this happy -home. You are probably all aware that I am the Overseer of the Poor, and -that it was through my agency that the services of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson -were obtained." - -Here it would have been in order for some one to propose "Three cheers -for Mr. and Mrs. Fogson," but instead all looked gloomy and depressed. - -"I don't know that I have any more to say," concluded Squire Dixon after -a pause. "I will only exhort you to do your duty in the position in -which Providence has placed you, and to give as little trouble as -possible to your good friends Mr. and Mrs. Fogson." - -Here there was another cackling laugh, which caused Mrs. Fogson to look -angry. - -"I'm on to you, Sally Stokes," she said sharply. "You'll have to go -without your supper to-night." - -The poor, half-witted creature immediately burst into tears, and rocked -to and fro in a dismal manner. - -"You have done perfectly right in rebuking such unseemly behavior, Mrs. -Fogson," said Squire Dixon. - -"I didn't mind the insult to myself, squire," returned Mrs. Fogson -meekly. "It made me angry to have you insulted while you were making -your interesting remarks. The paupers are very ill-behaved; I give you -my word that I slave for them from morning till night, and you see how I -am repaid." - -"Mrs. Fogson, virtue is its own reward," observed the squire solemnly. - -"It has to be in my case," said Mrs. Fogson; "but it comforts me to -think that you at least appreciate my efforts." - -"I do; I do, indeed! You can always rely upon me to--to--in a word, to -back you up." - -Here a diversion was made by the appearance of Mr. Fogson and the two -boys. - -"Oh, Simeon!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson impulsively. "You don't know what -you have lost." - -Mr. Fogson mechanically glanced at his vest to see whether his -watch-chain and the watch appended were gone. - -"What have I lost?" he demanded. - -"Squire Dixon's interesting speech to the paupers. It was truly -eloquent." - -"My dear Mrs. Fogson," said the squire, looking modest, "you quite -overrate my simple words." - -"They were simple, but they were to the point," said the lady of the -poorhouse, "and I hope--I do hope that the paupers will lay them to -heart." - -There was an amused smile on the face of Jed, who was sharp enough to -see through the shallow humbug which was being enacted before him. He -understood very well the interested motives of Mrs. Fogson, and why she -saw fit to flatter the town official from whom she and her husband had -received their appointment. - -"I wish you had heard the squire, too, Jed!" said Mrs. Fogson, detecting -the smile on the boy's face. - -"Perhaps, ma'am, you can tell me what he said," returned Jed demurely. - -Mrs. Fogson was a little taken aback, but she accepted the invitation. - -"He said you ought to consider yourself very lucky to have such a -comfortable home." - -"I do," said Jed with a comical look. - -"I am glad to hear it," said Mrs. Fogson, suspiciously, "though it -hasn't always looked that way, I am bound to say." - -"Are you going to stay much longer, father?" asked Percy, who was -getting tired. - -"Perhaps we had better go," said Squire Dixon. "We have staid quite a -while." - -"When do you have dinner?" asked Percy, turning to Jed. - -"In about an hour. I have no doubt Mrs. Fogson will invite you, if you -would like to stay." - -"_Me_--eat with paupers?" retorted Percy with fine scorn. - -"I don't think you would like it," said Jed. "I don't." - -"Why, you are a pauper yourself." - -"I don't think so. I earn my living, such as it is. I work from morning -till night." - -"What do they give you for dinner?" asked Percy, moved by curiosity. - -"Mrs. Fogson puts a bone in the boiler and makes bone soup," answered -Jed gravely. "You can't tell how good it is till you try it." - -"Is there anything else?" - -"A few soggy potatoes, and some stale bread without butter." - -"Don't you have tea?" - -"Once on Sundays. It don't do to pamper us, you know." - -"Do you have puddings or pies?" - -"No; the town can't afford it," returned Jed without a smile. "What do -you think of our bill of fare?" - -"Pretty mean, I think. Do Mr. and Mrs. Fogson eat with you?" - -"No; they eat later, in the small room adjoining." - -"Do they have the same dinner as you?" - -"Sometimes they have roast chicken, and the other day when I went into -the room there was a plum pudding on the table." - -Percy laughed. - -"Just what I thought. The old man and old woman aren't going to get -left." - -"I don't know about that." - -"What do you mean?" - -"I'll explain another time," said Jed, nodding. "I wish I was Overseer -of the Poor." - -"What would you do?" - -"I'd turn out the Fogsons and put back Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Father says they spoiled the paupers." - -"At any rate they didn't starve them." - -"Old Fogson is saving money to the town--so father says." - -"Wait till the end of the year. You'll find the town will have just as -much to pay. What they save off the food they will put into their own -pockets." - -"What are you talking about?" asked Mrs. Fogson suspiciously. - -Jed did not have to reply, for Percy took offense at what he rightly -judged to be a piece of impertinence. - -"Mrs. Fogson," he said, "what we are talking about is no concern of -yours." - -A bright red spot showed itself in either cheek of Mrs. Fogson, and she -would have annihilated the speaker if she could; but she was politic, -and remembered that Percy was the son of the overseer. - -"I didn't mean any offense, Master Percy," she said. "It was simply a -playful remark on my part." - -"I'm glad to hear it," responded Percy. "You didn't look very playful." - -Squire Dixon was conversing with Mr. Fogson, and didn't hear this little -conversation. - -"I am just digging my potatoes," said Fogson deferentially. "I have some -excellent Jackson whites. I will send you round a bushel to try." - -"You are very kind, Mr. Fogson," said the squire, smiling urbanely. "I -shall appreciate them, you may be sure. Mr. Avery never would have made -me such an offer. It is clear to me that you are the right man in the -right place." - -"I am proud to hear you say so, Squire Dixon. With such an Overseer of -the Poor as you are, I am sure the interests of the town will be safe." - -"Thank you! Good-by." - -"Come again soon, squire," said Mrs. Fogson with a frosty smile. She did -not extend a similar invitation to Percy, who had wounded her pride by -his unceremonious words. - -"They are very worthy people, Percy," said the squire as they rode away. - -"Do you think so, father? I don't admire your taste." - -"My son, I am surprised at you," but in his secret heart the squire -agreed with Percy. - -Soon after Squire Dixon and Percy left the poorhouse dinner was served. -It answered very well the description given by Jed. Though the boy was -hungry, he found it almost impossible to eat his portion, scanty though -it was. - -"Turning up your nose at your dinner as usual!" said Mrs. Fogson -sharply. "If you don't like it you can get another boarding-house." - -"I think I shall," answered Jed. - -"What do you mean by that?" demanded Mrs. Fogson quickly. - -"If the board doesn't improve I shall dry up and blow away," returned -Jed. - -Mrs. Fogson sniffed and let the matter drop. - -Towards the close of the afternoon, as Jed was splitting wood in the -yard, his attention was drawn to a runaway horse which was speeding down -the road at breakneck speed, while a lady's terrified face was visible -looking vainly around in search of help. - -Jed dropped his axe, ran to the bend of the road, and dashed out, waving -a branch which he picked up by the roadside. The horse slowed down, and -Jed, seizing the opportunity, ran to his head, seized him by the bridle, -and brought him to a permanent stop. - -"How brave you are!" said the lady. "Will you jump into the buggy and -drive me to my home? I don't dare to trust myself alone with the horse -again." - -Jed did as desired, and at the end of the ride Mrs. Redmond (she was the -wife of Dr. Redmond) gave him a dollar, accompanying it with hearty -thanks. - -"I suppose Fogson will try to get this dollar away from me," thought -Jed, "but he won't succeed." - - - - -CHAPTER IV. - -AN EXCITING CONTEST. - - -Jed was not mistaken. - -When he returned to the poorhouse supper was ready, and Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson were waiting for him with sour and angry faces. - -"Where have you been?" demanded Fogson. - -"Absent on business," announced Jed coolly. - -"Don't you know that your business is to stay here and work?" - -"I have been working all day." - -"No, you haven't. You have been to the village." - -"I had a good reason for going." - -"Why didn't you ask permission of me or Mrs. Fogson?" - -"Because there wasn't time." - -"You are two minutes late for supper. I've a good mind to let you go -without," said Mrs. Fogson. - -"It wouldn't be much of a loss," answered Jed, not looking much alarmed. - -"You are getting more and more impudent every day. Why do you say there -wasn't time to ask permission to leave your work?" - -"Because the runaway horse wouldn't stop while I was asking." - -"What runaway horse?" demanded Fogson with sudden interest. - -"While I was splitting wood I saw Dr. Redmond's wife being run away -with. She looked awfully frightened. I ran out to the bend and stopped -the horse. Then she wanted me to drive her home, for she was afraid he -would run off again." - -"Is that so? Well, of course that makes a difference. Did she give you -anything?" - -"Now it's coming," thought Jed. - -"Yes," he answered. - -"How much?" asked Mr. Fogson with a greedy look. - -"A dollar." - -"Quite handsome, on my word. Well, hand it over." - -"What?" ejaculated Jed. - -"Give me the dollar!" said Fogson in a peremptory tone. - -"The dollar is mine." - -"You are a pauper. You can't hold any property. It's against the law." - -"Is it? Who told you so?" - -"No matter who told me so. I hope I understand the law." - -"I hope I understand my rights." - -"Boy, this is trifling. You'd better not make me any trouble, or you -will find yourself in a bad box." - -"What do you want to do with the dollar?" - -"None of your business! I shall keep it." - -"I have no doubt you will if you get it, but it is mine," said Jed -firmly. - -"Mrs. Fogson," said her husband solemnly, "did you ever hear of such -perverseness?" - -"No. The boy is about the worst I ever see." - -"Mr. Fogson," said Jed, "when Mr. Avery was here I had money given me -several times, though never as much as this. He never thought of asking -me for it, but always allowed me to spend it for myself." - -"Mr. Avery and I are two different persons," remarked Mr. Fogson with -asperity. - -"You are right, there," said Jed, in hearty concurrence with the -speaker. - -"And he was very unwise to let you keep the money. If it was five cents, -now, I wouldn't mind," continued Mr. Fogson with noteworthy liberality. -"But a dollar! You couldn't be trusted to spend a sum like that properly -at your age." - -"I am almost sixteen," said Jed significantly. - -"No matter if you are. You are still a mere boy. But I don't propose to -waste any more words. Hand over that money!" - -Jed felt that the critical moment had come. He must submit to a flagrant -piece of injustice or resist. - -He determined to resist. - -He met Fogson's glance firmly and resolutely, and uttered but two words: -"I won't!" - -"Did you ever hear such impudence, Mrs. Fogson?" asked her husband, his -face becoming red and mottled in his excitement. - -"No, Simeon, I didn't!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. - -"What shall I do?" - -"Thrash him. It's the only way to cure him of his cantankerous conduct." - -Jed was of good height for his age, and unusually thickset and strong. -Though poorhouse fare was hardly calculated to give him strength, he had -an intimate friend and school companion on a farm near by whose mother -often gave him a substantial meal, so that he alone of the inmates of -the poorhouse could afford to be comparatively indifferent to the mean -table kept by the managers. - -Jed was five feet six, and Simeon Fogson but two inches taller. Fogson, -however, was not a well man. He was a dyspeptic, and frequently indulged -in alcoholic drinks, which, as my young readers doubtless know, have a -direct tendency to impair physical vigor. - -"Get me the whip, Gloriana," said Mr. Fogson fiercely, addressing his -wife by her rather uncommon first name. "I will see whether this young -upstart is to rule you and me and the whole establishment." - -"I don't care about ruling anybody except myself," said Jed. - -"You can't rule yourself. I am put in authority over you." - -"Who put you in authority over me?" asked Jed defiantly. - -"The town." - -"And did the town give you leave to rob me? Answer me that!" - -"Did you ever hear the like?" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson, raising her arms in -almost incredulous surprise. - -By this time Mr. Fogson had the whip in his hand, and with an air of -enjoyment drew the lash through his fingers. - -"Take off your coat!" he said. - -"I would rather keep it on," replied Jed undauntedly. - -"It won't do you any good. I shall strike hard enough for you to feel it -even if you had two coats on." - -"You'd better not!" said Jed, eyeing Mr. Fogson warily. - -"Are you going to stand the boy's impudence, Simeon?" demanded his wife -sharply. - -"No, I'm not;" and Simeon Fogson, flourishing the whip, brought it down -on Jed's shoulders and back. - -Then something happened which took the poorhouse superintendent by -surprise. Jed sprang toward him, and, grasping the whip with energy, -tore it from his grasp, and with angry and inflamed face confronted his -persecutor. Mr. Fogson turned pale, and looked undecided what to do. - -"Shall I hold him, Simeon?" asked his wife venomously. - -"No; I'm a match for a half-grown boy like him," returned Fogson, -ashamed to ask for help in so unequal a contest. - -He sprang forward and grabbed Jed, who accepted the gage of battle and -clinched with his adversary. A moment afterward they were rolling on the -floor, first one being uppermost, then the other. - - - - -CHAPTER V. - -JED SECURES AN ALLY. - - -It was trying to Mrs. Fogson to see her husband apparently getting the -worst of it from "that young viper," as she mentally apostrophized Jed, -and she longed to take a part, notwithstanding her husband's refusal to -accept her assistance. - -A bright but malicious idea struck her. She seized a tin dipper and -filled it half full from the tea-kettle, the water in which was almost -scalding. Then she seized an opportunity to empty it over Jed. But -unfortunately for the success of her amiable plan, by the time she was -ready to pour it out it was Mr. Fogson who was exposed, and he received -the whole of the water on his neck and shoulder. - -"Help! Help! Murder!" he shrieked in anguish. "You have scalded me, -you--you she cat!" - -As he spoke he released his hold on Jed, who sprang to his feet and -stood watching for the next movement of the enemy. - -"Did I scald you, Simeon?" asked Mrs. Fogson in dismay. - -"Yes; I am almost dead. Get some flour and sweet oil--quick!" - -"I didn't mean to," said his wife repentantly. "I meant it for that -boy." - -"You're an idiot!" roared Fogson, stamping his foot. "Go and get the -oil--quick!" - -Mrs. Fogson, much frightened, hurried to obey orders, and the next -fifteen minutes were spent in allaying the anguish of her lord and -master, who made it very unpleasant for her by his bitter complaints and -upbraidings. - -"I think I'd better get out of this," thought Jed. "The old woman will -be trying to scald me next." - -He disappeared through the side door, leaving the amiable couple busily -but not pleasantly employed. - -He had scarcely left the house when Dr. Redmond drove up, his errand -being to see one of the inmates of the poorhouse. - -"How are you, Jed?" he said pleasantly. "My wife tells me you did her a -great service to-day?" - -"I was glad to do it, doctor," said Jed. - -"Here's a dollar. I am sure you can use it." - -"But, doctor, Mrs. Redmond gave me a dollar." - -"Never mind! You can use both." - -"Thank you," said Jed. "You'd better go right in, doctor; Mrs. Fogson -has just scalded her husband, and he is in great pain." - -"How did it happen?" asked the doctor in amazement. - -"Go in and they'll tell you," said Jed. "I'll see you afterwards and -tell you whether their story is correct." - -When Mr. and Mrs. Fogson saw the doctor enter they were overjoyed. - -"Oh, Dr. Redmond," groaned Fogson, "do something to relieve me quick. -I'm in terrible pain." - -"What's the matter?" asked Dr. Redmond. - -"I am scalded." - -"How did it happen?" - -"_She_ did it!" said Fogson, pointing scornfully to Mrs. Fogson. - -Dr. Redmond set himself at once to relieve the suffering one, making use -of the remedies that Fogson himself had suggested to his wife. When the -patient was more comfortable he turned gravely to Mrs. Fogson and asked: -"Will you explain how your husband got scalded?" - -"The woman poured hot water on me," interrupted Fogson with an ugly -scowl. "It would serve her right if I treated her in the same manner." - -"You don't mean that she did it on purpose, Mr. Fogson?" exclaimed the -doctor. - -"Of course I didn't," retorted Mrs. Fogson indignantly. "I meant it for -Jed." - -"You meant to scald Jed?" said the doctor sternly. - -"Yes; he assaulted my husband, and I feared he would kill him. It was -all the way I could help." - -"Mrs. Fogson, I can hardly believe you would be guilty of such an -atrocious act even on your own confession, nor can I believe that Jed -would assault your husband without good cause." - -"It is true, whether you believe it or not," said Mrs. Fogson sullenly. - -Dr. Redmond's answer was to open the outer door and call "Jed!" - -Jed entered at once, and stood in the presence of his persecutors, calm -and undisturbed. - -"Jed," said the doctor, "Mrs. Fogson admits that she scalded her husband -in trying to scald you, and urges, in defense, that you assaulted Mr. -Fogson. What do you say to this?" - -"That Mr. Fogson struck me over the shoulder with a horsewhip, and that -I pulled it away from him. Upon this he sprang at me, and in -self-defense I grappled with him, and while we were rolling over the -floor Mrs. Fogson poured a dipper of hot water over her husband, meaning -it for me." - -"Is this true, Mr. Fogson?" asked the doctor. - -"Yes, it's about so. Mrs. Fogson acted like an idiot." - -"If she had scalded Jed instead of you, would you say the same thing?" - -"Well, of course that would have been different." - -"I can see no difference," said Dr. Redmond sternly. "It was not an -idiotic, but a brutal and inhuman act." - -"Come, doctor, that's rather strong," protested Fogson uncomfortably. - -"It is not too strong! I don't think there is a person in the village -but would agree with me. Had the victim of the scalding been Jed, I -would have reported the matter to the authorities. Now tell me why you -attempted to horsewhip the boy?" - -"Because he was impudent," replied Fogson evasively. - -"And that was all?" - -"He disobeyed me." - -"Jed, let me hear your version of the story." - -"Mr. Fogson knew that I had a dollar given me by Mrs. Redmond, and he -called upon me to give it up to him. I wouldn't do it, and upon that he -tried to horsewhip me." - -"You see he owns up to his disobeying me, doctor," put in Fogson -triumphantly. - -"Why did you require him to give you the dollar, Mr. Fogson?" - -"Because he is a pauper, and a pauper has no right to hold money." - -"I won't discuss that point. What did you propose to do with the dollar -in case you had obtained it from Jed?" - -"As you are not Overseer of the Poor, Dr. Redmond, I don't know that I -have any call to tell you. When Squire Dixon asks me I will make it all -straight with him." - -"Probably," answered the doctor in a significant tone, for he as well as -others understood that there was some secret compact between Mr. Fogson -and the town official, and he had earnestly opposed Squire Dixon at the -polls. - -"Not only you, but Squire Dixon will have to give an account of your -stewardship," he said. "If any outrage should be committed against the -boy Jed, or any one else in this establishment, you will find that -making it straight with Squire Dixon won't be sufficient." - -"I will report what you say to Squire Dixon," said Fogson defiantly. - -"I wish you would. I shouldn't object to saying the same thing to his -face. Now, Mrs. Fogson, if you will lead the way I will go and see Mrs. -Connolly." - -"Come along, then," said Mrs. Fogson, compressing her thin lips. "I -don't believe there is anything the matter with that old woman." - -"I am a better judge of that matter than you, Mrs. Fogson." - -The poor old woman looked thin and wan, and hardly had strength to lift -up her head to meet the doctor's glance. - -After a brief examination he said: "Your trouble is nervous debility. -You have no strength. What you need is nourishment. Do you have tea -three times a day, Mrs. Connolly?" - -"Only once a week, doctor," wailed the poor old woman, bursting into -tears. - -"Only once a week!" repeated the doctor shocked. "What does this mean, -Mrs. Fogson?" - -"It means, Dr. Redmond," answered the mistress of the poorhouse, "that -this is not a first-class hotel." - -"I should say not," commented the doctor. "How often did you have tea, -Mrs. Connolly, when Mr. and Mrs. Avery were here?" - -"At breakfast and supper, and on Sundays three times a day." - -"Precisely. What do you say to that, Mrs. Fogson?" - -"I say, as everybody says, that the Averys squandered the town's money." - -"They certainly didn't put it into their own pockets. The town, I think -I am safe in saying, doesn't mean to starve the poor people whom it -provides for. Do I understand that you are actuated by a desire to save -the town's money?" - -"Of course I am, and Squire Dixon approves all I do," answered Mrs. -Fogson defiantly. - -"If he approves your withholding the necessities of life from those -under your charge he is unfit for his position. When the accounts of the -poorhouse are audited at the end of the year I shall make a searching -examination, and ascertain how much less they are under your -administration than under that of your predecessors." - -Judging from her looks, Mrs. Fogson was aching to scratch Dr. Redmond's -eyes out; but as he was not a pauper she was compelled to restrain her -anger. - -"Now, Mrs. Connolly," said the doctor, "you are to have tea twice a day, -and three times on Sunday. I shall see that it is given to you," he -added, with a significant glance at Mrs. Fogson. - -"Oh, how glad I am!" said the poor creature. "God bless you, Dr. -Redmond!" - -"Mrs. Fogson," went on the doctor, "do you limit yourself to tea once a -week?" - -"I ain't a pauper, Dr. Redmond!" replied Mrs. Fogson indignantly. - -"No; you are much stronger than a pauper, and could bear the deprivation -better. Let me tell you that you needn't be afraid to supply decent food -to the poor people in your charge. It won't cost any more than it did -under the Averys, for prices are, on the whole, cheaper." - -"Perhaps if it does cost more you'll pay it out of your own pocket." - -"I contribute already to the support of the poorhouse, being a large -taxpayer, and I give my medical services without exacting payment. The -town is not mean, and I will see that no fault is found with reasonable -bills." - -"I wish you'd fall and break your neck, you old meddler," thought Mrs. -Fogson, but she did not dare to say this. - -"One thing more, madam!" said the doctor, who had now entered the room -where Jed and her husband were; "reserve your hot water for its -legitimate uses. No more scalding, if you please." - -"That's well put, doctor!" growled Fogson. "If she wants to scald -anybody else, she had better try herself." - -"That's all the gratitude I get for taking your part, Simeon Fogson," -said the exasperated helpmeet. "The next time, Jed may beat you black -and blue for all I care." - -"It strikes me," remarked the doctor dryly, "that your husband is a -match for a boy of sixteen, and need be under no apprehension. No more -horsewhips, Mr. Fogson, if _you_ please, and don't trouble yourself -about any small sums that Jed may receive. Jed, jump into my buggy, and -I will take you home with me. I think Mrs. Redmond will give you some -supper." - -"The boy hasn't done his chores," said Mrs. Fogson maliciously. - -"Very well, I will make a bargain with you. Don't object to his going, -and I won't charge Mr. Fogson anything for my attendance upon him just -now." - -This appeal to the selfish interests of Mr. Fogson had its effect, and -Jed jumped into the doctor's buggy with eager alacrity. - - - - -CHAPTER VI - -MR. FOGSON MAKES UP HIS MIND. - - -"I don't know, Jed, whether I can make up to you for the supper you will -lose at the poorhouse," observed the doctor jocosely. "Mrs. Redmond may -not be as good a cook as Mrs. Fogson." - -"I will risk it," said Jed. - -"Is the fare much worse than it was when Mrs. Avery was in charge?" - -"Very much worse. I don't mind it much myself, for I often get a meal at -Fred Morrison's, but the poor old people have a hard time." - -"I will make it my business to see that there is an improvement." - -"Dr. Redmond," said Jed after a pause, "do you think it would be wrong -for me to run away from the poorhouse?" - -"Have you any such intention?" asked the doctor quickly. - -"Yes; I think I can earn my own living, and a better living than I have -there. I am young and strong, and I am not afraid to try." - -"As to that, Jed, I don't see why there should be any objection to your -making the attempt. The town of Scranton ought not to object to -lessening the number it is required to support." - -"Mr. and Mrs. Fogson would object. They would miss my work." - -"Have you ever spoken to them on the subject?" - -"I did one day, and they said I would have to stay till I was -twenty-one." - -"That is not true." - -"I don't think I could stay that long," said Jed soberly. "I should be -dead before that time if I had to live with Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, and -fared no better. Besides, you see how I am dressed. I should think you -would be ashamed to have me at your table." - -Jed's clothes certainly were far from becoming. They were of unknown -antiquity, and were two sizes too small for him, so that the sleeves -and the legs of the trousers were so scant as to attract attention. In -his working hours he wore a pair of overalls, but those he took off when -he accepted Dr. Redmond's invitation. - -"I didn't invite your clothes, Jed; I invited you," responded the -doctor. "I confess, however, that your suit is pretty shabby. How long -have you worn it?" - -"It was given me nearly two years ago." - -"And you have had no other since?" - -"No. If I stayed there till I was twenty-one I expect I should have to -wear the same old things." - -Dr. Redmond laughed. - -"I am bound to say, Jed, that in that case you would cut a comical -figure. However, I don't think it will be as bad as that. My son Ross is -in college. He is now twenty. I will ask my wife to look about the house -and see if there isn't an old suit of his that will fit you. It will, at -any rate, be a good deal better than this." - -"Thank you, doctor; but will you save it till I am ready to leave -Scranton?" - -"Yes, Jed. I will have it put in a bundle, and it will be ready for you -any time you call for it." - -"There's another thing, doctor. I think Mr. Fogson will try to get my -money away, notwithstanding all you said." - -"He wouldn't dare to." - -"He is very cunning. He will find some excuse." - -Jed was right. To prove this, we will go back to the poorhouse and -relate the conversation between the well-matched pair after Dr. -Redmond's departure. - -"Simeon," said his wife, "if you had any spunk you wouldn't let Dr. -Redmond insult and bully you, as he did just now." - -"What would you have me to do?" demanded her husband irritably. "I -couldn't knock him down, could I?" - -"No, but you could have talked up to him." - -"I did; but you must remember that he is an important man in the town, -and it wouldn't be wise to make him an enemy." - -"Squire Dixon is still more important. If he backs you up you needn't -be afraid of this trumpery doctor." - -"Well, what would you advise?" - -"Go this evening and see the squire. Tell him what has happened, and if -he gives you authority to take Jed's money, take it." - -"Really, that is a good suggestion, Mrs. F. I will go soon after -supper." - -"It would do no good to triumph over Dr. Redmond. He is an impertinent -meddler." - -"So he is. I agree with you there." - -Soon after seven o'clock Squire Dixon was somewhat surprised when the -servant ushered Mr. Fogson into his presence. - -"Ah, Fogson," he exclaimed. "I was not expecting to see you. Has -anything gone wrong?" - -"I should think so. Jed has rebelled against my lawful authority, and -Dr. Redmond is aiding and abetting him in it." - -"You astonish me, Fogson. Are you sure you are not mistaken?" - -"I'll tell you the whole story, squire, and you can judge for yourself." - -Upon this Mr. Fogson gave an account of the scenes that had taken place -in the poorhouse, including his contest with Jed, and Mrs. Fogson's -ill-judged attempt to assist him. - -"Certainly, you were in bad luck," said the squire. "Is the injury -serious?" - -"The burn is very painful, squire. Mrs. Fogson acted like an idiot. Why -didn't she take better aim?" - -"To be sure, to be sure. Wasn't the boy scalded at all?" - -"Not a particle," answered Fogson in an aggrieved tone. "Now, what I -want to know is, didn't I have a right to take the money from Jed?" - -"Yes, I think so. The boy would probably have made bad use of it." - -"The ground I take, squire, is that a pauper has no right to possess -money." - -"I quite agree with you. Since the town maintains him, the town should -have a right to exact any money of which he becomes accidentally -possessed." - -"I don't quite see that the town should have it," said Fogson. "As the -boy's official guardian, I think I ought to keep it, to use for the boy -whenever I thought it judicious." - -"Yes, I think that view is correct. I had only given the point a -superficial consideration." - -"Dr. Redmond denies this. He says I have no right to take the money from -Jed." - -"Dr. Redmond's view is not entitled to any weight. He has no official -right to intermeddle." - -"You'd think he had, by the manner in which he lectured Mrs. Fogson and -myself. I never heard such impudence." - -"Dr. Redmond assumes too much. He doesn't appear to understand that I, -and not he, was appointed Overseer of the Poor." - -"He says you are not fit for the position," said Fogson, transcending -the limits of strict accuracy, as the reader will understand. - -"What?" ejaculated Squire Dixon, his face flushing angrily. - -"That's just what he said," repeated Fogson, delighted by the effect of -his misrepresentations. "It's my belief that he wanted the office -himself." - -"Very likely, very likely!" said the squire angrily. "Do I understand -you to say that he actually called me unfit for the position?" - -"Yes he did. He appears to think that he can boss you and Mrs. F. and -myself. Why, he stood by that boy, though he had actually assaulted me, -and invited him home to supper." - -"You don't mean this, Mr. Fogson?" - -"Yes I do. Jed is at this very moment at the doctor's house. What -mischief they are concocting I can't tell, but I am sure that I shall -have more trouble with the boy." - -Squire Dixon was very much disturbed. He was a vain man, and his pride -sustained a severe shock when told that the doctor considered him unfit -for his position. - -"However," resumed the crafty Fogson, "I suppose we shall have to give -in to the doctor." - -"Give in!" exclaimed the squire, his face turning purple. "Never, Mr. -Fogson, never!" - -"I hate to give in, I confess, squire, but the doctor is a prominent -man, and----" - -"Prominent man! I should like to know whether I am not a prominent man -also, Mr. Fogson? Moreover, I represent the town, and Dr. Redmond -doesn't." - -"I am glad you will stand by me, squire. With you on my side, I will not -fear." - -"I will stand by you, Mr. Fogson." - -"I should hate to be triumphed over by a mere boy." - -"You shall not be, Mr. Fogson." - -"Then will you authorize me to demand the money from him?" - -"I will authorize you, Mr. Fogson, and if the boy persists in refusing, -I authorize you to use coercive measures. Do you understand?" - -"I believe I do, squire. You will let it be understood that you have -given me authority, won't you? Suppose the boy complains to Dr. -Redmond?" - -"You may refer Dr. Redmond to me, Mr. Fogson," said the squire -pompously. "I think I shall be tempted to give this meddling doctor a -piece of my mind." - -Mr. Fogson took leave of the squire and pursued his way homeward with a -smile on his face. He had accomplished what he desired, and secured a -powerful ally in his campaign against the boy Jed and Dr. Redmond. - -He returned home a little after eight, and just before nine Jed made his -appearance at the door of the poorhouse. He was in good spirits, for he -had decided that he would soon turn his back upon the place which had -been his home for fourteen years. - - - - -CHAPTER VII. - -FOGSON'S MISTAKE. - - -"So you have got home?" said Mr. Fogson with an unpleasant smile as he -opened the door to admit Jed later that evening. - -"Yes, sir." - -"You had a pleasant time, I presume?" - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, wondering to what all these questions tended. - -"I suppose Dr. Redmond put himself out to entertain such a distinguished -guest?" - -"No, Mr. Fogson, I don't think he did." - -"He didn't make arrangements to run the poorhouse, with your help, did -he?" - -"No," answered Jed with emphasis. - -"We ought to be thankful, Mrs. Fogson and I, humbly thankful, that we -ain't to be turned out by this high and mighty doctor." - -"If you don't like the doctor you had better tell him so," said Jed; "he -don't need me to defend him." - -"Do you know where I've been to-night?" queried Fogson, changing his -tone. - -"How could I tell?" - -"I've been to see Squire Dixon." - -"Well, sir, I suppose you had a right to. I hope you had a pleasant -call." - -"I did, and what's more, I told him of Dr. Redmond's impertinent -interference with me in my management of the poorhouse. He told me not -to pay any attention to Redmond, but to be guided by him. So long as he -was satisfied with me, it was all right." - -"You'd better tell Dr. Redmond that when he calls here next time." - -"I shall; but there's something I've got to say to you. He said I had a -perfect right to take the dollar from you, for as a pauper you had no -right to hold property of any kind. That's what Squire Dixon says. Now -hand over that money, or you'll get into trouble." - -"I wouldn't give the money to Squire Dixon himself," answered Jed -boldly. - -"You wouldn't, hey? I'll tell him that. You'll give it to me to-night, -though." - -He put out his hand to seize Jed, but the boy quietly moved aside, and -said, "You can't get the money from me to-night, Mr. Fogson." - -"Why can't I? There's no Dr. Redmond to take your part now. Why can't I, -I'd like to know?" - -"Because I haven't got it." - -"WHAT!" exclaimed Fogson. "Do you mean to say you've spent it already? -If you have----" - -"No, I haven't spent it, but I have given it to Dr. Redmond to keep for -me." - -Fogson showed in his face his intense disappointment. He expected to get -the money without fail, and lo! the victory was snatched from him. - -He glared at Jed, and seemed about to pounce upon him, but he thought -better of it. - -"You'll go and get the money in the morning," he said. "You and Dr. -Redmond are engaged in a conspiracy against the town and the laws, and I -am not sure but I could have you both arrested. Mind, if that money is -not handed to me to-morrow you will get a thrashing. Now go to bed!" - -Jed was not sorry to avail himself of this permission. He had not -enjoyed the interview with Mr. Fogson, and he felt tired and in need of -rest. Accordingly he went up stairs to the attic, where there was a cot -bed under the bare rafters, which he usually occupied. There had been -another boy, three months before, who had shared the desolate room with -him, but he had been bound out to a farmer, and now Jed was the sole -occupant. - -Tired as he was, he did not go to sleep immediately. He undressed -himself slowly in the obscurity, for he was not allowed a lamp, and made -a movement to get into bed. - -But a surprise awaited him. His extended hand came in contact with a -human face, and one on which there was a mustache. Somebody was in his -bed! - -Naturally, Jed was startled. - -"Who are you?" he inquired. - -"Who'm I? I'm a gentleman," was the drowsy reply. - -"You're in my bed," said Jed, annoyed as well as surprised. - -"Where is _my_ bed?" hiccoughed the other. - -"I don't know. How did you get in here?" - -"I came in when no one was lookin'," answered the intruder. "Zis a -hotel?" - -"No; it's the Scranton poorhouse." - -"You don't say? Dad always told me I'd end up in the poorhouse, but I -didn't expect to get there so quick." - -"You'd better get up and go down stairs. Fogson wouldn't like to have -you stay here all night." - -"Who's Fogson?" - -"He is the manager of the poorhouse." - -"Who cares for Fogson? I don't b'lieve Fogson is a gen'leman." - -"Nor I," inwardly assented Jed. - -This was the last word that he could get from the intruder, who coolly -turned over and began to snore. - -Fortunately for Jed, there was another cot bed--the one formerly -occupied by the other boy--and he got into it. - -Fatigued by the events of the day, Jed soon slept a sound and refreshing -sleep. In fact his sleep was so sound that it is doubtful whether a -thunderstorm would have awakened him. - -Towards morning the occupant of the other bed turned in such a way as to -lie on his back. This position, as my readers are probably aware, is -conducive to heavy snoring, and the intruder availed himself of this to -the utmost. - -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson slept directly underneath, and after awhile, the -door leading to the attic being open, the sound of the snoring attracted -the attention of Mrs. Fogson. - -"Simeon!" she said, shaking her recumbent husband. - -"What is it, Mrs. F.?" inquired her lord and master drowsily. - -"Did you hear that?" - -"Did I hear what?" - -"That terrific snoring. It is loud enough to wake the dead." - -By this time Fogson was fairly awake. - -"So it is," he assented. "Who is it?" - -"Jed, of course. What possesses the boy to snore so?" - -"Can't say, I'm sure. I never heard a boy of his age make such a noise." - -"It must be stopped, Simeon. It can't be more than three o'clock, and -if it continues I shan't sleep another wink." - -"Well, go up and stop it." - -"It is more suitable for you to go, Mr. Fogson. I do believe the boy is -snoring out of spite." - -Even Fogson laughed at this idea. - -"He couldn't do that unless he snored when he was awake," he replied. -"It isn't easy to snore when you are not asleep. If you don't believe -it, try it." - -"I am ashamed of you, Simeon. Do you think I would demean myself by any -such low action? If that snoring isn't stopped right off I shall go into -a fit." - -"I wouldn't like to have you do that," said Fogson, rather amused. "It -would be rather worse than hearing Jed snore." - -About this time there was an unusual outburst on the part of the -sleeper. - -"A little hot water would fix him," said Fogson. "It is a pity you had -not saved your hot water till to-night." - -"Cold water would do just as well." - -"So it would. Mrs. F., that's a bright idea. I owe the boy a grudge for -giving his money to Dr. Redmond. I'll go down stairs and get a clipper -of cold water, and I'll see if I can't stop the boy's noise." - -Mr. Fogson went down stairs, chuckling, as he went, at the large joke he -was intending to perpetrate. It would not be so bad as being scalded, -but it would probably be very disagreeable to Jed to be roused from a -sound sleep by a dash of cold water. - -"I hope he won't wake up before I get there," thought Mr. Fogson, as he -descended to the kitchen in his stocking feet to procure the water. - -He pumped for a minute or two in order that the water might be colder, -and then with the dipper in hand ascended two flights of stairs to the -attic. - -Up there it was still profoundly dark. There was but one window, and -that was screened by a curtain. Moreover, it was very dark outside. Mr. -Fogson, however, was not embarrassed, for he knew just where Jed's bed -was situated, and, even if he had not, the loud snoring, which still -continued, would have been sufficient to guide him to the place. - -"It beats me how a boy can snore like that," soliloquized Fogson. "He -must have eaten something at Dr. Redmond's that didn't agree with him. -If I didn't know it was Jed I should feel frightened at such an -unearthly hubbub. However, it won't continue long," and Fogson laughed -to himself as he thought of the sensation which his dipper of water was -likely to produce. - -He approached a little nearer, and in spite of the darkness could see -the outlines of a form on the bed, but he could not see clearly enough -to make out the difference between it and Jed's. - -He poised himself carefully, and then dashed the water vigorously into -the face of the sleeping figure. - -The results were not exactly what he had anticipated. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII. - -MR. FOGSON IS ASTONISHED. - - -The sleeper had already slept off pretty nearly all the effects of his -potations, and the sudden cold bath restored him wholly to himself. But -it also aroused in him a feeling of anger, justifiable under the -circumstances, and, not belonging to the Peace Society, he was moved to -punish the person to whom he was indebted for his unpleasant experience. - -With a smothered imprecation he sprang from the bed and seized the -astonished Fogson by the throat, while he shook him violently. - -"You--you--scoundrel!" he ejaculated. "I'll teach you to play such a -scurvy trick on a gentleman." - -Mr. Fogson screamed in fright. He did not catch his late victim's words, -and was still under the impression that it was Jed who had tackled him. - -Meanwhile the intruder was flinging him about and bumping him against -the floor so forcibly that Mrs. Fogson's attention was attracted. -Indeed, she was at the foot of the stairs, desiring to enjoy Jed's -dismay when drenched with the contents of the tin dipper. - -"What's the matter, Simeon?" she cried. - -"Jed's killing me!" called out Fogson in muffled tones. - -"You don't mean to say you ain't a match for that boy!" ejaculated Mrs. -Fogson scornfully. "I'll come up and help you." - -Disregarding her light attire she hurried up stairs, and was astonished -beyond measure when she saw how unceremoniously her husband was being -handled. She rushed to seize Jed, when she found her hands clutching a -mustache. - -"Why, it ain't Jed!" she screamed in dismay. - -"No, it ain't Jed," said the intruder. "Did you mean that soaking for -Jed, whoever he is?" - -"Yes, yes, it was--quite a mistake!" gasped Fogson. - -"I am glad to hear you say so, for I meant to fling you down stairs, -and might have broken your neck." - -"Oh, what a dreadful man!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. "How came you here -and where is Jed?" - -"I am here!" answered Jed, who had waked up two or three minutes -previous and was enjoying the defeat of his persecutor. - -"Did you bring in this man?" demanded Mrs. Fogson sternly. - -"No. I walked in myself," answered the intruder. "I was rather -mellow--in other words I had drunk too much mixed ale, and I really -didn't know where I was. I had an idea that this was a hotel." - -"You made a mistake, sir. This is the Scranton poorhouse." - -"So the boy told me when he came in. I wouldn't have taken a bed here if -I had known your playful way of pouring cold water on your guests." - -"Sir, apart from your assault on me, _me_, the master of the poorhouse," -said Fogson, trying to recover some of his lost dignity, "you committed -a trespass in entering the house without permission and appropriating a -bed." - -"All right, old man, but just remember that I was drunk." - -"I don't think that is an excuse." - -"Isn't it? Just get drunk yourself, and see what you'll do." - -"I don't allow Mr. Fogson to get drunk," said his wife with asperity. - -"Maybe my wife wouldn't let me, if there was any such a person, but I -haven't been so fortunate as Mr. Fogson, if that is his name." - -"Mrs. F.," said her husband with a sudden thought, "you are not dressed -for company." - -Mrs. Fogson, upon this hint, scuttled down stairs, and the intruder -resumed: "If I've taken a liberty I'm willing to apologize. What's more, -I'll pay you fifty cents for the use of your bed and stay the night -out." - -He was appealing to Mr. Fogson's weak point, which was a love of money. - -"I see you're ready to do the square thing," he said in softened -accents. "If you'll say seventy-five----" - -"No, I won't pay over fifty. I don't care to take it another night on -those terms, if I am to be waked up by a dipper of water. You've wet the -sheet and pillow so that I may take my death of cold if I sleep here any -longer." - -"I'll bring you a comforter which you can lay over the wet clothes." - -"All right! Bring it up and I'll hand you the fifty cents." - -"And--and if you would like breakfast in the morning, for the small -extra sum of twenty-five cents----" - -"Isn't that rather steep for a poorhouse breakfast?" - -"You will not eat with the paupers, of course, but at a private table, -with Mrs. Fogson and myself." - -"All right! Your offer is accepted." - -Mr. Fogson brought up the comforter, and the visitor resumed the -slumbers which had been so unceremoniously interrupted. - -The sun rose early, and when its rays crept in through the side window -both Jed and his companion were awake. - -"I say, boy, come over here and share my bed. I want to talk to you." - -Jed's curiosity was excited, and he accepted the invitation. - -He found his roommate to be a good-looking young man of perhaps thirty, -and with a pleasant expression. - -"So you are Jed?" he asked. - -"Yes, sir." - -"And you live in the poorhouse?" - -"Yes," answered Jed, half-ashamed to admit it, "but I don't mean to stay -here." - -"Good! A smart boy like you ought not to be a pauper. You are able to -earn your own living outside. But perhaps you are attached to the queer -people who made me a visit last night." - -"Not much!" answered Jed emphatically. - -"I don't admire them much myself. I didn't see the old lady. Is she -beautiful?" - -Jed laughed heartily. - -"You'll see her at the breakfast table," he said. "Then you can judge -for yourself." - -"I don't think I shall do anything to excite Fogson's jealousy. Zounds, -if this isn't the queerest hotel I ever struck. I am sorry to have -taken your bed from you." - -"I was glad not to be in it when Mr. Fogson came up." - -"You're right there," said the other laughing. "Whew! how the cold water -startled me. Sorry to have deprived you of it." - -"Mr. Fogson got a dose himself yesterday, only it was hot water." - -"You don't say so! Was that meant for you, too?" - -"Yes;" and Jed told the story of his struggle with Mr. Fogson, and his -wife's unfortunate interference. - -"That's a capital joke," said the visitor laughing. "Now I suppose you -wonder who I am." - -"Yes; I should like to know." - -"I'm Harry Bertram, the actor. I don't know if you ever heard of me." - -"I never attended the theatre in my life." - -"Is that so? Why, you're quite a heathen. Never went to a theatre? Well, -I _am_ surprised." - -"Is it a good business?" asked Jed. - -"Sometimes, if the play happens to catch on. When you are stranded five -hundred miles from home, and your salary isn't paid, it isn't exactly -hilarious." - -"Are you going to play anywhere near here?" asked Jed, who was beginning -to think he would like to see a performance. - -"We are billed to play in Duncan to-morrow evening, or rather this -evening, for it's morning now." - -"Duncan is only five miles away." - -"If you want to attend I'll give you a pass. It's the least I can do to -pay for turning you out of your bed." - -"I could walk the five miles," said Jed. - -"Then come. I'll see you at the door and pass you in. Ask for Harry -Bertram." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram." - -"Old Fogson won't make a fuss about your going, will he?" - -"Yes, he will; but I've made up my mind to leave the poorhouse, and I -might as well leave it to-day as any time." - -"Good! I admire your pluck." - -"I wish I knew what I could do to make a living." - -"Leave that to me. I'll arrange to have you travel with the show for -two or three days and bunk with me. Have you got any--any better clothes -than those?" and Bertram pointed to the dilapidated garments lying on a -chair near by. - -"Yes, I am promised a good suit by a friend of mine in the village. I'll -go there and put them on before starting." - -"Do; the actors sometimes look pretty tough, but I never saw one dressed -like that." - -"Jed!" screamed Mrs. Fogson from the bottom of the stairs. "You get -right up and come down stairs!" - -"They're calling me," said Jed, starting up. - -"Will I have to get up too?" - -"No; Mr. and Mrs. Fogson don't breakfast till seven. They'll send me up -to call you." - -"All right! We'll soon be travelling together where there are no -Fogsons." - -"I hope so," and Jed went down stairs with new life in his step. - - - - -CHAPTER IX. - -JED LEAVES THE POORHOUSE. - - -At eight o'clock Harry Bertram was summoned to breakfast in the private -sitting-room of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. In spite of the poor fare of which -the paupers complained the Fogsons took care themselves to have -appetizing meals, and the well-spread table looked really attractive. - -"Sit down here, Mr. Bertram," said Mrs. Fogson, pointing to a seat. The -place opposite was vacant, as the heads of the table were occupied by -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. - -"Mrs. Fogson," said the actor, "I am going to ask a favor." - -"What is it?" returned the lady, wreathing her features into a frosty -smile. - -"I see the seat opposite me is unoccupied. Will you oblige me by letting -the boy Jed take it?" - -Mrs. Fogson's face changed. - -"I should prefer not to have him here," she answered in a forbidding -tone. - -"Of course I propose to pay for his breakfast the same price that I pay -for my own." - -"The boy is insubordinate and disobedient," said the lady coldly. - -"Still he gave me his bed last night. Some boys would have objected." - -"My dear," said Fogson, whose weakness for money has already been -mentioned, "I think, as the gentleman has agreed to pay for Jed's -breakfast, we may give our consent, merely to gratify him." - -"Very well," answered Mrs. Fogson, resolved to claim the twenty-five -cents for herself. - -She rose from her seat, went to the window, and opening it, called to -Jed, who was at work in the yard. - -He speedily made his appearance. - -"Sit down to the table, Jedediah," said Mr. Fogson with dignity. "Mr. -Bertram desires you to breakfast with him." - -Jed was very much surprised, but as he noted the warm biscuit and -beefsteak, which emitted an appetizing odor, he felt that it was an -invitation not to be rejected. - -"I am very much obliged to Mr. Bertram," he said, "and also to you and -Mrs. Fogson." - -This was a politic remark to make, and he was served as liberally as the -guest. - -"Do you find your position a pleasant one, Mr. Fogson?" asked Bertram -politely. - -"No, Mr. Bertram, far from it. The paupers are a thankless, ungrateful -set, but I am sustained by a sense of duty." - -"The paupers were spoiled by our predecessors, Mr. and Mrs. Avery," -chimed in Mrs. Fogson. "Really, Mr. Bertram, you would be surprised to -learn how unreasonable they are. They are always complaining of their -meals." - -"I am sure they must be unreasonable if they complain of meals like -this, Mrs. Fogson," said the actor. - -"Of course we can't afford to treat them like this. The town would -object. But we give them as good fare as we can afford. Are you going to -stay long in Scranton?" - -"No; I am merely passing through. I shall sleep to-night at Duncan." - -"At the poorhouse?" asked Jed with a comical smile. - -"Yes, if I could be sure of as good fare as this," replied the actor -with an answering smile. "But that would be very doubtful." - -Mrs. Fogson, who, cross-grained as she was, was not above flattery, -mentally pronounced Mr. Bertram a most agreeable young man--in fact, a -perfect gentleman. - -"I am really ashamed," continued Bertram, "to have entered your house in -such a condition, but I was feeling a little internal disturbance, and -fancied that whisky would relieve it. Unfortunately I took too much." - -"It might have happened to anyone," said Fogson considerately. "I am -myself a temperance man, but sometimes I find whisky beneficial to my -health." - -Bertram, noticing the ruddy hue of Mr. Fogson's nose, was quite ready to -believe this statement. - -"May I ask if you are a business man?" remarked Fogson. - -"My business is acting. I belong to the Gold King Company, which is to -play at Duncan to-night." - -"Indeed!" said Mrs. Fogson, with a glance of curiosity. "I never saw an -actor before." - -"I am sorry you should see such an unworthy representative of the -Thespian art. If we were to play in Scranton, it would give me pleasure -to offer you and Mr. Fogson complimentary tickets." - -"I wish you were to play here," said Mrs. Fogson in a tone of regret. "I -haven't seen a play for five years." - -"I suppose you couldn't come to Duncan?" - -"No; we could not be spared. Besides, we have no horse and carriage," -said Fogson. "We must wait till you perform in Scranton." - -Jed was very much relieved to hear this remark, for it would have -interfered with his own plans if Mr. and Mrs. Fogson had accepted an -invitation to witness the play at Duncan. - -"Is it a good paying business?" asked Mr. Fogson. - -"Well, so so. My salary is fifty dollars a week." - -"You don't say so!" exclaimed Fogson in envious surprise. "You ought to -lay up money." - -"It seems so, but in the summer we generally have a long vacation. -Besides, we have to pay our hotel bills; so that, after all, we don't -have as much left as you would suppose. Besides, we have to buy our -costumes, and some of them are quite expensive." - -In spite of these drawbacks the Fogsons evidently looked upon Bertram as -a wealthy young man. - -At length they rose from the table. Jed had never before eaten such a -meal since he entered the poorhouse, and he felt in a degree envious of -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, who probably fared thus every day. When he -considered, however, how they nearly starved the poor people of whom -they had charge he felt indignant, and could not help wishing that some -time they might exchange places with the unfortunate paupers. - -He went out to the yard again, and resumed his work at the woodpile. -Harry Bertram strolled out and lazily watched him. - -"I suppose you never did work of this kind, Mr. Bertram?" said Jed. - -"Oh yes, I lived for nearly a year with an aunt who required me to -prepare all the wood for the kitchen stove. I can tell you one thing, -though, I did not enjoy it, and when I left her I retired forever from -that line of business." - -"Are you going to stay in Scranton to-day?" - -"No; I must be getting over to Duncan. We have taken on a new actor and -shall be obliged to have a rehearsal. Will you go along with me?" - -"I should like to, but it would only get me into trouble. I will start -about four o'clock, and go over to Dr. Redmond's to get the suit of -clothes he promised me." - -"I suppose you won't have to take a trunk of clothes from here?" - -"About all the clothes I own are on my back. If I leave any behind me, -anyone is welcome to them." - -"Do you think there will be any difficulty in your getting away?" - -"I think I can slip off without being noticed." - -"Do you think they will go after you?" - -"They might if they suspected where I was going." - -"Then I shall have to help you. Join me at the theatre, and it will go -hard if, between us, we cannot foil the enemy." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram. You are a real friend." - -"Some people say I am everybody's friend but my own. You can judge for -yourself about that when you know me better." - -Harry Bertram walked off whistling, and Jed was left to his reflections. -It is needless to say that he felt in an excited mood, for it seemed to -him that he had come to a turning-point in his life. As far back as he -could remember he had been an inmate of the Scranton poorhouse. - -When Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge he had not minded this much, such -was the kindness with which he was treated by those good people. But -when, through the influence of Squire Dixon, they were removed and Mr. -and Mrs. Fogson put in their place he began to feel the bitterness of -his position. The three months which had passed since then seemed to him -like so many years. But now he had resolved, once for all, to end his -thralldom, and go out into the great world and see what he could do for -himself. - -Circumstances favored him. - -About half-past three Mr. Fogson called him down. - -"I want you to go to Squire Dixon's and carry this letter," he said. - -Jed's heart leaped with joy. It at once occurred to him that Squire -Dixon lived only about twenty rods from Dr. Redmond, and that he could -call at the doctor's house after doing his errand. - -"Is there any answer?" he asked. - -"No; I have asked the squire to call here this evening, if he can. He is -the overseer, and I wish to consult him." - -"Very well, sir." - -Jed took the letter, glad that no answer would be required. Even if -there had been, he would have neglected to bring it, for he could not -afford to throw away this chance of escape. - -The distance from the poorhouse to Squire Dixon's residence was about -three-quarters of a mile. Jed covered it in less than fifteen minutes. - -In the front yard Percy Dixon was strutting about with the airy -consequence habitual to him. - -"What brings you here?" he asked rudely. - -"I've come with a note for your father. After I've delivered it I will -stop a little while and play with you if you want me to." - -"You needn't trouble yourself. I don't care to play with paupers." - -"Don't call me that again, Percy Dixon!" said Jed, his patience worn -out. - -"What will happen if I do?" demanded Percy tauntingly. - -"I may be obliged to give you a thrashing." - - - - -CHAPTER X. - -JED REACHES DUNCAN. - - -Percy Dixon's face flushed with resentment. - -"Do you know who you are talking to?" he demanded. - -"Yes," answered Jed coolly. "I am talking to a boy who thinks a great -deal more of himself than any one else does." - -"I would punish you, but I don't want to dirty my hands with you. I'll -tell my father, and he'll see that old Fogson flogs you." - -Jed smiled. He never meant to see Fogson again if he could help it, but -he was too wise to impart his plans to Percy. - -At this moment his father came up to the gate, and as he opened it his -attention was drawn to Jed. - -"Have you come here with any message for me?" he asked. - -"I have a note for you." - -"Give it to me." - -"Humph!" said the squire, casting his eye over the note. "Mr. Fogson -asks me to call this evening. I will do so." - -"Very well, sir." - -"Father," interrupted Percy, "there is to be a play performed at Duncan -this evening." - -"Is there?" - -"Yes; I saw a bill in the post-office. It's the 'Gold King,' I believe. -May I go?" - -"I don't know," said the squire, hesitating. "Mr. Fogson wants me to -call at the poorhouse." - -"If you don't care about going, I can drive mother and Alice over. You -know you promised we should attend the next theatrical performance -anywhere near." - -"If your mother and Alice would like to go I have no objection. You must -drive carefully, and you can leave the horses in the hotel stable." - -"All right," said Percy joyfully. "Did you ever go to a theatre?" he -asked Jed in a patronizing tone. - -"No." - -"I have been quite often," said Percy complacently. "But, of course, -paupers can't attend amusements." - -"You may change your mind this evening," thought Jed. - -Jed went at once to the doctor's house. Dr. Redmond had just arrived -from a round of visits. - -"Good morning, Jed," he said pleasantly. - -"Good morning, Dr. Redmond." - -"Do you want to see me?" - -"I have come to claim your promise," said Jed. - -"What is that?" - -"You promised me a suit of clothes when I got ready to leave the -poorhouse." - -Dr. Redmond's face instantly assumed a look of interest. - -"And you have decided to take this important step?" he said. - -"Yes, doctor. I am tired of being called a pauper. I am sure I can earn -my own living, and I mean to try it." - -"I don't know but you are right, Jed. At any rate, you have my best -wishes. Come into the house, and I will ask Mrs. Redmond to look up the -suit. If I am not mistaken you will need other things also--socks, -handkerchiefs, and underclothing." - -"I need them, no doubt, but I don't want to ask too much." - -"I think Mrs. Redmond can fit you out. And, by the way, I think you can -manage a little supper. In what direction are you going?" - -"To Duncan." - -"Why there, in particular?" - -"I have a friend there." - -"Who is it?" - -"Harry Bertram, the actor." - -Dr. Redmond looked surprised. - -"How did you get acquainted with him?" - -Jed told the story. The incident of Fogson's assault on the sleeping -actor and his defeat amused the doctor not a little. - -"He may be of service to you," he said. "At any rate, an actor sees a -good deal of the world, and he may be able to give you some advice. Now -put on your clothes and see what a transformation they will make." - -Mrs. Redmond took Jed up to a small chamber belonging to her absent -son, and laid the clothing on the bed, advising Jed to go into the -bathroom close by and take a good bath. - -When, half an hour or more later, he descended to the floor below, Dr. -Redmond started in surprise. In place of the poorhouse drudge there -stood before him a good-looking boy, attired in a brown suit, with clean -linen and his hair neatly brushed. Dr. and Mrs. Redmond exchanged -glances. - -"I wouldn't believe clothes made such a difference," exclaimed the -doctor. - -"Nor I," chimed in his wife. - -The same idea came into the mind of each. Jed's personal appearance -would do credit to any family, however exclusive. Yet he had been -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse, and associated with paupers all -his life. - -"I mustn't forget to give you your money," said the doctor, and he put a -roll of bills into Jed's hand. - -"But here is five dollars!" said Jed. "It was only two you had of mine." - -"Take the five. You will need it. It is small enough capital for a boy -to go forth into the world with to seek his fortune. Now how are you -going to Duncan?" - -"I am going to walk." - -"I am afraid you will get very tired," said Mrs. Redmond in a tone of -sympathy. - -"No, ma'am, it is only five miles." - -"And five miles is a trifle to a strong boy like Jed." - -"Won't you wait till after supper?" asked Mrs. Redmond. - -"No, thank you. It would get me there too late." - -"Then I will make up some sandwiches for you. Your walk will make you -hungry." - -Jed started with a small valise in which were packed some extra -underclothing, and he carried in his hand a substantial lunch wrapped in -paper. - -It was far better than the supper which he missed at the poorhouse. - -He was rather afraid of meeting some one whom he knew, particularly -Percy Dixon, who he was sure would be delighted to thwart his plan by -reporting him; but fortunately he escaped observation. He passed two men -whom he knew very well, but in his new dress they did not know him. - -Jed had walked about half way when a man in a top buggy overtook him, -and, stopping his horse, called out, "Is this the road to Duncan?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Is it a straight road all the way?" - -"Not quite, sir. There are one or two turns." - -"I am sorry to hear it. I am not acquainted hereabouts, and I shouldn't -like to lose my way. Are you going to Duncan?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Then jump in, unless you prefer walking. With a good guide I shall be -all right." - -"I would rather ride, and I will accept your invitation with pleasure." - -"Then we are both suited." - -Jed's new acquaintance was a stout man of middle age, with a prompt, -alert manner, and looked like a business man. He had a quick, impulsive -way with him. - -"Are you travelling?" he asked, noticing Jed's valise. - -"Yes, sir." - -"Going to see the world, eh?" - -"I'm going in search of a living, sir," answered Jed. - -"Got parents?" - -"No, sir. I'm alone in the world." - -"Well, you've got a tough job before you." - -"Yes, sir, I don't doubt it; but I am young and healthy, and I think I -ought to be able to earn my living. Are you a business man?" - -"No, not exactly. Why do you ask?" - -"I thought you might have a place for me if you were." - -"I am not in the right sort of business for you, my lad. I am the -manager of the Gold King Dramatic Company." - -"Then you are acquainted with Harry Bertram?" said Jed eagerly. - -"Yes, he is one of my actors. What do you know of Harry Bertram?" - -"He slept in the same room with me last night. He told me to come to -Duncan, and he would see what he could do for me." - -"Ha, indeed! Well, Harry is a good fellow, and a good friend. He has -one fault. He is a little too convivial." - -"Yes, sir; I thought so. Is he a good actor?" - -"Excellent in his line. He gets a very good salary, but I am afraid he -doesn't save very much of it. Are you going to see the play this -evening?" - -"Yes; Mr. Bertram thought he could get me in." - -"You won't need to ask him for a pass. Here is one;" and the manager -scribbled on a leaf from his note-book - - - _Admit Bearer._ - MORDAUNT. - - -"Thank you, sir," said Jed, as he pocketed the pass. "I suppose you are -Mr. Mordaunt?" - -"John Mordaunt, manager of the Gold King Company. In my humbler days I -was known to my friends as Jack Mordaunt." - -By this time they had reached Duncan, and drove at once to the hotel. - - - - -CHAPTER XI. - -JED'S FIRST APPEARANCE ON THE STAGE. - - -Several gentlemen were sitting on the piazza in front of the hotel. -Among them was Jed's acquaintance of the night before, Harry Bertram. - -When he saw Mr. Mordaunt in the buggy he advanced to greet him. - -"I am glad to see you, Mr. Mordaunt," he said. "I wanted to consult -you." - -"Any hitch, Bertram?" asked the manager. - -"Yes. Young Clinton is sick and can't play to-night." - -"What's the matter with the boy?" - -"He is threatened with fever." - -"Couldn't he play to-night? His part is a small one, but it is -important." - -"The doctor absolutely forbids his appearing on the stage." - -"That is awkward. If we were in the city we might get a substitute, but -a common country boy would make a mess of the part." - -"You have a boy with you. Do you think he would do?" - -"You have known him longer than I. I refer the matter to you." - -"Why, it's Jed!" exclaimed Bertram, examining our hero closely. - -"Didn't you know me, Mr. Bertram?" asked Jed smilingly. - -"Who could, with such a change of dress? You must have met some good -fairy. And how did you fall in with Mr. Mordaunt?" - -"He kindly offered me a ride." - -"Then you have left Scranton for good?" - -"For good, I hope. If I can help you in any way I will do my best." - -"Try him, Bertram," said the manager. "He is very presentable. Take him -in hand, and see if you can't get him ready to take Ralph Clinton's -place." - -"Then no time is to be lost. Come up to my room, Jed, and I will tell -you what you are expected to do--that is, if you have had supper." - -"I ate my supper on the road before I fell in with Mr. Mordaunt." - -"Follow me, then, Jed." - -Harry Bertram led the way to a comfortable chamber on the second floor. - -"Now sit down, and I'll tell you what you will have to do. First, do you -think you have the nerve to stand before an audience and play the part -of a telegraph boy?" - -"Yes, sir. I am not troubled with bashfulness." - -"Have you ever spoken in public?" - -"Yes, at school examinations." - -"Then I think you'll do. Here is your part." - -He handed Jed a small manuscript book containing the lines of his role, -with the cues. - -"You see it isn't long. I may be able to give you a little rehearsal, as -you appear only in the first and last acts." - -The next half hour was devoted to teaching Jed his part. Bertram was -delighted with the aptitude shown by his pupil. - -"Have you never attended a theatre?" he asked, almost incredulously. - -"Never, Mr. Bertram." - -"Then I can only say that you have the dramatic instinct, luckily for -us. If you are sure you won't be afraid before the footlights, you'll -do." - -"Then I shall do," said Jed. "I never should think of being nervous." - -"One thing more--nothing will be said of any substitution. To the -audience you will be Ralph Clinton, as put down on the bill." - -"That will suit me. I am afraid if I were announced as JED, THE -POORHOUSE BOY, it wouldn't help you," continued Jed with a smile. - -"You may have to continue in the part a week or more. As to the pay, I -can't speak of that yet. Mr. Mordaunt will arrange with you." - -"If I can earn my board I shall be satisfied." - -"I can promise you that, and fully as good board as you have been -accustomed to." - -"I hope it won't be worse," said Jed laughing. - -"When you go to the theatre I will see if Ralph Clinton's uniform will -fit you. I haven't much doubt on that point, as you seem to be about the -same size." - -The performance was to commence at eight. Harry Bertram and his protege -went to the hall, which was to be used as a theatre, early, so that Jed -might be introduced to his fellow-actors and receive a little -instruction as to the business of his part. - -He was very quick to comprehend, and forgot nothing, so that Bertram -felt quite easy in regard to him, though it was his first appearance on -any stage. - -Jed was very well received by the other members of the company, all of -whom expressed satisfaction at having the gap so quickly filled. - -"I am glad to make your acquaintance, my boy," said George Osprey, the -leading man. "Where have you played?" - -"Nowhere, sir. This is my first appearance." - -"I hope you won't funk." - -"If that means break down, I am sure I won't." - -"Good! Your confidence will pull you through." - -"Mr. Osprey, introduce me, please," lisped an elderly young lady, of -affected manners. - -"This is Miss Celesta Raffles,Mr.----, I don't think I know your name." - -"Jed Gilman, but I believe I am to be billed as Ralph Clinton." - -"I am delighted to meet you, Mr. Gilman," said Miss Raffles. "I am sure -you will be an honor to our noble profession." - -"I hope so, Miss Raffles," said Jed smilingly, "but I shall be able to -tell better to-morrow." - -"I always sympathize with youth--with impulsive, enthusiastic youth," -gushed Miss Raffles. - -"If they are of the male sex," interpolated Mr. Osprey. "Mr. Gilman, I -must warn you that Miss Raffles is a dangerous woman. She will do her -best to make an impression on your heart." - -"Oh, you wicked slanderer!" said the delighted Celesta. "Mr. Gilman, I -am not dangerous at all. I will merely ask you to look upon me as your -sister--your elder sister." - -"Thank you, Miss Raffles," said Jed, showing a tact and self-possession -hardly to be expected of one with his training. "Is Mr. Osprey one of -your brothers?" - -"Yes, she told me that she would be a sister to me. I have never--never -recovered from the blow." - -"I may change my mind," said Celesta, who admired the handsome leading -man. "If you try again, you may meet with better success----" - -"No," answered Osprey warily. "I never ask the same favor a second time. -I leave you to Mr. Gilman. May you be happy, my children!" - -As Celesta Raffles looked to be thirty-five, and Jed was but sixteen, he -was a good deal amused, but Miss Raffles was disposed to take the matter -in earnest. - -"Don't let him prejudice you against me, Mr. Gilman!" she murmured. "We -shall soon be better acquainted, I am sure. Do you know, I am to be your -mother in the play? It is a little absurd, as I am only twenty-three, -but we have to do strange things on the stage." - -"She's thirty-six if she's a day," whispered Osprey, "but if you want to -keep in her good graces you must believe her own reports of her age." - -"Time to dress, Jed!" said Harry Bertram. "It will take you longer than -usual, as it is the first time. Your nerve won't fail you, will it?" - -Jed shook his head. - -"I feel as cool as ever I did," he answered. - -Fortunately the telegraph boy's uniform fitted him exactly. He hardly -knew himself as he looked at his reflection in the little mirror in his -dressing-room. - -"I wonder if Mr. and Mrs. Fogson would recognize me if they should see -me on the stage?" thought Jed. - -Then it occurred to him that Percy Dixon and his mother would be -present. He smiled to himself as he thought of Percy's bewilderment when -he saw him under such a strange change of circumstances. - -It is not necessary to give the plot of the Gold King. It is sufficient -to say that Jed, the telegraph boy, had been stolen from his parents in -early life, the Gold King being his father. He is obliged to earn his -own living as a boy, but in the last act he is restored to his friends -and his old station in life. - -In the first act Jed appeared in his predecessor's uniform. In the last -he wore his own suit, this being quite as well adapted to the character -as Ralph Clinton's street costume. - -Mrs. Dixon and Percy occupied seats in the third row from the front. -They always paid the highest prices, and secured the most eligible -seats. - -At the end of ten minutes Jed's cue was called and he appeared on the -stage. Percy, who was watching the play with the greatest attention, -started in amazement when he saw the boy actor. - -"Mother," he whispered, "that boy is the perfect image of Jed, the -poorhouse boy." - -"Is he, indeed? Very singular, on my word!" - -"And he has the same voice," continued Percy, still more excited. - -"But I suppose it can't be he," said Mrs. Dixon inquiringly. - -"No, I think not," answered Percy. "Jed doesn't know anything about -acting, and this boy is perfectly at home on the stage." - -This was indeed true. Jed was quite self-possessed. Moreover, he never -hesitated for a word or stumbled, but was letter-perfect. His scene was -with George Osprey, as member of a fashionable club, who had inquired -into his history. "Yes," said Jed, repeating his part, "yes, Mr. -Glendower, I am a poor boy, but those who look down upon me will one day -find their mistake--they may find that the poor telegraph boy whom they -once despised is able to look down upon them." - -As he uttered these words, Jed, perhaps intentionally, let his glance -rest on Percy Dixon, while the latter gazed at him open-mouthed. - -"I believe it is Jed, after all, mother!" he ejaculated. - - - - -CHAPTER XII. - -PERCY DIXON IS BEWILDERED. - - -At the end of the first act Jed and George Osprey were called before the -curtain. Jed had been instructed to bow his thanks, and did so. Percy -watched his face eagerly, for this brought Jed within a few feet of him. - -"Mother," he said, "if that boy isn't Jed, it is his twin brother." - -"But, Percy," said his mother, who was a practical woman, "I never heard -that the boy had a twin brother." - -"Oh, pshaw! I meant that he is exactly like him." - -"But this boy is Ralph Clinton. The bill says so." - -"I know it," said Percy, with a puzzled expression. "I don't understand -it at all." - -"The boy you mean is probably in bed at the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Perhaps he is. I don't see, for my part, how he could be here, or know -how to act." - -The play proceeded. It was in five acts, and Jed was not called upon to -appear again till the last one. He proved himself up to the requirements -of the part, and evidently produced a favorable impression on the -audience. - -"Mother," said Percy, "I would like to wait at the stage door till the -actors come out." - -"But, Percy, it is already late. We ought to be starting for home." - -"But, mother, you know father is Overseer of the Poor, and if this boy -is Jed, he has run away from the Scranton poorhouse, and father will be -held responsible." - -"Why should he?" - -"Because the paupers are under his charge. If one of them runs away he -will be blamed." - -"Well, if you think we ought to stop," said the lady undecidedly. "But I -don't see what you expect to accomplish." - -"I want to see that boy face to face. I want to speak to him, and find -out for certain who he is." - -"Well, don't be any longer than you can help." - -"I won't." - -Meanwhile Jed and Harry Bertram were conversing in the greenroom. - -"You did yourself proud, my boy," said Bertram. "You acted as well as -Clinton, and in some respects better." - -"I am glad to hear you say so, Mr. Bertram," said Jed, gratified. - -"I could hardly believe that this was your first appearance on the -stage. Weren't you frightened at all?" - -"Not a bit. I enjoyed it." - -"Did you see any of your Scranton friends in the audience?" - -"I saw none of my Scranton _friends_," answered Jed, "but I saw two -Scranton acquaintances." - -"Who were they?" - -"Percy Dixon, son of the Overseer of the Poor, and his mother." - -"Where were they sitting?" - -"In the third row from the stage." - -"Do you think they recognized you?" - -"I saw Percy watching me very closely I am sure he noticed my -resemblance to his old acquaintance Jed, but he couldn't understand how -it was possible for me to be the same boy." - -"Then you baffled him?" - -"I don't know. I shouldn't wonder if he would be waiting outside to get -a view of me." - -"And if he does?" - -"He will do all he can to get me back to the poorhouse." - -"Then I'll tell you what to do. Go out of the stage door arm in arm with -me, and I will address you as Ralph. If he speaks, appear not to know -him." - -"That will be a capital joke," said Jed taking in the humor of the -situation. - -"Between us, I think we can bluff him off." - -Jed had appeared in the last act in his street costume, and had no -preparations to make, but Bertram had to exchange his stage for his -ordinary dress. When they were ready they emerged from the stage door -arm in arm. A glance showed Jed that Percy was waiting to intercept -him. He did not appear to notice Percy, but passed on. - -Percy hastened forward, and touched him on the arm. - -"Look here, I want to speak to you," he said. - -"Speak on, my boy," said Jed, assuming the style of his new profession. - -"How did you come here?" demanded Percy bluntly. - -"What do you mean?" - -"I mean that you are Jed Gilman." - -"My dear Ralph, what does this person mean?" said Bertram. - -"He evidently mistakes me for some one he knows," said Jed coolly. "May -I ask your name, young man?" - -"You know me well enough," said Percy angrily, for Jed had not tried to -change his voice. "I am Percy Dixon." - -"Percy Dixon?" repeated Jed. "Where have I met you?" - -"Where have you met me?" retorted Percy. "At the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Do you reside there?" asked Jed with admirable composure. - -"Do I live at the poorhouse?" repeated Percy, exasperated. "Of course I -don't." - -Mrs. Dixon had heard this colloquy, as she was sitting in the carriage -only six feet away. - -"Percy," she said, "I told you you had made a mistake." - -"I don't believe I have," said Percy in a sulky tone. - -"For whom do you take me, Mr. Dixon?" asked Jed. - -"For Jed Gilman, a poorhouse boy." - -"I feel very much complimented," said Jed smoothly. "I hope Jed is a -nice boy." - -"No, he isn't. He is an impudent young rascal." - -"Then how dare you compare my friend Ralph to a boy like that?" demanded -Bertram savagely. "You must be crazy, or do you mean to deliberately -insult him?" - -Poor Percy was overwhelmed. He wasn't half so certain now that he was -right. True, there was a wonderful resemblance between the young actor -and Jed, but then it seemed impossible that Jed should have left the -poorhouse suddenly (and Percy remembered seeing him that very afternoon -at his own home) and developed into a member of a dramatic company. - -"I may have made a mistake," he said doubtfully. - -"I am glad you realize this possibility," said Bertram. "Did you witness -the play this evening?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"Do you think your friend Jed----" - -"He is not my friend." - -"Well, do you think that Jed, whatever he is, could act like my friend -Ralph?" - -"No, I don't think he could," Percy admitted. - -"Probably this Jed is a very ordinary boy?" - -"I should say so. Ordinary is no name for it. He is stupid." - -"Then you will see for yourself that it is not very likely that he -should become an accomplished actor all at once. If it were you it might -be different. You are evidently a young man of social position, while -this Jed is a poor boy, and I presume without education." - -"Yes, he is very ignorant," answered Percy, falling into the trap. "Is -it--hard to learn to act?" he added. - -"Not if you have talent and education. Do you think of trying the -stage?" - -"I might some time," said Percy, flattered by the question. - -"If you do, I hope you will succeed. Now, Mr. Dixon, I must bid you good -night, as my friend Ralph and myself are fatigued with our acting and -must get to bed." - -"Good evening!" said Jed, raising his hat gravely. - -"Good evening!" returned Percy, more puzzled than ever. - -He jumped into the carriage and started to drive home. - -"Then it wasn't Jed?" said his mother. - -"I suppose not," answered Percy, "but I never in all my life saw such a -resemblance." - -"Very likely," replied Mrs. Dixon placidly. "There was a woman in -Trenton who looked just like me, so that no one could tell us apart." - -"Yes," admitted Percy; "I must be mistaken. This boy had a very nice -suit on, while Jed was dressed in rags." - -When they reached home Squire Dixon was abed and asleep. Percy came down -late to breakfast. - -"By the way, Percy," said his father, as he helped him to breakfast, -"Fogson has just been over to report that the boy Jed has mysteriously -disappeared. He never went back after bringing me the message yesterday -afternoon." - -Percy dropped his knife and fork and stared at his father in open-eyed -amazement. - -"Then it was Jed, after all!" he exclaimed. - - - - -CHAPTER XIII. - -FOGSON IN PURSUIT. - - -"What do you mean, Percy?" asked Squire Dixon, referring to his son's -exclamation at the close of the preceding chapter. "Do you know anything -of Jed?" - -"Yes; I saw him last evening at Duncan." - -"But what took him there? What was he doing?" - -"He was on the stage. He was playing in 'The Gold King.'" - -"What do you mean by this absurd statement?" demanded his father -angrily. - -"It is true. Ask mother if it isn't." - -"I think Percy is right," said Mrs. Dixon. "The young actor bears a -wonderful resemblance to the boy Jed." - -"But Jed doesn't know anything about acting." - -"That is why I thought I was mistaken. But if Jed has run away it must -be he." - -"Why didn't you manage to speak to him after the play?" - -"I did, and he denied that he was Jed. He calls himself Ralph Clinton." - -"Really, this is a most surprising circumstance," said the squire. "The -boy is a hardened young villain. His running away from those who are -lawfully set over him in authority is a most audacious and highhanded -outrage." - -"That's what I think," chimed in Percy. "What shall you do about it? -Shan't you go after him?" - -"I think it my duty to do so. As soon as breakfast is over, ask Mr. -Fogson to come round here. Tell him I have news of the fugitive." - -Three-quarters of an hour later Simeon Fogson was admitted into the -august presence of the Overseer of the Poor. - -"I hear you have news of Jed Gilman," he said. "That is what your son -Percy tells me." - -"It is true, Mr. Fogson. The young scapegrace has joined a company of -actors. What is he coming to?" - -"To the gallows, I think," answered Fogson. "But how did you learn -this?" - -"Percy saw him on the stage last evening." - -"And he actually played a part?" - -"Yes." - -"In his ragged suit?" - -"No," answered Percy. "He had a telegraph boy's suit first, and -afterwards a nice brown suit--as nice as mine." - -"Where did he get 'em?" asked Fogson. - -"That's the question!" returned the squire solemnly. "There is a strange -mystery about the boy's goings on. Have you observed anything queer in -his conduct of late?" - -"I have noticed that he has been unusually impudent. Ha, I have it!" -said Fogson, suddenly, slapping his thigh. - -"What have you?" asked Percy. - -"There was an actor stayed at the poorhouse night before last--an actor -named Bertram. It is he that has lured Jed astray." - -"There was an actor by that name in the play last evening." - -"Then that settles it. Squire Dixon, what shall I do?" - -"I think, Mr. Fogson, you had better go at once to Duncan--I will lend -you my buggy--and secure the boy, tying him hand and foot, if necessary, -and take him back to the poorhouse." - -Simeon Fogson smiled grimly. It was an errand that suited him. - -"I will do so," he said, "and I will lose no time." - -"Don't ask for Jed Gilman," suggested Percy. "Ask for Ralph Clinton. -That's the name he goes by now." - -Mr. Fogson drew out a stub of a lead-pencil and put down this name. In -twenty minutes he was on his way, and an hour later he drew up in front -of the hotel in Duncan. - -He left the buggy and entered the public room of the inn. - -"Is there such a boy as Ralph Clinton here?" he asked the clerk. - -"Yes; do you want to see him?" - -"I should like very much to see him," answered Fogson grimly. - -"He is in No. 12. Jim, show the gentleman up. He is sick." - -Fogson nodded. - -"I dare say," he added significantly. "I guess his acting made him -sick." - -"Yes, that's what I heard. Is he your son?" - -"No, but I am his guardian." - -Fogson was quite elated at so easily getting on the track of the -fugitive. - -"Sick!" he repeated to himself, as he ascended the staircase. "I guess -he'll be sick before he gets through with me." - -The servant knocked at No. 12, and a boy's voice was heard to say "Come -in!" - -The door was opened, and Fogson, rushing in, grasped the arm of a boy -sitting in a rocking-chair. - -"I've got you, you young rascal!" he exclaimed. - -"What do you mean, you lunatic?" demanded the boy in a clear voice, -higher pitched than was Jed's. - -Then for the first time Fogson, who was shortsighted, found out that the -boy was not Jed, but a youth of lighter complexion and slighter -physique. - -He fell back in confusion. - -"I was told you were Ralph Clinton," he explained, looking rather -foolish. - -"I am Ralph Clinton." - -"But I want Jed Gilman." - -"Then why don't you look for Jed Gilman? What have I got to do with -him?" - -"Do you act with the Gold King Company?" - -"Yes, when I am well." - -"Did you act last evening?" - -"No; there was another boy that took my place." - -"That's the one I want. He ran away from me." - -"Are you his father?" - -"No, I'm his guardian." - -"I don't like your looks," said Ralph, who was a very free-spoken young -man. "I don't blame him for running away from you." - -Fogson scowled. - -"I believe you're as bad as he," he growled. "There's one thing -sure--I'm going to get the boy back. Where is he?" - -"On the road, I expect. He will take my place till I get well." - -"Not much, he won't. Have the rest of the actors left Duncan?" - -"You'd better ask down stairs. I'm not going to help you get the boy -back." - -Fogson had nothing to do but to go down again to the public room. The -clerk told him that the company were to play that evening at Bolton, -twelve miles away, and were probably there now, having taken the morning -train. - -"Twelve miles away!" thought Fogson in dismay. "I can't drive so far as -that. Squire Dixon wouldn't like to have me drive his horse so many -miles. What shall I do?" - -This was a question easier asked than answered. If he had not been -burdened with the horse and buggy he would have taken the next train for -Bolton. As it was, he didn't feel at liberty to do this. - -He wished Squire Dixon were at hand, so that he might ask his advice, -for he felt quite unable to decide for himself what was best to be done. -As he stood beside his team in a state of indecision he heard the sound -of approaching wheels, and looking up, recognized Dr. Redmond's -carriage. - -"What brings you to Duncan, Mr. Fogson?" asked the doctor with a -peculiar smile. - -"I've come after that rascal Jed." - -"Is he here?" asked the doctor innocently. - -"He has run away from the poorhouse and joined some strolling players. -He played in the theatre last evening." - -"Did he, indeed?" asked the doctor, really surprised. "He must be a -smart boy to take up acting so suddenly." - -"He is a very impudent boy." - -"Is he? Then I should think you would be glad to get rid of him." - -"I don't mean to let him off so easily. I'm going to bring him back to -the poorhouse, and when I get hold of him I'll----" - -Mr. Fogson nodded his head significantly. It was clear that he intended -that the way of the transgressor should be hard. - -"It strikes me, Mr. Fogson, that you are acting in a very foolish -manner," said the doctor. - -"Why am I?" - -"I will tell you. Jed has got tired of being supported by the town, and -he has taken the matter into his own hands. In other words, he proposes -to relieve the town of the expense of his maintenance. The town will -doubtless be glad to have one dependent less on its hands. You appear to -want to get him back, and make the town once more responsible for his -support. Is it not so?" - -Fogson looked blank. The matter had never presented itself to him in -that light before. - -"You certainly won't make yourself very popular by this action," -proceeded Dr. Redmond. "As a good citizen you ought to be glad that the -town's expenses are lessened." - -"Would you have me let the boy go?" Fogson ejaculated. - -"Certainly, I would. Jed is able to support himself, and there is no -earthly reason for keeping him in the poorhouse. I advise you to -represent the matter to Squire Dixon, and see what he thinks about it." - -Mr. Fogson drove home slowly. He found it hard to have Jed escape from -his clutches, but Squire Dixon, upon consultation, reluctantly decided -that perhaps it was best to drop the matter then and there. No one was -more disappointed over this decision than Percy Dixon. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV. - -JED'S LUCK. - - -Jed continued to act in the part assigned to him. He knew that he was -liable to be superseded at any time by Ralph Clinton, but he did not -care to borrow trouble. - -As a matter of fact, however, he was allowed to play till the end of the -season, but this was not very far off. Warm weather had set in, and -audiences became small. - -One day Harry Bertram called Jed aside. - -"Well, Jed," he said, "I am afraid we must part." - -"Why, Mr. Bertram?" - -"The weather has become so warm that we are no longer paying expenses. -Mr. Mordaunt has decided to close the season on Saturday night." - -Jed looked blank. He didn't know what would come next. - -"I thought we might hold out another week, and we might if the weather -had remained comfortable, but people won't come to see 'The Gold King' -or any other play when the thermometer stands at eighty degrees." - -"What shall you do, Mr. Bertram?" - -"Fall back on my trade, if possible." - -"What is that?" - -"I am a telegraph operator, and I may be able to fill in the summer in -some Western Union office. I have to work at summer prices, but as long -as I make my board and lodging I shall be content." - -"I wish _I_ had a trade," said Jed thoughtfully. - -"You don't feel like going back to your old home?" - -"In the Scranton poorhouse? Not much!" answered Jed energetically. "I'll -starve first. Have you got any place engaged?" - -"No, but I have worked two summers at Sea Spray, an Atlantic coast -summer resort. I shall go there and see if there is an opening." - -"Is it far away?" - -"About fifty miles. I'll tell you what, Jed, you had better come with -me. Something may turn up for you." - -"What is the fare, Mr. Bertram?" - -"About a dollar and a half. You will have some money coming to you. You -haven't been paid anything yet, have you?" - -"No; I didn't suppose I was entitled to any." - -"You will get something. I will speak to the treasurer and arrange -matters for you." - -Accordingly on Saturday evening, after the last performance, Jed was -made happy by receiving twelve dollars, or at the rate of four dollars -per week for the time he had been employed. - -"Mr. Mordaunt directs me to say that he would pay you more if the -business would permit," said the treasurer. - -"Tell him this is more than I expected," said Jed elated. - -"That isn't professional," remarked Bertram smiling. "Actors generally -claim to be worth a good deal more than they are paid." - -"I haven't been on the stage long enough to be professional," said Jed. - -Early on Monday morning Jed and his friend Bertram took the cars for -Sea Spray. As they neared the coast, the ocean breeze entered cool and -refreshing through the open windows. Presently the cars stopped, only -two hundred feet from the bluff, and Jed for the first time gazed with -delight at the Atlantic billows rolling in on the beach. - -"This is beautiful!" he exclaimed. "I hope I can stay here all summer." - -"Have you never seen the sea before?" - -"No; I have never travelled before. All my life has been spent at -Scranton." - -"Take a walk with me along Ocean Avenue, and I will see what chance -there is of my obtaining employment." - -Harry Bertram made his way to the principal hotel, where he knew there -was a Western Union office. He told Jed to sit down in the reading-room -while he sought for information. - -In ten minutes he came back with a smile of satisfaction on his face. - -"I am in great luck," he said. "The operator here has just been summoned -home by the serious illness of his father in Chicago. He was -considering whom he could get to take his place when I presented myself. -The result is that I am engaged to take charge of the telegraph office -at twelve dollars a week and my board." - -"Then you are provided for." - -"Yes. I can get through the summer very well." - -"I should think so. You will have the twelve dollars a week clear." - -"No; I must get a room outside. However, my predecessor has recommended -his--in a private house about a quarter of a mile from the shore--at -only four dollars a week." - -"Then I suppose we must part," said Jed with a tinge of sadness. - -"No, Jed. You shall room with me, and your room will cost you nothing. -As to meals, I can see you through till you secure some work." - -"But I don't want to be a burden upon you, Mr. Bertram." - -"I don't mean that you shall be, any longer than is necessary. It will -go hard if a boy like you can't find something to do that will buy his -meals at a crowded watering-place." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram. I have money enough left to buy my meals for -two weeks at least." - -"If we were at a regular office I could employ you as messenger, but -most of the messages will come to guests in the hotel." - -"I don't know exactly what I can do, but I am ready to do anything." - -"Except black boots," said Bertram with a smile. - -"I don't think I should like to do that if there is anything else to be -found." - -"I couldn't think of allowing a member of our honorable profession to -undertake such menial employment." - -Harry Bertram went to work that evening. Jed kept him company in the -office a part of the time, and during the three succeeding days went -from one hotel to another to see if he could obtain anything to do. - -But every position had been filled for the season. Jed began to fear -that there was no work for him at Sea Spray. - -On the fourth morning, as he was sitting with Bertram, a gentleman whom -he had several times seen--a guest of the house--approached them. - -"Is this boy your brother?" he asked of Bertram. - -"No, but he is my valued friend. In fact, I may call myself his guardian -for the time being." - -"Yes," assented Jed with a smile. - -"He does not assist you?" - -"No, he knows nothing of telegraphy." - -"Would you like employment?" asked the gentleman, turning to Jed. - -"I am very anxious to get work," said Jed quickly. - -"Then I think I may be able to meet your wishes. How old are you?" - -"Sixteen." - -"You may have seen a boy of ten walking about with me?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"He is my son. He and I are here alone, but until yesterday I had a -nurse in my employ whose sole business was to look after Chester. I -felt entire confidence in her, but discovered last evening that she had -purloined some jewelry belonging to me. Of course I discharged her -instantly, and in consequence am obliged to find some one in her place. - -"Chester objects to another nurse. It hurts his boyish pride to have a -woman accompanying him everywhere. It appears to me that a boy old -enough to look after him will suit him much better. But perhaps you -would not like being encumbered with a small boy?" - -"I should like it very much, sir," said Jed. "I like young boys, and I -am sure I should like your son." - -"Come up stairs, then. I will see how he likes you." - -Jed followed his new acquaintance up to a suite of two rooms on the -second floor. A young boy was at the window. He looked inquiringly at -his father and Jed. - -"Come here, Chester," said the former. "Are you quite sure you don't -want another nurse?" - -"Yes," answered the boy. "Some of the boys in the hotel call me 'sissy' -because I have a girl always with me." - -"Would you prefer this boy?" - -Chester took a long, close look at Jed, who met his glance with a smile. - -"Yes," said the little boy confidently. "I shall like him much better -than a girl." - -"That settles it," said Mr. Holbrook in a tone of satisfaction. "What is -your name?" - -"Jed Gilman." - -"What was your last employment?" - -"I took the boy's part in 'The Gold King.'" - -"Are you an actor?" asked Chester, much interested. - -"Not much of one." - -"You must have some talent," remarked Mr. Holbrook, "or Mr. Mordaunt, -who is a manager of reputation, would not have employed you. Is your -season over?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I think you will suit me. I am obliged to be in New York every day on -business, and this leaves Chester alone. I wish you to act as his -companion, to go with him on the beach and in bathing, and to look -after him while I am away. Are you boarding here?" - -"No, sir; I could not afford it." - -"I shall arrange to have you take meals here with Chester, but after -eight o'clock in the evenings you will be your own master. Now as to the -matter of compensation. Will ten dollars a week satisfy you?" - -"Ten dollars a week and my meals?" - -"Yes." - -"I didn't expect so much." - -"I like to pay liberally, and expect to be well served." - -"When shall I commence, sir?" - -"At once. I want to take the next train for the city. As I go down -stairs I will tell them that you are to take your meals here. Now, -Chester, I will leave you with your new friend, as I have barely time to -reach the next train for New York." - - - - -CHAPTER XV. - -TWO ODD ACQUAINTANCES. - - -"Ten dollars a week!" repeated Harry Bertram, to who Jed communicated -his good luck. "Why, that is famous!" - -"Ten dollars a week and my meals!" - -"Better still. That is better than acting." - -"I don't know how I shall suit Mr. Holbrook." - -"You will suit him if you suit the boy." - -By this time Chester made his appearance. - -"I want to walk on the beach," he said. "Come, Jed." - -And the boy put his hand confidingly in that of Jed. - -They descended the steps that led from the bluff to the beach, and -walked leisurely up and down on the sand. Presently Chester expressed a -wish to sit down, and before long was engaged with a small wooden spade -in making a sand fortification. - -Relieved from duty, since his young charge could come to no harm, Jed -had leisure to watch the crowds passing him in both directions. - -Presently a thin, dark-complexioned man, of perhaps thirty-five, after -walking up and down the beach, came to a stop, and, apparently without -motive, seated himself on the sand beside Chester and his youthful -guardian. - -"A pleasant day," he remarked, looking at Jed. - -"Yes," answered Jed politely. - -He was not favorably impressed by the stranger's appearance, but -recognized the claims of courtesy. - -"Is this little boy your brother?" - -"No," answered Jed. - -"I thought perhaps you brought him down to the beach." - -"I did." - -"I have seen him about before--with a girl." - -"That was Clara, my old nurse," said Chester, who caught the drift of -the conversation. "I haven't got any nurse now," he added proudly. "I -saw you talking to Clara one day," he added, after a closer examination -of the stranger's features. - -"Oh, no, my little boy!" said the man, seeming annoyed. "I don't know -Clara, as you call her." - -"Then you look just like the man that was talking with her." - -The stranger opened his mouth and smiled unpleasantly. - -"I dare say there are people that look like me," he said, "though I -can't say I ever met one. What is your name, my little friend?" - -"I am not your friend," said Chester, who did not appear favorably -impressed by his new acquaintance. - -"My little enemy, then." - -"My name is Chester Holbrook." - -"And how old are you?" - -"Ten years old. How old are you?" - -Again the man's lips opened in an unpleasant smile. - -"You have an inquiring mind, Chester," he said. "I am--thirty years -old." - -"You look older than that." - -"I am afraid that is not polite, Chester," said Jed gently. - -"Why isn't it?" asked Chester innocently. - -"People don't like to be thought older than they are." - -"Oh, never mind," said the dark man. "A child is licensed to say what he -pleases. So he is your charge?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I don't think I have seen you here before. Have you known Mr. Holbrook -long?" - -"No." Then upon the impulse of the moment Jed inquired, "Do you know -him?" - -The man's face changed, and he looked a shade embarrassed. - -"Why do you think I know him?" he asked. - -"I don't think it, but as you seemed interested in the boy, I asked you -the question." - -"Oh, that's it. I have seen Mr. Holbrook, and I may have spoken to him. -I can't be sure on the subject, as I meet a good many people. Are you -going in bathing?" - -"Do you want to bathe, Chester?" asked Jed. - -"No; papa told me not to go to-day, as I have a cold." - -"I thought perhaps I would have had your company in the surf. Well, I -must be going or I shall be late for the bath." - -The stranger got up slowly and sauntered away. - -"I don't like that man. Do you, Jed?" asked Chester. - -"Not very much. I never saw him before." - -"I have seen him. I saw him one day last week." - -"Did you see him on the beach?" - -"Yes; he came up and talked with Clara." - -"But he said you were mistaken about that." - -"I was not mistaken," said Chester positively. "I remember him very -well." - -"Do you remember what he was talking about?" asked Jed, struck by what -the boy said. - -"Yes; he was asking questions about me." - -"He seems a good deal interested in you. Perhaps he is especially fond -of small boys." - -Chester shook his head. - -"I don't think he is," he answered. - -When the bathing hour was over they ascended the steps and took seats in -a summer house on the bluff. - -Ten minutes later a tall woman, with piercing black eyes and a swarthy -complexion, entered the arbor and sat down beside them. - -"Do you want your fortune told?" she asked of Jed. - -He shook his head. - -"I don't believe in fortune-tellers," he said. - -"Don't you? Let me convince you of my power. Give me your hand." - -There seemed a fascination about the woman, and almost involuntarily he -suffered her to take his hand. - -"You look prosperous," she began abruptly, "but your life has been full -of poverty and privation. Is this true?" - -"Yes," answered Jed, impressed in spite of himself by the woman's words. - -"Shall I tell you where your early years were passed?" - -"No," answered Jed, with a quick look at Chester. He did not care to -have the boy hear that his life had been passed in the Scranton -poorhouse. - -"You are right. The knowledge could do no good and might embarrass you. -You admit that I have told the truth?" - -"Yes." - -"Then shall I tell you of the future?" - -Jed did not answer, but the woman took his assent for granted and went -on. "You will be rich--some day." - -"Shall I? I am glad to hear that. But I don't know where the wealth is -to come from." - -"It is not necessary for you to know. It will be enough if it comes." - -"I agree with you there," said Jed, smiling. "Will it be soon?" - -"That is a question which I might answer, but I will not." - -"I don't care to know, as long as I am to be prosperous some day. Shall -I ever go back to--to the place where my earlier years were passed?" - -"You may, but not to live. That part of your life is over." - -"I am glad of that at any rate. One question more. Shall I meet my--any -one belonging to me--any one to whom I am related?" - -Jed fixed his eyes anxiously upon the fortune-teller, for skeptical as -he was at first, he was beginning to have some confidence in her claims -to knowledge. - -"Yes." - -"When?" - -"Don't seek to know more. Let me look at this boy's hand. Do you want me -to tell your fortune, my pretty?" - -Chester laughed. - -"Yes," he said. "Perhaps you can tell me if I will ever be a soldier. I -would like to be a General." - -"No; you will never be a soldier, but you will have a fight before you." - -"A fight? What kind of a fight?" - -The fortune-teller turned to Jed and said rapidly, "This boy is -threatened with a serious danger. He has an enemy." - -"How can a young boy have an enemy?" - -"There are few who do not have enemies," said the woman sententiously. - -"Can you describe the enemy?" - -"He is a dark man, not tall, but taller than you. He is thin." - -"I met such a man on the beach," said Jed, surprised. "I met him only -this morning. Is he the one you mean?" - -"When you meet such a man beware of him!" said the woman, and without -waiting for a reply she rose from her seat and walked away rapidly. - -"What a funny old woman!" said Chester. "I am hungry. Let us go up to -the hotel. It is time for lunch." - -Jed's face became thoughtful. What he had heard left a deep impression -upon his mind. - - - - -CHAPTER XVI. - -MISS HOLBROOK, SPINSTER. - - -It was at first on Jed's mind to tell Mr. Holbrook of his encounter with -the young man upon the beach and his subsequent conversation with the -fortune-teller and her predictions in regard to Chester. But he was -afraid of being laughed at. - -Moreover, as the days passed the impression made upon his mind became -weaker, and was only recalled when from time to time he saw the young -man on the sands or walking on the bluff. - -He got on very well with Chester. The boy became strongly attached to -him, much to the satisfaction of his father. - -"So you like Jed, do you?" said Mr. Holbrook one evening, on his return -from the city. - -"Yes, papa, I like him ever so much." - -"Do you like him as much as Clara?" - -"Why, I don't like her at all." - -Time wore on till the middle of August. Jed enjoyed his generous meals -and the sea bathing which he shared in company with his young charge. He -still lodged with Harry Bertram, but he shared the expense of the room. - -But a change was coming, and an unwelcome one. - -"Chester," said his father one evening, "I am going away for a week or -ten days." - -"Take me with you, papa!" - -"No, I cannot. I am called to Chicago on business, and you will be much -better off here at the beach." - -"Jed will stay with me?" - -"Yes, and I have sent for your Aunt Maria to come and look after you -while I am gone." - -"But I don't like Aunt Maria," objected the little boy. "She's always -scolding me. She doesn't like boys." - -"Perhaps not," said Mr. Holbrook with a smile. "If Maria had married it -might have been different, but I believe few maiden ladies are fond of -children." - -"Then why do you have her come here, papa? Jed can take care of me." - -"I have great confidence in Jed, Chester, but you will need some one to -look after your clothes and oversee you in other ways." - -"Isn't there any one else you can send for, papa? I don't like old -maids." - -"Don't trouble me with your objections, Chester. It will only be for a -little while, remember. I am sure you can get along with your aunt for -ten days." - -"I will try to," answered the boy with a look of resignation. - -The next day Miss Maria Holbrook came to Sea Spray with her brother. She -was a tall, slender lady of middle age, with a thin face, and looked as -if she were dissatisfied with a large proportion of her -fellow-creatures. - -Chester looked at her, but did not show any disposition to welcome her -to the beach. - -"You may kiss me, Chester," said the lady with an acid smile. - -"Thank you, Aunt Maria, but I am not particular about it." - -"Well, upon my word!" ejaculated the spinster. "My own brother's child, -too!" - -"Kiss your aunt, Chester," said his father. - -"No, it is not necessary," put in Miss Holbrook sharply. "I don't want -any hypocritical caresses. Robert, I am afraid you are spoiling that -boy." - -"Oh, no, Maria, not quite so bad as that. Chester is a middling good -boy." - -Miss Maria Holbrook sniffed incredulously. - -"I am afraid you judge him too leniently," she said. - -"Well, you can tell better after you have had time to observe him. It is -two years now since you have seen Chester." - -"Let us hope that my first impressions may be modified," said the -spinster in a tone that indicated great doubt whether such would be the -case. - -"Jed, you may go. Chester will not need you any more this evening," said -Mr. Holbrook. - -"Thank you, sir," said Jed, and walked away. - -"Who is that boy?" asked the spinster abruptly, looking at him through -her eyeglasses. - -"He is in charge of Chester while I am in the city." - -"Why, he is only a boy!" - -"Is that against him?" - -"I thought Chester had a nurse." - -"So he did, but she proved dishonest." - -"Then why didn't you engage another?" - -"Because Chester felt sensitive about having a girl following him. The -other boys in the hotel laughed at him." - -"Let them laugh!" said Miss Holbrook severely. "Are you to have your -plans changed by a set of graceless boys?" - -"As to that, Maria, I find this boy more satisfactory, both to Chester -and myself." - -"Humph! What is his name?" - -"Jed." - -"A very plebeian name." - -"It isn't exactly fashionable, but names are not important." - -"I beg your pardon. I think names _are_ important." - -"Perhaps that is the reason you have never changed yours, Maria. You -might have been Mrs. Boggs if you had been less particular." - -"I would rather remain unmarried all my life. But where did you pick up -this boy?" - -"I met him in the hotel." - -"Was he boarding here?" - -"No; I think he was boarding somewhere in the village." - -"Do you know anything of his family?" - -"No." - -"Do you know anything of his antecedents?" continued Miss Holbrook. - -"Yes; he played a part last season in the 'Gold King.'" - -"Heavens and earth!" ejaculated the spinster, holding up her hands in -horror. "Do you mean to tell me that you have placed your son in the -charge of a young play actor?" - -Mr. Holbrook laughed. - -"Why not?" - -"I am surprised that you should ask. You know as well as I do the -character of actors." - -"I know that some of them are very estimable gentlemen. As to Jed, he -has not been long on the stage, I believe." - -"Do you know anything of his family? Is he respectably connected?" - -"I didn't think it important to inquire. It seems to me that the boy's -own character is much more to the point. I have found Jed faithful and -reliable, without bad habits, and I feel that Chester is safe in his -hands." - -"Oh you men, you men!" exclaimed Miss Holbrook. "You don't seem to have -any judgment." - -"I suppose," said Mr. Holbrook with good-natured sarcasm, "that all the -good judgment is monopolized by the old maids. What a pity they have no -children to bring up." - -"Brother!" said Miss Holbrook in a freezing tone. - -"I beg your pardon, Maria, but please credit me with a little good -sense." - -Miss Holbrook went up to the room assigned her with an offended -expression, and had nothing further to say about Jed that evening. - -The next morning Jed reported for duty just as Mr. Holbrook was leaving -for his journey. - -"Look after Chester while I am gone, Jed," said Mr. Holbrook -pleasantly. "This is my sister, Miss Maria Holbrook, who will take my -place here while I am gone." - -Jed took off his hat politely, and Miss Holbrook honored him with a -slight inclination of her head and a forbidding look. - -"Good-by, Maria! I will telegraph you on my arrival in Chicago." - -"Good-by, brother! You need have no apprehensions about Chester while I -am here." - -"I shall rest quite easy. Between you and Jed I am sure he will come to -no harm." - -Miss Holbrook pursed up her mouth at the conjunction of her name with -Jed's, but said nothing. - -"Shall I go and take a walk with Jed?" asked Chester. - -"Yes, in a moment. I wish to speak to the young man first." - -"What young man?" - -"Jedediah." - -"Jedediah!" echoed Chester with a merry laugh. "How funny that sounds!" - -"I apprehend that Jedediah is your right name," said Miss Holbrook -severely. - -"I suppose so," answered Jed. - -"You _suppose_ so?" - -"I mean that I have always been called Jed. I don't remember ever having -been called by the full name." - -"Don't your parents call you so?" - -"My parents are not living." - -"When did they die?" - -Jed looked troubled. - -"When I was a baby," he answered gravely. - -"Indeed! Then who brought you up?" - -"Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Were they any relations of yours?" - -"No, but they were very kind to me." - -"Come along, Jed! There's the steamboat just leaving the pier!" called -Chester impatiently. - -Without waiting to be further questioned Jed answered the call of his -young charge. He was glad to get away, for he felt that the spinster -might ask him some questions which he would find it difficult to answer. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII. - -JED MEETS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE. - - -Jed was not long in finding that Chester's aunt looked upon him, if not -with hostility, at least with distrust. This was an unpleasant -discovery. Mr. Holbrook had always appeared to have confidence in him, -and approved his management of his son. - -While Chester and Jed were walking on the beach Miss Holbrook took a -seat upon the bluff and watched them through her spectacles, as Jed -could not help seeing. - -"I say, Jed," asked the little boy, "how do you like Aunt Maria?" - -"I don't feel very well acquainted with her yet," answered Jed -cautiously. - -"_I_ don't like her!" said Chester emphatically. - -"Why not?" - -"Oh, she's always scolding and finding fault. Papa says it's because -she's an old maid." - -Jed smiled. - -"I wish papa had not sent for her," went on Chester. "We could get along -well enough without her." - -"I think _we_ should get along very well together, Chester." - -"I am sure we should. Have you got any old maid aunts?" - -"Not that I know of," replied Jed soberly, as he had forced upon him the -thought of his solitary condition. - -"Then you are lucky. I'll give you Aunt Maria if you want her." - -"Perhaps she might not consent to be given away, Chester." - -Half an hour later Jed met with a surprise, and one not altogether -agreeable. - -"Hello! you here!" exclaimed an amazed voice that sounded familiar to -Jed. - -He looked up and saw Percy Dixon approaching. - -"Oh, it's you, Percy?" he said. "When did you arrive?" - -"This morning. Father and I are staying at the Spray House." This was -the largest hotel, and Percy mentioned the name with evident pride. - -"It is a nice hotel," responded Jed. - -"I should say so. Why, it's the most expensive one here. But you haven't -told me how you came here." - -"I have been here for some weeks." - -"Where do you live?" - -"I have a room in the village, but I take my meals at the Spray House." - -"You take your meals at the Spray House?" ejaculated Percy. - -"Yes." - -"How can you afford it?" - -"This boy's father pays my board. I look after Chester." - -"What's your name?" asked Chester, who was by no means bashful. - -"Percy Dixon," answered Percy politely, for he judged that Chester -belonged to a rich family. - -"So you know Jed?" - -"Yes. I have that honor," returned Percy with a curl of the lip. "When -did you leave off acting?" he asked, turning to Jed. - -"At the end of the season. Few dramatic companies play during the -summer." - -"Are you going to play with them again?" - -"I don't know yet. The boy whose place I took may be ready to take his -own part in the fall." - -"I saw your old friends Mr. and Mrs. Fogson just before I came away," -said Percy significantly. "Wouldn't you like to know how they are?" - -"No; I feel no particular interest in them." - -"They are interested in you. Fogson says he's bound to get you back some -time." - -"I don't care to talk of them," said Jed coldly. - -"Are you going in bathing?" asked Chester. - -"Yes, I think so. Do you go in?" - -"Shall we go in, Jed?" asked the little boy. - -"Yes, if you like, Chester." - -The three boys repaired to the bathing-houses and prepared for their -bath. - -As they walked up to the hotel together afterwards, Percy remarked: "It -seems strange to see you in such a place as this." - -"I suppose so." - -"It's funny how you get on. How did you get the chance to take care of -the little boy?" - -Jed explained. - -"Is Chester's father rich?" - -"I presume so, from what I hear." - -"Is he here now?" - -"No; he is in Chicago for a week or ten days." - -"And is there no one except you to take care of the boy?" - -"There is an aunt of Chester's in the hotel--his father's sister. There -she is now!" and Jed pointed out Miss Maria Holbrook. - -Percy noticed her attentively, and was observed in turn by the spinster, -who privately resolved to seek some information about Jed from one who -appeared to know him. - -After dinner, while on the piazza, Miss Holbrook noticed Percy sitting -but a few feet distant. - -"Ahem!" she began. "Young man, will you do me the favor to move your -chair a little nearer?" - -Percy did so gladly. He wished for a chance to become acquainted with -Jed's employers. - -"Thank you. May I ask your name?" - -"Percy Dixon." - -"I noticed that you seemed to be acquainted with the boy who is in -charge of my young nephew Chester." - -"Yes, ma'am, I know him." - -"Have you known him long?" - -"As far back as I can remember." - -"Did you live in the same town?" - -"Yes, ma'am." - -"Where?" - -"Scranton." - -"You must pardon my curiosity, but my brother--Chester's father--engaged -this boy without apparently knowing much about him, except that he had -been on the stage." - -"He wasn't on the stage long." - -"Perhaps not, but probably he didn't get any good from it. What is your -opinion of him. Though, as you are his friend----" - -"I am _not_ his friend!" said Percy bluntly. - -"Then you haven't a high opinion of him?" said Miss Holbrook eagerly. - -"No; I never liked him." - -"I don't like him myself, though I can't tell exactly why not, and I am -bound to say that Chester and his father seem infatuated with him." - -"I think you are quite right, Miss Holbrook." - -"I can't help thinking there is some mystery about him." - -"You are right, Miss Holbrook. There _is_ a mystery about him." - -"I was sure of it," exclaimed the spinster. "What is the character of -his relations?" - -"He has none that I know of." - -"I believe he told me his parents were dead, and that he was brought up -by a Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Ho, ho!" laughed Percy. - -"Why do you laugh?" - -"At his being brought up by Mr. and Mrs. Avery." - -"Isn't it true, then?" - -"Yes; but he probably didn't tell you that Mr. and Mrs. Avery had -charge of the Scranton poorhouse." - -"What!" ejaculated the spinster. - -"It is as I say. Until a few weeks since Jed was an inmate of the -Scranton poorhouse." - -"And this boy is actually in charge of my nephew!" exclaimed Miss -Holbrook, overwhelmed with horror. - -"Yes; I was very much surprised to see Jed in such company." - -"My poor brother must be quite unaware of this astounding fact!" - -"No doubt, Miss Holbrook. Jed is cunning. He wouldn't be very apt to -tell your brother that he is a pauper." - -"A pauper! What a horrid thought! And that boy has actually the -effrontery to push himself in among people of position. I can hardly -believe it." - -"If you have any doubt about it, Miss Holbrook, just write a note to Mr. -Simeon Fogson, and ask him what he thinks of Jed Gilman." - -"But I thought it was Mr. Avery who kept the poorhouse." - -"He did; but when my father became Overseer of the Poor," said Percy -with conscious pride, "he removed the Averys and put in Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson, whom he considered more fit for the office. The Averys were weak -people and pampered the paupers." - -"Mr. Simeon Fogson, Scranton," Miss Holbrook entered on her tablets. - -"Really, Mr. Dixon, I am very much obliged to you for the important -information you have given me, and so ought my brother to be. He has -been very careless and indiscreet in engaging a boy of unknown -antecedents, but it is fortunate that Chester has an aunt who is keenly -alive to his interests." - -As she rose to go to her room to write to Mr. Fogson, Percy smiled. - -"Jed Gilman will find that his goose is cooked," he said to himself. -"Won't he be astonished when the thunderbolt falls?" - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII. - -MR. FOGSON RECEIVES A LETTER. - - -Let us go back to the Scranton poorhouse. Mr. Fogson was sawing wood -near the house. It was a task which Jed had been accustomed to do, but -in his absence it devolved upon Mr. Fogson, who was very much -disinclined to that form of labor, but still more to paying for having -it done. - -He had thought of requiring Isaac Needham, one of the paupers, to do the -sawing; but the old man, who was over seventy-five, proved physically -unable to do the work, and very much against his will Mr. Fogson found -himself compelled to undertake it himself. - -"Drat that Jed!" he muttered, as he stopped to mop his forehead with his -red cotton handkerchief. "It's an outrage for him to throw his work on -me. I wish I had him here this blessed minute and could give him a taste -of the strap." - -At this point a neighbor's boy, Joe Coakley, entered the yard. - -"Here's a letter for you, Mr. Fogson," he said. "I guess it's from a -lady." - -With considerable surprise Mr. Fogson took the letter in his hand. The -envelope was square, and of fine paper, while the address was in a -lady's handwriting. - -Mr. Fogson examined the postmark curiously. - -"Sea Spray!" he repeated. "Why, that's a fashionable watering-place. Who -can have written me from there?" - -Just then Mrs. Fogson came out from the side door. - -"What letter have you there?" she asked. - -"It is from a lady, Mrs. F.," answered her husband with a grin. - -"What business has a lady writing to you?" demanded Mrs. Fogson -suspiciously. - -"Really I don't know, as I have not read the letter." - -"Give it to me!" - -"No, thank you. I read my own letters." - -"Mr. Fogson, if you are engaged in a private correspondence with any -lady I intend to find out all about it." - -"Don't be a fool, Mrs. F.; I don't know who the writer is, and I have -never had a letter from her before." - -By this time he had opened the envelope, and his face quickly assumed an -expression of interest. - -"It's about Jed," he exclaimed. "I'll read it to you." - -This was the letter: - - - MY DEAR SIR: - - I am informed that you can give me information as to the past - history of Jedediah Gilman. Some weeks ago my brother, Robert - Holbrook, a well-known merchant of New York, engaged the boy as a - companion and personal attendant of his young son Chester, without - knowing much about him or taking the trouble to inquire. Having - seen the boy, I have doubts as to whether he is a suitable - companion for a boy in my nephew's high social station. I learn - from young Mr. Percy Dixon, of your town, that you can give me full - information as to the boy's antecedents. I shall feel indebted to - you if you will take the trouble to communicate with me by letter. - - My brother is now in Chicago, and I am in temporary charge of my - nephew. I feel that it is my duty to inquire into the character of - a boy who by his intimate association with him may, if he is - unworthy, do incalculable harm to his young and trustful nature. - - Yours very truly, - MARIA HOLBROOK, - _Spray Hotel_, - Sea Spray, N. J. - - -"Well, upon my word!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson. "So that young villain has -wormed his way into the confidence of a rich New York merchant!" - -"Like a snake in the grass," suggested Simeon Fogson. - -"Exactly. It makes me shudder to think what an impostor he is. It is -providential that Percy Dixon should find him out and show him up." - -"I'll show him up!" said Fogson, nodding. "I'll just write to Miss -Holbrook, and tell her of his goin's on. I reckon he won't keep his -place long after they get my letter." - -"You'd better let me write the letter, Simeon." - -"No, Mrs. F., the letter was addressed to me, and I'm goin' to answer -it." - -"Just as you like, Mr. Fogson, but you are well aware that you are weak -in your spelling." - -"Never mind, Mrs. F., I reckon I can make myself understood." - -"Just as you like, Fogson. Only make it strong enough." - -"You can trust me for that." - - - - -CHAPTER XIX. - -DISCHARGED. - - -In a front room on the second floor of the Spray Hotel sat Miss Maria -Holbrook with a letter in her hand. It was written on the cheapest -note-paper, and inclosed in a plebeian brown envelope. - -Of course it will be understood that it was the epistolary effort of Mr. -Simeon Fogson. - -"Just as I thought!" soliloquized the lady. "This boy seems to be a -disreputable character of the lowest antecedents, and utterly unworthy -to associate even as a servant with a member of my family." - -Here Chester entered in his usual impetuous manner. - -"Oh, Aunt Maria," he cried, "I had a bully bath." - -"I am shocked to hear you use such a low term as 'bully,' Chester," said -his aunt. "No doubt you learned it of Jedediah." - -"No, I didn't. Jed never uses the word. At least I never heard him." - -"Will you tell Jedediah that I wish to see him at once on important -business?" - -"It seems funny to hear you call him Jedediah, Aunt Maria." - -"I apprehend that it is his right name; 'Jed' sounds low." - -"Well, I'll tell him to come up." - -When Jed made his appearance Miss Holbrook said: "You may go below, -Chester. I wish to speak to Jedediah in private." - -"What's up now, I wonder?" thought Jed. - -The lady turned upon him a severe look. - -"Jedediah," she said, "is it true that your earlier years were spent at -the Scranton poorhouse?" - -"Yes, madam," answered Jed, coloring. - -"Did you apprise my brother of this fact when he engaged you?" - -"No, madam. I suppose you learned it from Percy Dixon." - -"I learned it from young Mr. Dixon, but I could hardly believe it. He -referred me to Mr. Simeon Fogson, of Scranton, and I have a letter from -that gentleman in my hand. You probably will not care to read it." - -"I should like very much to read it, Miss Holbrook. I should like to -know whether Mr. Fogson tells the truth." - -"Here is the letter, then." - -Jed read it with conflicting emotions. - - - RESPECTED MADAM: - - I am glad to give you the informashun you ask about that young - villen Jed Gilman, who ran away from the Poor House some weeks - since after a violent assault on me, his offishul guardeen. Words - cannot tell you how much trouble I have had with that boy. - - Likewise he has been very impident to Mrs. Fogson. The reeson is - that he was too much indulged by my predicesors in offis Mr. and - Mrs. Avery. I have tried to do my dooty by the boy, but as Squire - Dixon, the Overseer will tell you my efforts has been in vane. I am - not supprised that your brother was took in by Jed for he is the - artfulest boy I ever seen. I hope for the sake of your young - nefew's welfare you will discharge him at once and not allow him to - corrup his youthful mind. - - Yours respectfully, - SIMEON FOGSON. - - -"Well," said Miss Holbrook triumphantly, "that doesn't seem to commend -you very highly." - -"No," answered Jed, returning the letter to the envelope. "It is such a -letter as I should expect Mr. Fogson to write." - -"Why?" - -"Because he is unfit for his place," answered Jed boldly. "He half -starves the poor people under his charge, treats them roughly, and is -detested by all." - -"He says you are impudent and troublesome." - -"I did not allow him to impose upon me." - -"He says you ran away." - -"I had a right to leave, as I felt able to support myself. I was -recommended to do so by Dr. Redmond, the best physician in Scranton, who -is a friend of mine." - -"I have listened to your side of the story," said Miss Holbrook coldly, -"and the terms in which you speak of Mr. Fogson convince me that his -charges are correct. Of course you will not expect me to keep you in -charge of my nephew." - -"Will you wait till Mr. Holbrook returns?" pleaded Jed, who felt sad at -the prospect of parting with Chester. - -"No; I shall not feel justified in doing so. I will pay you up to date, -and assume the charge of Chester myself." - -She drew a bill from her pocket and handed it to Jed, who took it -mechanically and left the room with a sober face. He was dismissed from -his position in disgrace, a disgrace which he felt was not deserved. - -What was he to do next? - - - - -CHAPTER XX. - -JED'S POOR PROSPECTS. - - -Jed walked around to the office of his friend Harry Bertram. - -The telegraph operator noticed at once that he looked disturbed. - -"What has happened, Jed?" he asked. - -"I am discharged! That is all." - -"Discharged? Who discharged you?" - -"Miss Holbrook." - -"What is her reason? What have you done?" asked Bertram, much surprised. - -"I have done nothing, but she has discovered that I was brought up in -the Scranton poorhouse," announced Jed despondently. - -"As if that made you any the worse!" ejaculated Bertram indignantly. - -"It isn't to my credit, at any rate. I am ashamed of it myself." - -"I don't know why you should be ashamed. You have left it, and are now -earning your own living." - -"I was, but I am out of work now, and I may find it hard to get another -position." - -"You can perhaps go back to the stage." - -"If I can take my part in the 'Gold King' I shall be satisfied," said -Jed hopefully. "When will the season commence?" - -"September 7--three weeks from next Thursday." - -At that moment one of the bell boys came to the telegraph office with a -letter in his hand. - -"I have a letter for you, Mr. Bertram," he said. - -"Ha! This is from Mordaunt. Now we shall know." - -He tore open the envelope hastily. His countenance fell, and he handed -it in silence to Jed. - -This is the letter. - - - DEAR BERTRAM: - - Season of the Gold King opens at Jersey City on the seventh of - September. As we shall have two new actors I shall call rehearsals - for the Tuesday previous. Please report at Middleton Agency in New - York on the first. - - JOHN MORDAUNT, Manager. - - P. S.--Ralph Clinton has recovered from his sickness, and will be - ready to resume his part. - - -"That settles it!" said Jed soberly, as he handed back the letter. "That -opening is closed to me." - -"I am awfully sorry, Jed," returned Bertram in a tone of sympathy. -"Perhaps if you enroll your name at the agency you can get a chance in -some other play. I will speak a good word for you, and so I am sure will -Mordaunt." - -Jed shook his head. - -"I don't think my chance would be very good," he said, "as I have had so -little experience. Besides, it is three weeks from now. I must try to -get work before then." - -"Stay here, Jed. I will pay your expenses." - -"Thank you, Mr. Bertram, but I have more than money enough for that, and -you will need all yours. It will be better for me to leave Sea Spray, -and go out in the world in search of work." - -"I hate to have you go, Jed. I shall feel lonesome." - -"So shall I, Mr. Bertram, but we are sure to meet again," said Jed with -forced cheerfulness. - -"You must promise if things don't go well with you to write to me. You -can learn from the _Clipper_ or any of the dramatic papers where we are -playing." - -"I'll promise that, Harry," said Jed, pressing the hand of his friend. - -"That's right, Jed! Don't call me Mr. Bertram again." - -"I will remember." - -"Don't go till to-morrow." - -"No, I won't. I shall need a little time to get ready." - -At this point a message came for Bertram to transmit, and Jed walked -over to the beach, feeling dull and despondent. As he sauntered on -slowly with his eyes on the sand some one called out, "Hallo, there!" - -Looking up, he met the gaze of Percy Dixon. - -"Where's Chester?" asked Percy. - -"In the hotel, I suppose." - -"Why isn't he with you?" - -"Because he is no longer under my charge," answered Jed eyeing Percy -fixedly. - -"Ho, ho! you don't mean to say that you're bounced!" queried Percy, with -a look of malicious pleasure. - -"That is about the size of it." - -"Well, I _am_ surprised," returned Percy cheerfully. "What have you been -up to?" - -"Nothing." - -"Then why are you discharged?" asked Percy with a look of innocent -wonder. - -"I don't think _you_ need ask, Percy Dixon," said Jed coldly. "If you had -not made your appearance at Sea Spray I should have kept my place." - -"Ho, ho! What have I been doing, I should like to know?" asked Percy -smiling. - -"I don't need to tell you. You told Miss Holbrook that I had been -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Well, it's true, isn't it?" - -"Yes, it is true, but you understood very well what would be the result -of your communication." - -"As she asked me about you, I had to tell." - -"You gave her the name of Mr. Fogson, and led to her writing to him." - -"So he's written, has he." - -"Yes; Miss Holbrook showed me the letter this morning." - -"What did he say?" asked Percy, smiling. - -"Probably Miss Holbrook will show you the letter if you ask her." - -"I will. I should like to see what old Fogson says. He don't admire you -very much." - -"There is no love lost between us." - -"Well, what are you going to do?" inquired Percy, whose weak point was -curiosity. - -"I shall try to get another position." - -"Do you expect to go back to the stage?" - -"No; my old part in the 'Gold King' has been taken by the actor whose -place I filled during his sickness." - -"Then you haven't anything in view." - -"Nothing particular." - -"Then I advise you to go back to the poorhouse. Fogson will be glad to -see you. I will arrange it with father." - -"You are very kind, but I have no more idea of returning to the -poorhouse than you have of making your home there." - -"I'll thank you not to mention my name in connection with the -poorhouse," said Percy, coloring and speaking angrily. - -"I will make the same request of you." - -"You are getting on your high horse," remarked Percy sarcastically. - -"Perhaps so. Good morning." - -"That fellow's the proudest beggar I ever saw," mused Percy, as he stood -still on the beach and watched Jed's receding figure. "It's so -ridiculous, too! A boy brought up in a poorhouse! I wonder if he has any -idea what a fool he is making of himself." - -"Why is Percy so malicious?" thought Jed, as he pursued his way, -feeling, if anything, a little more despondent than before. "If our -situations were changed I should delight in helping him along. He seems -determined to force me back to the poorhouse. But I won't go! I'll -starve first." - -To one who has been steadily employed enforced idleness is tedious and -tiresome. As Jed paced the sands his life seemed perfectly aimless, and -he wondered how he was going to get through the day. - -Moreover he missed Chester. The boy's warm heart and affectionate ways -had endeared him to his young guardian, and Jed felt sad to think that -in all probability he should never again be on terms of intimacy with -the little fellow. - -Plunged in thought and despondent he sauntered along till suddenly he -heard a young fresh voice, that brought a brighter look to his face. - -"Jed, Jed!" - -Jed turned, and saw only a couple of rods distant the boy of whom he had -been thinking, walking beside his tall and stately aunt, who, after -discharging Jed, had felt obliged to undertake the charge of her young -nephew herself. - -"Why, Chester!" said Jed with a bright smile. - -Chester broke away from his aunt, and running up to Jed took his hand -confidingly. - -"Aunt Maria says you are going away!" he broke out. "What makes you go -away?" - -"Your aunt has sent me away," announced Jed. - -"But I won't let you go," said the little boy, taking a firmer grip of -Jed's hand. - -"Come back directly, Chester!" said Miss Holbrook frowning. - -"I want to stay with Jed," said Chester rebelliously. - -"But I don't want you to stay with him. Come back directly, you naughty -boy!" exclaimed Miss Holbrook angrily. - -"I'd rather stay with Jed!" - -"Jedediah!" said Miss Holbrook, turning a look of displeasure upon Jed. -"I am sorry that you incite Chester to acts of disobedience." - -"Miss Holbrook," returned Jed independently, "I don't think I have done -what you charge me with. I like Chester, and I cannot drive him away." - -"That is all very well, but I understand your motives. You want to force -me to take you back." - -"Excuse me, I have no such thought. If your brother will take me back I -shall be glad to return to him." - -"I will see that he does not recall you. Chester, if you don't come -back at once I will punish you." - -Looking at his aunt's angry face, Chester very reluctantly felt -compelled to obey. - -"Kiss me, Jed!" he said. - -Jed bent over and kissed the little boy. Tears nearly came to his eyes -when he felt that it might be for the last time. - -"I trust, Jedediah," said Miss Holbrook stiffly, "that your sense of -propriety will prevent your speaking to Chester again." - -"Miss Holbrook," said Jed with a tremor in his voice, "as I am to leave -Sea Spray to-morrow morning I shall hardly meet Chester again." - -Then, as Chester walked away unwillingly with his aunt, Jed's heart sank -within him. In all the world he seemed to be alone, and he cared little -at that moment what was to become of him in the future. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI. - -JED ARRIVES IN NEW YORK. - - -Jed counted over his money and found he had thirty-nine dollars and -thirty-seven cents. He would have had more, but he had supplied himself -with clothes, so that he was on the whole very well provided in that -way. - -He resolutely refused to borrow from Harry Bertram, though the actor -pressed a loan upon him. - -"No, Harry," he said, "I have almost forty dollars, and I am sure that -will last me till I can earn some more." - -"Well, perhaps so," replied the actor, "but you have no idea how fast -money melts away. What are your plans?" - -"I am afraid I haven't any," answered Jed, looking perplexed. "I want to -make a living, but I don't know what I am fit for." - -"Where do you mean to go?" - -"I think I should like to go to New York," answered Jed. "I have never -been there." - -"You will find the city very dull at this time of year. Business is very -quiet in August." - -"But there must be a good many chances in a city of over a million -inhabitants." - -"Well, perhaps you may as well find out for yourself. I am afraid you -will be disappointed." - -Jed attached considerable importance to the opinion of his friend -Bertram, but in his own mind there was a conviction that the other -exaggerated the chances of failure. He was of a sanguine temperament -himself, and this made him hopeful. - -There were two ways of reaching New York from Sea Spray. One was a -combination of cars and boat, the other took one all the way by steamer. -This, on the whole, Jed preferred. - -With his modest gripsack in his hand he passed over the gang-plank and -took a seat forward. Next to him was a tall, thin man, dressed in shabby -attire, who did not appear to have shaved for several days. Though the -weather was warm, he had his coat buttoned tight across his chest, -possibly to conceal the lack of a vest. - -When the boat had been perhaps fifteen minutes under way, he turned and -eyed Jed with some attention. - -"Are you staying at Sea Spray this summer, young man?" he asked. - -"I have spent some weeks there," answered Jed. - -"I suppose you are going to New York for the day?" - -"No; I am going for good. That is I hope I am going for good." - -"You are going to fill a business position, perhaps?" - -"I hope so, but I have none engaged." - -"Are you acquainted in New York?" - -"No; I have never been there. This will be my first visit." - -"Indeed! This is very interesting. I should be glad to help you to a -position." - -Jed thought privately that his new acquaintance must stand quite as much -in need of a place as he, but courtesy led him to say, "Thank you." - -"Have you any particular choice as to the business you take up?" - -"No; anything that will enable me to pay my expenses will satisfy me." - -"Just so. You have heard of H. B. Claflin, probably?" - -"Yes; he is a dry goods merchant." - -"On a very large scale. I have a mind to give you a letter to him." - -"Do you know him?" asked Jed doubtfully. - -"Yes; Horace and I used to go to school together. He was older than I, -but we were pretty intimate." - -"Why don't you apply for a position for yourself?" - -"Dry goods are not in my line. I am an editor--that is, an editorial -writer." - -"Indeed!" - -Jed had read from time to time squibs and witty paragraphs touching the -poverty of editors, and this seemed to explain the shabby appearance of -his new friend. - -"What paper do you write for?" he ventured to ask. - -"I contribute editorially to most of the city dailies. Sometimes I get -as high as fifteen and twenty dollars a column." - -Jed was rather surprised at this. He concluded that Mr. Hamilton -Barry--for this was the name the stranger had given--was not a very good -financial manager. - -"That seems a high price," said Jed. - -"Yes, but brain-work ought to be paid handsomely. Do you ever write for -publication yourself?" - -"Oh, no," said Jed, flattered nevertheless by the question. "I haven't -education enough." - -"I thought if you did I might get you something to do. But perhaps -business is more in your line?" - -"I think it will be." - -"Then I had better write you a note to Mr. Claflin. When we get to the -city I will run into some hotel and write you a letter of -recommendation." - -"But, Mr. Barry, you don't know me. How can you recommend me?" - -"My dear boy, I judge you by your appearance. Besides, I know something -of phrenology, and you have a good head--a very good head. I read in it -honesty, integrity, enterprise and fidelity. Those qualities certainly -ought to qualify you to succeed in business." - -"I don't know anything about phrenology, but I hope it's true." - -"My young friend you may rely implicitly on the verdict of the wonderful -science." - -"I shall be glad to," said Jed smiling, "since, as you say, it is so -favorable to me." - -When they reached the pier Hamilton Barry passed his arm familiarly -through Jed's, and led the way to a small public house, the office of -which seemed also to be a bar. - -"Won't you take a glass of something?" asked the editor. - -"I don't drink," answered Jed, rather embarrassed. - -"Take a glass of sarsaparilla. It won't harm an infant." - -"Thank you. I don't mind." - -Upon this Mr. Barry stepped up to the bar and ordered one sarsaparilla -and one whisky straight. While Jed was solemnly drinking the first, the -editor poured down the whisky at one gulp. - -Then he felt in his pockets for the fifteen cents which were due. But -somehow no silver was forthcoming. - -"Upon my word," he exclaimed, "I must have left my money at home. Mr. -Gilman, can you oblige me with a quarter?" - -Jed produced the required coin. Taking it, Barry paid the score, and -quietly pocketed the change. - -"Now for the letter!" he said. "Where is your writing-room?" - -"Haven't got any," answered the barkeeper. - -"Can't you scare up a sheet of paper and an envelope?" - -After some time these were produced, also a pen and a bottle of ink. -Barry sat down at one of the tables generally used for bar customers, -and in a short time produced a letter which he handed to Jed. - -It ran thus: - - - DEAR HORACE: - - This letter will be handed to you by a talented young friend, who - is in search of a business position. Mr. J. Gilman is in my - judgment possessed of superior business qualifications, and will - prove a valuable man in your store. I advise you to engage him at - once. - - Your old friend, - HAMILTON BARRY. - - -This note was placed in an envelope directed to Horace B. Claflin. In -the corner Barry wrote: "To introduce Mr. J. Gilman." - -"There," he said. "Take this letter round to Claflin and he will -undoubtedly give you a good place." - -He spoke with so much confidence that Jed was led to think himself in -luck to be the recipient of such a testimonial. - -"Thank you," he said. "I feel very much obliged." - -"Oh don't mention it!" said Barry in an airy way. "It gives me pleasure -to assist you, Mr. Gilman, I assure you. When you have ascended round by -round until you are at the top of the ladder, I trust you will not -forget your chance acquaintance, Hamilton Barry." - -"I certainly will not, Mr. Barry," said Jed warmly, grasping the hand -of the editor. "I hope some day to thank you as I wish." - -"My dear boy, the sentiment does you credit. I know you are sincere." - -"Certainly," said Jed. - -"It is because I know this that I venture to suggest that you may do me -a favor at once." - -"What is it?" - -"Let me have a fiver till next Monday. I shall then call at the office -of the _Tribune_ for twenty dollars due me for two editorials published -early this week." - -This request rather staggered Jed. Now that he had paid his fare to New -York he had only about thirty-seven dollars, and five dollars would cut -rather seriously into his small balance. - -"I am afraid," he said awkwardly, "that I can hardly spare five dollars. -If two dollars would help you----" - -"It would materially," interposed Barry. "Of course it is only a loan. -Meet me here next Monday, at six o'clock, say, after your duties are -over at Claflin's, and I will gladly repay you." - -This off-hand allusion to Claflin, taking for granted his engagement -there, made Jed ashamed of his temporary distrust, and he drew from his -pocketbook a two-dollar note, which he handed to Mr. Barry. - -"Thanks," said the editor, as he carelessly slipped it into his pocket. -"Be here on Monday at six o'clock sharp." - -Then with a jaunty air he touched his hat and walked rapidly around the -corner. - -"I think I will go around to Claflin's at once," decided Jed. "I may as -well strike while the iron is hot." - - - - -CHAPTER XXII. - -JED MAKES TWO CALLS. - - -On Church Street Jed found an imposing-looking building which a passing -policeman informed him was Claflin's place of business. The size rather -impressed Jed, accustomed as he had been hitherto to the small stores in -Scranton, but he felt that it was no time for diffidence. So he opened -the outer door and entered. - -He found himself in a scene of activity. The shelves were filled with -goods, and behind the counters were numerous salesmen. No one took any -notice of Jed at first till a tall, stout man, in walking across the -room, espied him. - -"Any one waiting on you, young man?" he asked. - -"No," answered Jed. - -"Here, Wilkins," said the floor-walker, "attend to this young man. What -house do you represent?" - -"None, sir," answered Jed uncomfortably, feeling out of place. - -"Ah, you want to buy at retail. Go into the next room." - -"No, sir, I didn't come to buy anything," stammered Jed. "I have a -letter for Mr. Claflin." - -The great merchant is now dead, but at the time of Jed's call he was -living. - -"Wilkins, you may take the letter and carry it to Mr. Claflin." - -Wilkins took the letter from Jed's hands, walked across the room, and -ascended to Mr. Claflin's office on the second floor. He reappeared -within five minutes and signaled to Jed to approach. - -"Mr. Claflin will see you," he said. "Follow me." - -Presently Jed found himself in the presence of the great merchant, who -surveyed him curiously. - -"Are you Mr. J. Gilman?" he asked. - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, blushing. - -"You bring a letter from--" here Mr. Claflin referred to a note--"from -a man who calls himself Hamilton Barry?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I don't know any such man. How did he happen to offer you a letter?" - -"I told him I wanted a position." - -"Exactly. Did he say he knew me?" - -"Yes, sir. He said he used to go to school with you." - -Mr. Claflin laughed. - -"Did he borrow any money from you?" - -"Yes," answered Jed, surprised that the merchant should have guessed -this. - -"Not much, I hope." - -"Two dollars." - -"That was all?" - -"No, sir; he treated me to some sarsaparilla and did not have the money -to pay for it." - -"He is evidently a fraud and an impostor. Did he say he ever worked for -me?" - -"No, sir; he said he was an editor--that he wrote articles for the daily -papers." - -"When did he offer to repay you?" - -"Next Monday, when he had received pay from the _Tribune_ for some -articles he had written." - -"What was the man's appearance?" - -"He was tall, and not very well dressed." - -"It is hardly likely that he ever wrote an article for the _Tribune_ or -any other of the city dailies. I hope he did not get all your money?" - -"No, sir. I have considerable besides." - -"I advise you to take good care of it, and to steer clear of -questionable acquaintances." - -Mr. Claflin turned to a letter which he was writing, and Jed felt that -he was dismissed. Mr. Claflin had said nothing about taking him into his -employment, and he went down stairs feeling mortified and depressed. - -Mingled with these feelings was one of anger at having been so cruelly -deceived by his steamboat acquaintance. - -"I'd just like to meet him again!" soliloquized Jed, involuntarily -doubling up his fist. - -"I wonder whether he really writes for the _Tribune_?" he asked himself. - -He decided to solve this question at once, though he had not much doubt -on the subject. He wanted to know exactly what he had to depend on. - -He walked up to Broadway, then down to the City Hall Park, and asked a -boy whom he met, "Where is the _Tribune_ office?" - -"There it is across the park," said the boy, pointing to a tall building -with a lofty tower. "What do you want to do--sell papers?" - -"No," answered Jed. "I want to ask about one of the editors." - -"You're from the country, ain't you?" - -"Yes. What makes you think so?" - -"Because all the boys in the city know the _Tribune_ building. Say, what -do you do for a livin'?" inquired the boy confidentially. - -This was rather a puzzling question, but Jed, remembering that he had -been on the stage for a time, felt justified in answering, "I am an -actor." - -"Cracky! you don't say. You ain't little Lord Fauntleroy, are you?" - -"No; I played the telegraph boy in the play of 'The Gold King.'" - -"How did you like it?" asked the newsboy, becoming interested. - -"Very much." - -"Are you goin' to play it again?" - -"No; I took the place of the regular actor for a few weeks while he was -sick. Now he is well, and I am not needed." - -"Say, does actin' pay well?" asked the boy curiously. - -"I was paid pretty well." - -"Do you think you could get me a chance?" - -"I am afraid I can't get another chance myself." - -The newsboy had no more questions to ask, and Jed, following directions, -crossed the park and the street beyond to the _Tribune_ building. - -He entered the office, and walked up to a window, beyond which stood a -young man who was handing out papers to a purchaser who wanted some back -numbers. - -Jed presented himself next, and the clerk looked at him inquiringly. - -"Do you wish to subscribe?" asked the clerk, as Jed remained silent. - -"No; I want to ask whether you have an editor named Hamilton Barry?" - -"I don't think so. Why do you ask?" - -"He borrowed some money of me, and said he would pay me when he -collected some money due him from the _Tribune_." - -The clerk smiled. - -"I am sure none of our editors borrow money from boys," he said. "You -have been imposed upon, young man." - -"I guess you are right," responded Jed, coloring. - -"If you like, I will send up to the city editor to inquire if there is a -man named Barry in his department." - -"I guess I won't trouble you." - -Jed turned away quite satisfied in his own mind that he had been -cleverly swindled and would never see his two dollars again. He -reflected that it might have been more, and stoutly resolved not to let -any designing persons wheedle him out of any more money. - -He had never visited New York before, and the streets were all new to -him. So he strolled about for a couple of hours, gazing curiously at -shops, buildings, streets, and street scenes. - -This naturally led to a feeling of hunger, and at twelve o'clock he -began to look around for a restaurant. He found one on Fulton Street, -and went in. - -He took a seat on the right-hand side, about midway up the room, and -consulted the bill of fare. He found that roast meats were fifteen and -twenty-five cents, the latter being for large plates. Tea and coffee -were five cents each, and pie or pudding was ten cents. - -He ordered a large plate of roast beef, feeling quite hungry, and a cup -of coffee. - -Jed had about half finished his dinner when his attention was drawn by a -familiar voice at the next table. Looking up, he saw that two men had -entered the restaurant since he had been served and were sitting with -their backs to him. One of them he recognized, with a thrill of -excitement, as his acquaintance of the morning, Hamilton Barry. - -"I say, Barry," said his companion, "you've had a streak of luck. How do -you happen to be in funds?" - -"I negotiated a loan, my boy." - -"That is interesting. Would the party accommodate me, do you think?" - -"Depends upon your invention, my boy. I told him a plausible story, and -did him a favor." - -"Explain." - -"He was looking for a position, and I gave him a letter of introduction -to H. B. Claflin." - -The friend burst into a fit of laughter. - -"I admire your cheek," he said. "What do you know of Claflin?" - -"I told him that Claflin and I went to school together." - -"A lie, of course?" - -"Yes; I never set eyes on the man in my life." - -"And on the strength of that you negotiated a loan." - -"Precisely." - -"How much?" - -"I struck him for a five, but he only let me have two." - -"Which, of course, you promised to repay." - -"I told him I would repay him next Monday when the _Tribune_ paid me -for two editorial articles I wrote for them." - -This tickled the fancy of both, and they burst into uproarious laughter. - -It may be imagined with what feelings of indignation poor Jed listened -to these rascals, and understood how adroitly he had been swindled. He -felt tempted to get up and address the man who had swindled him in -fitting terms, but concluded to wait until he had finished his dinner. - -He felt particularly angry when Barry ordered a high-priced dish--a -plate of roast turkey--to be paid for with his money. - -At last his dinner was over, and taking the check in his hand, Jed made -his way to the table in front. - -"Mr. Barry," he said as calmly as he could, "I believe you owe me two -dollars. I shall be glad if you will pay me now." - -Barry looked up quickly, and actually seemed embarrassed when he -recognized Jed. - -"Confusion!" he ejaculated. "The kid!" - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII. - -JED'S BAD LUCK. - - -"Yes," answered Jed coolly, "it is the kid. I have called upon Mr. -Claflin, and also at the office of the _Tribune_. Probably you can guess -what I was told at both places." - -Mr. Barry felt that he was in a tight place, but reflecting that Jed was -only a boy, he determined to bluff him off. - -"I don't know what you are talking about, boy," he said. "I know nothing -of Mr. Claflin, and have nothing to do with the _Tribune_ office." - -"I am aware of that, but you gave me a letter of introduction to H. B. -Claflin, and borrowed two dollars of me, promising to pay me when you -settled with the _Tribune_ for editorial contributions." - -"There is not a word of truth in this," said Barry, fidgeting in his -chair. - -"I have been listening to your conversation for fifteen minutes," -continued Jed, "and I heard you give an account of the matter to your -friend here." - -Barry hesitated a moment. Even his brazen hardihood was scarcely -adequate to the emergency. He was the more uneasy because a policeman -was sitting at the next table but one. - -"It was only a practical joke, boy," he said hurriedly. "I'll pay you -back the two dollars." - -"That will be satisfactory," returned Jed. - -"But I can't do it to-day. I'll meet you on Monday afternoon, as I said. -I am in rather a hurry now and must be going." - -He rose from the table precipitately, and went up to the desk followed -by his friend. - -"Shall I stop him?" thought Jed. - -He decided not to do so, as he felt sure Barry could not pay him. The -loss was not a serious one, but it would not do to make a second -mistake. He paid his check and left the restaurant. - -Jed knew very little of New York, even for a country boy. Some Scranton -people doubtless had visited the great city, but, as an inmate of a -poorhouse, he had not been thrown in their way. Accordingly he was like -a mariner without a compass. He could only follow where impulse led. - -He turned into Broadway, and with his gripsack in his hand walked up the -great thoroughfare, looking in at shop windows as he strolled along. -Travelling in this leisurely manner, it was perhaps four o'clock when he -reached Union Square. - -He was by this time fatigued and ready to rest on one of the benches -which he found in the park. One person was sitting there already. It was -a slender young man with a diamond ring on one of the fingers of his -right hand. At least it looked to be a diamond. - -He was dressed in rather a showy manner. He was perhaps twenty-two, but -so slender that he must have weighed a dozen or fifteen pounds less than -Jed, who was only sixteen. He looked casually at the country boy as the -latter sat down, and presently turned and addressed him. - -"It is a warm day," he said. - -"Yes," answered Jed, who felt lonely and was glad to be social with some -one. - -"I judge from your bag," he glanced at the gripsack, "that you are a -visitor to New York." - -"Yes," answered Jed frankly. "I have never been in New York before." - -"That was my case two years ago. Now I feel quite like an old resident. -Are you staying at a hotel?" - -"No; that is what I should like to ask about. I must spend the night -somewhere. Can you recommend a _cheap_ hotel?" - -"Why do you go to a hotel? No hotel is cheap in the long run. It is much -better to hire a room in a lodging-house and take your meals at -restaurants." - -"Yes, I suppose it would be. But I don't know where to find such a -lodging-house." - -"Come, I'll make you an offer. I have a room on Twenty-Seventh Street. -You shall pay for my supper, and I will let you stay in my room without -charge till to-morrow. Then if you like it well enough to room with me, -I shall be glad to have you." - -"Thank you; how much do you pay for your room?" - -"Four dollars a week. That will be two dollars a piece. That is cheap -for the city. You can't get a room at a hotel for less than a dollar a -night." - -"Is that so?" asked Jed. "That would be seven dollars a week." - -"Precisely." - -"I couldn't afford to pay that." - -"There is no reason why you should. I couldn't afford it myself. Well, -do you accept my offer? Do just as you please. Of course I have no -motive except to give a helping hand to a stranger in the city." - -"You are very kind," said Jed gratefully. "I know so little of New York -that I feel quite helpless." - -"Quite natural. I've been through it all." - -"Are you--in business?" rather wondering how his companion should be -free at that hour. - -"Yes, I am in a broker's office down town. We have easy hours. I am off -for the day at three o'clock." - -"Are you well paid? But perhaps you don't care to tell." - -"Oh, yes, I don't mind. I get twenty dollars a week." - -"I wish I could get twelve," said Jed wistfully. "I shall have to get -work soon." - -"You have some money to keep you while you are waiting for work?" said -the other quickly. - -"Yes. I have about thirty-five dollars." - -The young man's face brightened up. - -"I am glad for you," he said. "You can make that last a good while, if -you are guided by me, and keep down your expenses." - -"That is exactly what I want to do," responded Jed earnestly. - -"Oh well, I will put my experience at your service. I hope you will -conclude to room with me. I feel rather lonesome at times. Of course I -could easily get a roommate, but I am rather particular." - -"You might not like me," said Jed. - -"I am sure I shall. I can tell in five minutes whether I am going to -like a person or not. How old are you?" - -"Sixteen." - -"Indeed! You look older. That's going to help you, you know, about a -situation. You can pass for a young man, and they won't think of -offering you boy's pay." - -"Perhaps you will be able to advise me about the kind of place I had -better apply for." - -"Of course I will. I already begin to take a great interest in you. What -kind of work have you done?" - -"Well, I have acted a little." - -"You don't say so!" ejaculated his new friend in genuine surprise, for -he had looked upon Jed as an unsophisticated country boy who probably -had never seen the inside of a theatre. "I suppose you mean," he -suggested as an afterthought, "in some village entertainment." - -"No; I played in 'The Gold King' for some time." - -"You don't say so! What part did you take?" - -"The boy's part." - -The young man regarded Jed with more respect. - -"I shouldn't have thought it," he said. "How did you happen to get such -a fine chance as that?" - -"I knew one of the actors--Harry Bertram--and the one who played the -boy's part regularly was taken sick. I only played about four or five -weeks all together." - -"Still that makes you a regular actor. Do you think of trying to get a -place at Daly's or Palmer's?" - -"Oh, no. I don't suppose I should stand any show. I could only take a -boy's part." - -"Well, we can talk over our plans later. I don't mind confessing that I -am hungry. How about yourself?" - -"I think I could eat some supper." - -"Come along, then. I'll take you to a good restaurant. It's some way -off, but it is near my room." - -"All right." - -The two rose, and leaving the park, walked up Broadway, past the Fifth -Avenue Hotel, the Hoffman House, and the St. James, till they reached a -well-known eating-house known as Smith & Green's, situated on the east -side of Broadway, between Twenty-Seventh and Twenty-Eighth Streets. - -"Come in here. I won't take you to Delmonico's, a little further down, -as you haven't a private bank to draw from. This is a nice restaurant -and moderate in its charges." - -They entered, sat down at a round table and studied the bill of fare. -The prices seemed to be moderate. Jed's dinner cost thirty-five cents, -but his companion was more lavish in his orders, and ran up a bill of -sixty-five cents. - -"That makes just a dollar," he remarked. - -It seemed considerable to Jed, who decided that he would rather order -and pay for his own meals separately hereafter. - -During the repast Jed learned that his new friend's name was Maurice -Graham. - -"Now we'll go around to my room, and you can dispose of your gripsack." - -"I shall be glad to do so. I am tired of carrying it about." - -Graham led the way to a three-story brick house near Seventh Avenue, and -mounted to a small square room on the upper story. It was plainly -furnished with a three-quarters bed, a bureau, and the usual chamber -furniture. - -"You can leave your bag anywhere, and then we will go out for a walk." - -"I think I would rather stay here and lie down." - -"All right! Make yourself at home. I will go out. Shall probably be back -by ten." - -When Graham returned at a little past ten he found Jed in bed and fast -asleep. His eyes sparkled with pleasure. - -He raised Jed's clothes from the chair on which he had thrown them and -went through the pockets expeditiously. Poor Jed's small stock of money -was quickly transferred to his own pockets. - -"He hasn't any watch," soliloquized Graham. "That's a pity." - -When his search was completed he put on his hat again. - -"I shall sleep in Jersey City to-night," he said to himself. "That will -be safer." - -He went out softly, leaving Jed alone, the victim of a cruel trick. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIV. - -A STARTLING DISCOVERY. - - -Jed slept on, unconscious of his loss, till the sun flooded the room -with golden light. Then he opened his eyes and wondered for a moment -where he was. But recollection came to his aid, and he recalled the -incidents of his meeting with Graham and sharing the latter's room. - -He looked over to the other side of the bed, but his roommate was not to -be seen. - -"I suppose it is late and he has gone to his business," thought Jed -tranquilly. "Probably he didn't want to wake me up." - -This explanation seemed natural enough till he noticed that the pillow -on the right-hand side of the bed did not seem to have been used. -Lifting the quilt, he discovered that the sheet was smooth. Clearly -Graham had not slept there at all. - -"What does it mean?" thought Jed, perplexed. "Why didn't he come back -last evening?" - -This was a question which he could not answer. No suspicion, however, -had yet dawned upon him that anything was wrong. - -"Well," he said, jumping out of bed, "I must get up and try for a place. -I guess I can find that eating-house where we took supper. Let me see, -what was the name? Oh, Smith & Green. Well, I feel as if I could dispose -of a good breakfast." - -He washed his face and hands and proceeded to dress. Mechanically, but -not from any feeling of uneasiness, he thrust his hand into his pocket -in search of his wallet. The pocket was empty! - -His heart gave a jump, and he hurriedly examined his other pockets, but -it was of no avail. Then he looked about the room and on the floor, but -there was no trace of the lost wallet. - -Jed felt faint, and his legs trembled under him, as he thought of the -terrible situation in which he was placed. He began to connect Graham's -absence with his loss, and understood that his new acquaintance had -played him false. - -It was a shock to him, for his nature was trustful, and he hated to -believe that a young man who had seemed so friendly should prove so -treacherous. - -"What shall I do?" thought poor Jed. "I haven't enough money for my -breakfast, and I am _very_ hungry." - -At this point, just as he was ready to go out, there came a knock at the -door. - -Jed rose and opened it. He confronted a stout woman of middle age with a -very serious expression of countenance that seemed to indicate that she -meant business. She regarded Jed with surprise. - -"I expected to see Mr. Graham," she said. "Are you a friend of his?" - -"I only met him yesterday. He invited me to come and spend the night in -his room." - -"Is he here, or has he gone out?" - -"I don't think he slept here at all last night. He left early in the -evening, and said he would come back, but the bed doesn't seem to have -been slept in except by myself." - -"He is very liberal in offering the use of a room that he has not paid -for," said the lady sarcastically. - -"I don't know anything about that," faltered Jed. - -"No, I suppose not. But it's true. He only came here two weeks and a -half ago, and paid one week's rent in advance--four dollars. When the -next week's rent became due he said that his employer was on a visit to -Chicago, and he could not get his pay till he came back. Do you know -whether that is true?" - -"No, I don't. I never saw him before yesterday afternoon about four -o'clock in a park about half a mile from here." - -"So he wasn't at work at that time?" - -"No; he said he worked for a broker and got through at three o'clock." - -"A broker? Why he told me he was working in a wholesale house down town. -At any rate, I wish he'd pay me the eight dollars he owes me." - -"I wish he'd pay me the thirty-five dollars he owes me," said Jed -despondently. - -"You don't mean to say that you were goose enough to lend him -thirty-five dollars?" exclaimed Mrs. Gately in a crescendo voice. - -"No; I didn't lend it to him," returned Jed bitterly. "He must have -taken it out of my pocket when I was asleep." - -"Well, I declare! So he's a thief, too." - -She looked around the room, and opening a bureau examined the drawers. - -"He's gone off and taken all of his things," she reported. "That settles -it. We shall not see our money again." - -"I--I don't know what to do," said Jed sorrowfully. - -"Did he take _all_ your money?" asked Mrs. Gately, drawn from a -consideration of her own misfortune to that of her fellow-sufferer. - -"Yes, he took every cent," answered Jed mournfully. "And the worst of it -is that I am a stranger in New York." - -"Well, that is too bad!" said the landlady, an expression of sympathy -relieving the severity of her face. "Your case is worse than mine. You -actually haven't anything left?" - -"Except my gripsack." - -"And of course you haven't had any breakfast?" - -"No, ma'am." - -"Well, I do pity you. I suppose you are hungry?" - -"I don't know when I have ever felt so hungry," answered Jed. - -"I will see that you don't leave the house in that condition at any -rate. I'm a poor woman, as any one must be who has to depend on lodgers -for an income, but I'm not penniless. Come down stairs, Mr.--Mr.--" - -"Gilman," suggested Jed. - -"And I will skirmish round and scare you up something to eat." - -"You are very kind," said Jed gratefully. - -"Wait and see what you get," returned Mrs. Gately with a laugh and a -softer expression, for Jed's case appealed to her heart. - -She led the way to the front basement. A table was set in the centre of -the room. Evidently it had not yet been cleared off. - -"I'm a little behindhand this morning," remarked Mrs. Gately, beginning -to bustle round. "I don't take boarders in a general way, but I have a -young girl in the house that works at Macy's. I suppose you've heard of -Macy's?" - -"No, ma'am." - -"Never heard of Macy's? I thought everybody had heard of Macy's, -Fo'teenth Street and Sixth Avenue. Luella Dickinson works there, and I -give her breakfast in the house as a favor. Let me see, there's a little -coffee left--I'll warm it over--and there's bread and butter, and--I can -cook you a sausage, and boil a couple of eggs." - -"I hope you won't take too much trouble," said Jed. - -"I guess I can afford to take a little trouble, especially as there's no -knowing when you will have any dinner." - -Jed owned to himself with a sigh that there was a good deal of doubt on -that point. However, it isn't wise to borrow trouble too far in advance, -and the odor of the sausage as it was frying was very grateful to his -nostrils. He was sure of one meal at any rate, and that was something, -though the day before he thought he had enough money to last a month. - -"I don't think the coffee will do," said Mrs. Gately, as she bustled -round the stove in the next room. "I'll make some fresh. I don't think -coffee amounts to much when it is warmed over." - -Jed was of the same opinion, and did not utter a protest. He was very -fond of coffee, and felt that with a fresh pot of it the breakfast would -be fit for a king. - -"Haven't you got any folks, Mr. Gilman?" asked the landlady, as she -brought the pot of coffee and sat it on the table. - -"No, ma'am," answered Jed. "I am alone in the world." - -"Dear me, that's sad! And so young as you are, too!" - -"Yes, ma'am. I'm only sixteen." - -"What did you calc'late to do, if you could get a chance?" - -"Anything. I'm not particular." - -"You haven't any trade, have you?" - -"No. I've been living in the country most of the time, and did chores on -a farm." - -"Well, we haven't many farms in New York," said the landlady with a -laugh. - -"No. I suppose not. Even if there were, I don't like that kind of -work." - -"Have you never done anything else?" - -"I acted for a few weeks." - -"Gracious! You don't mean to say you've been a play actor?" - -"Yes, ma'am." - -"How Luella Dickinson would like to see you! She dotes on play actors, -but I don't think she ever met one." - -"I am afraid she would be disappointed in me. - -"Oh, I guess not. If you've played on the stage that's enough. Why can't -you call round some evening? Luella would _so_ like to see you." - -"Thank you, Mrs. Gately. If I can get anything to do, I will call." - -Jed finished his breakfast. He ate heartily, for he had no idea where he -should get another meal. - -"I guess I'll be going," he said, as he rose from the table. "You have -been very kind." - -"Oh, that's nothing. I hope you'll meet that rascally Graham and make -him give up your money." - -"I am afraid there is little hope of that. Good morning, and thank you!" - -And so Jed passed out of the hospitable house into the inhospitable -street, without a cent of money or a prospect of earning any. - - - - -CHAPTER XXV. - -WITHOUT A PENNY. - - -There is nothing that makes one feel so helpless as to be without a -penny in a strange city. If Jed had had even a dollar he would have felt -better. - -The fact of his poverty was emphasized when a boy came up to him and -asked him to buy a morning paper. Jed instinctively felt in his pocket -for a penny, but not even a cent was forthcoming. - -"I have no change," he said, by way of excuse. - -"I can change a dollar," responded the newsboy, who was more than -usually enterprising. - -"I wish _I_ could," thought Jed, but he only said, "No, it is no -matter." - -So he walked along Broadway, fairly well dressed, but, so far as money -went, a pauper. Yes, though no longer an inmate of the Scranton -poorhouse, he was even poorer than when he was there, for then he had a -home, and now he had none. - -"I wonder when it is all going to end?" reflected poor Jed despondently. -Then his anger was excited when he thought of the unprincipled rascal -who had brought him to this pass. - -"If I could only get hold of him," muttered Jed vengefully, "I would -give him something to remember me by." - -All the while Jed walked on, though his walk was aimless. He was as well -off in one part of the city as another, and only walked to fill up time. - -He found himself passing a drug store. Just outside the door he saw the -sign "Boy wanted," and with a little kindling of hope he entered the -store. - -Just behind the counter stood a man with a sandy beard, who appeared to -be the proprietor. To him Jed addressed himself. - -"I see you want a boy," he said. - -"Yes; do you want a place?" - -"Yes, sir." - -"I hardly think you would be satisfied with the wages we pay, unless -you particularly wish to learn our business." - -"What do you pay, sir?" - -"Three dollars a week." - -Three dollars a week! It was certainly better than no income at all, but -Jed knew well that it would be impossible to live on this sum, and he -had no reserve fund to draw upon. - -"No," he said, "I am afraid I couldn't get along on that salary." - -"Are you entirely dependent on your earnings?" asked the druggist. - -"Yes, sir." - -"Have you parents residing in the city?" - -"No, sir; I am all alone." - -"That would be an objection. We prefer to employ those who live at -home." - -"Do most employers require that, sir?" - -"Many do." - -Here a customer came in and asked for a bottle of cough medicine, and -the druggist turned away to fill the order. Jed walked slowly out of the -store. - -"I wonder whether there is any work for me anywhere?" he asked himself -despondently. - -Jed continued his walk down Broadway. It was a bright, clear, -exhilarating day, and Jed would have enjoyed it thoroughly if he had -been better fixed, but it is hard to keep up the spirits when your -pocket is empty. - -When Jed reached City Hall Park he went in and sat down on one of the -benches. - -One of the boy bootblacks who carry on business in the park came up to -him with his box on his shoulder and asked, "Shine your boots?" - -Jed shook his head. - -"Not this morning," he replied. - -"They need it," said the boy. - -Jed looked at his boots, and was fain to admit that the boy was right. -But he was not possessed of the necessary nickel. - -"Yes, they do need it," he said, "but I haven't money enough to pay you -for doing it." - -"Only five cents." - -"I haven't five cents. I'm poorer than you are, my boy," said Jed in a -burst of confidence. - -The boy looked puzzled. - -"You don't look like it," he said after scrutinizing Jed's appearance. -"How did you come to be so poor?" - -"Had all my money stolen last night." - -"How much was there?" - -"Thirty-five dollars." - -"Whew!" whistled the bootblack. "That was a haul. Who did it?" - -"A young man I fell in with. He invited me to share his room. I woke -this morning to find that he had stolen all my money." - -"He was a snide, he was! I'd like to step on his necktie." - -"I'd like to do something of that sort myself," said Jed with a smile. - -"Would you know him if you saw him again?" - -"Yes; I shan't forget him very soon." - -"When you do see him hand him over to a cop. Just hold out your foot," -and the boy got down in a position to black Jed's shoe. - -"But I haven't any money. I can't pay you." - -"I'll do it for nothin', seein' as you're down on your luck. You can pay -me some time when times is better." - -"I am afraid you will have to wait a good while for your money." - -"Never mind! It won't kill me if I lose it." - -"You're very kind to a stranger," said Jed, grateful for the boy's -friendly proffer. - -"Oh, it ain't nothin'. You look like a good fellow. You'll get a place -quicker if your shoes look nice." - -There was something practical in this suggestion, and Jed accepted the -offer without further hesitation. - -The boy exerted himself specially, and Jed's dirty shoes soon showed a -dazzling polish. - -"There, you can see your face in 'em!" exclaimed the boy, as he rose -from his knees. - -"Thank you," said Jed. "I see you understand your business. Will you -tell me your name?" - -"Jim Parker." - -"Well, Jim, I am much obliged to you. I hope some time I can do you a -favor." - -"Oh, that's all right. So long! I hope you'll get a job." And the -independent young bootblack, with his box over his shoulder, walked -across the park in search of another job. - -Somehow Jed was cheered by this act of kindness. He felt a little better -satisfied with himself, moreover, when he saw the transformation of his -dirty shoes to the polish that marks the gentleman. - -A man rather shabbily dressed was drawn by this outward sign of -affluence to sit down beside him. He took a brief inventory of Jed, and -then doffing his hat, said deferentially, "Young gentleman, I hope you -will excuse the liberty I am taking, but I have walked all the way from -Buffalo, and am reduced almost to my last penny. In fact this nickel," -producing one from his pocket, "is all the money I have left. If you -will kindly loan me a quarter I shall esteem it a great favor." - -Jed felt like laughing. He had not a penny, yet here was a man richer -than himself asking for a loan. - -"I wish I were able to oblige you," he said, "but you are asking me for -more than I possess." - -The man glanced incredulously at Jed's polished shoes. - -"You don't look poor," he said, in a tone of sarcasm. - -"No, I don't look poor, but you are five cents richer than I." - -The man shrugged his shoulders. He evidently did not believe Jed. - -"It is quite true," continued Jed, answering the doubt on the man's -face. "Last night I was robbed of all the money I had. Had you applied -to me yesterday I would have granted your request." - -This frank statement disarmed the man's suspicion. - -"I think your are speaking the truth," he said. "Though there are plenty -who pretend to be poor to get rid of giving. Perhaps I shall surprise -you when I say that a year ago I should have been able to lend you five -thousand dollars, and have as much more left." - -"Yes, you do surprise me! How did you lose your money?" - -"I was a fool--that explains it. I bought mining stocks. I was in San -Francisco at the time, and my money melted like snow in the sun. A year -since I was worth ten thousand dollars. To-day I am worth a nickel. Do -you know what I will do with it?" - -Jed looked at him inquiringly. - -"I will buy a glass of beer, and drink to our good luck--yours and -mine." - -"I hope it will bring the good luck," said Jed smiling. - -"I would offer you a glass too, if I had another nickel." - -"Thank you, but I never drink beer. I thank you all the same." - -His companion rose and left the park, probably in search of a beer -saloon. Jed got up, too, and took another walk. By half-past twelve he -felt decidedly hungry. His breakfast had lasted him till then, but he -was young and healthy, and craved three meals a day. - -"How shall I manage to get dinner?" thought Jed seriously. - -He paused in front of the Astor House, which he knew to be a hotel, and -saw business men entering in quest of their midday lunch. - -It was tantalizing. There was plenty of food inside, but he lacked the -wherewithal to purchase a portion. - -"Why, Jed, how are you?" came unexpectedly to his ears. - -He looked up and saw a brown-bearded, pleasant-faced man, whom he -recognized as a fellow-guest at the Spray Hotel at Sea Spray. - -"When did you leave Sea Spray?" asked his friend. - -"Only yesterday." - -"Going to stay in the city?" - -"Yes, if I can get anything to do." - -"Have you been to lunch?" - -"Not yet." - -"Come in and lunch with me, then. I think we can find something inviting -at the Astor." - -"Saved!" thought Jed, as he gladly passed into the famous hostelry with -his friend. "I wonder if he has any idea how glad I am to accept his -invitation?" - - - - -CHAPTER XXVI. - -IN SEARCH OF EMPLOYMENT. - - -Jed followed his hotel friend up stairs into an upper dining-room, and -they took seats at a corner table. - -"I never like to dine alone," said Howell Foster. "I am glad I fell in -with you, Jed." - -"So am I," answered Jed. "I am more glad than you have any idea of," he -said to himself. - -"What will you order?" asked Mr. Foster, pushing over the bill of fare -to his companion. - -"I have a healthy appetite and shall enjoy anything," said Jed with a -smile. "Please order the same for me as for yourself." - -Howell Foster was rather proud of his gastronomic knowledge, and took -this as a compliment. - -"You can trust me to do that," he replied. "I am used to the place and -know what they succeed best in." - -Thereupon he ordered a dinner which Jed found delicious. No expense was -spared, and Jed, glancing at the bill when it was brought, found that -the charge was three dollars and a half. - -During the repast the host kept up a bright and chatty conversation. - -"I hope you enjoyed your dinner," he said, when it was over. - -"Actions speak louder than words," answered Jed with a smile. - -"This is a good, reliable place. I advise you to come here often." - -"What would he say if he could see the inside of my pocket-book?" -thought Jed. "I am afraid," he said aloud, "it is too expensive for my -means." - -"Yes, probably; I didn't think of that. By the way, what have you in -view?" - -"I hardly know yet." - -"Come round and see me some day," and Foster handed Jed his card. - -"Thank you, sir." - -"Will you have a cigar?" - -"No, thank you, sir. I don't smoke." - -"It would be money in my pocket if I didn't. My cigars cost me last -year five hundred dollars." - -"I wish I was sure of that for my entire income," thought Jed. - -They parted at the entrance to the hotel. It was clear from his manner -and speech that Howell Foster thought Jed in easy circumstances. - -It made the boy feel almost like an impostor, but he reflected that he -had done nothing to give Mr. Foster a false impression. - -It was about half-past one when he left the hotel. The dinner had -occupied an hour. The world was still before him, but he had eaten a -hearty meal and felt that he could get along, if necessary, till the -next morning, so far as eating was concerned. - -Where to sleep presented a perplexing problem, but it would be some time -before it required to be solved. How to spend the afternoon puzzled Jed. -He went back to City Hall Park, and on the seat he had formerly occupied -he found a copy of the New York _Herald_ which somebody had left there. -He took it up and looked over the advertisements for Help Wanted. - -He found the following: - - - WANTED.--Smart, enterprising agents to sell packages of stationery. - Fifteen dollars a week can easily be made. Call at No. 182 Nassau - Street, Room 22. - - -This struck Jed as just the thing. It could not be very hard to sell -stationery, and fifteen dollars a week would support him comfortably. - -"Where is Nassau Street?" he inquired of a bootblack who took a -temporary seat beside him. - -"There 'tis," said the street boy, pointing in the direction of the -_Tribune_ building. "You just go down in front of the Tribune." - -"Is No. 182 far off?" - -"No, it's close by. You can get there in less than no time." - -"Thank you!" and with hope in his heart Jed rose and walked in the -direction indicated. - -He found the building. At the entrance was a list of occupants of rooms. -He went up two flights of stairs, and halted in front of No. 22. He -knocked at the door and was bidden in a deep, hoarse voice to "Come in!" - -Opening the door, he found himself in the presence of a short, -humpbacked man, whose voice was quite out of proportion to his size. - -"I suppose you come to see me about the advertisement in the _Herald_," -said the dwarf. - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, gazing as if fascinated at the stunted figure, -huge head and long arms of the person before him. - -"I have engaged several agents already this morning," went on the dwarf, -turning over a large book on the desk before him. - -"Then perhaps you don't need any more?" said Jed despondently. - -"Oh, yes, I do if I can get the right ones," was the answer. - -"It is to sell packages of stationery, I believe. Can you show me some?" - -The dwarf handed Jed a flat package, on the outside of which was printed -a list of the contents. They included a pen holder, pens, a quire of -paper, a supply of envelopes, and several other articles. - -"This is the best package in the market for the money," said the dwarf. -"Observe how varied are the contents, and only a paltry twenty-five -cents for the whole." - -"Yes, it seems a good bargain," said Jed. - -"You are right there," said the dwarf confidently. "Why, you can make -money hand over hand. Our agents are actually coining it. We allow them -to retain ten cents on each package. Two or three, and sometimes five, -are sold to the same person. Would you like to have me read one or two -agents' letters?" - -"Yes, if you please." - -"Here is one from Theodore Jenkins, who is operating in Pennsylvania: - - - "'HUGO HIGGINS, ESQ. - - "'DEAR SIR: - - "'Please send me at once two hundred packages of stationery. They - sell like hot cakes. I got rid of forty yesterday, and it rained - half the day, too. I have held several agencies for different - articles, but none that paid as well as this. I shall be - disappointed if I don't make forty dollars per week. It looks as if - it might exceed that sum. - - "'Yours respectfully, - "'THEODORE JENKINS.' - - -"That letter speaks for itself," remarked the dwarf as he folded it up -and replaced it in an envelope. - -"Yes," said Jed, "it is certainly very encouraging." - -"I will read you another from a party who has been in our employ for -fourteen months. He is operating in Ohio. - - - "'DEAR SIR: - - "'You may send me three hundred packages by Adams Express, and - please don't delay, for I need them at once. I have been working - for you for fourteen months. During that time I have supported my - family and bought a house, on which I have paid cash down a - thousand dollars. In the course of the next year and a half I - expect to complete the payment and own the house clean. It was - certainly a lucky thing for me when I saw your advertisement for - agents and engaged in your service. - - "'Yours gratefully, - "'ARTHUR WATERS.' - - -"That is another letter that speaks for itself," observed Mr. Higgins. -"I have plenty more, but I don't think I need to read any others to -convince you that the business will pay any one that takes hold of it." - -"Perhaps," added Jed, "these gentlemen had experience as agents." - -"One of them had, but the other was quite green in the business." - -"You think then that I could succeed?" - -"Undoubtedly. You look smart and have a taking way with you. You can't -fail to succeed." - -This was pleasant to hear, and Jed felt strongly impelled to engage in -the service of the plausible Higgins. - -"If you will trust me with twenty packages," he said, "I will see what I -can do." - -"Certainly. That will be three dollars. You see we charge you fifteen -cents each, and you sell them for twenty-five. That gives you two -dollars. You had better take fifty packages, and then you won't have to -come back to-morrow." - -"Very well, I will take fifty." - -"All right. You may pay me seven dollars and a half, and I will get the -packages ready." - -"Do you require payment in advance?" asked Jed quickly. - -"Certainly. You are a stranger to me, and even if you were not, I -should not feel like risking so much money or money's worth. What is -there to hinder your making off with it and never coming back?" - -"I wouldn't be dishonest for a great deal more money than that." - -"I dare say you are right, but we must adhere to our business methods. -You will get your money back in two days probably." - -"But I haven't the money to pay in advance." - -"Oh, that alters the matter," said Higgins, become less gracious. "How -much have you?" - -"I am unable to pay anything," said Jed desperately. - -Mr. Hugo Higgins turned away, no longer interested in Jed. Poor Jed felt -sadly disappointed at losing so good a chance, but something happened to -mitigate his regret. - -A stout man with red hair opened the door of the office and dashed in, -carrying in his hands a large package. - -"I want my money back!" he said. "You are a big schwindler!" - - - - -CHAPTER XXVII. - -AN INTRACTABLE AGENT. - - -The new visitor was a large man, evidently a German, weighing not less -than two hundred pounds. He approached Hugo Higgins, towering above the -dwarf by at least fourteen inches, and shook his fist in his face. Mr. -Higgins shrank back as if fearful of a personal assault, and inquired in -uneasy tones: - -"Who are you, my friend?" - -"Who am I?" retorted the other, laughing gutturally. "You know me well -enough, you villain!" - -"I think I have seen you somewhere," said Hugo, not daring to show the -anger he felt at the hard name by which the other addressed him. - -"You have seen me somewhere? Come, that's good. My name is Otto Schmidt, -and I am one of your victims. You understand that, hey?" - -"No. I can't say I do." - -"Then I'll tell you. I came in here last week and bought some of your -confounded packages. I was to make big wages by selling them, hey?" - -"Certainly, I hope you did." - -"You hope I did?" repeated Mr. Otto Schmidt fiercely. "Well, I tell you. -I went round two days in Montclair, and how many packages you think I -sell, hey?" - -"About fifty," answered Hugo with a sickly smile. - -"About fifty? Ha, ha!" returned the German, laughing wildly. "I sell -just one to a young boy named Chester Noyes. That's all I sell." - -"My dear Mr. Schmidt, I am afraid you got discouraged too soon," said -Hugo suavely. - -"So I am your dear Mr. Schmidt, hey? You cost me dear enough with your -lies about the business, you scoundrel!" - -"I cannot allow you to talk to me in this way," said Hugo in a dignified -tone. - -"Oh, you won't, hey?" retorted the German, beginning to dance about the -floor. - -"Well, I won't. Maybe you prefer to have me step on your necktie, hey?" - -Hugo Higgins looked alarmed, and Jed could hardly help laughing. - -"Well, what do you want?" asked Hugo, afraid some applicant for an -agency might enter and be frightened away. - -"What do I want? I want my money back." - -"That is against our rules," said Hugo. "My good Mr. Schmidt, take the -packages and go to some other place. Other agents have told me that -Montclair is not a good town for business. Go to--to Rahway! I am sure -you will sell all your packages there." - -"No; I don't go to Rahway. I sell all my packages here." - -"But, my good friend----" - -"I am not your good friend. I am no friend to a rascal." - -"Really, this language----" - -"Never mind about the language! I ain't going to be schwindled by no -fakir. I've got forty-nine packages here, and I want you to pay me back -my money, seven dollars and thirty-five cents." - -"I can't think of such a thing." - -"Then I give you in charge for schwindling," said Otto Schmidt, -thrusting a fat fist directly under Hugo's nose. "I may be one Dutchman, -but I ain't so dumb as you think I am." - -"I don't think you dumb at all," said Hugo soothingly. "I think you are -a smart man of business." - -"You find me too schmart to be schwindled, I tell you that." - -"Still, if you don't want to go on with the business, I'll take back the -packages and give you five dollars for them." - -"And I to lose two dollars and thirty-five cents, besides all my time. -Not much, Mr. Hugo Higgins." - -"You can't expect me to give you back all the money." - -"Well, I do," said Mr. Schmidt stoutly. "I give you just two minutes to -make up your mind." - -Just then the door opened, and a young man who was evidently from the -country entered. - -"I seed your advertisement," he said. "I want to be an agent, if you -can give me a chance." - -Otto Schmidt smiled sardonically, and was about to speak, when Hugo said -hurriedly, "Come out into the hall, Mr. Schmidt, and I think we can -arrange your business satisfactorily." - -"All right! I come," and he followed Hugo out into the entry. - -"I will pay you your money," said the agent. "It is quite against my -rules, but I will make an exception in your case." - -"I want a dollar more to pay me for my time," said the German, -appreciating his advantage. - -"But, my dear sir, this is very unreasonable," said Mr. Higgins -uneasily. - -"Then I go back into the room and show you up." - -"Very well, here is your money!" and Hugo with great reluctance drew out -eight dollars and thirty-five cents and handed it to Mr. Schmidt. - -Otto Schmidt chuckled and nodded significantly at the discomfited Hugo. - -"I may be a Dutchman," he said, "but I ain't no chump." - -Hugo re-entered the office and smiled affably at the young man from the -country. - -"One of our successful agents," he said, nodding towards the door. "I -won't tell you how much that German gentleman has made by selling our -famous packages, for you might not believe me." - -"Can you give me a chance?" asked the young hayseed anxiously. - -"Well, I think I can," said Hugo with assumed hesitation, and then he -explained on what terms he sold, as he had done to Jed. - -"How many packages will you take?" he asked pleasantly. - -"I guess I'll take a dozen to begin with," said the young man from the -country. - -"A dozen!" replied Hugo, much disappointed. "My, that's no order at all. -You would have to come back for more before the day was out." - -"Well, I'll take fifteen," said the young man after reflection. - -"You'd better take fifty. Very few of our agents take less than fifty." - -"No, I ain't got much money. I'll only take fifteen to begin with." - -And to this determination he adhered, in spite of the persuasions of Mr. -Higgins. - -As Hugo wrapped up the packages and received back two dollars and -twenty-five cents, he regretted that he had so hastily agreed to buy -back Mr. Schmidt's boxes at an advance on the original cost. - -"Where would you advise me to sell?" asked the young man. - -"Country towns are best," said Hugo. "Some distance from the city, I -advise, as those who live near New York can come here and buy, and are -less ready to patronize agents." - -Jed smiled to himself. He understood that Mr. Higgins wished to guard -against a visit from the young man in case his business failed to meet -his anticipations. He lingered behind after the rural visitor had gone. - -"I hope," said Hugo, "you took no stock in what that stupid Dutchman -said." - -"Well," replied Jed, "it shows that some of your agents are not -successful." - -"A man like that could not succeed in selling anything," said Hugo -scornfully. "Now it is different with you. You look smart." - -Jed smiled. He began to understand Mr. Higgins and his methods. - -"Then you remember the letters from the agents which I read you." - -"Yes," answered Jed, but he felt convinced now that the letters were -bogus, and manufactured by Mr. Higgins himself. - -"When you can command the necessary funds I shall be glad to have you -call and buy a bundle of samples." - -"I don't think I shall care to enter into the business, Mr. Higgins," -said Jed. "It would be an experiment, and I am not in a position to try -experiments." - -Higgins looked at Jed, and saw that he was understood. - -"Very well!" he said coldly. "You must do as you like, but you are -making a mistake." - -Jed left the office and went down stairs. What had happened did not -encourage him. It seemed a good deal harder to make a living in a large -city than he supposed. - -He saw now that there were sharpers ready to fleece the young and -inexperienced. If he had not been robbed of his money, in all -probability he would have fallen a victim to the persuasive but -deceptive representations of Mr. Higgins, and have come back -disappointed like Mr. Otto Schmidt. - -He continued his walk down Nassau Street, and presently turned into -Broadway. His attention was attracted to a church with a very high spire -facing Wall Street. He inquired the name and found it was Trinity -Church. The Scranton meeting-house could easily have been tucked away in -one corner of the large edifice, and as far as height was concerned, it -was but an infant compared with a six-footer. - -He walked still further down Broadway, till he reached a green park, -which he found was called the Battery. Feeling somewhat fatigued, he sat -down on a bench near the sea-wall and looked over toward Governor's -Island. Craft of different sizes were passing, and Jed was interested -and exhilarated by the spectacle. - - - - -CHAPTER XXVIII. - -A STRANGE COMMISSION. - - -Jed's companion on the seat was a sallow-faced, black-bearded man. Jed -merely glanced at him, but presently became aware that he had become the -object of the sallow man's scrutiny. - -Finally the latter moved rather nearer Jed, and showed a disposition to -be sociable. - -"A fine day, young man," he began. - -"Yes, sir." - -"And a fine view we have before us," went on the stranger, pointing to -the harbor and the numerous craft that were passing in both directions. -"However, I suppose it is quite familiar to you?" - -"No, sir; I am a stranger in the city." - -"Indeed!" and here the stranger allowed his gaze to rest on the small -gripsack that Jed had placed on the seat beside him. "Perhaps you have -come in quest of work?" - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed. - -"Have you found anything yet?" - -"No, sir, but I have only been here since yesterday morning. Do you know -of any situation that I could fill?" - -"Well, no, no permanent position," answered the other deliberately. "I -might give you a chance to earn," here he hesitated, "two dollars this -evening. But perhaps that would not be worth your while." - -"Yes, sir, I should be glad to earn even that," said Jed eagerly. - -"Then perhaps I may employ you. Can you row a boat?" - -"Yes, sir. I think so. I have rowed on a pond up in Scranton." - -"Then you can probably row here. I would row part of the way myself." - -"When do you want me?" asked Jed. - -"Not till late this evening. I will explain when the time comes." - -Jed was disappointed. He had hoped to do the work at once, and receive -the money. Then he could buy himself some supper, for he was already -hungry. He found that his appetite was just as regular as if he were -earning a living income, instead of being impecunious and without work. - -"At what time shall I meet you, sir?" - -"At eleven o'clock, here." - -"Yes, sir," answered Jed, wondering what he was to do during the -intervening time. - -As he had no money, he must defer eating till then, and it occurred to -him that he would hardly feel able to row any considerable distance -unless refreshed by food. Could he venture to ask a part of the sum he -was to earn in advance? He decided to do so. - -"I am going to ask a favor," he said hurriedly. "I have been robbed of -all my money, and I have not enough to buy my supper. If you let me have -half a dollar on account----" - -He feared that this proposal would be distasteful to his companion, but -the sallow-faced man did not seem offended. - -"Perhaps," he said thoughtfully, "I had better keep you with me, and let -you eat supper with me." - -"Very well, sir," said Jed, feeling relieved. - -The other looked relieved. - -"It is half-past five," he said. "We may as well start now." - -He rose leisurely from his seat, and Jed followed him. He walked to the -head of the Battery, and keeping near the piers, led the way to a humble -tavern called "The Sailor's Rest." - -"This will do," he said. "It is not very fashionable, but they can give -us a comfortable meal." - -Certainly the interior presented a great contrast to the Astor House, -where Jed had lunched, or rather dined. The floor was sanded, the tables -were unprovided with tablecloths. There was a bar on one side of the -room, over which presided a stout bartender with mottled cheeks and a -dirty white apron. - -"Where is the restaurant?" asked Jed's companion. - -"In there," answered the bartender with a jerk of his finger in the -direction of a back room. - -With a nod the sallow-faced man beckoned Jed to follow him. Opening a -door, he led the way into a room provided with four tables only. On each -table was a small bell. - -Jed and his guide sat down, and the latter rang the bell. - -A dirty-faced man, with a beard of several days' growth, made his -appearance. - -"We want some supper." - -"What'll you have?" - -"What can we have?" - -"Beefsteak, ham and eggs." - -"What else?" - -"Eggs without." - -"Without what?" - -"Ham." - -The sallow man shrugged his shoulders. - -"It seems we must choose between beefsteak and ham and eggs," he said. -"What will you have?" - -"Ham and eggs," answered Jed. - -"All right. Ham and eggs for two." - -"Anything else?" - -"Two bottles of lager. You drink beer, don't you?" - -"No," answered Jed. - -"Then bring the boy some tea or coffee--whichever he prefers." - -"Tea," suggested Jed. - -"Bread and butter, of course, and fried potatoes, if you can get them -ready." - -While they were waiting the man leaned back in his chair and stared out -of the window at a dirty back yard, but his thoughts seemed to be -otherwise occupied. Jed's eyes wandered about the room, but found little -to attract him in the two or three prints--one of a yacht, another of a -merchant vessel--that adorned the walls. - -On the mantel was a soiled piece of coral and a large seashell. All -seemed to harmonize with the name of the inn. Jed, however, felt but a -fleeting interest in the furnishings of the place. His mind dwelt rather -on the promised supper. - -He could not understand how in this crisis of his fortunes, when there -was so much to discourage him, he should have such an appetite. Savory -odors from the neighboring kitchen found their way into the room when -the waiter opened the door and entered to set the table. - -Jed was glad to overlook the cheap and dark-hued crockery, the rusty -knives and forks and the chipped glasses, as the odor of the ham and -eggs was wafted to his nostrils. Finally the beer and tea were brought -in, and his companion signaled to him to fall to. - -"Where did you dine?" he asked abruptly. - -"At the Astor House." - -The sallow-faced man paused with his glass, which he had just filled, -half-way to his lips. - -"Was that before you were robbed of your money?" he asked. - -"No, sir, but I met a gentleman whom I knew at the seaside, and he -invited me to dine with him." - -"Oh, that explains it. This is a very different place from the Astor -House." - -"I should think so," said Jed smiling. - -"Still we can probably satisfy our hunger." - -"Oh, yes," responded Jed, and he made a vigorous onslaught on the -contents of his plate. - -In a few minutes supper was over, and Jed felt better. It is wonderful -how much more cheerful views we take of life and the world on a full -than on an empty stomach. - -Jed experienced this. He couldn't, to be sure, look very far ahead, but -he had had three meals that day in spite of an empty purse, and the -money he was to earn would insure him a bed and three meals for the -coming day, in all probability. - -"It is half-past six" said his companion, referring to his watch--"a -good while before I shall need your services. Do you feel tired?" - -"Yes, sir; I have been on my feet all day." - -"Wait a minute." - -He went out and returned in a moment. - -"I have engaged a room for you," he said. "You can occupy it now if you -like it, and after our expedition return to pass the balance of the -night. You can leave your valise there, as it will only be in your way -on the boat." - -"Thank you, sir." - -This solved one of Jed's problems in a pleasant manner. The waiter led -the way up stairs to a small room just large enough to hold a bed and -washstand, and said, "That'll do you, I guess." - -"Oh yes," responded Jed cheerfully. - -"The gentleman says you can lie down, and he'll call you when you're -wanted." - -Jed was glad of this permission, for he felt very much in need of rest. -He took off his coat and laid down on the bed. The couch he found not a -very luxurious one. It consisted of a thin--a very thin--mattress laid -upon wooden slats, and the pillow was meagre. - -But he soon fell asleep, and slept so soundly that it seemed as if only -five minutes had elapsed when some one shook him, and opening his eyes, -they rested on his sallow-faced employer. - -"Time to get up," said the latter abruptly. - -Jed sprang from the bed, and, his eyes only half open, said, "I am -ready." - -"Follow me, then." - -He followed his guide, who walked rapidly through the dark streets till -he reached a pier not far from the Battery. There was a boat moored -alongside, rising and falling with the tide. There was one man already -in it. - -"Come along!" said his guide briefly. - -Jed descended a ladder, and took his place in the boat. His companion -seized the oars, signing to Jed to take his seat in the bow. Then he -began to row, much better then Jed could have done. - -They struck out towards Governor's Island, passed it, and proceeded a -considerable distance beyond. Here lay a yacht. There was no light on -board, so far as Jed could see, and it looked to be quite deserted. - -The rower slackened his speed (he had not yet called upon Jed to row) -and said quickly: "I want you to board that yacht. Go down into the -cabin. There you will see a box, perhaps a foot square and ten inches -deep. Bring it to me." - -"But," said Jed, in bewilderment, "is--is it yours?" - -"No," answered the sallow-faced man composedly. "It belongs to a friend -of mine, the owner of the yacht. I promised to come out and get it for -him." - - - - -CHAPTER XXIX. - -A SURPRISE PARTY. - - -The words of the sallow-faced man dissipated any suspicions which Jed -may have entertained, and he clambered on board the yacht without much -difficulty, for he was active and agile. - -"Good!" said his employer. "Now go into the cabin, and be quick about -it." - -Jed did not understand why he should be quick about it. There was plenty -of time, he thought. - -Another thing puzzled him, now that he had had a chance to think the -matter over. Why was the visit postponed till near midnight? - -A city boy would not have had his suspicions so easily allayed; but Jed -was unused to city ways, and, it may be added, to city wickedness. - -The cabin seemed to be dark. He felt his way down stairs, and struck a -match which he had in his pocket in order to see better the location of -the box. He had just picked up the latter, finding it to be heavy, when -he felt a hand laid on his arm, and looking up, met the stern gaze of a -young man about twenty-eight years of age. - -"What are you about here, young fellow?" he asked abruptly. - -Jed was a little startled, but, not being aware that he was doing -anything wrong, he replied composedly, "I was taking this box, sir." - -"I see you were; but what business have you to take the box?" - -"I was sent for it." - -"Sent for it?" repeated the young man, looking puzzled. "Who sent you -for it?" - -"The gentleman in the boat outside." - -"Oh ho! So there is a gentleman in the boat outside?" - -"Certainly, sir. Isn't it--all right?" - -"Well, I should say not, unless you consider theft right." - -"What!" exclaimed Jed aghast. "Is the man who employed me a thief?" - -"It looks very much like it." - -At this moment the sallow-faced man called in an impatient tone, "What -are you about there, you lazy young rascal? Don't be all night!" - -"Is there more than one man in the boat?" asked the young man in the -cabin. - -"Yes, sir; there are two." - -"The harbor police ought to be somewhere about. I'll rouse them if I -can." - -The young man went to the port-hole which served to light the cabin and -fired a pistol. - -"Confusion! There's some one on the yacht!" exclaimed the sallow-faced -man. "We must get off." - -Dipping his oars in the water, he rowed quickly away, leaving Jed to his -fate. But the shot had been heard on another boat not fifty rods -distant, and the piratical craft was pursued and eventually overhauled. -Meanwhile Jed remained on board the yacht, whether as a prisoner or not -he did not know. - -"Your companions have taken alarm," said the young man. "I hear them -rowing away. They have deserted you." - -"I am glad of it," said Jed. "I don't want anything more to do with -them. Will you tell me if that box contains anything valuable?" - -"Probably the contents are worth five thousand dollars." - -"Is it possible!" ejaculated Jed in amazement. - -"You see you have lost quite a prize," said the young man, eyeing him -closely. - -"Don't say that I have lost a prize," returned Jed half indignantly. "I -supposed the man who sent me for it was honest." - -"What did he tell you?" - -"He said that the box belonged to a friend, who had employed him to get -it." - -"All a lie! I am the owner of the box, and the yacht also, and I have no -acquaintance with your principal. If I had not been here he would have -got a rich prize." - -"I am glad you were here," said Jed earnestly. - -"I don't understand your connection with such a man. How much were you -to be paid for your services?" - -"Two dollars," answered Jed. - -"Didn't it strike you as singular that you should have been employed on -such an errand?" - -"Well, a little; but I am a stranger to the city, and I thought it might -be because I was inexperienced." - -"Do you mind telling me how long you have known the person who employed -you?" - -"I met him for the first time at five o'clock this afternoon on the -Battery. He asked me if I wanted a job, and that is how I came to be -engaged." - -"That sounds plausible and I am inclined to believe you." - -At this moment they were interrupted. There was a sound of oars, and -leaving the cabin, Jed and his companion saw the boat of the harbor -police under the side. It had in tow the boat in which Jed had come from -shore. - -"Was there any attempt to rob the yacht?" asked the captain of police. - -"Yes, sir," answered the owner. - -"Have you one of the thieves aboard?" - -"No, sir." - -"That's not true!" said the sallow-faced man, now a prisoner. "That boy -came with us," and he pointed to Jed. - -"Is that true?" asked the police captain. - -"This boy was sent on board by the thieves, but he was quite ignorant of -the character of his employer. He is a country boy, and was an innocent -agent of the guilty parties." - -"You are convinced then of his innocence?" - -"Entirely so." - -"We shall need his evidence against these men. Will you guarantee that -it shall be forthcoming?" - -"Yes, captain. I will give my name and his, and will call at your office -to-morrow morning." - -"That will answer." - -The young man took out one of his cards, bearing the name of Schuyler -Roper, and wrote Jed's name, which he had ascertained, underneath. - -"You will be responsible for the boy's appearance, Mr. Roper?" said the -officer respectfully, reading the name by the light of a lantern. - -"Yes; he will stay with me." - -This seemed satisfactory, and the boat rowed away. - -"I am very much obliged to you for believing in my innocence, Mr. -Roper," said Jed earnestly. - -"You have an innocent face," responded the young man kindly. "I am sure -you are a good boy." - -"I hope you won't see any reason to doubt it. I am afraid I am putting -you to trouble," continued Jed, realizing that he could not leave the -yacht, and was thrown on the hospitality of the owner. - -"Not at all. I can accommodate you easily. You must be tired, if you -have been about the city all day." - -Jed admitted that he was. In fact he felt very tired, and found it hard -work to keep his eyes open. - -"I have sleeping accommodations for six persons on board my yacht, so -that I can easily provide for you. So far from giving me trouble I -shall be glad of your company, though I don't expect any more visitors -to-night." - -Mr. Roper pointed out a comfortable bunk, and Jed lost no time in taking -possession of it. He sank into a deep sleep, which was only broken by a -gentle shake from his young host. As he opened his eyes, and they met -the unusual surroundings, he was at first bewildered. - -"Don't you know where you are?" asked Schuyler Roper, smiling. "Don't -you remember boarding my yacht with felonious intent last night?" - -"Yes," answered Jed with an answering smile. "I remember that I was -taken prisoner." - -"Then you are subject to my orders. When I am on a cruise we have meals -aboard the yacht, but I am not keeping house now. If you will assist me, -we'll direct our course to land and find breakfast somewhere." - -Jed did not know much about a yacht, but he liked the water and proved -very quick in comprehension, so that in a comparatively short time they -had reached the Battery. Here Mr. Roper found two men whom he had -engaged to help man the yacht, and leaving the Juno in their charge he -walked up Broadway with Jed. - -"We will take breakfast at the Astor House," he said. - -"I dined there yesterday," replied Jed. - -"You did!" exclaimed the other in a tone of surprise. "Yet you tell me -you are penniless?" - -"Yes, sir, but I fell in with a gentleman whom I knew at Sea Spray, a -Mr. Foster." - -"Not Howell Foster?" - -"Yes." - -"I know him very well. If he is a friend of yours, I shall feel that I -am justified in reposing confidence in you." - -Just then Mr. Foster entered the room. - -"Good morning, Jed," he said in a friendly tone. "So you like the Astor -well enough to come back?" - -"I am here by invitation of Mr. Roper." - -Mr. Foster, who was shortsighted, now for the first time observed Jed's -companion. - -"So you know Roper, too?" he said. "Why, he's one of my closest -friends. When did you pick him up, Schuyler?" - -"I caught him boarding my yacht on a marauding expedition last night," -said Roper, smiling. - -"Bless my soul! What do you mean?" - -"Sit down and take breakfast with us, and I will explain." - -"And what are you going to do with this desperate young man?" asked the -broker at the end of the story. - -"I shall invite him to accompany me to Bar Harbor on my yacht. But first -we must call on the harbor police, as our testimony will be needed to -convict the rascals who came near robbing me of five thousand dollars' -worth of valuables." - - - - -CHAPTER XXX. - -JED ENTERTAINS AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE. - - -Though the trial of the harbor thieves was expedited, it was a week -before Jed and Mr. Roper were able to leave New York. Jed's testimony -settled the matter, and the two thieves were sentenced to terms of five -years' imprisonment. - -"I'll get even with you yet, young fellow!" muttered the sallow-faced -man, eyeing Jed with deep malignity as he left the witness-box. - -"Where is your trunk?" asked Mr. Roper after their first visit to the -office of the harbor police. - -"I never owned one, Mr. Roper." - -"Your valise, then." - -"It is at a small hotel near the Battery." - -"Get it and bring it on board the yacht." - -Jed did so, and Mr. Roper asked to see it. - -"You are poorly equipped, Jed," he said. "That reminds me that if I am -going to monopolize your services I must pay you some salary. How will -fifty dollars a month answer?" - -"But, Mr. Roper, I can't earn as much as that." - -"Perhaps not, but if I am willing to pay it, you can set your mind at -rest. I will see that you are better provided with clothing, -undergarments, et cetera. Here, give me a piece of paper." - -Mr. Roper drew up a list of articles which he thought Jed might need--a -very liberal list, by the way--and sent him with a note to his own -tradesmen, with directions to supply him with such articles as he might -select. He also gave him an order on his own tailor for a suit of -clothes. - -"But, Mr. Roper, it will take me a long time to pay for all these out of -my wages," protested Jed. - -Schuyler Roper laughed. - -"My dear boy," he said, "I haven't the least idea of making you pay for -them. Just look upon me as your older brother, who is able and willing -to provide for you." - -"I am deeply grateful to you, Mr. Roper," responded Jed earnestly. "I -certainly stumbled into luck when I boarded your yacht." - -"I don't know how it is," said Roper, as he eyed Jed thoughtfully, "you -didn't seem a stranger to me even when I first saw you. It seemed -natural for me to look after you. I am an only son, and you never knew -what it was to have a brother. I begin to think that I have lost a great -deal in being so much alone." - -"You may be deceived in me, Mr. Roper. You know very little of me, and -that is not at all to my advantage." - -"Well, I admit that, Jed. Considering that I caught you in the act of -robbing me, I may be said to have known you at your worst." - -"You know nothing of my past life." - -"You shall tell me all about it after a while, when we are not so busy." - -Meanwhile Jed became familiar with his duties on board the yacht, and -during the absence of Mr. Roper was regarded by the men as his -representative. - -No one could have treated him with more generous confidence than his -new friend. Jed was intrusted at times with considerable sums for -disbursements, and was proud of the confidence reposed in him. Of Mr. -Roper, except that he appeared to be a rich young man, he knew next to -nothing, till one day he fell in with his watering-place friend, Howell -Foster. - -"You are still with Schuyler?" he asked. - -"Oh yes, sir. I am going with him to Bar Harbor." - -"And then?" - -"I believe he means to keep me with him." - -"You are in luck. Schuyler is a generous, open-hearted young man, -liberal to a fault, and ready to do anything for one he takes to. I -suppose you know that he is rich?" - -"I thought he must be." - -"His father died two years since, leaving him half a million of dollars. -He spends freely, but does not squander his money. He is paying for the -college education of a poor boy in whom he feels an interest--the son of -an old bookkeeper of his father's--as I happen to know. He is a favorite -in society, but has never shown an inclination to marry." - -"Is his mother living?" asked Jed. - -"No; she died before his father. He is very much alone in the world." - -"That is why he is so generous to me, I think." - -"Perhaps so, but it is his nature to be kind. By the way, Jed, when my -family comes back from Sea Spray I would like to have you call upon us. -We live on Madison Avenue." - -"Thank you, Mr. Foster. If I am in New York I shall be glad to do so." - -"I begin to think I am getting into society," thought Jed. "It is not -over three months since I left the Scranton poorhouse, and here I am -adopted by one rich man and welcomed at the house of another." - -It was natural that Jed should feel elated by his good luck. But he was -not allowed to forget his early adversity, for on the fourth day after -entering the service of Mr. Roper he met on Broadway, just above -Chambers Street, his old enemy, Percy Dixon. - -Percy was the first to recognize him. - -"Oh it's you, is it?" he said in considerable surprise. - -Jed smiled. He felt that he could afford to disregard Percy's -impertinence. - -"My dear friend Percy," he said. "How well you remember me!" - -"Yes, I remember you, and so does Mr. Fogson of the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Remember me to the kind old man!" said Jed comically. - -"How soon are you going back?" - -"Not very soon. Of course it would be pleasant to me to be able to see -you every day, Percy, but----" - -"You needn't flatter yourself that I would take any notice of you. What -are you doing for a living?" - -"I am going yachting in a few days." - -"What! Oh, I understand. You have hired out as a sailor." - -"Well no, not exactly." - -"What yacht are you working on?" - -"Perhaps you would like to visit it?" - -"Yes, I would," said Percy, feeling puzzled and curious. - -"Come to the Battery with me, then. We'd better board the next car." - -Percy followed Jed into a Broadway car, and Jed, to his surprise, paid -the fare. - -"_I_ was going to pay the fare," said Percy. - -"Oh never mind!" returned Jed carelessly. - -"I don't want to put you to expense." - -"Oh! it's not worth minding." - -Arrived at the Battery, Jed called a boatman and said, "Row me out to -the Juno, beyond Governor's Island." - -Jed leaned back in the boat, and Percy stared at him in wonder. When -they reached the yacht one of the men produced a ladder, and Jed led the -way on board. - -"Any orders, Mr. Gilman?" asked the sailor respectfully. - -"No, Kimball; I haven't seen Mr. Roper since morning, and don't know if -he wants anything done." - -"Do you think you can spare me to go on shore for a couple of hours?" - -"Yes, you may go." - -Jed went to the side and said to the boatman, "You may take this man on -shore, and come back in an hour and a half for my friend and myself. - -"Now, Percy, allow me to offer you a little refreshment." - -Jed went to the pantry and brought out some cold meat, bread and butter, -and two bottles of ginger ale, with the necessary dishes. - -"I can't offer you anything very tempting," he said, "but the boat ride -may have given you an appetite for plain fare." - -Percy could hardly conceal his surprise. He stared at Jed as if -fascinated. - -"Won't you get into trouble by making so free with your master's -things?" - -"Who told you I had a master?" - -"Who owns this yacht?" - -"Mr. Schuyler Roper." - -"He must be rich." - -"I hear that he is worth half a million dollars," said Jed in an -off-hand manner. - -"And how did you get in with him?" asked Percy rather enviously. - -"It was an accident," answered Jed, by no means disposed to tell Percy -the particulars of his first meeting with Mr. Roper. - -"Suppose he should come now, what would he say to your making so free?" - -"That he was glad to have me entertain my friends." - -"You seem to be pretty sure of your footing with him." - -"I have reason to be. He tells me to look upon him as an older brother." - -"He may find you out some time," suggested Percy with disagreeable -significance. - -"What do you mean?" - -"He may find out that his _younger brother_ was raised in a poorhouse." - -"I have no doubt he will learn it if he gets acquainted with you." - -"What do you mean?" asked Percy coloring. - -"That you would probably tell him. By the way, has Mr. Holbrook got home -from Chicago yet?" - -"I believe not. Do you expect he will take you back?" - -"No; I prefer my present position. I shall probably sail for Bar Harbor -with Mr. Roper on Saturday." - -"It's strange how you've got on since you left the poorhouse," said -Percy uncomfortably. - -"Yes; I think even you will agree that I did well to leave it." - -"Your luck may turn," added Percy hopefully. - -"Perhaps it will, but I hope not." - -Presently the boatman came back, and Jed sent Percy back to the city, -paying the boatman in advance. - -"It beats all how that pauper gets along!" reflected Percy, but from his -expression the reflection gave him no pleasure. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXI. - -JED RETURNS GOOD FOR EVIL. - - -In the short time before the Juno left for Bar Harbor, Schuyler Roper -became quite intimate with Jed. There was never a trace of condescension -in his manner to his boy friend, but Jed was always treated as if in -birth and position he was the equal of the young patrician. Together -they walked about the city, and frequently dined together, always at -some expensive hotel or restaurant. - -"What time is it, Jed?" asked Mr. Roper one day as they were passing the -Star Theatre. - -"I am afraid I left my watch at home," answered Jed, smiling. - -"Then we shall have to supply its place." - -Schuyler Roper turned the corner of Fourteenth Street, and led the way -to Tiffany's well-known establishment on the corner of Fifteenth Street -and Union Square. - -"Let us see some gold watches," he said to a salesman. - -A tray of handsome timepieces was produced. - -"How expensive a watch would you like, sir? Is it for yourself?" - -"No, for this young gentleman. Look over these watches, Jed, and see -what one you like best." - -Jed made choice of a very neat gold watch with a handsome dial. - -"What is the price?" asked Mr. Roper. - -"A hundred and twenty-five dollars." - -Jed opened his eyes wide in astonishment. A hundred and twenty-five -dollars seemed to him a very large sum, and so unaccustomed was he to -expensive jewelry that he had not known that there were any watches so -costly. - -"Very well; we will take it. Show me some gold chains." - -Choice was made of a fifty-dollar gold chain. It was attached to the -watch, and Mr. Roper, handing it to Jed, said, "Put it in your pocket." - -"Do you really mean the watch and chain for me?" asked Jed, almost -incredulous. - -"Certainly." - -"How can I thank you, Mr. Roper?" said Jed gratefully. - -"My dear boy," rejoined Roper kindly, "I want your appearance to do me -credit. That _you_ will do me credit I feel confident." - -It was about this time that Jed met an old acquaintance--one whom he had -no reason to remember with kindly feelings. He had occasion to go across -Cortlandt Street ferry, when on board the boat he saw in front of him a -figure that seemed familiar. He walked forward till he could see the -face of the young man to whom it belonged. Then it flashed upon him that -it was Maurice Graham, the young man who had invited him to his room on -Twenty-Seventh Street and robbed him of his small stock of money. - -Now that the tide had turned, Jed did not feel so incensed against the -fellow as at first. Still he determined to let him understand that he -knew exactly how he had been swindled. - -He touched Graham on the shoulder, and the young man wheeled round with -an apprehensive look, which he did not lose when he saw and recognized -Jed. - -"Did you touch me?" he asked, with an evident intention of ignoring -Jed's acquaintance. - -"Yes, Mr. Graham. We parted rather suddenly, you remember," said Jed -significantly. - -"Oh, I see. You are----" - -"Jed Gilman." - -"I was wondering what became of you. I was called up town to the house -of a sick friend that evening, and when I went back the next day Mrs. -Gately told me you had gone away." - -"Indeed! Did she tell you that I was robbed of thirty-five dollars -during the night, and that I awoke penniless?" - -"No," answered Graham faintly. "I am surprised." - -"I thought you might be. Are you in the habit of borrowing money from -people who are asleep?" - -"What do you mean? You don't think I took the money?" - -"Yes, I think you did." - -"Why, didn't I tell you that I spent the night with a sick friend -in--in Eighty-Seventh Street. How could I rob you?" - -"You came back during the evening and found me asleep." - -"That's a mistake!" said Graham quickly. - -"It is true. Mrs. Gately let you in, as she informed me the next -morning." - -Maurice Graham looked very much disconcerted, and looked eagerly to the -Jersey shore, which they were fast approaching. - -"Do you know that I would have had no breakfast if Mrs. Gately had not -taken compassion on me?" - -"You don't look--very destitute--now." - -"I am not. I have been lucky enough to find a good position. But that -thirty-five dollars belonged to me. How much of it can you return to -me?" - -Maurice Graham colored and looked embarrassed. - -"I--the fact is," he stammered, "I'm almost broke." - -"Is this true?" - -"On my honor I've only got a dollar and ten cents in my pocket, and I -don't know what will become of me when that is gone." - -"You have got rid of it very quick." - -"I've been a fool," said Graham gloomily. "I spent it mostly on pool and -drinks. Then of course I've had to live." - -"But your situation----" - -"I haven't any." - -"Perhaps you will meet another boy from the country." - -"I treated you awful mean--I know I did," burst out Graham, "and I've -been very sorry for it. I've often wished that I had left you five -dollars." - -"Well, that would have helped me. But don't you think it would have been -better to have left me the whole?" - -"Yes, it would; but I am very unlucky." - -"I am afraid you don't deserve good luck. Isn't there anything you can -do?" - -"Yes." - -"Can't you find another broker to take you in his office?" - -"I never was in a broker's office," confessed Graham. - -"What was your business, then? I suppose you had some way of making a -living?" - -"I am a barber by trade, but I got tired of the confinement, and so I -thought I'd become a sport. I started out with a hundred dollars which -it took me a year to save up, and I got rid of it in two weeks. Then I -fell in with you." - -"And with my thirty-five dollars." - -"Yes." - -"The best thing you can do is to go back to your business." - -"I would if I could." - -"Why can't you?" - -"Because my razors are in hock." - -It is the custom of journeymen barbers to supply their own razors and a -pair of shears for hair-cutting. - -"I suppose that means in pawn?" - -"Yes." - -"When can you get a place if you get your razors back?" - -"I can go to work to-morrow." - -"What sum will get them out?" - -"Four dollars and a half." - -"Where are they?" - -"In a pawnshop on the Bowery." - -"Come with me and I will get them out for you if you will promise to go -to work." - -"I will," answered Graham earnestly. "I'll give you my word I will." - -"Come back on the next boat, then, and I will go with you to the -pawnshop." - -"It will take up your time. You don't mean to give me in charge when we -reach New York?" said Graham apprehensively. - -"No; I am willing to give you a fresh chance. I hope you will improve -it." - -Jed took out his watch to note the time. - -"Is that watch yours? It's a beauty," said Graham. - -"Yes; it came from Tiffany's." - -"Did you have it when I met you?" - -"No; if I had, that would have gone the same way as the money." - -"You must be awfully lucky!" - -"I suppose I have been. At any rate I have been honest." - -"Honesty seems to pay. I must try it." - -"I advise you to," said Jed, smiling. - -When Jed parted from Graham it occurred to him that he would call on -Mrs. Gately. She had provided him with a breakfast when he needed one, -and seemed kindly disposed towards him. - -When he rang the bell of the small house on Twenty-Seventh Street, Mrs. -Gately herself came to the door. - -"Did you wish to see me, sir?" - -"You don't remember me, Mrs. Gately?" - -The old lady peered through her glasses. - -"Why bless me!" she said, "if it isn't the young man from the country. -But you're dressed so fine I hardly knew you. I hope you're prosperin'." - -"Yes, thank you, Mrs. Gately. I have been quite lucky, but I was pretty -low in spirits as well as in pockets when I left you." - -"Why, you're lookin' fine. Won't you stay for supper? Luella Dickinson -will be home soon--she that tends at Macy's. I've often spoken to her -about you. Luella's very romantic." - -"I am not, Mrs. Gately, and I'm afraid I can't stop. I must be on board -my yacht in an hour." - -"Your yacht! Bless me, you don't mean to say you've got a yacht?" - -"Well, it belongs to a friend, but we enjoy it together." - -"Have you seen the bad young man who robbed you?" - -"Yes; I saw him this afternoon." - -"You don't say! Did you have him arrested?" - -"No; I helped him get some things out of pawn." - -"That's a real Christian act, but I don't think I'd have done it. You -deserve to prosper. I wish you could stay and meet Luella." - -"Some other time, Mrs. Gately." - -At supper the landlady told Miss Dickinson of Jed's call. Luella -expressed great regret that she had not seen him. - -"I should fall in love with Mr. Gilman, I know I would," she said. "Why -didn't you ask him to call at Macy's?" - -"I will when I see him again." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXII. - -AT BAR HARBOR. - - -About eleven o'clock one forenoon the yacht Juno came to anchor in the -harbor of Mount Desert. - -Jed gazed admiringly at the rugged shores, the picturesque village, the -background of hills, the smaller islands surrounding the main island, -like the satellites of a larger planet. - -"It is beautiful!" he said. "I never dreamed of such a place." - -"Yes," said Roper, "it is by far the most attractive island on the -American coast. I think we shall find it pleasant to stay here for a -time." - -"I shall enjoy it at any rate," said Jed. "Where shall we stay?" - -"I generally go to the Newport. It is one of the smaller hotels, but its -location is excellent, being very near the water. Besides, I am -expecting my aunt, Mrs. Frost, to arrive in a few days. She always goes -to the Newport, and has the same room every year. There is the hotel -yonder." - -Mr. Roper pointed out a pleasant but unpretentious hostelry on the left -of the pier. - -"The large house farther up the hill is Rodick's," he said. "Rodick is -an old name at Mount Desert, and the island just across from the wharf, -separated by a bar, was once called Rodick's island." - -The yacht was anchored, and Jed and Mr. Roper were rowed to shore. They -secured rooms at the Newport, and walked up the hill. - -As they passed the post-office Schuyler Roper said, "I will see if there -are any letters awaiting me. There may be one from my aunt." - -Jed waited at the door. Mr. Roper came out, holding a letter which he -regarded with some curiosity. - -"Here is a letter in an unknown hand, post-marked Scranton," he said. "I -don't know any person living there." - -"I do," said Jed. "It was my old home." - -"Then why should it be addressed to me? It ought to have been sent to -you." - -"Will you let me see the handwriting?" asked Jed. - -His heart beat a little rapidly, for he recognized the hand as that of -Percy Dixon. - -"I know who it is from," he said. - -"Is it from a friend of yours?" - -"No, an enemy." - -"I don't understand." - -"You will understand when you come to read it, Mr. Roper. It is from a -boy whom I entertained on the yacht three days before we sailed for Bar -Harbor. He has probably written you in the hope of injuring me." - -"Does he know anything to your disadvantage then?" - -"Not to the disadvantage of my character. But please read the letter, -Mr. Roper, and then you will understand." - -Schuyler Roper's curiosity was aroused, and he cut open the envelope. -The letter, which was written in a schoolboy hand, read thus: - - - DEAR SIR: - - Though I am a stranger to you, I will take the liberty to write and - let you know something of the boy who is travelling with you. He is - not fit to associate with a gentleman like yourself, for he was - brought up in the poorhouse in this place, and lived here till four - months ago, when he ran away, and has been living since by hook or - by crook. He has a great deal of cheek, and that is what has helped - him to push himself in among people who are far above him. - - Perhaps you may like to know who I am. My father, Squire Dixon, is - a prominent man in Scranton, and is Overseer of the Poor, which - makes him a sort of guardian of Jed Gilman. He could force him to - go back to his old home, but the boy gave so much trouble, being - naturally headstrong and rebellious, that he thinks it best to let - him follow his own course. Probably Jed will some time apply to be - taken back to his old home, as he is likely to be found out to be - an impostor sooner or later. - - I have taken the trouble to write you because my father thinks it - very proper that you should know the character of the boy whom you - have taken into your employ. When I was in New York lately he - invited me to go on board of your yacht in order to show off. He - made as free as if the yacht were his own, treating me to a lunch, - and ordering the men around as if he owned the yacht. I couldn't - help being amused, remembering that he was nothing but a pauper a - few months since. - - Excuse me for taking up so much of your valuable time. I have no - ill-will against Jed, but I should think better of him if he would - keep his place, and not try to intrude into fashionable society. - - Yours respectfully, - PERCY DIXON. - - -Jed noticed the face of Mr. Roper rather anxiously when he was reading -this letter. - -"Will it prejudice him against me?" he asked himself. - -He felt that in that case he should indeed be depressed, for he had come -to have a sincere attachment for his patron. He was reassured by the -smile that lighted up the young man's countenance as he finished reading -the letter. - -"This letter appears to have been written by a great friend of yours, -Jed," he said. "He is a great friend of mine, too, for he seems afraid -that I shall be injured by associating with you, and so puts me on my -guard." - -"I thought as much," said Jed. "I suppose he tells you that I was -brought up in the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Yes; is this true?" - -"Yes," answered Jed soberly. - -"But how did it happen? Did your parents lose their property?" - -"I know nothing of them, Mr. Roper. I was only two years of age when I -was placed in the poorhouse. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge. They -were kind people and took good care of me." - -"Did they never tell you the circumstances of your being placed in the -institution?" - -"No; but Mrs. Avery always promised that she would tell me all she knew -on my sixteenth birthday." - -"Are you not sixteen yet?" - -"Yes; but when I reached that age Mr. and Mrs. Fogson were in charge of -the poorhouse. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were removed by the father of this -Percy Dixon who has written to you." - -"What sort of people are they?" - -"Mean, selfish and unkind to the poor people who are unfortunate enough -to be under their charge. Mr. Fogson tried to tyrannize over me, and I -rebelled." - -"I can't blame you," said Roper. - -"Finally I ran away, as Percy writes. It was high time I did, for I felt -able to earn my own living, and was ashamed to be supported by the town, -though I am sure I did work enough to pay for the miserable board I got -at the poorhouse. - -"When Mr. and Mrs. Avery were in charge I did not feel my position. It -seemed to me as if I were living with kind friends. When they went away -I realized that I was a pauper. Indeed, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson reminded me -of it half a dozen times a day." - -"So you ran away? What did you do first?" - -"Perhaps you will laugh, Mr. Roper, but I became an actor." - -Schuyler Roper looked amazed. - -"But how on earth did you get a chance to go on the stage?" he asked. - -"Through an actor whose acquaintance I made. He was playing in 'The Gold -King.' The young actor who took the boy's part was taken suddenly sick, -and they tried me. The manager seemed satisfied, and I played in it till -the end of the season." - -"There must be something in you, Jed, or you could not have met the -requirements of such a position. Well, and what next?" - -"I went to Sea Spray and was given the charge of a young boy, boarding -at the Spray Hotel, by his father. I lost the place through the same -Percy Dixon who wrote to you." - -"How was that?" - -"He informed the boy's aunt, in the absence of his father at Chicago, -that I was only a pauper, and Miss Maria Holbrook discharged me at -once." - -"Do you think Mr. Holbrook would have discharged you?" - -"I don't think so, for the boy was very fond of me." - -"So am I, Jed," said Mr. Roper affectionately, "and I shall not allow -young Dixon to separate us." - -"Thank you, Mr. Roper," replied Jed gratefully. - -"As to your history, you ought to know more of it. When we leave Bar -Harbor I will let you go back to Scranton and obtain from the Averys all -the information you can. You may get a clew that may lead to a -discovery of your parentage." - -"I hope so," answered Jed. "I don't like to feel that I have no -relations." - -"Meanwhile you may take this letter of your friend Percy's and answer it -as you see fit." - -A few days later Percy Dixon received the following letter: - - - MY DEAR AND CONSIDERATE FRIEND PERCY: - - Mr. Roper has asked me to answer your kind letter. He appreciates - your interest in him, but he doesn't seem to think that my company - will injure him as much as you imagine. He thinks I shall enjoy - myself better with him than in the company of Mr. and Mrs. Fogson, - and therefore won't send me away. We are staying at the Newport - House, and enjoying ourselves very much. If you come down this way - call on us, and I will give you a good dinner. Tell Mr. and Mrs. - Fogson not to worry about me, as I am well and happy. - - Yours truly, - JED GILMAN. - - -"I never saw such cheek!" said Percy in mortified anger as he tore Jed's -letter to pieces. "It is strange how that young pauper prospers. But it -won't always last!" and this reflection afforded him some satisfaction. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIII. - -THE POORHOUSE RECEIVES TWO VISITORS. - - -Let us change the scene to the Scranton poorhouse. Mr. Fogson has just -come in from splitting wood. It was a task to which he was very much -averse, but he had not been able to find any one to fill Jed's place. - -"Drat that boy!" he said, as he sank into a chair. - -"What boy?" - -"Jed Gilman. He ought to be here at work instead of roaming round doing -no good to himself or anybody else." - -"Perhaps he would be glad to come back. I dare say he has seen the time -when he didn't know where his next meal was coming from," rejoined Mrs. -Fogson hopefully. - -"I hope so." - -"I don't know as I want him back," went on the woman. - -"I do! He's good for splitting wood, if he ain't good for anything -else." - -At this moment a knock was heard at the door, and Percy Dixon entered -the house. - -"How do you do, Master Percy?" said Mrs. Fogson deferentially. "I am -always glad to see you enter our humble house." - -"We were just talking of Jed Gilman before you came in," added Fogson. - -"I saw him two days since," said Percy. - -"You did!" exclaimed Fogson eagerly. "Where was he?" - -"In the streets of New York. You know I went to the city Tuesday." - -"What was he doing--blacking boots for a living?" - -"Not much! I wish he was. That boy is about the luckiest chap I ever set -eyes on." - -"What did he do?" asked Mrs. Fogson curiously. - -"Invited me to go on board his yacht." - -"What!" - -"That's just what he did." - -"He was bluffing. He wanted to deceive you." - -"No he didn't, for I accepted his invitation and went on board." - -"You don't say! Jed Gilman got a yacht!" exclaimed Fogson, his eyes -almost protruding from their sockets. - -"Well, I don't say it's his, but he acts as if it were. He hired a boat -to take me out to the Juno--that's the name of the yacht, and it's a -regular beauty--and took me on board and treated me to some lunch. He -ordered the men about just as if he were a gentleman." - -"Well, of all things!" exclaimed Mrs. Fogson, looking surprised and -scandalized. "Did he explain how he came to have anything to do with the -boat?" - -"Yes; he said the owner had taken a fancy to him and was taking care of -him." - -"Did he say who the owner was?" - -"Yes; it's Schuyler Roper, a rich young man living in New York." - -"Well, what next?" - -"I stayed on board an hour or more, and then went back to the city." - -"It seems strange how that boy gets along. Mr. Roper will find him out -sooner or later." - -"I should say he would. I've written him a letter, and I brought it -along, thinking you might like to hear it read." - -So Percy read the letter already laid before the reader in the last -chapter. - -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson nodded delighted approval as Percy read his exposure -of Jed's humble past. - -"I do say that's about the best-written letter I ever heard," said Mrs. -Fogson, as Percy concluded. - -"Do you think so?" asked Percy with a gratified smile. - -"Think so! I am sure of it. Master Percy, I had no idea you had so much -talent. Did it take you long to write it?" - -"Oh no, I just dashed it off in a few minutes," answered Percy -carelessly. - -"You ought to be a lawyer; you do express things so neat. Don't you -think so, Simeon?" - -"Yes, Mrs. Fogson. I always thought Percy a smart boy. But where are you -going to send the letter?" - -"To Bar Harbor. Jed said that they were going there in a day or two. I -thought Mr. Roper ought to know what a low fellow he has with him." - -"Of course he ought. You've only done your duty in informing him against -Jed. When are you going to mail the letter?" - -"To-night. It'll go off the first thing to-morrow morning." - -"I'm very much obliged to you for letting us hear the letter, Master -Percy. I expect it'll cook Jed's goose." - -"Probably Mr. Roper will send him off as soon as he reads it. I'd just -like to be there when it is read." - -Percy left the poorhouse and went on his way to the post-office. He -sealed the letter, first reading it over again to himself complacently, -and inclined to agree with the Fogsons that it was a decidedly clever -piece of composition. - -He had hardly walked a hundred yards when he met a quiet-looking man of -medium height dressed in a gray suit. - -"Young man," said the stranger, "am I on my way to the poorhouse?" - -"Well, sir," replied Percy jocosely, "that depends on your habits." - -The other smiled. - -"I see you are a young man of original humor. Is the building used as a -poorhouse near by?" - -"Yes, sir, that is it," said Percy, pointing to the forlorn-looking -dwelling he had just left. - -"Thank you, sir," said the stranger, and resumed his walk. - -"I wonder what he wants," speculated Percy. "Perhaps he is a relation of -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. I wish I had asked him." - -The quiet-looking man was soon at the outer door of the poorhouse, and -knocked, for there was no bell. - -Mrs. Fogson answered the knock, and surveyed the stranger with some -curiosity. - -"I believe this is the Scranton poorhouse." - -"Yes, sir." - -"And you, perhaps, are in charge." - -"Yes, sir. Did you wish to see any of the paupers?" asked Mrs. Fogson, -thinking that the visitor, who was inexpensively dressed, might be -related to some of her boarders. - -"First let me inquire how long you have been in your present position, -Mrs.----" - -"Fogson." - -"Exactly, Mrs. Fogson." - -"Me and Fogson have been here about a year." - -The stranger's countenance fell. - -"Only a year!" he repeated. "Who was here before you?" - -"Mr. and Mrs. Avery; but the Overseer of the Poor thought there was need -of a change, and persuaded me and Fogson to come here." - -"Very obliging of you!" murmured the visitor. "Can you tell me how long -Mr. and Mrs. Avery were here?" - -"Fifteen years." - -The stranger brightened up. - -"They live in the village--in a small four-room house not far from the -post-office." - -"Thank you," and the visitor took out a note-book and wrote something in -it. He stood a moment silent, and then said, in a hesitating tone, "Is -there a boy in the institution named Jed Gilman?" - -Instantly the face of Mrs. Fogson expressed surprise and curiosity. - -"There was!" she answered, "but he's run away." - -"Run away!" ejaculated the stranger, looking disappointed. - -"Yes; he was a bad, rebellious boy. Me and Fogson couldn't do anything -with him." - -"It is very sad," said the visitor with a dubious smile. - -"Do you want to see him particular?" asked Mrs. Fogson. - -"Yes; I wished to see him." - -"Has he got into any scrape?" asked she with malicious eagerness. - -The visitor eyed Mrs. Fogson closely, and saw at once that she was Jed's -enemy. - -"That's about the size of it," he answered. "Of course as you are his -friend you would rather not tell me where he is." - -"Who said I was his friend? I'll tell you with pleasure. Percy Dixon -came and told me only a few minutes since. He's probably at Bar Harbor, -or he'll get there some time this week." - -"Bar Harbor!" repeated the visitor in evident surprise. - -"Yes; he's working for a Mr. Roper--Mr. Schuyler Roper. He went down -there on a yacht. If you want to arrest him, or anything, you'd better -go down there right off, for Percy Dixon has written to Mr. Roper that -Jed was brought up in the poorhouse, and will probably get bounced very -soon." - -"Thank you very much for telling me, Mrs. Fogson. I am glad you have put -me on his track." - -"You don't mind telling me what he has been doing?" asked the lady. - -"No; I might defeat the ends of justice by doing so." - -"Just so!" rejoined Mrs. Fogson. "I do wonder what that boy's done?" she -said to herself as the stranger turned into the public road. "Very -likely it's burglary, or forgery." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIV. - -THE DETECTIVE. - - -The man in drab smiled to himself as he left the presence of Mrs. -Fogson. - -"I wonder whether that woman's husband has her amiable traits?" he -speculated. "If so, the Scranton poor must be made very uncomfortable." - -As he reached the village he met Percy Dixon once more. Percy had an -ungovernable curiosity, and he crossed the street to intercept the -stranger. - -"I suppose you found the poorhouse," he said suggestively. - -"Yes; I could not miss it after your clear directions." - -"Are you related to Mr. and Mrs. Fogson?" asked Percy, rather boldly. - -"Well no," answered the stranger with a smile. "I haven't the honor." - -"Have you any relations among the paupers?" - -"Not that I am aware of. However, I called to inquire after one of -them--a boy." - -"Jed Gilman?" said Percy eagerly. - -"Yes; I believe that is his name. Are you acquainted with him?" - -"I have known him for years." - -"I suppose he is a friend of yours?" - -"Not much. Do you think I would be friends with a pauper?" - -"I don't know. I see no reason why not if he is a nice boy." - -"But Jed isn't a nice boy. He's an artful, forward, presuming young -jackanapes, and was awfully troublesome." - -"I am sorry to hear it. Mrs. Fogson seems to think of him very much as -you do." - -"I should think she would. She and Fogson couldn't do anything with -him." - -"Mrs. Fogson says he isn't there now." - -"No; he ran away after making a brutal assault on Fogson." - -The man in drab felt an inclination to smile, but suppressed it. - -"I don't know as I ought to have spoken against him," continued Percy -with a cunning look of inquiry. "You may be after him." - -The man in drab paused a moment, then assuming a look of mystery, said, -"Can you keep a secret?" - -"Yes," answered Percy eagerly. - -"Come here, then." - -Percy drew near, and the other whispered mysteriously, "_I am a -detective!_" - -"You don't say so!" ejaculated Percy, gazing at him with a species of -awe, begotten of his idea of detectives as introduced into books which -he had read. - -The other nodded. - -"And I am after Jed Gilman!" he continued. - -"Is that so?" said the delighted Percy. "What has he done?" - -"That is a secret which I am not permitted to reveal at present." - -"Do you want to find him?" - -"Very much." - -"Then I'll tell you where he is. He's gone to Bar Harbor--in Maine, you -know." - -The detective nodded. - -"He went on a yacht--the Juno--owned by Mr. Schuyler Roper--a rich New -York gentleman." - -"But how did he get into such company?" - -"Oh, Mr. Roper took pity on him and gave him a place." - -"Then you think he is comfortably situated?" - -"Yes, but he won't be long." - -"Why not?" - -"Because I have written a letter to Mr. Roper, telling him Jed's real -character. I expect he'll be bounced when that letter arrives." - -"That would upset all my plans and enable him to escape." - -Percy looked perplexed and disappointed. - -"I am sorry for that," he said. "I guess I'd better write again and tell -him to keep Jed another week." - -"Perhaps you had better do so. Say that---- But no. I will telegraph to -him to keep Jed with him till I arrive." - -"That'll do better. You couldn't possibly tell me what Jed has done?" - -"Not at present." - -"You'll let me know sometime?" - -"I think I shall be able to gratify your curiosity before long." - -"I'll give you my address, and you can write to me. I wish I knew -whether Jed had stolen anything or not." - -"I cannot say a word! My lips are sealed!" said the detective in a -solemn tone. - -Percy was impressed. The man in drab quite came up to his idea of a -detective. - -"By the way," said his companion, "I want to call on Mr. and Mrs. Avery, -who, I understand, know something of the boy's early life." - -"They live there--in that small house. I'll go with you." - -"No, I prefer to go alone. One can't be too careful." - -"All right," said Percy. "I wonder what under the canopy Jed's been -doing? It's likely he'll have to go to jail." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXV. - -MRS. AVERY'S STORY. - - -The detective crossed the street, walked up a tiny footpath and rang the -bell of the small house. - -Mrs. Avery came to the door, a gentle-faced little woman with white -hair. She looked inquiringly at the visitor. - -"Mrs. Avery, I believe?" said the man in drab. - -"That is my name." - -"I would like the favor of a few words with you, madam." - -"Come in then," and she led the way to a modest sitting-room. - -"My husband," she said, introducing him to a kindly old man, as -white-haired as herself. - -"My name is Fletcher," said the visitor, "and I have come to you for -information. But first, am I right in my belief that you were once in -charge of the Scranton poorhouse?" - -"Yes, sir. My husband and I had charge of it for fifteen years. We -should have been there now, but for Squire Dixon, the new Overseer of -the Poor, who wanted the place for some friends of his, Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson." - -"I have had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Fogson," said Fletcher with a -smile. "I am sure, now that I have seen you both, that the change was -for the worse." - -"I fear that the poor people are very shabbily treated," said Mrs. Avery -gravely. "It makes me feel very badly, but what can I do? Squire Dixon -sustains them, and he has everything to say. But you say you want some -information. I shall be glad to tell you what I can." - -"I want information touching a boy, now perhaps sixteen years of age, -bearing the name of Jed Gilman." - -Mr. and Mrs. Avery immediately showed signs of interest. - -"He has left the poorhouse," said Mr. Avery. - -"So I am told." - -"Do you inquire as a friend of the poor boy?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"Emphatically his friend. But first tell me, what kind of a boy is he?" - -"A fine, manly, spirited lad, warm-hearted and attractive." - -The detective looked pleased, but surprised. - -"That doesn't correspond with what Mrs. Fogson told me," he said. - -"I suppose not. She and her husband tried to bully Jed and overwork him, -till he was compelled to run away. I don't know where he is now." - -"But I do. He is at Bar Harbor, in the company of a rich gentleman from -New York, and I believe employed on his yacht." - -"I am thankful to hear it." - -"But what I wish to learn are the circumstances attending his being -placed at the poorhouse. I suppose you remember them?" - -"Oh yes, as well as if it were yesterday, though it is fourteen years -since." - -"Go on, madam, I am all interest." - -"It was a cold evening in November," began Mrs. Avery reflectively, "and -I was about to lock up, though it was but nine o'clock, for we kept -early hours at the poorhouse, when there was a knock at the door. I -opened it and saw before me a young woman of dark hair and complexion, -holding by the hand a pretty boy of about two years of age. - -"'Can you give me and my boy a night's lodging?' she asked. - -"We often had such applications, and never sent away a decent-looking -person. So I said yes readily enough and the two entered. They seemed -hungry, and though it was late for us I gave them some bread and milk, -of which the child in particular partook heartily. I asked the young -woman some questions but she was very close-mouthed. - -"'Wait till morning,' she said. 'The boy and I are very tired.' - -"I asked no more but gave them a bed, and I suppose they both slept -well. I was able to give them a small room to themselves. - -"In the morning when I entered I found only the boy. The young woman had -gone, but pinned to the child's clothing was this note: - - - "'I am obliged to leave the boy with you for the present. I hope - you will take care of him. His name is Jed Gilman. Some time he - will probably be called for. Don't try to find me for it will be - useless.' - - -"That was all. Mr. Avery and myself were dumfounded, but we had taken a -fancy to the boy and resolved to keep him. There was some difficulty -about it, for he was not legally entitled to be brought up at the town's -cost. However, Mr. Avery and I agreed to pay part of the expense for the -first year, and after that he was looked upon as one of the regular -inmates and cared for as such." - -"And the young woman never called again?" - -"Never." - -"Nor sent you any message, oral or written?" - -"Never." - -"Was there any article of dress, or any ornament, left with the child -that might help to identify it?" - -"Yes. Wait here a minute and I will show you something which I have -carefully preserved from that day to this." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVI. - -"WHO WAS JED?" - - -Mrs. Avery went up stairs to her own room, but reappeared in five -minutes. She had in her hand an old-fashioned gold locket. - -"This," she said, "was attached to the neck of the boy when he came into -our hands." - -"Have you opened it?" asked the detective eagerly. "Is there a picture -inside?" - -"There are two miniatures--one on each side." - -She opened the locket, and it proved to be as she said. - -One of these was a miniature of a young and handsome man, apparently -thirty years of age, the other of a young lady with a very sweet and -attractive face, probably five years younger. - -"These must represent the parents of the boy Jed," said the detective. - -"So we concluded--Mr. Avery and myself." - -"Does the lady bear any resemblance to the girl who brought the child to -you?" - -"Not the slightest. The girl was common in appearance. She probably -filled the position of a servant or nursemaid." - -"Did it occur to you that she might be in any way related to the child?" - -"Not for a moment. He was evidently the child of parents wealthy or well -to do." - -"Did you form any conjectures relative to her or her object in bringing -you the child?" - -"No. There was nothing to serve as a clew. It was all guesswork on our -part. Still the thought did occur to us that the child had been stolen -or abducted from his people for some reason unknown to us." - -The detective hesitated a moment, and then, having apparently made up -his mind to confide in the worthy couple, said: "Your guess was very -near the truth. The child, I have every reason to believe, was stolen -from its mother--the father was dead--through the machinations of an -uncle who wanted the boy's title and estate." - -"Title!" exclaimed Mrs. Avery, in great surprise. - -"Yes. This boy I believe to be the only son of the late Sir Charles -Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, Gloucestershire, England." - -"Well, well!" ejaculated Mrs. Avery. "Then if the boy had his rights -would he be Sir Jed Gilman?" - -"No," answered the detective smiling. "He has no more claim to the name -Jed Gilman than I have." - -"What is his real name?" - -"Robert Fenwick, as I have every reason to believe." - -"Why has there been no search for him till now?" - -"There has been a search covering all the intervening years; but the -mother, who is still living, had no information to guide her, and the -search has been a groping in the dark." - -"And did the wicked uncle get the title and estate?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"Yes. He is enjoying both now." - -"Is it a large estate?" - -"It would not be considered large in England. Probably it amounts to -five thousand pounds annual rental." - -"Five thousand pounds!" said Mrs. Avery. - -"Yes, or in our money about twenty-five thousand dollars." - -"And this large estate ought to belong to poor Jed?" - -"I submit that, if so, he will not need to be called poor Jed." - -"And you say that the mother is living?" - -"She is living, and in New York. She is comfortably established at the -Windsor Hotel on Fifth Avenue. It is by her that I am employed. This is -my card." - -He drew out a small card bearing the name - - - JAMES PEAKE. - - -"Yes. I am an American," he said in reply to a question by Mrs. Avery. -"I am a New York detective, and was detailed for this work by Inspector -Byrnes." - -"What sort of a person is Jed's mother?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"Still a beautiful woman, though she cannot be far from forty years of -age." - -"Does she look like the picture in the locket?" - -"There is considerable resemblance--of course, making allowance for the -difference in the ages of the two. This locket, Mrs. Avery, is most -important, and will, I think, establish the identity of Jed Gilman with -the stolen heir of the Fenwick estate. Will you permit me to take it and -show it to Lady Fenwick?" - -"Has she a title, too?" - -"Certainly. She was the wife of Sir Charles Fenwick." - -"And what is the name of the wicked uncle?" - -"Guy Fenwick. He is known as Sir Guy Fenwick, but probably, almost -positively, has no rightful claim to the title." - -"Does he know that you are looking for his nephew?" - -"I presume he has taken measures to keep acquainted with all the -movements of Lady Fenwick." - -"I wonder how the girl came to give the boy the name of Jed Gilman?" - -"I think I can explain this. The name of this treacherous nursemaid was -Jane Gilman. She selected a name as near to her own as possible. You say -you have neither seen nor heard anything of this girl since Jed was left -in your hands?" - -"We have heard nothing whatever." - -At this moment there was a ring at the door-bell--a sharp, quick, -impatient ring. - -Mrs. Avery answered it. - -She came back, her face showing excitement. - -"It is a woman of middle age," she said, "and she, too, has come to make -inquiries about Jed Gilman." - -The detective also looked excited. - -"Do you think," he asked, "it can be Jane Gilman herself come back after -all these years?" - -"That's it!" said Mrs. Avery, her face lighting up. "I wondered where I -had seen her face before. Now, though she is so much older, I recognize -in this middle-aged woman the girl who brought Jed to the door fourteen -years ago." - -"Bring her in here, hear what she has to say, and place me somewhere, so -that, myself unseen, I can hear what she says." - -This was what the detective said in a quick, decided tone. - -"Very well, sir, go in there. It is a small bedroom. You can keep the -door ajar." - -The detective lost no time in concealing himself. - -The woman came in. She was a stout, florid-complexioned woman, rather -showily dressed, with the look of an Englishwoman of the middle class. - -Before we proceed to record the interview that took place between Mr. -and Mrs. Avery and herself we must go back again to the poorhouse, and -our friends, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson. - -Twenty minutes after the departure of James Peake, the detective, this -woman knocked at the door of the poorhouse. - -Her summons was answered by Mrs. Fogson. - -"What's wanted?" asked the poorhouse matron, looking inquisitively at -the new arrival. - -"Is there a boy named Jed Gilman living here?" asked the woman eagerly. - -"Jed Gilman again!" repeated Mrs. Fogson. "What do you want of Jed -Gilman?" - -"Answer my question first, if you please." - -"Such a boy was living here till lately, but he became very troublesome -and finally ran away." - -"Then he is not here now?" said the woman, looking very much -disappointed. - -"No, but I expect he'll have to come back some time. A bad penny -generally returns. You haven't told me what you have to do with him?" - -"Then I will tell you. I was the person who brought him here fourteen -years ago." - -"You don't say so?" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson, her little bead-like eyes -sparkling with curiosity. "Was he your child?" - -"Certainly not, but he was my brother's child." - -"And what was your object in bringing him here?" - -"My brother was dead, and the child was thrown upon me for support," -answered the woman after a little hesitation. "I could not support him, -and so brought him where I thought he would have a home. But you are not -the woman who was in charge of the poorhouse at that time." - -"No; that was Mrs. Avery." - -"And is Mrs. Avery still living?" - -"Yes; she lives in a small house in the village." - -"I will go and see her." - -But this did not suit the views of Mrs. Fogson, who was curious to hear -more about the antecedents of Jed. - -"Won't you come in and take a cup of tea?" she asked with unusual -hospitality. - -"I don't care for tea--it's slops," answered the visitor. "If you could -give me a thimbleful of whiskey I wouldn't mind taking it. When I am -tired and dragged out it goes to the right spot." - -"Yes, I can give you a glass," answered Mrs. Fogson. "Me and Fogson -generally keeps a little in case of sickness, though we wouldn't have -it known, as this is a temperance town." - -"You are safe with me, I won't mention it," said the caller. - -She then learned that Jed was probably at Bar Harbor; but Mrs. Fogson -found out very little from her in return. After a few minutes the -strange woman set out on her walk to the Avery cottage. - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVII. - -JANE GILMAN. - - -The visitor took a seat in the rocking-chair offered her by Mrs. Avery. - -"Do you remember me?" she asked, throwing back her veil so as to give an -unobstructed view of her full, florid face. - -"Are you the girl who brought the boy Jed to me fourteen years ago?" - -"The same. I don't find you in your old place." - -"No; we--my husband and I--left the poor farm about a year since. Have -you been there?" - -"Yes, I saw the new woman, and a spiteful piece she is, I'll be bound." - -Mrs. Avery smiled. - -"I don't admire Mrs. Fogson," she said, "but I suppose that is natural." - -"She tells me the boy is no longer in the poorhouse." - -"No." - -"Can you tell me why he left?" - -"He was ill-treated by Mr. and Mrs. Fogson." - -"That woman tells me he was very troublesome." - -"We never found him so, and up to a year ago he was under our charge." - -"I surmised as much. Then he has grown up a good boy?" - -"Excellent. I feel great affection for Jed." - -"That is gratifying to my feelings, seeing I am his aunt." - -Mrs. Avery regarded her visitor with surprise. - -"Do you claim Jed as your nephew?" she asked. - -"Certainly. He is the son of my only brother." - -But for her interview with the detective Mrs. Avery would have believed -this story. As it was, she did not choose to dispute it. She only sought -to draw out her visitor so as to understand better her object in -calling. - -"Are you willing to explain why it was that you were led to place your -nephew under my care?" - -"Certainly. There is no secret about that _now_. My brother, who was a -blacksmith, failed, and was unable to support the boy." - -"What was your brother's name?" - -"Jedediah Gilman. That is why I desired to have the boy called Jed -Gilman, after his father. My name is Jane Gilman." - -"Then you are not married?" - -"No," said Miss Gilman. "Not but I might have been married half a dozen -times if I had wanted to. But the men are a shiftless lot, in my -opinion." - -"Not all of them. I never charged my husband with being shiftless." - -"Oh, well, there are exceptions. But I liked my freedom, so I am Jane -Gilman still. I may change my mind yet, and get married. There's a many -after me, and I am only thirty-two." - -Mrs. Avery was too polite to question her statement, but privately -decided that the other was ten years older. - -"Are you an American?" she asked. - -"No, I'm English, and I'm proud to own it." - -"Was Jed born in England?" - -Jane Gilman hesitated, but finally answered in the affirmative. - -"In what English town or village was he born?" - -"Oh, lor, you wouldn't know any better if I should tell you. My brother -came over here with Jed when he was a baby, to better his fortunes. He -went out to Iowa, leaving the baby with me. But I found I couldn't get a -place with a baby on my hands, and so I took it to the Scranton -poorhouse." - -"And where have you been since?" - -"I went to Philadelphia and got a position there. Since then I've been -in a many places." - -"I wonder you didn't write to me for some news of the baby." - -"I got news of him from time to time, though I don't mean to tell you -how," answered Jane Gilman with a cunning smile. "But I've been away for -the last three years, and so I didn't know that Jed had gone off." - -"You must be disappointed not to find him." - -"So I am. It seems so long since I've seen the dear child," and Jane -drew out a handkerchief of ample size and pressed it to her tearless -eyes. "Is he a nice-looking boy?" - -"He has a fine, frank, open face, but you'll excuse my saying that he -doesn't resemble you in the least." - -"No," answered Jane, not the least bit disconcerted. "He didn't look -like the Gilmans, but like his ma's family." - -"What was his mother's maiden name?" - -"Fenwick," responded Jane Gilman, having no suspicion that Mrs. Avery -had heard the name before. - -Mrs. Avery started. - -"I've heard that name before," she said. - -"Have you?" asked Jane, momentarily uneasy, but quickly recovering her -self-possession she reflected that the Averys could not possibly know -anything of Jed's real history. "I suppose there's a many Fenwicks in -the world and some of 'em in America. My brother's wife was a -good-looking woman, and the boy takes after her." - -"She died young, I suppose?" - -"Only three months after he was born." - -"Is your brother still living?" - -"No; he was killed in a railroad accident out in Iowa six months since. -He was a brakeman on the railroad. He left me a tidy sum of money, and -said that I was to look up Jed." - -"This accounts for your visit, then?" - -"Yes; I want to take my nephew with me and see to his education, as my -brother wished me to." - -"Did Mrs. Fogson give you any idea where he was?" - -"She said he had run away, but she had information that he was at Bar -Harbor, wherever that is, in the service of some rich gentleman." - -"We have heard the same thing. What do you propose to do?" - -"I'll have to go there, I suppose. But there is one thing I want to ask -you about." - -"What is that?" - -"When I left the baby with you there was a gold locket suspended from -his neck. Did you find it?" - -"Yes, I found it." - -"I'll thank you if you'll give it to me. I meant to take it at the time, -but I went away in a hurry, as you know, and I thought it would be safe -in your hands." - -"I can't let you have it to-day, Miss Gilman." - -"And why not?" demanded Jane suspiciously. - -"I deposited it with a party I had confidence in, for safe keeping," -replied Mrs. Avery. - -"Then I'll be glad to have you get it as soon as you can. I want it," -rejoined Jane Gilman sharply. - -"How am I to feel sure you are entitled to it?" asked Mrs. Avery. - -"If I am not, who is, I'd like to know? I'm the one that left the boy -with you at the poorhouse." - -"I presume this is true." - -"Of course it's true. I'll tell you what, Mrs. Avery, I'm not much -pleased with your trying to keep the locket. Are you sure you haven't -sold or pawned it?" - -"Yes, I am sure of that. But perhaps I shall not have to make you wait -long for it. The gentleman in whose hands I placed it is in this house -at this very minute." - -Jane Gilman looked very much surprised. - -"Where is he?" she asked. - -Detective Peake answered for himself. He stepped into the room from the -small bedroom and held up the locket. - -"Is this the one?" he asked. - -"Yes," answered the woman eagerly. "Give it to me." - -Mr. Peake quietly put it back into his pocket. - -"Not till I have asked you a few questions," he answered. - -"What right have you to ask me questions?" asked Jane defiantly. - -"I will assume that I have the right," the detective answered. "Whose -miniatures are those in the locket?" - -"They are my brother and his wife." - -"Your brother doesn't seem to look like you, Miss Gilman." - -"Perhaps you know better than I who it is," said Jane sullenly. - -"Well, perhaps so." - -"And who do you say they are?" - -"Sir Charles and Laura Fenwick of Fenwick Hall, England." - -Jane Gilman started to her feet in astonishment. - -"Who told you?" she asked hoarsely. - -"It is not necessary for me to tell you. It is enough that I am -commissioned by the boy's mother to find him and restore him to her. -There may be trouble in store for you, Miss Jane Gilman," he added -significantly. - -Jane Gilman fanned herself vigorously and seemed very ill at ease. - -"However," continued the detective, "you can save yourself and secure a -handsome reward by giving me all the help you can, and making full -confession of your stealing the child, and telling who instigated you to -do it." - -The woman hesitated, but her hesitation was brief. - -"Will you promise this?" she asked. - -"Yes. I am the confidential agent of Lady Fenwick, who is now in -America." - -"Then I'll do it. Guy Fenwick hasn't treated me right, and I don't mind -if I do go back on him. It was he that hired me to make off with little -Robert, though I didn't let him know what I did with him." - -"And what was your present object?" - -"To take the boy away and make Sir Guy pay a good round sum for my -keeping the secret." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXVIII. - -THE DETECTIVE SECURES AN ALLY. - - -"Are you in communication with Guy Fenwick? Do you know whether he is -now at Fenwick Hall?" asked the detective. - -"No, he is not there." - -"Where is he, then?" - -"At sea. In a day or two he will probably be in New York," answered Jane -Gilman coolly. - -Mr. Peake started. This was unexpected intelligence. - -"What brings him to New York?" he inquired hastily. - -"I do." - -"What do you mean by that?" - -"I wrote him some time since for a hundred pounds. He sent me five -pounds and told me that I needn't call on him again." - -"He doesn't seem much afraid of you." - -"No; he thought the boy was dead." - -"I suppose you told him so?" - -"I let him think that the boy had died of fever four years ago. That -made him feel safe, and he concluded that he had no more use for Jane -Gilman. He'll find out!" and Jane tossed her head, in an independent -manner. - -"Have you any letters from him in reference to the matter?" asked -Detective Peake. - -From a pocket of unknown depth Miss Gilman drew out an epistle which she -handed to the detective. - -"You can read it if you want to," she said. - -Mr. Peake opened the letter and read it. It ran thus: - - - MISS JANE GILMAN: - - Your letter requesting me to send you a hundred pounds is received. - Your request is certainly an audacious one. Why I should send you a - hundred pounds, or even ten pounds, I am at a loss to imagine. The - boy Robert, whose existence you think would be dangerous to me, is - dead by your own admission, and my right to the Fenwick title and - estates is undisputed and indisputable. If you expect me to support - you for the balance of your life, your expectations are doomed to - disappointment. You are strong and healthy, and are able to earn - your own living in the sphere in which you were born. Besides, if - you had been prudent you would have saved a considerable sum out of - the large pension you have received from me during the last dozen - or more years. I think it quite probable that you have a snug sum - invested and are not in any danger of suffering. - - Still I don't want to be hard upon you. I accordingly inclose a - five-pound note, which you will please consider as a final gift on - my part. - - GUY FENWICK. - - -"Miss Gilman," said Detective Peake, "will you permit me to keep this -letter--for the present?" - -"What do you want to do with it?" asked Jane suspiciously. - -"Use it against the man who calls himself Sir Guy Fenwick. In connection -with your testimony it will prove valuable evidence." - -"You have promised that I shall be well paid?" - -"Yes, I can take it upon myself to promise that." - -"Very well. You may keep the letter." - -"One question more. You tell me that Sir Guy Fenwick is on his way to -New York. Can you tell me why he is coming?" - -"Yes. I dropped him a hint, in answer to this letter, that the boy -Robert was still living, and this alarmed my gentleman," she added with -a laugh. - -"Did he write you that he was coming?" - -"Yes." - -"Have you that letter?" - -"No; but I can tell you what was in it. He wrote that he did not believe -my story, but he would come to New York, and I might call upon him at -the Brevoort House on Monday next." - -"You infer from that that he was anxious?" - -"It looks like it, doesn't it?" - -"Yes. What did you propose to say to him?" - -"That the boy was living, and that I could lay my hand upon him." - -"That is why you came to Scranton?" - -"Yes." - -"I see. The whole thing lies in a nutshell. Even without your evidence I -shall probably be able to establish the rights of my young client. But -your help will make it surer." - -"I am at your service, if you will keep your promise. What do you want -me to do?" - -"Go with me to Bar Harbor and see the boy." - -"I would like to," said Jane Gilman with an expression of pleasure. "I -haven't seen him since he was a baby. I'd like to see how he looks now." - -"When he is restored to his title and estate he will not see you -suffer." - -"When will you start for Bar Harbor?" - -"We shall leave Scranton by the next train." - - - - -CHAPTER XXXIX. - -JED LEARNS WHO HE IS. - - -Mr. Roper and Jed were having a very enjoyable time at Bar Harbor. They -made trips, chiefly on foot, to the various interesting -localities--Schooner Head, Great Head, Hull's Cove and The Ovens--being -favored with unusually fine and clear weather. They had just returned at -four o'clock in the afternoon from a trip to the summit of Green -Mountain when they were informed at the hotel that a gentleman wished to -see them. - -Mr. Roper took the card and examined it. - -"James Peake," he said. "I don't know of any such person. Do you, Jed?" - -"No, sir," answered Jed. - -"You may bring him up," said Roper, turning to the bell boy. - -In less than a minute the latter reappeared, followed by a plain-looking -man, who scanned both attentively as he entered, but devoted the most -attention to Jed. - -"Mr. Peake?" said Schuyler Roper interrogatively. - -"Yes, sir." - -"You have business with me?" - -"Rather with your young friend. Is he known as Jed Gilman?" - -"Yes," answered the boy so designated. - -"I am a detective from the staff of Inspector Byrnes of New York." - -Jed blushed and looked uneasy. This announcement naturally alarmed him. - -"Am I charged with any offense?" he asked quickly. - -"No," answered Mr. Peake with a pleasant smile. "When I state my -business I am inclined to think you will be glad to see me." - -"I feel relieved, Jed," said Mr. Roper with a smile. "I took you without -a character, and I trembled lest some terrible charge was to be brought -against you." - -"Rest easy on that score, Mr. Roper," returned the detective. "My -mission may involve some one else in trouble, but not your young -friend. Will you permit me to ask him a few questions?" - -"I am sure he will be quite ready to answer any questions you may ask." - -Jed nodded assent. - -"Then, Mr. Gilman, may I inquire your age?" - -"I am sixteen." - -"What is the date of your birth?" - -Jed colored and looked embarrassed. - -"I do not know," he answered. - -"Can you tell me where you were born?" - -"No, sir," returned Jed. "I was left at the age of two years at the -Scranton poorhouse by a girl who disappeared the next morning. Of course -I was too young to know anything of my earlier history." - -"Exactly; and you spent the intervening years at that interesting -institution." - -Jed laughed. - -"It didn't prove very interesting at the last," he said. "When my good -friends the Averys were turned out, Mr. and Mrs. Fogson succeeded them, -and I concluded to leave." - -"I am not surprised to hear it. I have seen Mrs. Fogson," remarked the -detective dryly. - -"Did she give me a good character?" - -"Quite the contrary. She prepared me to find you a desperate young -ruffian." - -Jed laughed. - -"Do I come up to your expectations?" he asked. - -"Not altogether. I may conclude that you have no information in regard -to your family or parentage?" - -"No, sir. Can you"--something in the detective's face prompted the -question--"can you give me any information on the subject?" - -Jed fixed his eyes with painful intensity upon the visitor. - -"I think I can," he answered. - -"Who, then, am I?" - -"To the best of my knowledge you are the nephew of Sir Guy Fenwick, of -Fenwick Hall, Gloucestershire, England." - -Both Mr. Roper and Jed looked exceedingly surprised. - -"Sir Guy Fenwick?" repeated Roper. - -"He is so called, but I have reason to believe he is a usurper, and that -the title and estates belong to your young friend, who, if I am correct, -isn't Jed Gilman, but Sir Robert Fenwick." - -Jed looked dazed. Schuyler Roper went up to him and grasped his hand. - -"My dear Jed, or rather Robert," he said, "let me be the first to -congratulate you. But, Mr. Peake, are you prepared to substantiate Jed's -claim to his title and inheritance?" - -"I think so. I will tell you how the case stands." - -When he had concluded, Mr. Roper asked, "And where is this nurse whose -testimony is so important?" - -"At Rodick's. I brought her with me to Bar Harbor." - -"And what is your program?" - -"I should like to carry our young friend with me to New York to confront -the pseudo baronet." - -"We will be ready whenever you say. I say _we_, for I propose to -accompany Jed--I beg pardon, Sir Robert--and stand by him at this -eventful period." - -"Call me Jed, Mr. Roper, till I have proved myself entitled to the other -name," returned the "poorhouse boy." - - - - -CHAPTER XL. - -GUY FENWICK'S DEFEAT. - - -Sir Guy Fenwick sat in his handsome apartment at the Brevoort House. He -was of slender build and dark complexion, bearing a very slight -resemblance to Jed, but his expression was much less agreeable. - -"Jane Gilman was to have called this morning. She ought to be here now," -he muttered, consulting his watch. "She is certain to come," he added -with a sneer, "for she wants money. I shall never be safe from annoyance -while she lives. However, she can do me little harm." - -There was a knock at the door, and a bell boy appeared with a card. - -Sir Guy took it from his hand, and regarded it with surprise. - -"Mr. James Peake!" he repeated. "What does he want?" - -"I don't know, Sir Guy." - -"Let him come up, but the interview must be brief, for I am expecting -another party." - -Directly afterward Detective Peake entered the presence of the baronet. - -"You wish to see me, Mr.--ahem!--Mr. Peake?" - -"Yes. Mr. Fenwick?" - -"Mr. Fenwick!" repeated the Englishman, frowning. "I am Sir Guy -Fenwick." - -"I am aware that you call yourself so," said the detective quietly. - -"What do you mean by this insolence?" demanded Guy Fenwick, his face -flaming. - -"You will understand me when I say I call in behalf of Sir Robert -Fenwick, the real baronet." - -Guy Fenwick half rose from his seat. He looked angry and alarmed. - -"I don't know what you mean," he said. - -"I think you do. Sir Robert is your nephew, and the title and estate are -his by right." - -Guy Fenwick laughed--a harsh, mirthless laugh. - -"Really," he said, "this is most amusing. Robert Fenwick is dead. If -any one calls himself by that name he is an impostor." - -"That remains to be seen. I have to inform you that Sir Robert Fenwick -is in this city, in the company of his mother, who has received and -acknowledged him." - -"This is a conspiracy!" exclaimed Guy Fenwick, whose appearance showed -that he was deeply disturbed. "It is a very foolish conspiracy, I will -add. Of course I understand the object of my amiable sister-in-law in -giving her countenance to what she must know to be an imposture. Do me -the favor to inform me where you discovered the boy who impudently -claims the title and estate which I inherited from my brother." - -"Only by procuring the disappearance of that brother's lawful heir." - -"Who says this--who dares say it?" - -"You are partially acquainted with a woman named Jane Gilman?" - -Guy Fenwick's countenance changed. - -"Yes," he said after a pause, "I do know a woman of that name. She has -been writing me blackmailing letters, and threatening to injure me if I -did not send her a hundred pounds. So this is the mare's nest you have -stirred up? I congratulate you." - -"Call it a mare's nest if you like, Mr. Fenwick," said the detective -undisturbed. "You may find it a very serious matter. Shall I tell you -what we are able to prove?" - -"If you please. I should like to know the details of this base -conspiracy." - -"Fourteen years ago Jane Gilman appeared towards nightfall at the door -of a poorhouse not far away and left a child of two years old with the -people in charge. Before morning she disappeared. The child grew up a -healthy, sturdy boy; frank and handsome." - -"So he prepared himself to claim the Fenwick title in an almshouse?" - -"It wasn't his fault that he was brought up there, only his misfortune." - -"What name was given him?" - -"Jed Gilman." - -"He had better retain it." - -"Not while he has a better claim to the name of Robert Fenwick. Hanging -from his neck at the time he was placed in the poorhouse was a locket -containing miniatures of your brother, the late Sir Charles Fenwick, and -Lady Mary Fenwick, still living." - -"Have you the locket with you?" - -"It is in safe custody. You will admit that this is pretty strong -evidence of our claim. But we have in addition the confession of Jane -Gilman, who testifies that, in obedience to your instructions, she -abducted and disposed of the boy as aforesaid." - -"This is a very cunning conspiracy, Mr. Peake, if that is your name, but -it won't succeed. I shall defend my right to the title and estate; but -if this boy is poor I don't mind settling a pension of a hundred pounds -upon him, and finding him some employment." - -"In his name I decline your offer." - -"Then I defy you! What are you going to do about it?" - -"Lady Fenwick has engaged the services of one of our most famous -lawyers, and legal proceedings will be commenced at once. We will, -however, give you a week to decide on your course." - -"Give me the name of your lawyer. I will call upon him and show him -that he has consented to aid an imposture." - -Before the week ended, however, Sir Guy, to give him this title once -more, had decided that discretion was the better part of valor, and had -consented to surrender the title and estates, his nephew agreeing to pay -him an income of a thousand pounds per annum, in order that he might -still be able to live like a gentleman. - -When matters were arranged Guy Fenwick returned hastily to England, and, -making but a short stay there, went to the continent, where he would not -have the humiliation of meeting old acquaintances whom he had known in -the days of his grandeur. - - - - -CHAPTER XLI. - -CONCLUSION. - - -Not the least gratifying circumstance in his sudden change of fortune -was Jed's discovery of a mother--a gracious and beautiful woman--to whom -he was drawn in almost instinctive affection. Before leaving New York -for his native land he expressed a wish to revisit Scranton, and view -once more the scenes of his early privations. His mother not only -consented, but decided to accompany him. - -Mr. and Mrs. Fogson were engaged in their usual morning labors when a -handsome carriage stopped at the gate. A servant descended and made his -way to the front door, which Mrs. Fogson herself opened. - -"Madam," said the servant bowing, "do you receive visitors?" - -Mrs. Fogson espying the handsome carriage was dazzled, and responded -graciously: - -"We ain't fixed for company," she said, "but if you'll make allowances -I shall be happy to receive visitors. Who is it?" she inquired -curiously. - -"Lady Fenwick and Sir Robert Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, England." - -"You don't say!" ejaculated Mrs. Fogson, awe-stricken. "Tell 'em to come -right in." - -Jed assisted his mother to alight and walk up to the front door, Mrs. -Fogson having retreated inside to change her dress. - -"And you say you lived in this forlorn place, Robert?" asked Lady -Fenwick with a shudder. - -"For fourteen years, mother." - -"I never can forgive Guy Fenwick--never!" - -"I am none the worse for it now, mother." - -Jed led the way into Mrs. Fogson's private sitting-room, where that lady -found them. She stopped short at the threshold. - -"Why, it's Jed Gilman!" she said sharply, with a feeling that she had -been humbugged. - -"Mrs. Fogson," said Jed, gravely, "I am Jed Gilman no more. I have found -out that I am entitled to a large estate in England, but best of all I -have found a mother, and am no longer alone in the world." - -Mr. Fogson, who had followed his wife into the room, was the first to -"take in" the surprising news. Jed's handsome suit, his gold watch-chain -and diamond scarf-pin, as well as his mother's stately figure, convinced -him that the story was true. - -"No one is more glad to hear of your good fortune, my dear boy, than -Mrs. F. and myself," he said in a gushing tone. "I have often thought -that you were a nobleman in disguise." - -"You never let me suspect it, Mr. Fogson," said Jed, amused. "Probably -you didn't want to raise my expectations." - -"Just so, Jed, I mean Sir Robert. We feel that it was an honor to have -you so long under our roof--don't we, Mrs. F.?" - -"Certainly, Simeon. If Lady Fenwick will permit me to offer an humble -collation, some of my ginger snaps; you remember them, Jed, I mean Sir -Robert." - -"You are very kind," said Lady Fenwick hastily, "but I seldom eat -between meals." - -Just then Percy Dixon, who came with a message from his father, -appeared in the door. He opened his eyes wide in amazement when he saw -Jed. - -"Jed Gilman!" he exclaimed in astonishment. - -"No, Master Percy," said Mrs. Fogson. "We have just learned that our -dear Jed is Sir Robert Fenwick, of Fenwick Hall, England." - -"Jehoshaphat!" cried Percy, astounded. - -"Percy," said Jed, whose good fortune made him good-natured, "let me -introduce you to my mother, Lady Fenwick. Mother, this is Master Percy -Dixon." - -"I am glad to meet any of your friends, Robert," said Lady Fenwick, -really supposing that Jed and Percy were on intimate terms. - -"Glad to know you--to make your acquaintance, Lady Fenwick," replied -Percy. "Are you really and truly a lord, Jed?" - -"No, not a lord, but a baronet. However, that needn't make any -difference between friends like ourselves." - -"No, of course not. You know I always liked you, Jed, I mean Sir Jed." - -"Sir Robert," prompted Mr. Fogson. - -"Sir Robert. I feel sort of confused by the sudden change," explained -Percy embarrassed. - -"Call me Jed, then. In Scranton I mean to be Jed." - -"Won't you call at our house? My father, Squire Dixon, will be honored -by a visit." - -"We are to call on Mr. and Mrs. Avery first, and then if we have time we -will call on you. Won't you get into the carriage and go with us, -Percy?" - -Percy Dixon accepted the invitation with intense delight, and long -afterwards boasted of his ride with Lady Fenwick. Though Jed and his -mother were able to spend but ten minutes at the house of Squire Dixon, -the squire showed himself deeply sensible of the honor, and several -times alluded to his dear young friend Sir Robert. It was the way of the -world. Mr. and Mrs. Avery received from Lady Fenwick a handsome present -in recognition of their past kindness to Jed, and this was the first of -many. - -Jed and his mother remained at the Windsor till they were ready to -embark for England. While walking on Fifth Avenue one day he saw just -ahead his little friend, Chester Holbrook, accompanied by his aunt, Miss -Maria Holbrook. He hurried forward, and taking off his hat to Miss -Holbrook, said, "Chester, don't you remember me?" - -Chester uttered a cry of delight. - -"Why it's Jed!" he said. - -Miss Maria Holbrook, surprised at Jed's improved appearance, eyed him -with suspicion. - -"Where are you staying, Jedediah?" she inquired. "Have you a situation?" - -"I am boarding at the Windsor Hotel, Miss Holbrook. I am in no -situation." - -"Then how can you afford to board at a first-class hotel?" asked the -spinster in surprise. - -"I am with my mother, Lady Fenwick. Allow me to hand you my card." - -Jed placed in her hand a card on which was engraved the name: - - - SIR ROBERT FENWICK, BART. - - -The story had already appeared in the daily papers of New York, but -Miss Holbrook never suspected that the young English baronet was -Chester's humble guardian. - -"Are you Sir Robert Fenwick?" she ejaculated in amazement. - -"I believe so," he answered with a smile. "Now, Miss Holbrook, I have a -favor to ask. May I take Chester in and introduce him to my mother?" - -"I should also like to meet Lady Fenwick," said Miss Holbrook. - -"I shall be most happy to present you." - -"Isn't your name Jed after all?" asked Chester, as he confidingly placed -his hand in that of his former guardian. - -"You may call me so, Chester; I wish you would." - -Miss Maria Holbrook was delighted with her visit. Like many Americans, -she had a great respect for English aristocracy, and did not understand -that there was considerable difference between titles. It is wonderful -how differently she came to regard one whom she had been accustomed to -style "that boy Jedediah." She was much pleased with Lady Fenwick's -gracious reception, though she found it difficult to think of her as -Jed's mother. - -I neglected to say in the proper place that Jed did not fail to call, -when in Scranton, on his two friends Dr. and Mrs. Redmond, and gave them -a cordial invitation to visit his mother and himself if they should ever -come to England. - -He did not see fit to extend a similar invitation to Mr. and Mrs. -Fogson. Misfortune has come to these worthy people. Their mismanagement -of the poorhouse had become so notorious that the best citizens of -Scranton not only demanded their removal from the poorhouse, but at the -next town meeting defeated Squire Dixon for re-election to the position -of Overseer of the Poor. Mr. and Mrs. Avery were invited to succeed the -Fogsons, but felt that they were entitled to rest and quiet for the -balance of their lives. The liberal gifts of Jed and his mother made -them independent, and they were willing that younger persons should fill -their old positions. - -Jed devoted several years to making up the deficiencies in his -education. The only disagreeable thing in his change of fortune was his -removal from America, but he will probably arrange to spend a portion of -his time in his adopted country, to which he feels the attachment of a -loyal son. Then he has a link connecting him with it in the frequent -visits at Fenwick Hall of his friend Schuyler Roper. - -Notwithstanding his accession to the ancestral title and estate, he has -not forgotten the fourteen years during which he was known as "Jed, the -Poorhouse Boy." - - - * * * * * - - -Every Child's Library - -_Books "That Every Child Can Read" for Four Reasons_: - - - 1. 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