DO AND DARE

or

A BRAVE BOY'S FIGHT FOR FORTUNE

By Horatio Alger, Jr. 

NEW YORK

CHAPTER I. THE POST OFFICE AT WAYNEBORO. 

"If we could only keep the post office, mother, we should be all right, "said Herbert Carr, as he and his mother sat together in the littlesitting room of the plain cottage which the two had occupied ever sincehe was a boy of five. 

"Yes, Herbert, but I am afraid there won't be much chance of it. "

"Who would want to take it from you, mother?"

"Men are selfish, Herbert, and there is no office, however small, thatis not sought after. "

"What was the income last year?" inquired Herbert. 

Mrs. Carr referred to a blank book lying on the table in which thepost-office accounts were kept, and answered:

"Three hundred and ninety-eight dollars and fifty cents. "

"I shouldn't think that would be much of an inducement to an able-bodiedman, who could work at any business. "

"Your father was glad to have it. "

"Yes, mother, but he had lost an arm in the war, and could not engage inany business that required both hands. "

"That is true, Herbert, but I am afraid there will be more than one whowill be willing to relieve me of the duties. Old Mrs. Allen called atthe office to-day, and told me she understood that there was a movementon foot to have Ebenezer Graham appointed. "

"Squire Walsingham's nephew?"

"Yes; it is understood that the squire will throw his influence into thescale, and that will probably decide the matter. "

"Then it's very mean of Squire Walsingham, " said Herbert, indignantly. "He knows that you depend on the office for a living. "

"Most men are selfish, my dear Herbert. "

"But he was an old schoolfellow of father's, and it was as hissubstitute that father went to the war where he was wounded. "

"True, Herbert, but I am afraid that consideration won't weigh much withJohn Walsingham. "

"I have a great mind to go and see him, mother. Have you anyobjections?"

"I have no objections, but I am afraid it will do no good. "

"Mr. Graham ought to be ashamed, with the profits of his store, to wantthe post office also. His store alone pays him handsomely. "

"Mr. Graham is fond of money. He means to be a rich man. "

"That is true enough. He is about the meanest man in town. "

A few words are needed in explanation, though the conversation explainsitself pretty well. 

Herbert's father, returning from the war with the loss of an arm, wasfortunate enough to receive the appointment of postmaster, and thusearn a small, but, with strict economy, adequate income, until a feverterminated his earthly career at middle age. Mr. Graham was a rivalapplicant for the office, but Mr. Carr's services in the war werethought to give him superior claims, and he secured it. During the monththat had elapsed since his death, Mrs. Carr had carried on the postoffice under a temporary appointment. She was a woman of good businesscapacity, and already familiar with the duties of the office, havingassisted her husband, especially during his sickness, when nearly thewhole work devolved upon her. Most of the village people were in favorof having her retained, but the local influence of Squire Walsingham andhis nephew was so great that a petition in favor of the latter securednumerous signatures, and was already on file at the department inWashington, and backed by the congressman of the district, who wasa political friend of the squire. Mrs. Carr was not aware that themovement for her displacement had gone so far. 

It was already nine o'clock when Herbert's conversation with his motherended, and he resolved to defer his call upon Squire Walsingham till thenext morning. 

About nine o'clock in the forenoon our young hero rang the bell ofthe village magnate, and with but little delay was ushered into hispresence. 

Squire Walsingham was a tall, portly man of fifty, sleek and evidentlyon excellent terms with himself. Indeed, he was but five years olderthan his nephew, Ebenezer Graham, and looked the younger of the two, despite the relationship. If he had been a United States Senator hecould not have been more dignified in his deportment, or esteemedhimself of greater consequence. He was a selfish man, but he was freefrom the mean traits that characterized his nephew. 

"You are the Carr boy, " said the squire, pompously, looking over hisspectacles at Herbert, as he entered the door. 

"My name is Herbert Carr, " said Herbert, shortly. "You have known me allmy life. "

"Certainly, " said the squire, a little ruffled at the failure of hisgrand manner to impose upon his young visitor. "Did I not call you theCarr boy?"

Herbert did not fancy being called the Carr boy, but he was there to aska favor, and he thought it prudent not to show his dissatisfaction. Heresolved to come to the point at once. 

"I have called, Squire Walsingham, " he commenced, "to ask if you willuse your influence to have my mother retained in charge of the postoffice. "

"Ahem!" said the squire, somewhat embarrassed. "I am not in charge ofthe post-office department. "

"No, sir, I am aware of that; but the postmaster general will beinfluenced by the recommendations of people in the village. "

"Very true!" said the squire, complacently. "Very true, and very proper. I do not pretend to say that my recommendation would not weigh with theauthorities at Washington. Indeed, the member from our district is apersonal friend of mine. "

"You know how we are situated, " continued Herbert, who thought it bestto state his case as briefly as possible. "Father was unable to saveanything, and we have no money ahead. If mother can keep the postoffice, we shall get along nicely, but if she loses it, we shall have ahard time. "

"I am surprised that in your father's long tenure of office he did notsave something, " said the squire, in a tone which indicated not onlysurprise but reproof. 

"There was not much chance to save on a salary of four hundred dollars ayear, " said Herbert, soberly, "after supporting a family of three. "

"Ahem!" said the squire, sagely; "where there's a will there's a way. Improvidence is the great fault of the lower classes. "

"We don't belong to the lower classes, " said Herbert, flushing withindignation. 

Squire Walmsgham was secretly ambitious of representing his districtsome day in Congress, and he felt that he had made a mistake. It won'tdo for an aspirant to office to speak of the lower classes, and thesquire hastened to repair his error. 

"That was not the term I intended to imply, " he condescended to explain. "I meant to say that improvidence is the prevailing fault of those whoseincome is small. "

"We haven't had much chance to be improvident!" said Herbert "We havehad to spend all our income, but we are not in debt--that is, we have nodebts that we are unable to pay. "

"That is well, " said Squire Walsingham, "but, my young constituent--Imean my young friend--I apprehend that you do not take a right viewof public office. It is not designed to support a privileged class inluxury. "

"Luxury, on four hundred a year!" replied Herbert. 

"I am speaking in general terms, " said the squire, hastily. "I mean tosay that I cannot recommend a person to office simply because he or sheneeds the income. "

"No, sir, I know that; but my mother understands the duties of theoffice, and no complaint has been made that she does not make a goodpostmaster. "

"Possibly, " said the squire, non-commitally; "but I am opposed uponprinciple to conferring offices upon women. Men are more efficient, andbetter qualified to discharge responsible duties. "

"Then, sir, " said Herbert, his heart sinking, "I am to understand thatyou do not favor the appointment of my mother?"

"I should be glad to hear that your mother was doing well, " said thesquire, "but I cannot conscientiously favor the appointment of a womanto be postmaster of Wayneboro. "

"That means that he prefers the appointment should go to his nephew, "thought Herbert. 

"If my mother were not competent to discharge the duties, " he said, hisface showing his disappointment in spite of himself, "I would not askyour influence, notwithstanding you were a schoolmate of father's, andhe lost his arm while acting as your substitute. "

"I have already said that I wish your mother well, " said the squire, coloring, "and in any other way I am ready to help her and you. Indeed, I may be able to secure you a situation. "

"Where, sir?"

"Mr. Graham needs a boy in his store, and I think he will take you on myrecommendation. "

"Is Tom Tripp going away?" asked Herbert. 

"The Tripp boy is unsatisfactory, so Mr. Graham tells me. "

Herbert knew something of what it would be to be employed by Mr. Graham. Tom Tripp worked early and late for a dollar and a half per week, without board, for a hard and suspicious taskmaster, who was continuallyfinding fault with him. But for sheer necessity, he would have leftMr. Graham's store long ago. He had confided the unpleasantness ofhis position to Herbert more than once, and enlisted his sympathy andindignation. Herbert felt that he would not like to work for Mr. Grahamat any price, more especially as it seemed likely that the storekeeperwas likely to deprive his mother of her office and income. 

"I should not like to work for Mr. Graham, sir, " he said. 

"It appears to me that you are very particular, young man, " said SquireWalsingham. 

"I would be willing to work for you, sir, but not for him. "

"Ahem!" said the squire, somewhat mollified, "I will think of yourcase. "

Herbert left the house, feeling that his mother's removal was only amatter of time. 

CHAPTER II. HERBERT'S CHANCE. 

Herbert left the house of Squire Walsingham in a sober frame of mind. Hesaw clearly that his mother would not long remain in office, and withouther official income they would find it hard to get along. To be sure, she received a pension of eight dollars a month, in consideration ofher husband's services in the war, but eight dollars would not go fartowards supporting their family, small as it was. There were other meansof earning a living, to be sure, but Wayneboro was an agricultural townmainly, and unless he hired out on a farm there seemed no way open tohim, while the little sewing his mother might be able to procure wouldprobably pay her less than a dollar a week. 

The blow fell sooner than he expected. In the course of the next weekMrs. Carr was notified that Ebenezer Graham had been appointed hersuccessor, and she was directed to turn over the papers and property ofthe office to him. 

She received the official notification by the afternoon mail, and in theevening she was favored by a call from her successor. 

Ebenezer Graham was a small man, with insignificant, mean-lookingfeatures, including a pair of weazel-like eyes and a turn-up nose. Itdid not require a skillful physiognomist to read his character in hisface. Meanness was stamped upon it in unmistakable characters. 

"Good-evening, Mr. Graham, " said the widow, gravely. 

"Good-evening, ma'am, " said the storekeeper. "I've called to see you, Mrs. Carr, about the post office, I presume you have heard--"

"I have heard that you are to be my successor. "

"Just so. As long as your husband was alive, I didn't want to step intohis shoes. "

"But you are willing to step into mine, " said Mrs. Carr, smilingfaintly. 

"Just so--that is, the gov'ment appear to think a man ought to be incharge of so responsible a position. "

"I shall be glad if you manage the office better than I have done. "

"You see, ma'am, it stands to reason that a man is better fitted forbusiness than a woman, " said Ebenezer Graham, in a smooth tone for hewanted to get over this rather awkward business as easily as possible. "Women, you know, was made to adorn the domestic circles, et cetery. "

"Adorning the domestic circle won't give me a living, " said Mrs. Carr, with some bitterness, for she knew that but for the grasping spirit ofthe man before her she would have been allowed to retain her office. 

"I was comin' to that, " said the new postmaster. "Of course, Iappreciate your position as a widder, without much means, and I'm goingto make you an offer; that is, your boy, Herbert. "

Herbert looked up from a book he was reading, and listened with interestto hear the benevolent intentions of the new postmaster. 

"I am ready to give him a place in my store, " proceeded Ebenezer. "Ialways keep a boy, and thinks I to myself, the wages I give willhelp along the widder Carr. You see, I like to combine business withconsideration for my feller creeters. "

Mrs. Carr smiled faintly, for in spite of her serious strait she couldnot help being amused at the notion of Ebenezer Graham's philanthropy. 

"What's going to become of Tom Tripp?" asked Herbert, abruptly. 

"Thomas Tripp isn't exactly the kind of boy I want in my store, " saidMr. Graham. "He's a harum-scarum sort of boy, and likes to shirk hiswork. Then I suspect he stops to play on the way when I send him onerrands. Yesterday he was five minutes longer than he need to have beenin goin' to Sam Dunning's to carry some groceries. Thomas doesn't seemto appreciate his privileges in bein' connected with a business likemine. "

Tom Tripp was hardly to blame for not recognizing his good luck inoccupying a position where he received a dollar and a half a week forfourteen hours daily work, with half a dozen scoldings thrown in. 

"How do you know I will suit you any better than Tom?" asked Herbert, who did not think it necessary to thank Mr. Graham for the profferedengagement until he learned just what was expected of him, and what hispay was to be. 

"You're a different sort of a boy, " said Ebenezer, with an attempt at apleasant smile. "You've been brought up different. I've heard you're asmart, capable boy, that isn't afraid of work. "

"No, sir, I am not, if I am fairly paid for my work. "

The new postmaster's jaw fell, and he looked uneasy, for he alwaysgrudged the money he paid out, even the paltry dollar and a half whichwent to poor Tom. 

"I always calkerlate to pay fair wages, " he said; "but I ain't rich, andI can't afford to fling away money. "

"How much do you pay Tom Tripp?" asked Herbert. 

He knew, but he wanted to draw Mr. Graham out. 

"I pay Thomas a dollar and fifty cents a week, " answered thestorekeeper, in a tone which indicated that he regarded this, on thewhole, as rather a munificent sum. 

"And he works from seven in the morning till nine o'clock at night, "proceeded Herbert. 

"Them are the hours, " said Ebenezer, who knew better how to make moneythan to speak grammatically. 

"It makes a pretty long day, " observed Mrs. Carr. 

"So it does, ma'am, but it's no longer than I work myself. "

"You get paid rather better, I presume. "

"Of course, ma'am, as I am the proprietor. "

"I couldn't think of working for any such sum, " said Herbert, decidedly. 

Mr. Graham looked disturbed, for he had reasons for desiring to secureHerbert, who was familiar with the routine of post-office work. 

"Well, " he said, "I might be able to offer you a leetle more, as youknow how to tend the post office. That's worth somethin'! I'llgive you--lemme see--twenty-five cents more; that is, a dollar andseventy-five cents a week. "

Herbert and his mother exchanged glances. They hardly knew whether tofeel more amused or disgusted at their visitor's meanness. 

"Mr. Graham, " said Herbert, "if you wish to secure my services, you willhave to pay me three dollars a week. "

The storekeeper held up both hands in dismay. 

"Three dollars a week for a boy!" he exclaimed. 

"Yes, sir; I will come for a short time for that sum, till you get usedto the management of the post office, but I shall feel justified inleaving you when I can do better. "

"You must think I am made of money, " said Ebenezer hastily. 

"I think you can afford to pay me that salary. "

For twenty minutes the new postmaster tried to beat down his prospectiveclerk, but Herbert was obstinate, and Ebenezer rather ruefully promisedto give him his price, chiefly because it was absolutely necessary thathe should engage some one who was more familiar with the post-officework than he was. Herbert agreed to go to work the next morning. 

CHAPTER III. A PRODIGAL SON. 

Herbert did not look forward with very joyful anticipations to the newengagement he had formed. He knew very well that he should not likeEbenezer Graham as an employer, but it was necessary that he should earnsomething, for the income was now but two dollars a week. He was sorry, too, to displace Tom Tripp, but upon this point his uneasiness was soonremoved, for Tom dropped in just after Mr. Graham had left the house, and informed Herbert that he was to go to work the next day for a farmerin the neighborhood, at a dollar and a half per week, and board besides. 

"I am glad to hear it, Tom, " said Herbert, heartily. "I didn't want tofeel that I was depriving you of employment. "

"You are welcome to my place in the store, " said Tom. "I'm glad to giveit up. Mr. Graham seemed to think I was made of iron, and I could worklike a machine, without getting tired. I hope he pays you more than adollar and a half a week. "

"He has agreed to pay me three dollars, " said Herbert. 

Tom whistled in genuine amazement. 

"What! has the old man lost his senses?" he exclaimed. "He must be crazyto offer such wages as that. "

"He didn't offer them. I told him I wouldn't come for less. "

"I don't see how he came to pay such a price. "

"Because he wanted me to take care of the post office. I know all aboutit, and he doesn't. "

"As soon as he learns, he will reduce your wages. "

"Then I shall leave him. "

"Well, I hope you'll like store work better than I do. "

The next two or three days were spent in removing the post office toone corner of Eben-ezer Graham's store. The removal was superintended byHerbert, who was not interfered with to any extent by his employer, norrequired to do much work in the store. Our hero was agreeably surprised, and began to think he should get along better than he anticipated. 

At the end of the first week the storekeeper, while they were closingthe shutters, said: "I expect, Herbert, you'd just as lieves take yourpay in groceries and goods from the store?"

"No, sir, " answered Herbert, "I prefer to be paid in money, and to payfor such goods as we buy. "

"I don't see what odds it makes to you, " said Ebenezer. "It comes to thesame thing, doesn't it?"

"Then if it comes to the same thing, " retorted Herbert, "why do you wantto pay me in goods?"

"Ahem! It saves trouble. I'll just charge everything you buy, and giveyou the balance Saturday night. "

"I should prefer the money, Mr. Graham, " said Herbert, firmly. 

So the storekeeper, considerably against his will, drew three dollars inbills from the drawer and handed them to his young clerk. 

"It's a good deal of money, Herbert, " he said, "for a boy. There ain'tmany men would pay you such a good salary. "

"I earn every cent of it, Mr. Graham, " said Herbert, whose views on thesalary question differed essentially from those of his employer. 

The next morning Mr. Graham received a letter which evidently disturbedhim. Before referring to its contents, it is necessary to explain thathe had one son, nineteen years of age, who had gone to Boston two yearsprevious, to take a place in a dry-goods store on Washington Street. Ebenezer Graham, Jr. , or Eben, as he was generally called, was, in somerespects, like his father. He had the same features, and was quite asmean, so far as others were concerned, but willing to spend money forhis own selfish pleasures. He was fond of playing pool, and cards, andhad contracted a dangerous fondness for whisky, which consumed all themoney he could spare from necessary expenses, and even more, so that, aswill presently appear, he failed to meet his board bills regularly. Eben had served an apprenticeship in his father's store, having been, in fact, Tom Tripp's predecessor; he tired of his father's strictdiscipline, and the small pay out of which he was required to purchasehis clothes, and went to Boston to seek a wider sphere. 

To do Eben justice, it must be admitted that he had good businesscapacity, and if he had been able, like his father, to exerciseself-denial, and make money-getting his chief enjoyment, he would nodoubt have become a rich man in time. As it was, whenever he could makehis companions pay for his pleasures, he did so. 

I now come to the letter which had brought disquietude to thestorekeeper. 

It ran thus:

"DEAR SIR: I understand that you are the father of Mr. Eben Graham, who has been a boarder at my house for the last six months. I regret totrouble you, but he is now owing me six weeks board, and I cannot geta cent out of him, though he knows I am a poor widow, dependent on myboard money for my rent and house expenses. As he is a minor, the lawmakes you responsible for his bills, and, though I dislike to troubleyou, I am obliged, in justice to myself, to ask you to settle his boardbill, which I inclose. 

"You will do me a great favor if you will send me the amount--thirtydollars--within a week, as my rent is coming due. 

"Yours respectfully, SUSAN JONES. "

The feelings of a man like Ebenezer Graham can be imagined when he readthis unpleasant missive. 

"Thirty dollars!" he groaned. "What can the graceless boy be thinkingof, to fool away his money, and leave his bills to be settled by me. Ifthis keeps on, I shall be ruined! It's too bad, when I am slaving here, for Eben to waste my substance on riotous living. I've a great mind todisown him. Let him go his own way, and fetch up in the poorhouse, if hechooses. "

But it is not easy for a man to cast off an only son, even though he isas poorly supplied with natural affections as Ebenezer Graham. Besides, Eben's mother interceded for him, and the father, in bitterness ofspirit, was about to mail a registered letter to Mrs. Jones, when thecause of his anguish suddenly made his appearance in the store. 

"How are you, father?" he said, nonchalantly, taking a cigar from hismouth. "Didn't expect to see me, did you?"

"What brings you here, Eben?" asked Mr. Graham, uneasily. 

"Well, the cars brought me to Stockton, and I've walked the rest of theway. "

"I've heard of you, " said his father, frowning. "I got a letter lastnight from Mrs. Jones. "

"She said she was going to write, " said Eben, shrugging his shoulders. 

"How came it, " said his father, his voice trembling with anger, "thatyou haven't paid your board bill for six weeks?"

"I didn't have the money, " said Eben, with a composure which waspositively aggravating to his father. 

"And why didn't you have the money? Your wages are ample to pay all yourexpenses. "

"It costs more money to live in Boston than you think for, father. "

"Don't you get ten dollars a week, sir? At your age I got only seven, and saved two dollars a week. "

"You didn't live in Boston, father. "

"I didn't smoke cigars, " said his father, angrily, as he fixed his eyeon the one his son was smoking. "How much did you pay for that miserableweed?"

"You're mistaken, father. It's a very good article. I paid eight dollarsa hundred. "

"Eight dollars a hundred!" gasped Mr. Graham. "No wonder you can't payyour board bill--I can't afford to spend my money on cigars. "

"Oh, yes, you can, father, if you choose. Why, you're a rich man. "

"A rich man!" repeated Mr. Graham, nervously. "It would take a rich manto pay your bills. But you haven't told me why you have come home. "

"I lost my situation, father--some meddlesome fellow told my employerthat I occasionally played a game of pool, and my tailor came to thestore and dunned me; so old Boggs gave me a long lecture and my walkingpapers, and here I am. "

Ebenezer Graham was sorely troubled, and, though he isn't a favorite ofmine, I confess, that in this matter he has my sincere sympathy. 

CHAPTER IV. HERBERT LOSES HIS PLACE. 

Ebenezer Graham with some difficulty ascertained from Eben that he hadother bills, amounting in the aggregate to forty-seven dollars. Thisadded to the board bill, made a total of seventy-seven dollars. Mr. Graham's face elongated perceptibly. 

"That is bad enough, " he said; "but you have lost your income also, andthat makes matters worse. Isn't there a chance of the firm taking youback?"

"No, sir, " replied the prodigal. "You see, we had a flare up, and Iexpressed my opinion of them pretty plainly. They wouldn't take me backif I'd come for nothing. "

"And they won't give you a recommendation, either?" said Ebenezer, witha half groan. 

"No, sir; I should say not. "

"So you have ruined your prospects so far as Boston is concerned, " saidhis father, bitterly. "May I ask how you expect to get along?"

"I have a plan, " said Eben, with cheerful confidence. 

"What is it?"

"I would like to go to California. If I can't get any situation in SanFrancisco, I can go to the mines. "

"Very fine, upon my word!" said his father, sarcastically. "And how doyou propose to get to California?"

"I can go either by steamer, across the isthmus, or over the UnionPacific road. "

"That isn't what I mean. Where are you to get the money to pay your farewith?"

"I suppose you will supply that, " said Eben. 

"You do? Well, it strikes me you have some assurance, " ejaculated Mr. Graham. "You expect me to advance hundreds of dollars, made by workingearly and late, to support a spendthrift son!"

"I'll pay you back as soon as I am able, " said Eben, a little abashed. 

"No doubt! You'd pay me in the same way you pay your board bills, " saidEbenezer, who may be excused for the sneer. "I can invest my money tobetter advantage than upon you. "

"Then, if you will not do that, " said Eben, sullenly, "I will leave youto suggest a plan. "

"There is only one plan I can think of, Eben. Go back to your old placein the store. I will dismiss the Carr boy, and you can attend to thepost office, and do the store work. "

"What, go back to tending a country grocery, after being a salesman in acity store!" exclaimed Eben, disdainfully. 

"Yes, it seems the only thing you have left. It's your own fault thatyou are not still a salesman in the city. "

Eben took the cigar from his mouth, and thought rapidly. 

"Well, " he said, after a pause, "if I agree to do this, what will youpay me?"

"What will I pay you?"

"Yes, will you pay me ten dollars a week--the same as I got at Hanbury &Deane's?"

"Ten dollars a week!" ejaculated Ebenezer, "I don't get any more thanthat myself. "

"I guess there's a little mistake in your calculations, father, " saidEben, significantly. "If you don't make at least forty dollars a week, including the post office, then I am mistaken. "

"So you are--ridiculously mistaken!" said his father, sharply. "Whatyou presume is entirely out of the question. You forget that you willbe getting your board, and Tom Tripp only received a dollar and a half aweek without board. "

"Is that all you pay to Herbert Carr?"

"I pay him a leetle more, " admitted Ebenezer. 

"What will you give me?"

"I'll give you your board and clothes, " said Ebenezer, "and that seemsto be more than you made in Boston. "

"Are you in earnest?" asked Eben, in genuine dismay. 

"Certainly. It isn't a bad offer, either. "

"Do you suppose a young man like me can get along without money?"

"You ought to get along without money for the next two years, after thesums you've wasted in Boston. It will cripple me to pay your bills, " andthe storekeeper groaned at the thought of the inroads the payment wouldmake on his bank account. 

"You're poorer than I thought, if seventy-five dollars will crippleyou, " said Eben, who knew his father's circumstances too well to bemoved by this representation. 

"I shall be in the poorhouse before many years if I undertake to pay allyour bills, Eben. "

After all, this was not, perhaps, an exaggeration, for a spendthrift soncan get through a great deal of money. 

"I can't get along without money, father, " said Eben, decidedly. "Howcan I buy cigars, let alone other things?"

"I don't want you to smoke cigars. You'll be a great deal better offwithout them, " said his father, sharply. 

"I understand; it's necessary to my health, " said Eben, rather absurdly. 

"You won't smoke at my expense, " said Ebenezer, decidedly. "I don'tsmoke myself, and I never knew any good come of it. "

"All the same, I must have some money. What will people say about ayoung man of my age not having a cent in his pocket? They think myfather is very mean. "

"I'll allow you fifty cents a week, " said Mr. Graham, after a pause. 

"That won't do! You seem to think I am only six or seven years old!"

Finally, after considerable haggling, Mr. Graham agreed to pay his sona dollar and a half a week, in cash, besides board and clothes. Hereflected that he should be obliged to board and clothe his son at anyrate, and should save a dollar and a half from Herbert's wages. 

"Well, " he said, "when will you be ready to go to work?"

"I must have a few days to loaf, father. I have been hard at work for along time, and need some rest. "

"Then you can begin next Monday morning. I'll get Herbert to show youhow to prepare the mail, so that you won't have any trouble about thepost-office work. "

"By the way, father, how do you happen to have the post office? Ithought Mrs. Carr was to carry it on. "

"So she did, for a time, but a woman ain't fit for a public position ofthat kind. So I applied for the position, and got it. "

"What's Mrs. Carr going to do?"

"She's got her pension, " said Ebenezer, shortly. 

"Eight dollars a month, isn't it?"

"Yes. "

"That ain't much to support a family. "

"She'll have to do something else, then, I suppose. "

"There isn't much to do in Wayneboro. "

"That isn't my lookout. She can take in sewing, or washing, " suggestedEbenezer, who did not trouble himself much about the care of hisneighbors. "Besides there's Herbert--he can earn something. "

"But I'm to take his place. "

"Oh well, I ain't under any obligations to provide them a livin'. I'vegot enough to take care of myself and my family. "

"You'd better have let her keep the post office, " said Eben. He wasnot less selfish than his father, but then his own interests were notconcerned. He would not have scrupled, in his father's case, to doprecisely the same. 

"It's lucky I've got a little extra income, " said Ebenezer, bitterly;"now I've got your bills to pay. "

"I suppose I shall have to accept your offer, father, " said Eben, "forthe present; but I hope you'll think better of my California plan aftera while. Why, there's a fellow I know went out there last year, went upto the mines, and now he's worth five thousand dollars!"

"Then he must be a very different sort of a person from you, " retortedhis father, sagaciously. "You would never succeed there, if you can't inBoston. "

"I've never had a chance to try, " grumbled Eben. 

There was sound sense in what his father said. Failure at home is verylikely to be followed by failure away from home. There have been casesthat seemed to disprove my assertion, but in such cases failure has onlybeen changed into success by earnest work. I say to my young readers, therefore, never give up a certainty at home to tempt the chances ofsuccess in a distant State, unless you are prepared for disappointment. 

When the engagement had been made with Eben, Mr. Graham called Herbertto his presence. 

"Herbert, " said he, "I won't need you after Saturday night. My son isgoing into the store, and will do all I require. You can tell him how toprepare the mails, et cetery. "

"Very well, sir, " answered Herbert. It was not wholly a surprise, butit was a disappointment, for he did not know how he could make threedollars a week in any other way, unless he left Wayneboro. 

CHAPTER V. EBEN'S SCHEME. 

Saturday night came, and with it the end of Herbert's engagement in thepost office. 

He pocketed the three dollars which his employer grudgingly gave him, and set out on his way home. 

"Wait a minute, Herbert, " said Eben. "I'll walk with you. "

Herbert didn't care much for Eben's company but he was too polite to sayso. He waited therefore, till Eben appeared with hat and cane. 

"I'm sorry to cut you out of your place, Herbert, " said the young man. 

"Thank you, " answered Herbert. 

"It isn't my fault, for I don't want to go into the store, " proceededEben. "A fellow that's stood behind the counter in a city store is fitfor something better, but it's the old man's fault. "

Herbert made no comment, and Eben proceeded:

"Yes, " said he, "it's the old man's fault. He's awfully stingy, you knowthat yourself. "

Herbert did know it, but thought it would not be in good taste to sayso. 

"I suppose Wayneboro is rather dull for you after living in the city, "he remarked. 

"I should say so. This village is a dull hole, and yet father expectsme to stay here cooped up in a little country store. I won't stay herelong, you may be sure of that. "

"Where will you go?"

"I don't know yet. I want to go to California, but I can't unless theold man comes down with the requisite amount of tin. You'll soon haveyour situation back again. I won't stand in your way. "

"I'm not very particular about going back, " said Herbert, "but I mustfind something to do. "

"Just so!" said Eben. "The place will do well enough for a boy like you, but I am a young man, and entitled to look higher. By the way, I've gotsomething in view that may bring me in five thousand dollars within amonth. "

Herbert stared at his companion in surprise, not knowing any short cutto wealth. 

"Do you mean it?" he asked, incredulously. 

"Yes, " said Eben. 

"I suppose you don't care to tell what it is?"

"Oh, I don't mind--it's a lottery. "

"Oh!" said Herbert, in a tone of disappointment. 

"Yes, " answered Eben. "You may think lotteries are a fraud and allthat, but I know a man in Boston who drew last month a prize of fifteenthousand dollars. The ticket only cost him a dollar. What do you say tothat?"

"Such cases can't be very common, " said Herbert, who had a good share ofcommon sense. 

"Not so uncommon as you think, " returned Eben, nodding. "I don't mean tosay that many draw prizes as large as that, but there are other prizesof five thousand dollars, and one thousand, and so on. It would be verycomfortable to draw a prize of even five hundred, wouldn't it now?"

Herbert admitted that it would. 

"I'd send for a ticket by Monday morning's mail, " continued Eben, "ifI wasn't so hard up. The old man's mad because I ran into debt, and hewon't give me a cent. Will you do me a favor?"

"What is it?" asked Herbert, cautiously. 

"Lend me two dollars. You've got it, I know, because you were paid offto-night. I would send for two tickets, and agree to give you quarter ofwhat I draw. Isn't that fair?"

"It may be, " said Herbert, "but I haven't any money to lend. "

"You have three dollars in your pocket at this moment. "

"Yes, but it isn't mine. I must hand it to mother. "

"And give up the chance of winning a prize. I'll promise to give youhalf of whatever I draw, besides paying back the money. "

"Thank you, but I can't spare the money. "

"You are getting as miserly as the old man, " said Eben, with a forcedlaugh. 

"Eben, " said Herbert, seriously, "you don't seem to understand ourposition. Mother has lost the post office, and has but eight dollars amonth income. I've earned three dollars this week, but next week Imay earn nothing. You see, I can't afford to spend money for lotterytickets. "

"Suppose by your caution you lose five hundred dollars. Nothing risk, nothing gain!"

"I have no money to risk, " said Herbert, firmly. 

"Oh, well, do as you please!" said Eben, evidently disappointed. "Ithought I'd make you the offer, because I should like to see you win abig prize. "

"Thank you for your friendly intention, " said Herbert, "but I am afraidthere are a good many more blanks than prizes. If there were not, itwouldn't pay the lottery men to carry on the business. "

This was common sense, and I cannot forbear at this point to press itupon the attention of my young reader. Of all schemes of gaining wealth, about the most foolish is spending money for lottery tickets. Ithas been estimated by a sagacious writer that there is about as muchlikelihood of drawing a large prize in a lottery as of being struck bylightning and that, let us hope, is very small. 

"I guess I won't go any farther, " said Eben, abruptly, having becomeconvinced that Herbert could not be prevailed upon to lend him money. 

"Good-night, then, " said Herbert "Good-night. "

"Well, mother, I'm out of work, " said Herbert, as he entered the littlesitting room, and threw down his week's wages. Our young hero was of acheerful temperament but he looked and felt sober when he said this. 

"But for the Grahams we should have a comfortable living, " the boyproceeded. "First, the father took away the post office from you, andnow the son has robbed me of my place. "

"Don't be discouraged, Herbert, " said his mother. "God will find us away out of our troubles. "

Herbert had been trained to have a reverence for religion, and had faithin the providential care of his heavenly Father, and his mother's wordsrecalled his cheerfulness. 

"You are right, mother, " he said, more hopefully. "I was feelinglow-spirited to-night, but I won't feel so any more. I don't see how weare to live, but I won't let it trouble me tonight. "

"Let us do our part, and leave the rest to God, " said Mrs. Carr. "Hewon't support us in idleness, but I am sure that in some way relief willcome if we are ready to help ourselves. "

"God helps them that help themselves, " repeated Herbert. 

"Exactly so. To-morrow is Sunday, and we won't let any worldly anxietiesspoil that day for us. When Monday comes, we will think over what isbest to be done. "

The next day Herbert and his mother attended church in neat apparel, andthose who saw their cheerful faces were not likely to guess the seriouscondition of their affairs. They were not in debt, to be sure, but, unless employment came soon, they were likely to be ere long, for theyhad barely enough money ahead to last them two weeks. 

Monday morning came, and brought its burden of care. 

"I wish there was a factory in Wayneboro, " said Herbert. "I am told thatboys of my age sometimes earn six or seven dollars a week. "

"I have heard so. Here there seems nothing, except working on a farm. "

"And the farmers expect boys to take their pay principally in board. "

"That is a consideration, but, if possible, I hope we shall not beseparated at meals. "

"I will try other things first, " said Herbert. "How would you like somefish for dinner, mother? My time isn't of any particular value, and Imight as well go fishing. "

"Do so, Herbert. It will save our buying meat, which, indeed, we canhardly afford to do. "

Herbert felt that anything was better than idleness, so he took hispole from the shed, and, after digging a supply of bait, set out for thebanks of the river half a mile away. 

Through a grassy lane leading from the main street, he walked down tothe river with the pole on his shoulder. 

He was not destined to solitude, for under a tree whose branches hungover the river sat a young man, perhaps twenty-five years of age, with abook in his hand. 

CHAPTER VI. HERBERT'S GOOD LUCK. 

"Good-morning, " said the young man, pleasantly. 

"Good-morning, " answered Herbert, politely. 

He recognized the young man, though he had never seen him before, asa visitor from the city, who was boarding at the hotel, if the villagetavern could be so designated. He seemed to be a studious young man, forhe always had a book in his hand. He had a pleasant face, but was paleand slender, and was evidently in poor health. 

"I see you are going to try your luck at fishing, " said the young man. 

"Yes, sir; I have nothing else to do, and that brings me here. "

"I, too, have nothing else to do; but I judge from your appearance thatyou have not the same reason for being idle. "

"What is that, sir?"

"Poor health. "

"No, sir; I have never been troubled in that way. "

"You are fortunate. Health is a blessing not to be overestimated. It isbetter than money. "

"I suppose it is, sir; but at present I think I should value a littlemoney. "

"Are you in want of it?" asked the young man, earnestly. 

"Yes, sir; I have just lost my place in the post office. "

"I think I have seen you in the post office. "

"Yes, sir; my mother had charge of the office till two weeks since, when it was transferred to Mr. Graham. He employed me to attend to theduties, and serve the customers in the store, till Saturday night, whenI was succeeded by his son, who had just returned from the city. "

"Your mother is a widow, is she not?"

"Yes, sir. "

"I know where you live; I have had it pointed out to me. Your fatherserved in the war, did he not?"

"Yes, sir; and the injuries he received hastened his death. "

The young man looked thoughtful. Then he said: "How much did Mr. Grahampay you for your services?"

"Three dollars a week. "

"That was not--excuse the question--all you and your mother had todepend upon, was it?"

"Not quite; mother receives a pension of eight dollars per month. "

"Five dollars a week altogether--that is very little. "

"It is only two dollars now, sir. "

"True; but you have health and strength, and those will bring money. In one respect you are more fortunate than I. You have a mother--I haveneither father nor mother. "

"I'm sorry for you, sir. "

"Thank you; anyone is to be pitied who has lost his parents. Now, as Ihave asked about your affairs, it is only fair that I should tell youabout myself. To begin with, I am rich. Don't look envious, for thereis something to counterbalance. I am of feeble constitution, and thedoctors say that my lungs are affected. I have studied law, but thestate of my health has obliged me to give up, for the present at least, the practice of my profession. "

"But if you are rich you do not need to practice, " said Herbert, who maybe excused for still thinking his companion's lot a happy one. 

"No, I do not need to practice my profession, so far as the earning ofmoney is concerned; but I want something to occupy my mind. The doctorssay I ought to take considerable out-door exercise; but I suppose myphysical condition makes me indolent, for my chief exercise has been, thus far, to wander to the banks of the river and read under the trees. "

"That isn't very severe exercise, " said Herbert, smiling. 

"No; still it keeps me out in the open air, and that is something. Nowtell me, what are your plans?"

"My hope is to find something to do that will enable me to help mother;but there doesn't seem much chance of finding anything in Wayneboro. Doyou think I could get a place in the city?"

"You might; but even if you did, you would find it difficult to earnyour own living, and there would be no chance of your helping yourmother. "

Herbert, though naturally sanguine and hopeful, looked sober. Justthen he had a bite, and drew out a good-sized pickerel. This gave a newdirection to his thoughts, and he exclaimed, triumphantly:

"Look at this pickerel! He must weigh over two pounds. "

"All of that, " said the young man, rising and examining the fish withinterest. "Let me use your pole, and see what luck I have. "

"Certainly. "

The young man, some ten minutes later, succeeded in catching a smallerpickerel, perhaps half the size of Herbert's. 

"That will do for me, " he said, "though it doesn't come up to yourcatch. "

For two hours Herbert and his friend alternately used the pole, and theresult was quite a handsome lot of fish. 

"You have more fish than you want, " said the young man. "You had betterbring what you don't want to the hotel. I heard the landlord say hewould like to buy some. "

"That would suit me, " said Herbert. "If he wants fish, I want money. "

"Come along with me, then. Really, I don't know when I have passed aforenoon so pleasantly. Usually I get tired of my own company, and theday seems long to me. I believe I see my way clear to a better way ofspending my time. You say you want a place. How would you like me for anemployer?"

"I am sure I should like you, but you are not in any business. "

"No, " said the young man, smiling; "or, rather, my business is thepursuit of health and pleasure just now. In that I think you can helpme. "

"I shall be very glad to, if I can, Mr. ---"

"My name is George Melville. Let me explain my idea to you. I want yourcompany to relieve my solitude. In your company I shall have enterpriseenough to go hunting and fishing, and follow out in good faith mydoctor's directions. What do you say?"

Herbert smiled. 

"I would like that better than being in the post office, " he said. "Itwould seem like being paid for having a good time. "

"How much would you consider your services worth?" asked Mr. Melville. 

"I am content to leave that to you, " said Herbert. 

"Suppose we say six dollars a week, then?"

"Six dollars a week!" exclaimed Herbert, amazed. 

"Isn't that enough?" asked Melville, smiling. 

"It is more than I can earn. Mr. Graham thought he was over-paying mewith three dollars a week. "

"You will find me a different man from Mr. Graham, Herbert. I am awarethat six dollars is larger pay than is generally given to boys of yourage. But I can afford to pay it, and I have no doubt you will find themoney useful. "

"It will quite set us on our feet again, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, earnestly. "You are very generous. "

"Oh, you don't know what a hard taskmaster you may find me, " said theyoung man, playfully. "By the way, I consider that you have alreadyentered upon your duties. To-day is the first day. Now come to the hotelwith me, and see what you can get for the fish. I happen to know thattwo of the guests, a lady and her daughter, are anxious for a good fishdinner and, as there is no market here, I think the landlord will beglad to buy from you. "

Mr. Melville was right. Mr. Barton, the landlord, purchased the fishthat Herbert had to sell, for sixty cents, which he promptly paid. 

"Don't that pay you for your morning's work?" asked Melville. 

"I don't know but the money ought to go to you, Mr. Melville, " saidHerbert, "as I am now in your employ. Besides, you caught a part ofthem. "

"I waive all claim to compensation, " said the young man, "though itwould be a novel sensation to receive money for services rendered. Whatwill you say, Herbert, when I tell you that I never earned a dollar inmy life?"

Herbert looked incredulous. 

"It is really true, " said George Melville, "my life has been passed atschool and college, and I have never had occasion to work for money. "

"You are in luck, then. "

"I don't know that; I think those who work for the money they receiveare happy. Tell me, now, don't you feel more satisfaction in the sixtycents you have just been paid because you have earned it?"

"Yes, sir. "

"I thought so. The happiest men are those who are usefully employed. Don't forget that, and never sigh for the opportunity to lead an idlelife. But I suppose your dinner is ready. You may go home, and come backat three o'clock. "

"Very well, sir. "

Herbert made good time going home. He was eager to tell his mother thegood news of his engagement. 

CHAPTER VII. EBEN GROWS ENVIOUS. 

"Well, mother, " said Herbert, as he entered the house, "I have broughtyou enough fish for dinner. "

"I waited to see what luck you would have, Herbert, and therefore havenot got dinner ready. You will have to wait a little while. "

"I shall be all the hungrier, mother, " said Herbert. 

Mrs. Carr could not help noticing the beaming look on her som's face. 

"You look as if you had received a legacy, Herbert, " she said. 

Herbert laughed. 

"There it is, " he said, displaying the sixty cents he had received fromthe landlord. 

"There are ten cents more than I should have received for a whole day'swork at the store, " he said. 

"Where did you get it, Herbert?"

"I sold a mess of fish to Mr. Barton, of the hotel. "

"You must have had good luck in fishing, " said his mother, lookingpleased. 

"I had help, mother. Mr. Melville, the young man from the city, whoboards at the hotel, helped me fish. "

"Well, Herbert, you have made a good beginning. I couldn't help feelinga little depressed when you left me this morning, reflecting that wehad but my pension to depend upon. It seemed so unlucky that Eben Grahamshould have come home just at this time to deprive you of your place inthe store. "

"It was a piece of good luck for me, mother. "

"I don't see how, " said Mrs. Carr, naturally puzzled. 

"Because I have a better situation already. "

Then Herbert, who had been saving the best news for the last, told hismother of his engagement as Mr. Melville's companion, and the handsomecompensation he was to receive. 

"Six dollars a week!" repeated his mother. "That is indeed generous. Herbert, we did well to trust in Providence. "

"Yes, mother; and we have not trusted in vain. "

After dinner Herbert did some chores for his mother, and then went tothe hotel to meet his new employer. He found him occupying a large andpleasant room on the second floor. The table near the window was coveredwith books, and there were some thirty or forty volumes arranged onshelves. 

"I always bring books with me, Herbert, " said the young man. "I am veryfond of reading, and hitherto I have occupied too much time, perhaps, inthat way--too much, because it has interfered with necessary exercise. Hereafter I shall devote my forenoon to some kind of outdoor exercisein your company, and in the afternoon you can read to me, or we canconverse. "

"Shall I read to you now, Mr. Melville?" asked Herbert. 

"Yes; here is a recent magazine. I will select an article for you toread. It will rest my eyes, and besides it is pleasanter to have acompanion than to read one's self. "

The article was one that interested Herbert as well as Mr. Melville, andhe was surprised when he had finished to find that it was nearly fiveo'clock. 

"Didn't the reading tire you, Herbert?" asked Melville. 

"No, sir; not at all. "

"It is evident that your lungs are stronger than mine. "

At five o'clock Melville dismissed his young companion. 

"Do you wish me to come this evening?" asked Herbert. 

"Oh, no. I wouldn't think of taking up your evenings. "

"At the post office I had to stay till eight o'clock. "

"Probably it was necessary there; I won't task you so much. "

"When shall I come to-morrow?"

"At nine o'clock. "

"That isn't very early, " said Herbert, smiling. 

"No, I don't get up very early. My health won't allow me to cultivateearly rising. I shall not be through breakfast much before nine. "

"I see you don't mean to overwork me, Mr. Melville. "

"No, for it would involve overworking myself. "

"I shall certainly have an easy time, " thought Herbert, as he walkedhomeward. 

He reflected with satisfaction that he was being paid at the rate of adollar a day, which was quite beyond anything he had ever before earned. Indeed, to-day he had earned sixty cents besides. The sum received forthe fish. 

After supper Herbert went to the store to purchase some articles for hismother. He was waited on by Mr. Graham in person. As the articles calledfor would amount to nearly one dollar, the storekeeper said, cautiously:"Of course, you are prepared to pay cash?"

"Certainly, sir, " returned Herbert. 

"I mentioned it because I knew your income was small, " said Ebenezer, apologetically. 

"It is more than it was last week, " said Herbert, rather enjoying theprospect of surprising the storekeeper. 

"Why, you ain't found anything to do, have you?" asked Mr. Graham, hisface indicating curiosity. 

"Yes, sir; I am engaged as companion by Mr. Melville, who is staying atthe hotel. "

"I don't know what he wants of a companion, " said the storekeeper, withthat disposition to criticise the affairs of his neighbors often foundin country places. 

"He thinks he needs one, " answered Herbert. 

"And how much does he pay you now?" queried Ebenezer. 

"Six dollars a week. "

"You don't mean it!" ejaculated the storekeeper. "Why, the man must becrazy!"

"I don't think he is, " said Herbert, smiling. 

"Got plenty of money, I take it?" continued Ebenezer, who had a goodshare of curiosity. 

"Yes; he tells me he is rich. "

"How much money has he got?"

"He didn't tell me that. "

"Well, I declare! You're lucky, that's a fact!"

There was an interested listener to this conversation in the person ofEben, who had been in the store all day, taking Herbert's place. Aswe know, the position by no means suited the young man. He had beenemployed in a store in Boston, and to come back to a small countrygrocery might certainly be considered a descent. Besides, the smallcompensation allowed him was far from satisfying Eben. 

He was even more dissatisfied when he learned how fortunate Herbert was. To be selected as a companion by a rich young man was just what he wouldhave liked himself, and he flattered himself that he should make a moredesirable companion than a mere boy like Herbert. 

As our hero was leaving the store, Eben called him back. 

"What was that you were telling father about going round with a youngman from the city?" he asked. 

Herbert repeated it. 

"And he pays you six dollars a week?" asked Eben, enviously. 

"Yes; of course, I shouldn't have asked so much, but he fixed the pricehimself. "

"You think he is very rich?" said Eben, thoughtfully. 

"Yes, I think so. "

"What a splendid chance it would be for me!" thought Eben. "If I couldget intimate with a man like that, he might set me up in business someday; perhaps take me to Europe, or round the world!" "How much of thetime do you expect to be with this Mr. Melville?" he asked. 

Herbert answered the question. 

"Does he seem like a man easy to get along with?"

"Very much so. "

Eben inwardly decided that, if he could, he would oust Herbert from hisdesirable place, and substitute himself. It was a very mean thought, butEben inherited meanness from his father. 

"Herbert, " he said, "will you do me a favor?"

"What is it?" asked our hero. 

"Will you take my place in the store this evening? I am not feelingwell, and want to take a walk. "

"Yes, " answered Herbert, "as soon as I have run home to tell motherwhere I am. "

"That's a good fellow. You shan't lose anything by it. I'll give you tencents. "

"You needn't pay me anything, Eben. I'll do it as a favor. "

"You're a trump, Herbert. Come back as soon as you can. "

When Eben was released from the store, he went over to the hotel, andinquired for Mr. Melville, leaving his unsuspecting young substitute inthe post office. 

CHAPTER VIII. EBEN'S ASSURANCE. 

"A young man wishes to see you, Mr. Melville, " said the servant. 

George Melville looked up in some surprise from his book, and said: "Youmay show him up. "

"It must be Herbert, " he thought. 

But when the door was opened, and the visitor shown in, Mr. Melvillefound it was an older person than Herbert. Eben, for it was he, distorted his mean features into what he regarded as a pleasant smile, and, without waiting to receive a welcome, came forward with extendedhand. 

"I believe you are Mr. Melville, " he said, inquiringly. 

"Yes, that is my name, " said Melville, looking puzzled; "I don'tremember you. Have I met you before?"

"You saw me in father's store, very likely, " said Eben. "I am EbenGraham, son of Ebenezer Graham, the postmaster. "

"Indeed! That accounts for your face looking familiar. You resemble yourfather very closely. "

"I'm a chip off the old block with modern improvements, " said Eben, smirking. "Father's always lived in the country, and he ain't verystylish. I've been employed in Boston for a couple of years past, andgot a little city polish. "

"You don't show much of it, " thought Melville, but he refrained fromsaying so. 

"So you have come home to assist your father, " he said, politely. 

"Well, no, not exactly, " answered Eben, "I feel that a country storeisn't my sphere. "

"Then you propose to go back to the city?"

"Probably I shall do so eventually, but I may stay here in Wayneboro awhile if I can make satisfactory arrangements. I assure you that it wasnot my wish to take Herbert Carr's place. "

"Herbert told me that you had assumed his duties. "

"It is only ad interim. I assure you, it is only ad interim. I am quiteready to give back the place to Herbert, who is better suited to it thanI. "

"I wonder what the fellow is driving at, " thought Melville. Eben did notlong leave him in doubt. 

"Herbert tells me that he has made an engagement with you, " continuedEben, desiring to come to his business as soon as possible. 

"Yes, we have made a mutual arrangement. "

"Of course, it is very nice for him; and so I told him. "

"I think I am quite as much a gainer by it as he is, " said Melville. 

"Herbert was right. He is easily suited, " said Eben, to himself. 

"Of course, " Eben added, clearing his throat, "Herbert isn't so much ofa companion to you as if he were a few years older. "

"I don't know that; it seems to me that he is a very pleasant companion, young as he is. "

"To be sure, Herbert is a nice boy, and father was glad to help himalong by giving him a place, with a larger salary than he ever paidbefore. "

"What is he driving at?" thought Melville. 

"To come to the point, Mr. Melville, " said Eben, "I have made bold tocall upon you to suggest a little difference in your arrangements. "

"Indeed!" said Melville, coldly. Though he had no idea what his singularvisitor was about to propose, it struck him emphatically that Eben wasinterfering in an unwarrantable manner with his affairs. 

"You see, " continued Eben, "I'm a good deal nearer your age thanHerbert, and I've had the advantage of residing in the city, whichHerbert hasn't, and naturally should be more company to you. Then, again, Herbert could do the work in the post office and store, which Iam doing, nearly as well as I can. I'll undertake to get father to givehim back his place, and then I shall be happy to make an arrangementwith you to go hunting and fishing, or anything else that you choose. I am sure I should enjoy your company, Mr. Melville, " concluded Eben, rubbing his hands complacently and surveying George Melville with aninsinuating smile. 

"You have certainly taken considerable trouble to arrange this matterfor me, " said Melville, with a sarcasm which Eben did not detect. 

"Oh, no trouble at all!" said Eben, cheerfully. "You see, the idea cameinto my head when Herbert told me of his arrangements with you, and Ithought I'd come and see you about it. "

"Did you mention it to Herbert?" asked George Melville, with somecuriosity. 

"Well, no, I didn't. I didn't know how Herbert would look at it. I gotHerbert to take my place in the store while I ran over to see you aboutthe matter. By the way, though I am some years older than Herbert, Ishan't ask more than you pay him. In fact, I am willing to leave the payto your liberality. "

"You are very considerate!" said Melville, hardly knowing whether to beamused or provoked by the cool assurance of his visitor. 

"Oh, not at all!" returned Eben, complacently. "I guess I've fetchedhim!" he reflected, looking at Mr. Melville through his small, half-closed eyes. 

"You have certainly surprised me very much, Mr. Graham, " said Melville, "by the nature of your suggestion. I won't take into consideration thequestion whether you have thought more of your own pleasure or mine. So far as the latter is concerned, you have made a mistake in supposingthat Herbert's youth is any drawback to his qualification as acompanion. Indeed, his youth and cheerful temperament make him moreattractive in my eyes. I hope, Mr. Graham, you will excuse me for sayingthat he suits me better than you possibly could. "

Eben's countenance fell, and he looked quite discomfited and mortified. 

"I didn't suppose a raw, country boy would be likely to suit a gentlemanof taste, who has resided in the city, " he said, with asperity. 

"Then you will have a chance to correct your impression, " said Melville, with a slight smile. 

"Then you don't care to accept my offer?" said Eben, regretfully. 

"Thank you, no. If you will excuse me for suggesting it, Mr. Graham, it would have been more considerate for you to have apprised Herbert ofyour object in asking him to take your place this evening. Probably hehad no idea that you meant to supersede him with me. "

Eben tossed his head. 

"You mustn't think, Mr. Melville, " he said, "that I was after the extrapay. Six dollars doesn't seem much to me. I was earning ten dollars aweek in Boston, and if I had stayed, should probably have been raised totwelve. "

"So that you were really consenting to a sacrifice in offering to entermy employment at six dollars a week?"

"Just so!"

"Then I am all the more convinced that I have decided for the best inretaining Herbert. I do not wish to interfere with your prospects in thecity. "

"Oh, as for that, " said Eben, judging that he had gone too far, "Idon't care to go back to the city just yet. I've been confined prettysteadily, and a few weeks in the country, hunting and fishing, will dome good. "

George Melville bowed, but said nothing. 

Eben felt that he had no excuse for staying longer, and reluctantlyrose. 

"If you should think better of what I've proposed, " he said, "you canlet me know. "

"I will do so, " said Melville. 

"He's rather a queer young man, " muttered Eben, as he descended thestairs. "It's funny that he should prefer a country boy like Herbert toa young man like me who's seen life, and got some city polish--at thesame price, too! He don't seem to see his own interest. I'm sorry, forit would have been a good deal more interesting to me, going round withhim a few hours a day, than tending store for father. There's one thingsure, I won't do it long. I'm fitted for a higher position than that, Ihope. "

"For downright impudence and cool assurance, I think that young man willbear off the palm, " thought George Melville, as his unwelcome visitorleft the room. "Herbert is in no danger from him. It would probablysurprise him if he knew that I should consider his company as anintolerable bore. I will tell Herbert to-morrow the good turn his friendhas tried to do him. "

CHAPTER IX. THE SOLITARY FARMHOUSE. 

If Eben had been sensitive, the cool reception which he met with at thehands of Mr. Melville would have disturbed him. As it was, he feltangry and disappointed, and desirous of "coming up with" Herbert, as heexpressed it, though it was hard to see in what way the boy had injuredhim. It did not seem quite clear at present how he was to punishHerbert, but he only waited for an occasion. 

When Herbert learned, the next morning, from Mr. Melville, in whatmanner Eben had tried to undermine him, and deprive him of hissituation, he was naturally indignant. 

"I didn't think Eben Graham could be so mean, " he exclaimed. 

"It was certainly a mean thing to do, Herbert, " said George Melville;"but you can afford to treat young Graham with contempt, as he has beenunable to do you any injury. "

"What shall we do this morning, Mr. Melville?" asked Herbert. 

"I should like a row on the river, " said Melville. "Do you know of anyboat we can have?"

"Walter Ingalls has a boat; I think we can hire that. "

"Do you know him?"

"Yes, sir. "

"Then you may go and ascertain whether we can have it, or I will go withyou to avoid loss of time. "

The boat was readily loaned, and the two were soon on the river. Mr. Melville first took the oars, but he was quickly fatigued, and resignedthem to Herbert, who was strong and muscular for his age. As hiscompanion observed his strong and steady strokes, he said:

"Herbert, I am disposed to envy you your strength and endurance. I gettired very easily. "

"Were you not strong when a boy?" asked Herbert. 

"I never had much endurance. My mother had a feeble constitution and wasconsumptive, and I inherit something of her weakness. "

"It is fortunate that you have money, Mr. Melville, so that you are notobliged to work. "

"True; but I would give half my fortune to be strong and well. "

Herbert noticed the hectic flush upon Mr. Melville's cheeks, and hiswhite, transparent hands, and his sympathy was aroused. 

"I see, " he said, thoughtfully, "that I am more fortunate than I thoughtin my health and strength. "

"They are blessings not to be overestimated, Herbert. However, my lotis, on the whole, a happy one, even though my life will probably bebrief, and I have still many sources of satisfaction and enjoyment. "

The river led away from the village, flowing between wooded banks, withhere and there a cottage set in the midst of the fields. Lying back inthe stern, Melville enjoyed their tranquil passage, when their attentionwas suddenly attracted by a boy who stood on the bank, franticallywaving his hat. Melville was the first to see him. 

"What can that boy want?" he asked. 

Herbert immediately looked around, and exclaimed in surprise:

"It's Tom Tripp!"

"Row to shore, and see what he wants, " said Melville, quickly. 

They were already near, and in a brief space of time they touched thebank. 

"What's the matter, Tom?"

"There's a tramp in the house, stealing all he can lay hands on, "answered Tom, in excitement. 

"What house?"

"Farmer Cole's. "

Mr. Cole was the farmer for whom Tom Tripp was working. 

Tom explained that the farmer was gone to the village, leaving his wifealone. A tramp had come to the door and asked for a meal. While Mrs. Cole was getting something for him, the visitor looked about him and, finding that there was no man about, boldly demanded money, afterunceremoniously possessing himself of the silver spoons. 

"Is he armed?" asked Melville. 

"I don't know; I don't think so. "

"Does he know that you have gone for help?"

"No; he did not see me. I came from the fields, and saw him through thewindow. Mrs. Cole thinks I am in the field and there is no help near. "

Physical courage and physical strength do not always go together, anda weak man often excels a strong man in bravery. George Melville wasthoroughly roused. For injustice or brutality he had a hearty contempt, and he was not one to stand by and see a ruffian triumph. 

"Come, Herbert, " he said; "let us go to the help of this poor woman. "

"With all my heart, " answered Herbert, his eyes flashing. 

Before describing the appearance of Herbert and George Melville uponthe scene, I will go back a few minutes and relate what happened at thefarmhouse. 

Mrs. Cole was engaged in ironing when she heard a knock at the door. 

Answering the summons, she found herself confronted by an ill-lookingfellow whose dusty and travel-soiled garments revealed the character ofthe wearer. 

"What is it you wish?" asked the farmer's wife. 

"I'm hungry!" said the tramp. "Can you give me something to eat?"

"Yes, " answered Mrs. Cole, cheerfully, for the good woman could not findit in her heart to turn away a fellow creature suffering from hunger. "We have enough and to spare. Come in, and sit down at the table. "

The visitor followed her into the kitchen and took a seat at the table, while the farmer's wife went to the pantry and brought out half a loafof bread and a plate of cold meat. 

The tramp was not long in attacking it, but after a few mouthfuls laiddown his knife and fork. 

"Where's the coffee?" he asked. 

"I have no warm coffee, " she answered. 

"Don't you drink coffee in the morning?"

"Yes, but breakfast was over two or three hours since. Shall I get you aglass of water?"

"Haven't you any cider?"

"It seems to me you are particular, " said Mrs. Cole, growing indignant. 

"All the same I want some cider, " said the tramp, impudently. 

"I have no cider, " answered Mrs. Cole, shortly. 

"A pretty farmhouse this is, without cider, " growled the tramp. "You canmake me some coffee, then!"

"Who are you to order me round in my own house?" demanded Mrs. Cole, angrily. "One would think you took this for a hotel. "

"I take it for what I please, " said the tramp. 

"If my husband were here you wouldn't dare to talk to me like this!"

It was an unguarded admission, made on the impulse of the moment, andMrs. Cole felt its imprudence as soon as she had uttered the words, butit was too late to recall them. 

"Where is your husband?" asked the tramp, his face lighting up with agleam of exultation. 

"Near by, " answered Mrs. Cole, evasively; but her visitor saw that thiswas not correct. 

"How much money have you in the house?" he demanded, abruptly. 

"Money?" gasped the farmer's wife, turning pale. 

"Yes, money! Didn't I speak plain enough?" asked the tramp, angrily. 

"Are you a thief, then?"

"Don't you dare to call me a thief!" said the tramp, menacingly. 

"Then, if you are an honest man, why do you ask that question?"

"Because I am going to borrow what money you have. "

"Borrow!"

"Yes, " said the man, with a grin. "I'll hand it back when I come aroundagain. "

Under ordinary circumstances there would not have been money enough inthe farmhouse to be anxious about, but it so happened that Farmer Colehad sold a yoke of oxen, and the money received, a hundred dollars, was upstairs in a bureau drawer. The thought of this, though she didn'tsuppose the tramp to be aware of it, was enough to terrify Mrs. Cole, and she sank back in the chair in a panic. Of course the tramp inferredthat there was a considerable sum in the house. 

"Come, hurry up!" he said, roughly, "I can't wait here all day. Where doyou keep the money?"

"It is my husband's, " said Mrs. Cole, terrified out of all prudence. 

"All right! I'll pay it back to him. While you're about it, you maycollect all the spoons, too. I'm going to open a boarding house, " hecontinued, with a chuckle, "and I shall need them. "

"Oh, heavens! What shall I do?" ejaculated the frightened woman. 

CHAPTER X. AN EXCITING SCENE. 

"You'd better go upstairs and get that money, or I will go up myself, "said the tramp, boldly. 

"I will go, " said Mrs. Cole, terrified. 

It was at this time that Tom Tripp, looking in at the window, got anidea of the situation, but he was unobserved. The river bank was near, and he ran down to it, hoping, but not expecting, to see some one whocould interfere with the impudent robber. We have already seen that hewas luckier than he anticipated. 

Meanwhile Mrs. Cole went upstairs, not knowing how to save the moneyfrom being carried away. She wished heartily that her husband had takenit with him. One hundred dollars, as she well knew, would be a seriousloss to her husband, who was only moderately well to do. She thoughtit possible that the tramp might know how large a sum there was in thehouse, but could not be sure. She resolved, however, to make an effortto save the larger part of the money. From the wallet she took twofive-dollar bills, and then, removing it from the drawer, put it betweenthe beds. She lingered as long as she dared, and then went downstairswith the two bills in her hand. 

"Well, have you got the money?" growled the tramp. 

"Don't take it, " she said; "be satisfied with the breakfast I have givenyou. "

"You're a fool!" said the tramp, rudely. "How much have you got there?"

"Ten dollars. "

"Ten dollars!" said the tramp, disdainfully. "What do you take me for?"

"It is a large sum of money to me and my husband, sir, " said the poorwoman, nervously. 

"It isn't enough for me! You have got more money in the house. Don't lieto me! You know you have. "

"I am not used to be talked to in that way, " said Mrs. Cole, forgettingher timidity for the moment. 

"I can't help what you are used to; you'd better not trifle with me. Goupstairs and bring down the rest of the money--do you hear?"

"Oh, sir!"

"'Oh, sir!'" repeated the tramp, impatiently. "I can't stay here allday. Are you going to do as I tell you?"

"I suppose I must, " said the poor woman. 

"That's sensible. You'll find out after a while that nothing is to begained by trying to fool me. I'll give you just three minutes to findthat money and bring it down. "

"You'll leave the spoons, then?"

"No; I want them, as I've already told you. Come, two minutes arepassed. I don't want to kill you, but--"

Mrs. Cole uttered a shriek of dismay, and turned to obey the commandof her unwelcome visitor, when a loud, clear voice was heard from justoutside the window. 

"Stay where you are, Mrs. Cole! There is help at hand. This ruffianshall not harm you. "

It was the voice of George Melville. The tramp turned swiftly and staredin ill-disguised dismay at Melville and Herbert. 

"What business is it of yours?" he demanded, in a blustering tone. 

"We make it our business to defend this lady from your thievishdesigns, " said Melville. 

"You!" exclaimed the tramp, contemptuously. "Why, I could twist eitherof you round my little finger. "

"You'd better not try it!" said Melville, not showing the leasttrepidation. "Mrs. Cole, has this man anything of yours in hispossession?"

"He has my spoons and I have just handed him ten dollars. "

George Melville turned to the tramp. 

"Be kind enough to lay the spoons on the table, " he said, "and give backthe ten dollars Mrs. Cole handed you. "

"You must think I'm a fool!" said the tramp. 

"No; but I think you are a prudent man. If you do as I say we will letyou go; if not--"

"Well, if not?" blustered the tramp. 

"If not, you may regret it. "

All this time George Melville had spoken in his usual tone of voice, andthe tramp was puzzled to know whether he had any weapon with him. Forhimself, he was unarmed, and this made him feel rather ill at ease, notwithstanding his superiority in physical strength. He was ratherdisposed to think that George Melville had a pistol, for he could notunderstand how otherwise he should dare to confront a man of twice hissize and strength. 

"I don't care for the spoons, " he said, "but I will take the money. "

"No, you will return the money, " said Melville, calmly. 

"Who will make me?" demanded the tramp, defiantly. 

"I will. "

"We'll see about that!" said the tramp, desperately, and he sprangtowards Melville, who had in the meantime entered the house and stoodonly six feet distant. 

"Stay where you are!" exclaimed Melville, resolutely, and he drew apistol, which he leveled at his formidable antagonist. 

"That settles it, stranger!" said the tramp, "You've got the advantageof me this time. Just wait till we meet again. "

"I am willing to wait for some time, " said Melville, shrugging hisshoulders. "I have no desire to cultivate your acquaintance, my friend. "

"There are the spoons!" said the tramp, throwing them down on the table. 

"Now for the money!"

The tramp looked at George Melville. Melville still held the pistol inhis hand leveled at his breast. The thief was a large man, but he wasnot a brave one. He cowered before the resolute glance of his smallopponent. 

"Won't you interfere with me if I give back the money?" he asked. 

"No. "

"Will you let me go without firing at me?"

"Yes. "

"Perhaps you won't keep your agreement, " suggested the tramp, nervously. 

"I am a man of my word, " said Melville, calmly. 

His calm, resolute tone, free from all excitement, impressed the trampwith confidence. He drew the notes from his vest pocket, where he hadthrust them, and threw them on the table. 

"Now, may I go?" he said. 

In answer, George Melville, who stood between him and the door, drewaside, still, however, holding the pistol in position, and the tramppassed out, not sorry, it may be said, to get out of range of theweapon. 

They watched him striding through the yard, and when he was fairly goneMrs. Cole said:

"Oh, how can I thank you for saving me from this wretch?"

"I am glad to have been the instrument of deliverance, " said Melville, politely. 

"It was fortunate you had the pistol with you, Mr. Melville, " saidHerbert. 

"Well, yes, perhaps it was, " said Melville, smiling. 

"Pray, put it up, Mr. Melville, " said the farmer's wife, "it alwaysmakes me nervous to see a loaded pistol. "

Melville bowed, and put back the pistol in his pocket. 

"As your unpleasant visitor has gone, " he said, "I may as well relieveyour fears by saying that the pistol is not loaded. "

"Not loaded!" exclaimed Herbert and Tom Tripp in concert. 

"No; it has not been loaded to my knowledge for a year. "

"Then how could you stand up against that man?" asked the farmer's wife, in wonder. 

"He thought it was loaded!" replied Melville, "and that answered thepurpose. I should be very reluctant to use a loaded pistol, for I havea high idea of the sacredness of human life, but I have no objection toplaying upon the fears of a man like that. "

Melville and Herbert remained at the farmhouse for half an hour, tillthe return of the farmer, when they resumed their river trip. Theyreturned about noon. When they were walking through the main street, Herbert saw the town constable approaching with the air of a man who hadbusiness with him. 

"Did you wish to speak to me, Mr. Bruce?" he asked. 

"Yes, Herbert. I have a warrant for your arrest. "

"For my arrest!" exclaimed Herbert, in amazement. "What for?"

"On complaint of Eben Graham, for abstracting postage stamps and moneyfrom the post office last evening. "

CHAPTER XI. TRIED FOR THEFT. 

Herbert stared at the constable in blank amazement. 

"I am charged with stealing stamps and money from the post office?" hesaid. 

"Yes. "

"Who makes the charge?" demanded Herbert, in great excitement. 

"Eben Graham. "

"I don't know what it means, " said our hero, turning to George Melville. 

"It means, " said Melville, "that the fellow is envious of you, and angrybecause he cannot supersede you with me. He evidently wants to do you aninjury. "

"It must be so; but I did not imagine that Eben could be so mean. Mr. Bruce, do you believe that I am a thief?"

"No, I don't, Herbert, " said the constable, "and it was very muchagainst my will that I started out to arrest you, you may be sure. "

"When do you want me to go with you?" asked Herbert. 

"You will go before Justice Slocum at two o'clock. "

"Is it necessary for me to go to the lockup?" asked Herbert, shrinking, with natural repugnance, from entering the temporary house of tramps andlaw breakers. 

"No, Herbert, " answered the constable, in a friendly tone. "I'll take itupon myself to let you go home to dinner. I will call for you at quarterof two. Of course I shall find you ready to accompany me?"

"Yes, Mr. Bruce, I am impatient to meet Eben Graham, and tell him to hisface that he has been guilty of a mean and contemptible falsehood, incharging me with theft. Not a person in the village who knows me willbelieve it. "

"I will also call at your house, Herbert, " said George Melville, "andaccompany you to the office of the justice. I shall ask leave to givethe details of Eben Graham's visit to me last evening. "

"Thank you, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, "I am glad you do not believe aword of this story. "

"I am not so easily deceived, Herbert. It is quite possible that stampsand money have been stolen, but, if so, it is your false friend andaccuser who is guilty. "

Of course Herbert had to tell his mother what had happened. She wasagitated and alarmed, but became calmer when Herbert told her what wasEben's probable motive in making the charge. 

"How can he behave so shamefully!" exclaimed the indignant parent. 

"I didn't think him capable of it, myself, mother, although I had a pooropinion of him. "

"Suppose that you can't prove that you are innocent, Herbert?" said Mrs. Carr, anxiously. 

"It is for him to prove that I am guilty, mother, " answered Herbert, whoknew this much of law. 

At a quarter of two Constable Bruce and Mr. Melville walked to the housetogether. 

The door was opened for them by Herbert himself. 

"So you haven't taken leg bail, Herbert, " said the constable, jocosely. 

"No, Mr. Bruce, I am on hand; I am in a hurry to meet Mr. Eben Grahamand see whether he can look me in the face after his shameful behavior. "

"Oh, Mr. Bruce, I never thought you would call at my home on such anerrand, " said Mrs. Carr, on the point of breaking down. 

"Don't worry, Mrs. Carr, " said the constable; "anybody may be chargedwith theft, however innocent. Your son has good friends who won't seehim treated with injustice. "

Herbert's mother was desirous of accompanying them to the office of thejustice, but was persuaded to remain behind. Herbert knew that in herindignation she would not be able to be silent when she saw Eben Graham. 

Justice Slocum was an elderly man, with a mild face and gray hair. WhenHerbert entered he greeted him in a friendly way. 

"I am sorry to see you here, my boy, " he said, "but I am sure there issome mistake. I have known you ever since you were a baby, and I don'tbelieve you are guilty of theft now. "

"I submit, Judge Slocum, " said Eben Graham, who sat in a corner, hismean features looking meaner and more insignificant than usual, "Isubmit that you are prejudging the case. "

"Silence, sir!" said Judge Slocum, warmly. "How dare you impugn myconduct? Though Herbert were my own son, I would give you a chance toprove him guilty. "

"I hope you'll excuse me, judge, " said Eben, cringing. "I am as sorry asyou are to believe the boy guilty of stealing. "

"Do your worst and say your worst, Eben Graham!" said Herbert, contemptuously, "but be very careful that you do not swear falsely. "

"I don't need any instructions from you, Herbert Carr, considering thatyou are a criminal on trial, " said Eben, maliciously. 

"You are mistaken, sir, " said George Melville. "To be under arrest doesnot make a man or boy a criminal. "

"I am sure I am much obliged for the information, Mr. Melville, " saidEben, spitefully. "You've chosen a nice companion. "

"There you are right, " said Melville, gravely. "I have done much betterthan if I had hired you. "

Eben winced, but did not reply. 

George Melville whispered to Herbert:

"Are you willing to accept me as your lawyer? I am not much of one, tobe sure, but this case is very simple. "

"I am very grateful for your offer, and accept it, " said Herbert. 

I do not propose to record the whole scene in detail, but only to give ageneral idea of the proceedings. 

Eben Graham was sworn as a witness, and deposed that he had left Herbertin charge of the post office the previous evening. On his return heexamined the stamps and contents of the money drawer, and found, to hissurprise, that five dollars in money and six dollars' worth of stampswere missing. 

"How did you know they were missing?" asked Melville. 

"Because I knew precisely how much money was in the drawer and how manystamps were there. "

"Then you counted them just before you went out?"

"Yes, sir. "

"That was rather a singular time to make the count, was it not?"

"I don't know that it was, sir. "

"I should suppose the end of the day would be a more appropriate time. "

"I don't think so, " answered Eben, shortly. 

"Were you led to make the count because you suspected Herbert'shonesty?" asked Mr. Melville. 

"That was the very reason I did it, " said Eben, with a malicious glanceat Herbert. 

"Isn't it a little curious that you should have selected a boy whosehonesty you doubted, to fill your place?" asked George Melville, carelessly. 

"There wasn't anybody else; he knew all about post-office work. "answered Eben. 

"Very good! Now, Mr. Graham, if you have no objection, will you tell whyyou wanted to get away from the post office last evening?"

Eben fidgeted, for he saw what was coming, and it made him nervous. 

"I wanted a little rest, " he answered, after a pause. 

"Where did you go?"

"Why do you ask me that question?" asked Eben, moving about uneasily. 

"Because I desire an answer. "

"You know where I went, " returned Eben, sullenly. 

"Yes, but I wish you to tell me. "

"Answer the question, witness!" said the judge, briefly. 

"I went to the hotel, " replied Eben, evasively. 

"On whom did you call?"

"On you!" answered Eben, reluctantly. 

"We have come to it at last. Now, what was your business with me?"

"To tell you that Herbert would not suit you as a companion, " said thewitness, who thought this answer rather a clever one. 

"Whom did you recommend in his place?" pursued the questioner, relentlessly. 

Eben hesitated, but his cleverness came again to his aid. 

"I told you that I would be willing to come just to oblige you, " hesaid. 

"Did Herbert know that you were going to make this proposal?"

"No. "

"You asked him, then, to remain in the post office while you absentedyourself with a view of depriving him of the position he had justsecured in my employ?"

"I would have got father to take him again in the store and postoffice, " said Eben, defending himself from the implied charge oftreachery. 

"Yes, you told me so. "

Eben nodded triumphantly. Even Melville had to admit that he was nottreating Herbert meanly. 

"By the way, " said Melville, "isn't it rather strange that you shouldhave been ready to recommend in your place a boy whose honesty youdoubted?"

"I didn't know he was a thief, " said Eben, somewhat abashed. 

"No, but you suspected his honesty. That was your reason for countingthe money and stamps before you left the office. At least, that is thereason you have given. "

"He had been in the office before I was there, " said Eben, uneasily. 

"While he was there, were any stamps missing? Was he suspected of takingany stamps or money?"

"Not that I know of. "

"Now, Mr. Graham, what answer did I make to your application?"

"What application?"

"To take you into my employ instead of Herbert. "

"You wanted to keep him, " said the witness, sullenly. 

"Precisely. Having failed, then, in your application, you went home anddiscovered that some money and stamps had been stolen. "

"Yes, sir. I was very much surprised--"

"That will do, sir. Your discovery was remarkably well-timed. Herberthaving obtained the position you sought, you straightway discoveredproof of his dishonesty. "

Eben colored, for the insinuation was plain enough for even him tounderstand. 

"The two things had nothing to do with each other!" he said. 

"That may be, but I call the attention of the judge to a very remarkablecoincidence. Have the missing stamps or money been found on the personof the defendant?"

"He hasn't been searched. "

"I will take it upon me to say that he is ready to submit to anexamination, " said Melville. 

Herbert said, emphatically, "I am. "

"Oh, it isn't likely you'd find anything now. " said Eben, with a sneer. 

"Why not?"

"He has had plenty of time to put 'em away. "

"I am willing to have my mother's house searched, " said Herbert, promptly. 

"Oh, they ain't there!" said Eben, significantly. 

"Where are they, then?"

Eben's answer took Herbert and his lawyer, and the judge himself, bysurprise. 

CHAPTER XII. EBEN'S TRUMP CARD. 

"I guess they're--a part of them--inside this letter, " he said. 

As he spoke he produced a letter, stamped and sealed, but notpostmarked. The letter was addressed:

"Messrs. Jones & Fitch, "---Chestnut Street, "Philadelphia. "

"What makes you think this letter contains money or postage stamps, Mr. Graham?" asked George Melville. 

"Because I've seen an advertisement of Jones & Fitch in one of theweekly papers. They advertise to send several articles to any address onreceipt of seventy-five cents in postage stamps. "

"Very well. What inference do you draw from this?"

"Don't you see?" answered Eben, in malicious triumph. "That's where partof the stamps went. This letter was put into the post office by HerbertCarr this morning. "

"That is not true, " said Herbert, quietly. 

"Maybe it isn't, but I guess you'll find Herbert Carr's name signed tothe letter, " said Eben. 

"Have you seen the inside of the letter, Mr. Graham?"

"No, sir. "

"Then how do you know Herbert Carr's name is signed to it?"

"I don't know, but I am pretty sure it is. "

"You think Herbert Carr wrote the letter?"

"Yes, sir. "

"If there is no objection, " said Melville, "I will settle the matter byopening it. "

"That's what I want you to do. " said Eben Graham. 

"And I also, " said Herbert. 

Mr. Melville deliberately cut open one end of the envelope with a smallpenknife, and drew out the folded sheet which it contained. As he didso, a small sheet of postage stamps fell upon the floor. 

"There, do you see that?" said Eben in triumph. 

The sheet of stamps contained twenty-five three-cent stamps, representing in value seventy-five cents. 

"Shall I read the letter, sir?" asked Melville, of the judge. 

"If there is no objection. "

Melville read it aloud, as follows:

"WAYNEBORO, August 2lst. MESSRS. JONES & FITCH: I inclose seventy-fivecents in stamps, and will be glad to have you send me the articles youadvertise in the Weekly Gazette. Yours truly, "HERBERT CARR. "

Herbert listened to the reading of this letter in amazement. 

"I never wrote that letter, " he said, "and I never heard of Jones &Fitch before. "

"That's a likely story!" sneered Eben Graham. "I submit to Judge Slocumthat I have proved my case. I haven't found out when all the stampsleft, but I have shown where some are. One who will steal seventy-fivecents' worth of stamps will steal six dollars' worth. "

"I agree with you there, Mr. Graham, " said George Melville. "Will you bekind enough to sit down at that table, and write to my dictation?"

"What should I do that for?" asked Eben, suspiciously. 

"Never mind. Surely you can have no objection. "

"Well, no; I don't know as I have, though I think it's all foolishness. "

He sat down, and a pen was handed him. 

"What shall I write?" he asked. 

"Write 'Messrs. Jones & Fitch. '"

"What for?" demanded Eben, looking discomposed. 

"That's my affair. Write. "

Eben wrote the words, but he seemed to find some difficulty in doing so. It was clear that he was trying to disguise his handwriting. 

"What next?" he asked. 

"'I inclose seventy-five cents in stamps, '" proceeded George Melville. 

"Do you want to throw suspicion on me?" asked Eben, throwing down thepen. 

"Keep on writing!" said the judge. 

Eben did so, but was very deliberate about it, and seemed veryparticular as to how he penned his letter. 

"Very well!" said Melville. "Now, I wish Herbert Carr to take the pen, and I will dictate the same letter. "

Herbert readily took the seat just vacated by Eben, and rapidly wrotethe words dictated to him. 

When he had finished his task, Mr. Melville took the two copies, and, first examining them himself, handed them, together with the originalletter, to Justice Slocum. 

"I have only to ask your honor, " he said, "to compare these three notesand decide for yourself whether the original was written by Herbert Carror Mr. Eben Graham, the witness against him. "

Eben Graham looked very ill at ease, flushing and paling by turns whilethe examination was going on. 

"I submit, " he said, "that this is a very extraordinary way of treatinga witness. "

Justice Slocum, after a pause, said: "I find that Mr. Eben Graham'scopy is unmistakably in the same handwriting as the original letter, purporting to be written by Herbert Carr. "

"It's not so!" faltered Eben. 

"Then, " said George Melville, triumphantly, "as it seems clear that myyoung client is the victim of a base conspiracy, engineered by the manwho has brought this charge of dishonesty against him, I have only toask that he be honorably discharged. "

"The request is granted, " said Justice Slocum. "Herbert, you can go. Itis clear that you are innocent of the charge made against you. "

"I protest, " began Eben Graham. 

"As for you, Mr. Graham, " said the justice, severely, "I have no wordsto express my scorn and detestation of your conduct in deliberatelycontriving a plot to ruin the reputation of an innocent boy, who hasnever done you any harm. Should Herbert Carr desire it, he is at libertyto sue you for having him arrested on a false charge trumped up byyourself. "

Eben began to look frightened. 

"I do not wish to punish Mr. Graham, " said Herbert. "It is enough for methat my honesty has been vindicated. "

"Go, then, " said the justice to Eben. "It is fortunate for you that thisboy is so forbearing. "

Eben Graham slunk out of the justice's office, looking meaner and morecontemptible than ever, while Herbert was surrounded by his friends, whocongratulated him upon the happy issue of the trial. 

CHAPTER XIII. EBEN'S LAST HOPE FAILS. 

Ebenezer Graham had taken no stock in his son's charge against Herbert. He was not prejudiced in favor of Herbert, nor did he feel particularlyfriendly to him, but he was a man of shrewdness and common sense, and heknew that Herbert was not a fool. When Eben made known to him the factthat the stamps and money were missing, he said keenly: "What has becomeof 'em?"

"I don't know, " answered Eben, "but I can guess well enough. "

"Guess, then, " said his father, shortly. 

"You know Herbert Carr took my place last evening?"

"Well?"

"There's no doubt that he took the stamps and money. "

"That isn't very likely. "

"I feel sure of it--so sure that I mean to charge him with it. "

"Well, you can see what he says. "

Ebenezer did not understand that Eben intended to have the boy arrested, and would not have consented to it had he known. But Eben slipped out ofthe store, and arranged for the arrest without his father's knowledge. Indeed, he did not learn till the trial had already commenced, Ebenhaving made some excuse for his absence. 

When Eben returned his father greeted him in a tone very far fromcordial. 

"Well, Eben, I hear you've gone and made a fool of yourself?"

"I have only been defending your property, father, " said Eben, sullenly. "I thought you'd appreciate it better than this. "

"You've charged an innocent boy with theft, and now all his friends willlay it up agin' us. "

"Were you going to be robbed without saying a word?" asked Eben. 

"No, I'm not, Eben Graham; I'm goin' to say a word, and now's the timeto say it. You can't pull wool over my eyes. The money's gone, and thestamps are gone, and somebody's got 'em. "

"Herbert Carr!"

"No, it isn't Herbert Carr. It's somebody nearer to me, I'm ashamed tosay, than Herbert Carr. "

"Do you mean to say I took them?" asked Eben. 

"I won't bring a charge unless I can prove it, but I shall watch youpretty closely after this. "

"In that case, I don't wish to work for you any longer; I throw up thesituation, " said Eben, loftily. 

"Verv well. When are you going to leave town?"

"I ain't going to leave town at present. "

"Where are you going to board, then?"

Eben regarded his father in dismay. 

"You're not going to send me adrift, are you?" he asked, inconsternation. 

"I'm not going to support you in idleness; if you give up your situationin the store, you'll have to go to work for somebody else. "

"I wish I could, " thought Eben, thinking of the rich young man at thehotel, from whom he had sought a position as companion. 

"Then I shall have to leave Wayneboro, " he said; "there's nothing to dohere. "

"Yes, there is; Farmer Collins wants a hired man. "

"A hired man!" repeated Eben, scornfully. "Do you think I am going--tohire out on a farm?"

"You might do a great deal worse, " answered Ebenezer, sensibly. 

"After being a dry-goods salesman in Boston, I haven't got down to that, I beg to assure you, " said Eben, with an air of consequence. 

"Then you will have to work in the store if you expect to stay at home, "said his father. "And hark you, Eben Graham, " he added, "don't reportany more losses of money or stamps. I make you responsible for both. "

Eben went back to his work in an uneasy frame of mind. He saw thathe had not succeeded in imposing upon his father, and that theclear-sighted old gentleman strongly suspected where the missingarticles had gone. Eben might have told, had he felt inclined, thatthe five-dollar bill had been mailed to a lottery agent in New York inpayment for a ticket in a Southern lottery, and that the stamps wereeven now in his possession, and would be sold at the first opportunity. His plan to throw suspicion upon Herbert had utterly failed, and thecold looks with which he had been greeted showed what the villagersthought of his attempt. 

"I won't stay in Wayneboro much longer, " Eben inwardly resolved. "It'sthe dullest hole in creation. I can get along somehow in a large place, but here there's positively nothing. Hire out on a farm, indeed! Myfather ought to be ashamed to recommend such a thing to his only son, when he's so well off. If he would only give me two hundred dollars, Iwould go to California and trouble him no more. Plenty of peoplemake money in California, and why shouldn't I? If that ticket draws aprize--"

And then Eben went into calculations of what he would do if only he drewa prize of a thousand dollars. That wasn't too much to expect, forthere were several of that amount, and several considerably larger. Hepictured how independent he would be with his prize, and how he wouldtell his father that he could get along without him, displaying at thesame time a large roll of bills. When he reached California he could buyan interest in a mine, and perhaps within three or four years he couldreturn home twenty times as rich as his father. It was pleasant to thinkover all this, and almost to persuade himself that the good luck hadactually come. However, he must wait a few days, for the ticket had notyet come, and the lottery would not be drawn for a week. 

The ticket arrived two days later; Eben took care to slip the envelopeinto his pocket without letting his father or anyone else see it, forunpleasant questions might have been asked as to where he got the moneythat paid for it, Mr. Graham knowing very well that his son had not fivedollars by him. 

For a few days Eben must remain in Wayneboro, until the lottery wasdrawn. If he was unlucky, he would have to consider some other plan forraising money to get away from Wayneboro. 

It was not till the day after the trial and his triumphant acquittal, that Herbert saw Eben. He came to the store to buy some groceries forhis mother. 

"Good-evening, Herbert, " said Eben. 

"Eben, " said Herbert, coldly, "except in the way of business, I don'twant to speak to you. "

"You don't bear malice on account of that little affair, do you, Herbert?" said Eben, smoothly. 

"That little affair, as you call it, might have been a very seriousaffair to me. "

"I only did my duty, " said Eben. 

"Was it your duty to charge an innocent person with theft?"

"I didn't see who else could have taken the things, " said Eben. 

"Probably you know as well as anybody, " said Herbert, contemptuously. 

"What do you mean?" demanded Eben, coloring. 

"You know better than I do. How much do I owe you?"

"Thirty-three cents. "

"There is your money, " said Herbert, and walked out of the store. 

"I hate that boy!" said Eben, scowling at Herbert's retreating figure. "He puts on too many airs, just because a city man's taken him incharity and is paying his expenses. Some time I'll be able to come upwith him, I hope. "

Herbert was not of an unforgiving nature, but he felt that Eben hadwronged him deeply, and saw no reason why he would not repeat the injuryif he ever got the chance. He had at least a partial understanding ofEben's mean nature and utter selfishness, and felt that he wished tohave nothing to do with him. Ebenezer Graham was very "close, " but hewas a hard-working man and honest as the world goes. He was tolerablyrespected in Wayneboro, though not popular, but Eben seemed on the highroad to become a rascal. 

A week slipped by, and a circular containing the list of prizes drawnwas sent to Eben. 

He ran his eyes over it in a flutter of excitement. Alas! for his hopes. In the list of lucky numbers the number on his ticket was not included. 

"I have drawn a blank! Curse the luck!" he muttered, savagely. "The oldman needn't think I am going to stay here in Wayneboro. If he won't giveme money to go out West, why, then--"

But he did not say what then. 

CHAPTER XIV. A TRIP TO BOSTON. 

"To-morrow, Herbert, " said George Melville, as they parted for the day, "I shall propose a new excursion to you. "

Herbert regarded him inquiringly. 

"I want to go to Boston to make a few purchases, but principally toconsult my physician. "

"I hope you are not feeling any worse, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, withgenuine concern, for he had come to feel a regard for his employer, whowas always kind and considerate to him. 

"No, I am feeling as well as usual; but I wish to consult Dr. Daviesabout the coming winter--whether he would advise me to spend it inMassachusetts. "

"If Mr. Melville goes away, I shall have to look for another place, "thought Herbert, soberly. It was hardly likely, he knew, that he wouldobtain a position so desirable as the one he now filled. 

"I hope he will be able to do so, Mr. Melville, " he said, earnestly. 

"I hope so; but I shall not be surprised if the doctor ordered me away. "

"Then you won't want me to come to-morrow?"

"Certainly, unless you object to going to Boston with me. "

"Object?" repeated Herbert, eagerly. "I should like nothing better. "

In fact, our hero, though a well-grown boy of sixteen, had never been toBoston but three times, and the trip, commonplace as it may seem tomy traveled young readers, promised him a large amount of novelty andpleasurable excitement. 

"I shall be glad of your company, Herbert. I hardly feel the strengthor enterprise to travel alone, even for so trifling a trip as going toBoston. "

"At what hour will you go, Mr. Melville?"

"I will take the second train, at nine o'clock. It will afford me timeenough, and save my getting up before my usual time. "

Herbert would have preferred going by the first train, starting athalf-past seven, as it would have given him a longer day in the city, but of course he felt that his employer had decided wisely. 

"It will be quite a treat to me, going to Boston, " he said. "I have onlybeen there three times in my life. "

"You certainly have not been much of a traveler, Herbert, " said GeorgeMelville, smiling. "However, you are young, and you may see a good dealof the world yet before you die. "

"I hope I will. It must be delightful to travel. "

"Yes, when you are young and strong, " said Melville, thoughtfully. "Thatmakes a great deal of difference in the enjoyment. "

Herbert did not fail to put in an appearance at the hotel considerablybefore it was time to leave for the train. George Melville smiled at hispunctuality. 

"I wish, Herbert, " he said, "that I could look forward with as muchpleasure as you feel to our trip to-day. "

"I wish so, too, Mr. Melville. "

"At any rate, I shall enjoy it better for having a companion. "

The tickets were bought, and they took their places in one of thepassenger cars. 

Just as the train was ready to start, Herbert saw a young man with aticket in his hand hurrying along the platform. 

"Why, there's Eben Graham!" he said, in surprise. 

"Is he entering the cars?"

"Yes, he has just got into the car behind us. "

"I wonder if he is going to leave Wayneboro for good?"

"Probably he is only going to Boston for the day, perhaps to buy goods. "

Herbert thought it doubtful whether Ebenezer Graham would trust his sonso far, but did not say so. Eben, on his part, had not seen Herbert onboard the train, and was not aware that he was a fellow passenger. 

The journey was a tolerably long one--forty miles--and consumed an hourand a half. At last they rolled into the depot, and before the trainhad fairly stopped the passengers began to crowd toward the doors of thecar. 

"Let us remain till the crowd has passed out, " said George Melville. "Itis disagreeable to me to get into the throng, and it saves very littletime. "

"Very well, sir. "

Looking out of the car window, Herbert saw Eben Graham walking swiftlyalong the platform, and could not forbear wondering what had brought himto the city. 

"My doctor's office is on Tremont Street, " said Mr. Melville. "Ishall go there immediately, and may have to wait some time. It will betiresome to you, and I shall let you go where you please. You can meetme at the Parker House, in School Street, at two o'clock. "

"Very well, sir. "

"Do you know where the hotel is?"

"No, but I can find it, " answered Herbert, confidently. 

"I believe I will also get you to attend to a part of my business forme. "

"I shall be very glad to do so, " said Herbert, sincerely. It made himfeel more important to be transacting business in Boston. 

"Here is a check for a hundred and fifty dollars on the Merchants'Bank, " continued George Melville. "It is payable to the bearer, and youwill have no trouble in getting the money on it. You may present it atthe bank, and ask for fives and tens and a few small bills. "

"Very well, sir. "

Herbert felt rather proud to have so much confidence reposed in him, forto him a hundred and fifty dollars seemed a large sum of money, and hefelt that George Melville was a rich man to draw so much at one time. 

"Had I better go to the bank at once?" he asked. 

"Yes, I think so; of course, I need not caution you to take good care ofthe money. "

"I'll be sure to do that, sir. "

They walked together to Tremont Street, and Mr. Melville paused at adoorway opposite the Common. 

"My doctor's office is upstairs, " he said. "We will part here and meetat the hotel. If you are late, I may go into the dining room; so if youdon't see me in the reading room, go to the door of the dining room andlook in. "

"Very well, sir; but I think I shall be on time. "

"The bank is open now, and you can cash the check if you go down there. "

Left to himself, Herbert walked slowly along, looking into shop windowsand observing with interested attention the people whom he met. 

"It must be very pleasant to live in the city, " he thought; "there is somuch going on all the time. "

It is no wonder that country boys are drawn toward the city, and feelthat their cup of happiness would be full if they could get a positionin some city store. They do not always find the reality equal to theiranticipations. The long hours and strict discipline of a city office ormercantile establishment are not much like the freedom they picturedto themselves, and after they have paid their board bill in some shabbyboarding house they seldom find much left over, either for amusementor needful expenses. The majority of boys would do better to remain intheir country homes, where at least they can live comfortably and atsmall expense, and take such employment as may fall in their way. Theywill stand a much better chance of reaching a competence in middle lifethan if they helped to crowd the ranks of city clerks and salesmen. There is many a hard-working clerk of middle age, living poorly, andwith nothing laid by, in the city, who, had he remained in his nativevillage, might have reached a modest independence. It was hardly to beexpected, however, that Herbert would feel thus. Upon him the show andglitter of the city shops and streets produced their natural effect, andhe walked on buoyantly, seeing three times as much as a city boy wouldhave done. 

He turned down School Street, passing the Parker House, where he was tomeet Mr. Melville. Just before he reached it he saw Eben Graham emergefrom the hotel and walk towards Washington Street. Eben did not lookbehind him, and therefore did not see Herbert. 

"I wonder where he is going?" thought our hero, as he followed a fewsteps behind Eben. 

CHAPTER XV. AN OBLIGING GUIDE. 

On Washington Street, not far from Old South Church, is an office forthe sale of railroad tickets to western points. It was this office whichEben entered. 

"He is going to inquire the price of a ticket to some western city, "thought Herbert. "I heard him say one day that he wanted to go West. "

Our hero's curiosity was naturally aroused, and he stood at theentrance, where he could not only see but hear what passed within. 

"What do you charge for a ticket to Chicago?" he heard Eben ask. 

"Twenty-two dollars, " was the answer of the young man behind thecounter. 

"You may give me one, " said Eben. 

As he spoke he drew from his vest pocket a roll of bills, and began tocount off the requisite sum. 

Herbert was surprised. He had supposed that Eben was merely makinginquiries about the price of tickets. He had not imagined that he wasreally going. 

"Can Mr. Graham have given him money to go?" he asked himself. 

"When can I start?" asked Eben, as he received a string of tickets fromthe clerk. 

"At three this afternoon. "

Eben seemed well pleased with this reply. He carefully deposited thetickets in an inside vest pocket, and turned to go out of the office. Ashe emerged from it he caught sight of Herbert, who had not yet startedto go. He looked surprised and annoyed. 

"Herbert Carr!" he exclaimed. "How came you here?"

Mingled with his surprise there was a certain nervousness of manner, asHerbert thought. 

"I came to Boston with Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, coldly. 

"Oh!" ejaculated Eben, with an air of perceptible relief. "Where is Mr. Melville?"

"He has gone to the office of his physician, on Tremont Street. "

"Leaving you to your own devices, eh?"

"Yes. "

"Look out you don't get lost!" said Eben, with affected gayety. "I amhere on a little business for the old man. "

Herbert did not believe this, in view of what he had seen, but he didnot think it necessary to say so. 

"Good-morning!" said Herbert, in a tone polite but not cordial. 

"Good-morning! Oh, by the way, I have just been inquiring the cost of aticket to St. Louis, " said Eben, carelessly. 

"Indeed! Do you think of going out there?"

"Yes, if the old man will let me, " said Eben. 

"Do you prefer St. Louis to Chicago?" asked Herbert, watching the faceof Eben attentively. 

Eben's face changed, and he looked searchingly at our hero, but couldread nothing in his face. 

"Oh, decidedly!" he answered, after a slight pause. "I don't think Iwould care for Chicago. "

"And all the while you have a ticket for Chicago in your pocket!"thought Herbert, suspiciously, "Well, that's your own affair entirely, not mine. "

"What train do you take back to Wayneboro?" asked Eben, not withoutanxiety. 

"We shall not go before four o'clock. "

"I may be on the train with you, " said Eben, "though possibly I shallget through in time to take an earlier one. "

"He is trying to deceive me, " thought Herbert. 

"Good-morning, " he said, formally, and walked away. 

"I wish I hadn't met him, " muttered Eben to himself. "He may give theold man a clew. However, I shall be safe out of the way before anythingcan be done. "

Herbert kept on his way, and found the bank without difficulty. 

He entered and looked about him. Though unaccustomed to banks, hewatched to see where others went to get checks cashed, and presentedhimself in turn. 

"How will you have it?" asked the paying teller. 

"Fives and tens, and a few small bills, " answered Herbert, promptly. 

The teller selected the requisite number of bank bills quickly, andpassed them out to Herbert. Our hero counted them, to make sure thatthey were correct, and then put them away in his inside pocket. It gavehim a feeling of responsibility to be carrying about so much money, andhe felt that it was incumbent on him to be very careful. 

"Where shall I go now?" he asked himself. 

He would have liked to go to Charlestown, and ascend Bunker HillMonument, but did not know how to go. Besides, he feared he would notget back to the Parker House at the time fixed by Mr. Melville. Still, he might be able to do it. He addressed himself to a rather sprucelydressed man of thirty-five whom he met at the door of the bank. 

"I beg your pardon, sir, but can you tell me how far it is to BunkerHill Monument?"

"About a mile and a half, " answered the stranger. 

"Could I go there and get back to the Parker House before one o'clock. "

"Could you?" repeated the man, briskly. "Why, to be sure you could!"

"But I don't know the way. "

"You have only to take one of the Charlestown horse cars, and it willland you only a couple of minutes' walk from the monument. "

"Can you tell me what time it is, sir?"

"Only a little past eleven. So you have never been to Bunker HillMonument, my lad?"

"No sir; I live in the country, forty miles away and seldom come toBoston. "

"I see, I see, " said the stranger, his eyes snapping in a very peculiarway. "Every patriotic young American ought to see the place where Warrenfell. "

"I should like to if you could tell me where to take the cars. "

"Why, certainly I will, " said the other, quickly. "In fact--let me see, "and he pulled out a silver watch from his vest pocket, "I've a greatmind to go over with you myself. "

"I shouldn't like to trouble you, sir, " said Herbert. 

"Oh, it will be no trouble. Business isn't pressing this morning, andI haven't been over for a long time myself. If you don't object to mycompany, I will accompany you. "

"You are very kind, " said Herbert. "If you are quite sure that you arenot inconveniencing yourself, I shall be very glad to go with you--thatis, if you think I can get back to the Parker House by one o'clock. "

"I will guarantee that you do, " said the stranger, confidently. "Myyoung friend, I am glad to see that you are particular to keep yourbusiness engagements. In a varied business experience, I have observedthat it is precisely that class who are destined to win the favor oftheir employer and attain solid success. "

"He seems a very sensible man, " thought Herbert; "and his advice iscertainly good. "

"Come this way, " said the stranger, crossing Washington Street. "Scollay's Square is close at hand, and there we shall find aCharlestown horse car. "

Of course Herbert yielded himself to the guidance of his new friend, andthey walked up Court Street together. 

"That, " said the stranger, pointing out a large, somber building to theleft, "is the courthouse. The last time I entered it was to be presentat the trial of a young man of my acquaintance who had fallen into evilcourses, and, yielding to temptation, had stolen from his employer. Itwas a sad sight, " said the stranger, shaking his head. 

"I should think it must have been, " said Herbert. 

"Oh, why, why will young men yield to the seductions of pleasure?"exclaimed the stranger, feelingly. 

"Was he convicted?" asked Herbert. 

"Yes, and sentenced to a three years term in the State prison, " answeredhis companion. "It always makes me feel sad when I think of the fate ofthat young man. "

"I should think it would, sir. "

"I have mentioned it as a warning to one who is just beginning life, "continued the stranger. "But here is our car. "

A Charlestown car, with an outside sign, Bunker Hill, in large letters, came by, and the two got on board. 

They rode down Cornhill, and presently the stranger pointed out FaneuilHall. 

"Behold the Cradle of Liberty, " he said. "Of course, you have heard ofFaneuil Hall?"

"Yes, sir, " and Herbert gazed with interest at the building of which hehad heard so much. 

It was but a short ride to Charlestown. They got out at the foot of asteep street, at the head of which the tall, granite column which crownsthe summit of Bunker Hill stood like a giant sentinel ever on guard. 

CHAPTER XVI. A NEW BATTLE OF BUNKER HILL. 

Just opposite the monument is a small, one-story structure, where viewsof the shaft may be purchased and tickets obtained. 

"There is a small admission fee, " said Herbert's companion. 

"How much is it?" asked our hero. 

"Twenty cents. "

As Herbert thrust his hand into his pocket for the necessary money, hiscompanion said:

"You had better let me pay for both tickets. "

Though he said this, he didn't make any motion to do so. 

"No, I will pay for both, " said Herbert. 

"But I really cannot permit you to pay for mine. "

And still the speaker made no movement to purchase his ticket. 

Herbert settled the matter by laying half a dollar on the desk, and asking for two tickets. He began to see that, in spite of hisdisclaimer, his guide intended him to do so. On the whole, this didn'tplease him. He would rather have had his offer frankly accepted. 

"I didn't mean to have you pay, " said the young man, as they passedthrough the door admitting them to an inner apartment, from which therewas an exit into a small, inclosed yard, through which they were toreach the entrance to a spiral staircase by which the ascent was made. 

Herbert did not answer, for he understood that his guide was not tellingthe truth, and he did not like falsehood or deceit. 

They entered the monument and commenced the ascent. 

"We have a tiresome ascent before us, " said the other. 

"How many steps are there?" asked Herbert. 

"About three hundred, " was the reply. 

At different points in the ascent they came to landings where they couldcatch glimpses of the outward world through long, narrow, perpendicularslits in the sides of the monument. 

At last they reached the top. 

Herbert's guide looked about him sharply, and seemed disappointed tofind a lady and gentleman and child also enjoying the view. 

Herbert had never been so high before. Indeed, he had never been in anyhigh building, and he looked about him with a novel sense of enjoyment. 

"What a fine view there is here!" he said. 

"True, " assented his companion. "Let me point out to you the differenttowns visible to the naked eye. "

"I wish you would, " said the boy. 

So his guide pointed out Cambridge, Chelsea, Malden, the Charles andMystic Rivers, gleaming in the sunshine, the glittering dome of theBoston State House and other conspicuous objects. Herbert felt that itwas worth something to have a companion who could do him this service, and he felt the extra twenty cents he had paid for his companion'sticket was a judicious investment. 

He noticed with some surprise that his companion seemed annoyed by thepresence of the other party already referred to. He scowled and shruggedhis shoulders when he looked at them, and in a low voice, inaudible tothose of whom he spoke, he said to Herbert: "Are they going to stay hereall day?"

"What does it matter to me if they do?" returned Herbert, in surprise. 

Indeed, to him they seemed very pleasant people, and he was especiallyattracted by the sweet face of the little girl. He wished he had beenfortunate enough to possess such a sister. 

At last, however, they finished their sightseeing, and prepared todescend. Herbert's companion waited till the sound of their descendingsteps died away, and then, turning to Herbert, said in a quick, sterntone: "Now give me the money you have in your pocket. "

"What do you mean?" he said. 

Herbert recoiled, and stared at the speaker in undisguised astonishment. 

"I mean just what I say, " returned the other. "You have one hundred andfifty dollars in your pocket. You need not deny it, for I saw you drawit from the bank and put it away. "

"Are you a thief, then?" demanded Herbert. 

"No matter what I am, I must have that money, " said the stranger. "Icame over with you exclusively to get it, and I mean business. "

He made a step towards Herbert, but the boy faced him unflinchingly, andanswered resolutely: "I mean business, too. The money is not mine, and Ishall not give it up. "

"Take care!" said the other, menacingly, "we are alone here. You are aboy and I am a man. "

"I know that; but you will have to fight to get the money, " saidHerbert, without quailing. 

He looked to the staircase, but his treacherous guide stood between himand it, and he was practically a prisoner at the top of the monument. 

"Don't be a fool!" said the stranger. "You may as well give up the moneyto me first as last. "

"I don't propose to give it up to you at all, " said Herbert. "Myemployer trusted me with it, and I mean to be true to my trust. "

"You can tell him that it was taken from you--that you could not helpyourself. Now hand it over!"

"Never!" exclaimed Herbert, resolutely. 

"We'll see about that, " said his companion, seizing the boy andgrappling with him. 

Herbert was a strong boy for his age, and he accepted the challenge. Though his antagonist was a man, he found that the boy was powerful, andnot to be mastered as easily as he anticipated. 

"Confound you!" he muttered, "I wish I had a knife!"

Though Herbert made a vigorous resistance, his opponent was his superiorin strength, and would ultimately have got the better of him. He hadthrown Herbert down, and was trying to thrust his hand into his coatpocket, when a step was heard, and a tall man of Western appearancestepped on the scene. 

"Hello!" he said, surveying the two combatants in surprise. "What's allthis? Let that boy alone, you skunk, you!"

As he spoke, he seized the man by the collar and jerked him to his feet. 

"What does all this mean?" he asked, turning from one to the other. 

"This boy has robbed me of one hundred and fifty dollars, " said the man, glibly. "I fell in with him in the Boston cars, and he relieved me of aroll of bills which I had drawn from a bank in Boston. "

"What have you got to say to this?" asked the Western man, turning toHerbert, who was now on his feet. 

"Only this, " answered Herbert, "that it is a lie. It was I who drewthe money from the Merchants' Bank in Boston. This man saw me cash thecheck, followed me, and offered to come here with me, when I asked himfor directions. "

"That's a likely story!" sneered the young man. "My friend here is toosharp to believe it. "

"Don't call me your friend!" said the Western man, bluntly. "I'm morethan half convinced you're a scamp. "

"I don't propose to stay here and be insulted. Let the boy give me mymoney, and I won't have him arrested. "

"Don't be in too much of a hurry, young man! I want to see about thisthing. What bank did you draw the money from?"

"From the Merchants' Bank--the boy has got things reversed. He saw medraw it, inveigled himself into my confidence, and picked my pocket. "

"Look here--stop right there! Your story doesn't hang together!" saidthe tall Westerner, holding up his finger. "You said you met this boy ina horse car. "

"We came over together in a Charlestown horse car, " said the rogue, abashed. 

"You've given yourself away. Now make yourself scarce! Scoot!"

The rascal looked in the face of the tall, resolute man from theWest, and thought it prudent to obey. He started to descend, but awell-planted kick accelerated his progress, and he fell down severalsteps, bruising his knees. 

"Thank you, sir!" said Herbert, gratefully. "It was lucky you came upjust as you did. The rascal had got his hand on the money. "

"He is a miserable scamp!" answered Herbert's new friend. "If there'dbeen a police-man handy, I'd have given him in charge. I've come clearfrom Wisconsin to see where Warren fell, but I didn't expect to comeacross such a critter as that on Bunker Hill. "

Herbert pointed out to his new friend the objects in view, repeatingthe information he had so recently acquired. Then, feeling that he couldspare no more time, he descended the stairs and jumped on board a horsecar bound for Boston. 

CHAPTER XVII. AN ACCEPTABLE PRESENT. 

As the clock at the Old South Church struck one, Herbert ascendedthe steps of Parker's Hotel, and walked into the reading room. GeorgeMelville was already there. 

"You are on time, Herbert, " he said, with a smile, as our hero made hisappearance. 

"Yes, sir; but I began to think I should miss my appointment. "

"Where have you been?"

"To Bunker Hill. "

"Did you ascend the monument?"

"Yes, sir, and had a fight at the summit. "

Mr. Melville looked at Herbert in amazement. 

"Had a fight at the top of Bunker Hill Monument?" he ejaculated. 

"Yes, sir; let me tell you about it. "

When the story was told, Mr. Melville said: "That was certainly aremarkable adventure, Herbert. Still, I am not sorry that it occurred. "

It was Herbert's turn to look surprised. 

"I will tell you why. It proves to me that you are worthy of myconfidence, and can be trusted with the care of money. It has alsotaught you a lesson, to beware of knaves, no matter how plausible theymay be. "

"I haven't got over my surprise yet, sir, at discovering the realcharacter of the man who went with me. I am sorry I met him. I don'tlike to distrust people. "

"Nor I. But it is not necessary to distrust everybody. In yourjourney through the world you will make many agreeable and trustworthyacquaintances in whom it will be safe to confide. It is only necessaryto be cautious and not give your confidence too soon. "

"Oh, I didn't mention that I met somebody from Wayneboro, " said Herbert. 

"Was it Eben Graham?"

"Yes. "

"I met him myself on Washington Street. Did you speak to him?"

"Yes, sir. "

"I suppose he goes back to-night?"

"I don't think he will go back at all, Mr. Melville. "

His employer looked at him inquiringly. 

"I saw him buy a ticket to Chicago, though he does not know it, "continued Herbert. "When he spoke with me he didn't admit it, but spokeof going back by an afternoon train. "

"I am afraid he has appropriated some of his father's funds, " saidMelville. "I doubt if Ebenezer Graham would voluntarily furnish him themeans of going West. "

"That was just what occurred to me, " said Herbert; "but I didn't like tothink that Eben would steal. "

"Perhaps he has not. We shall be likely to hear when we return. But youmust be hungry. We will go in to dinner. "

Herbert followed Mr. Melville into the dining room, where a good dinnerwas ordered, and partaken of. Herbert looked over the bill of fare, but the high prices quite startled him. He was not used to patronizinghotels, and it seemed to him that the price asked for a single dishought to be enough to pay for a whole dinner for two. He knew about whatit cost for a meal at home, and did not dream that it would amount to somuch more at a hotel. 

When the check was brought Herbert looked at it. 

"Two dollars and a half!" he exclaimed. 

"It costs an awful amount to live in Boston. "

"Oh a dinner can be got much cheaper at most places in Boston, " saidGeorge Melville, smiling, "but I am used to Parker's, and generally comehere. "

"I am glad it doesn't cost so much to live in Wayneboro, " said Herbert. "We couldn't afford even one meal a day. "

"You haven't asked me what the doctor said, " remarked Melville, as theyleft the dining room. 

"Excuse me, Mr. Melville. It wasn't from any lack of interest. "

"He advises me to go West by the first of October, either to Colorado orSouthern California. "

Herbert's countenance fell. The first of October would soon come, andhis pleasant and profitable engagement with Mr. Melville would close. 

"I am sorry, " he said, gravely. 

"I am not so sorry as I should have been a few weeks ago, " saidMelville. "Then I should have looked forward to a journey as lonely andmonotonous. Now, with a companion, I think I may have a pleasant time. "

"Who is going with you, Mr. Melville?" asked Herbert, feeling, it mustbe confessed, a slight twinge of jealousy. 

"I thought perhaps you would be willing to accompany me, " said Melville. 

"Would you really take me, Mr. Melville?" cried Herbert, joyfully. 

"Yes, if you will go. "

"I should like nothing better. I have always wanted to travel. It quitetakes my breath away to think of going so far away. "

"I should hardly venture to go alone, " continued George Melville. "Ishall need some one to look after the details of the journey, and tolook after me if I fall sick. Do you think you would be willing to dothat?"

"I hope you won't fall sick, Mr. Melville; but if you do, I will takethe best care of you I know how. "

"I am sure you will, Herbert, and I would rather have you about me thana man. Indeed, I already begin to think of you as a younger brother. "

"Thank you, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, gratefully. "I am glad you do. "

"Do you think your mother will object to your leaving home, Herbert?"

"Not with you. She knows I shall be well provided for with you. Can Iarrange to send money regularly to mother?" asked the boy. "I shouldn'tlike to think of her as suffering for want of it. "

"Yes, but to guard against emergencies, we can leave her a sum of moneybefore you start. "

After dinner Mr. Melville proposed to Herbert to accompany him on awalk up Washington Street, They walked slowly, Herbert using his eyesdiligently, for to him the display in the shop windows was novel andattractive. 

At length they paused at the door of a large and handsome jewelrystore--one of the two finest in Boston. 

"I want to go in here, Herbert, " said his employer. 

"Shall I stay outside?"

"No, come in with me. You may like to look about. "

Though Herbert had no idea of the cost of the fine stock with which thestore was provided, he saw that it must be valuable, and wondered wherepurchasers enough could be found to justify keeping so large a supplyof watches, chains, rings and the numberless other articles in gold andsilver which he saw around him. 

"I would like to look at your watches, " said Melville to the salesmanwho came forward to inquire his wishes. 

"Gold or silver, sir?"

"Silver. "

"This way, if you please. "

He led the way to a case where through the glass covering Herbertsaw dozens of silver watches of all sizes and grades lying ready forinspection. 

"For what price can I get a fair silver watch?" asked Melville. 

"Swiss or Waltham?"

"Waltham. I may as well patronize home manufactures. "

"Here is a watch I will sell you for fifteen dollars, " said thesalesman, drawing out a neat-looking watch, of medium size. "It willkeep excellent time, and give you good satisfaction. "

"Very well; I will buy it on your recommendation. Have you any silverchains?"

One was selected of pretty pattern, and George Melville paid for both. 

"How do you like the watch and chain, Herbert?" said his employer, asthey left the store. 

"They are very pretty, sir. "

"I suppose you wonder what I want of two watches, " said Melville. 

"Perhaps you don't like to take your gold watch with you when you go outWest, for fear of thieves. "

"No, that is not the reason. If I am so unfortunate as to lose my goldwatch, I will buy another. The fact is, I have bought this silver watchand chain for you. "

"For me!" exclaimed Herbert, intensely delighted. 

"Yes; it will be convenient for you, as well as me, to be provided witha watch. Every traveler needs one. There; put it in your pocket, and seehow it looks. "

"You are very kind to me, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, gratefully. "Youcouldn't have bought me anything which I should value more. "

When Herbert had arranged the watch and chain to suit him, it must beconfessed that it engrossed a large part of his attention, and it waswonderful how often he had occasion to consult it during the first walkafter it came into his possession. 

CHAPTER XVIII. A THIEF IN TROUBLE. 

"Have you ever visited the suburbs of Boston?" asked Melville. 

"No, " answered Herbert. "I know very little of the city, and nothing ofthe towns near it. "

"Then, as we have time to spare, we will board the next horse car andride out to Roxbury. "

"I should like it very much, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, in a toneof satisfaction. I may remark that Roxbury was at that time a separatemunicipality, and had not been annexed to Boston. 

They did not have to wait long for a car. An open car, of the kind incommon use during the pleasant season, drew near, and they secured seatsin it. After leaving Dover Street, Washington Street, still then narrow, broadens into a wide avenue, and is called the Neck. It was gay withvehicles of all sorts, and Herbert found much to attract his attention. 

"The doctor tells me I ought to be a good deal in the open air, " saidMelville, "and I thought I would act at once upon his suggestion. It ismuch pleasanter than taking medicine. "

"I should think so, " answered Herbert, emphatically. 

Arrived at the end of the route, Melville and Herbert remained on thecar, and returned at once to the city. When they reached the crowdedpart of Washington Street a surprise awaited Herbert. 

From a small jewelry store they saw a man come out, and walk rapidlyaway. 

"Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, in excitement, "do you see that man?"

"Yes. What of him?"

"It is the man who tried to rob me on Bunker Hill Monument. "

He had hardly uttered these words when another man darted from the shop, bareheaded, and pursued Herbert's morning acquaintance, crying, "Stop, thief!"

The thief took to his heels, but a policeman was at hand, and seized himby the collar. 

"What has this man been doing?" he asked, as the jeweler's clerk cameup, panting. 

"He has stolen a diamond ring from the counter, " answered the clerk. "Ithink he has a watch besides. "

"It's a lie!" said the thief, boldly. 

"Search him!" said the clerk, "and you'll find that I have made nomistake. "

"Come with me to the station house, and prepare your complaint, " saidthe policeman. 

By this time a crowd had gathered, and the thief appealed to them. 

"Gentlemen, " he said, "I am a reputable citizen of St. Louis, come toBoston to buy goods, and I protest against this outrage. It is either amistake or a conspiracy, I don't know which. "

The thief was well dressed, and some of the bystanders were disposed toput confidence in him. He had not seen Herbert and George Melville, whohad left the car and joined the throng, or he might not have spoken soconfidently. 

"He doesn't look like a thief, " said one of the bystanders, abenevolent-looking old gentleman. 

"I should say not, " said the thief, more boldly. "It's a pretty stateof things if a respectable merchant can't enter a store here in Bostonwithout being insulted and charged with theft. If I only had some ofmy friends or acquaintances here, they would tell you that it is simplyridiculous to make such a charge against me. "

"You can explain this at the station house, " said the policeman. "It ismy duty to take you there. "

"Is there no one who knows the gentleman?" said the philanthropistbefore referred to. "Is there no one to speak up for him?"

Herbert pressed forward, and said, quietly:

"I know something of him; I passed the morning in his company. "

The thief turned quickly, but he didn't seem gratified to see Herbert. 

"The boy is mistaken, " he said, hurriedly; "I never saw him before. "

"But I have seen you, sir, " retorted our hero. "You saw me draw somemoney from a bank in State Street, scraped acquaintance with me, andtried to rob me of it on Bunker Hill. "

"It's a lie!" said the prisoner, hoarsely. 

"Do you wish to make a charge to that effect?" asked the policeman. 

"No, sir; I only mentioned what I knew of him to support the charge ofthis gentleman, " indicating the jeweler's clerk. 

The old gentleman appeared to lose his interest in the prisoner afterHerbert's statement, and he was escorted without further delay to thestation house, where a gold watch and the diamond ring were both foundon his person. It is scarcely needful to add that he was tried andsentenced to a term of imprisonment in the very city--Charlestown--wherehe had attempted to rob Herbert. 

"It is not always that retribution so quickly overtakes the wrongdoer, "said Melville. "St. Louis will hardly be proud of the man who claims hercitizenship. "

"Dishonesty doesn't seem to pay in his case, " said Herbert, thoughtfully. 

"It never pays in any case, Herbert, " said George Melville, emphatically. "Even if a man could steal enough to live upon, and weresure not to be found out, he would not enjoy his ill-gotten gain, as anhonest man enjoys the money he works hard for. But when we add the riskof detection and the severe penalty of imprisonment, it seems a fatalmistake for any man to overstep the bounds of honesty and enroll himselfas a criminal. "

"I agree with you, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, thoughtfully. "I don'tthink I shall ever be tempted, but if I am, I will think of this man andhis quick detection. "

When they reached the depot, a little before four o'clock, GeorgeMelville sent Herbert to the ticket office to purchase tickets, while heremained in the waiting room. 

"I might as well accustom you to the duties that are likely to devolveupon you, " he said, with a smile. 

Herbert had purchased the tickets and was turning away, when to hissurprise he saw Ebenezer Graham enter the depot, laboring evidentlyunder considerable excitement. He did not see Herbert, so occupiedwas he with thoughts of an unpleasant nature, till the boy greeted himrespectfully. 

"Herbert Carr!" he said; "when did you come into Boston?"

"This morning, sir. "

"Have you seen anything of my son, Eben, here?" gasped Mr. Graham. 

"Yes, sir; he was on the same train, but I did not see him to speak tohim till after I reached the city. "

"Do you know what he has been doing here?" asked Ebenezer, his facehaggard with anxiety. 

"I only saw him for five minutes, " answered Herbert, reluctant to tellthe father what he knew would confirm any suspicion he might entertain. 

"Where did you see him?" demanded Ebenezer, quickly. 

"At a railroad ticket office not far from the Old South Church. "

"Do you know if he bought any ticket?" asked Ebenezer, anxiously. 

"Yes, " answered Herbert. "I overheard him purchasing a ticket toChicago. "

Ebenezer groaned, and his face seemed more and more wizened and puckeredup. 

"It is as I thought!" he exclaimed, bitterly. "My own son has robbed meand fled like a thief, as he is. "

Herbert was shocked, but not surprised. He didn't like to askparticulars, but Ebenezer volunteered them. 

"This morning, " he said, "I foolishly gave Eben a hundred dollars, andsent him to Boston to pay for a bill of goods which I recently bought ofa wholesale house on Milk Street. If I had only known you were going in, I would have sent it by you. "

Herbert felt gratified at this manifestation of confidence, especiallyas he had so recently been charged with robbing the post office, but didnot interrupt Mr. Graham, who continued:

"As soon as Eben was fairly gone, I began to feel sorry I sent him, forhe got into extravagant ways when he was in Boston before, and he hadbeen teasing me to give him money enough to go out West with. Aboutnoon I discovered that he had taken fifty dollars more than the amountI intrusted to him, and then I couldn't rest till I was on my way toBoston to find out the worst. I went to the house on Milk Street andfound they had seen nothing of Eben. Then I knew what had happened. Thegraceless boy has robbed his father of a hundred and fifty dollars, andis probably on his way West by this time. "

"He was to start by the three o'clock train, I think, " said Herbert, andgave his reasons for thinking so. 

Ebenezer seemed so utterly cast down by this confirmation of his worstsuspicions, that Herbert called Mr. Melville, thinking he might be ableto say something to comfort him. 

CHAPTER XIX. EBENEZER GRAHAM'S GRIEF. 

"How much have you lost by your son, Mr. Graham?" asked George Melville. 

"Nearly two hundred and fifty dollars, " groaned Ebenezer, "counting whatI paid in the city to his creditors, it is terrible, terrible!" and hewrung his hands in his bitterness of spirit. 

"I am sorry for you, " said Melville, "and still more for him. "

"Why should you be sorry for him?" demanded Ebenezer, sharply. "Hehasn't lost anything. "

"Is it nothing to lose his consciousness of integrity, to leave his homeknowing that he is a thief?"

"Little he'll care for that!" said Mr. Graham, shrugging his shoulders. "He's laughing in his sleeve, most likely, at the way he has duped andcheated me, his father. "

"How old is Eben, Mr. Graham?"

"He will be twenty in November, " answered Ebenezer, apparently puzzledby the question. 

"Then, as he is so young, let us hope that he may see the error of hisways, and repent. "

"That won't bring me back my money, " objected Ebenezer, querulously. It was clear that he thought more of the money he had lost than of hisson's lack of principle. 

"No, it will not give you back your money, but it may give you back ason purified and prepared to take an honorable position in society. "

"No, no; he's bad, bad!" said the stricken father. "What did he care forthe labor and toil it took to save up that money?"

"I hope the loss of the money will not distress you, Mr. Graham. "

"Well, no, not exactly, " said Ebenezer, hesitating. "I shall have totake some money from the savings bank to make up what that graceless boyhas stolen. "

It was clear that Ebenezer Graham would not have to go to the poorhousein consequence of his losses. 

"I can hardly offer you consolation, " said George Melville, "but Isuspect that you will not be called upon to pay any more money for yourson. "

"I don't mean to!" said Ebenezer, grimly. 

"Going away as he has done, he will find it necessary to supporthimself, and will hardly have courage to send to you for assistance. "

"Let him try it!" said Ebenezer, his eyes snapping. 

"He may, therefore, being thrown upon his own resources, be compelled towork hard, and that will probably be the best thing that can happen tohim. "

"I hope he will! I hope he will!" said the storekeeper. "He may find outafter a while that he had an easy time at home, and was better paidthan he will be among strangers. I won't pay any more of his debts. I'llpublish a notice saying that I have given him his time, and won't payany more debts of his contracting. He might run into debt enough to ruinme, between now and the time he becomes of age. "

George Melville considered that the storekeeper was justified in takingthis step, and said so. 

While they were on the train, Ebenezer got measurably reconciled to hisloss, and his busy brain began to calculate how much money he wouldsave by ceasing to be responsible for Eben's expenses of living andprospective debts. Without this drawback, he knew he would grow richerevery year. He knew also that notwithstanding the sum it had just costhim, he would be better off at the end of the year than the beginning, and to a man of his character this was perhaps the best form ofconsolation that he could have. 

Suddenly it occurred to Mr. Graham that he should need a clerk in placeof his son. 

"Now that Eben has gone, Herbert, " he said, "I am ready to take youback. "

This was a surprise, for Herbert had not thought of the effect upon hisown business prospects. 

"I have got a place, thank you, Mr. Graham, " he said. 

"You don't call trampin' round huntin' and fishin' work, do you?" saidEbenezer. 

"It is very agreeable work, sir. "

"But it stands to reason that you can't earn much that way. I wouldn'tgive you twenty-five cents a week for such doings. "

"Are you willing to pay me more than Mr. Melville does?" asked Herbert, demurely, smiling to himself. 

"How much does he pay you now?" asked Ebenezer, cautiously. 

"Six dollars a week. "

"Six dollars a week!" repeated the storekeeper, in incredulousamazement. "Sho! you're joking!"

"You can ask Mr. Melville, sir. "

Ebenezer regarded George Melville with an inquiring look. 

"Yes, I pay Herbert six dollars a week, " said he, smiling. 

"Well, I never!" ejaculated Ebenezer. "That's the strangest thing Iever heard. How in the name of conscience can a boy earn so much moneytrampin' round?"

"Perhaps it would not be worth as much to anyone else, " said Melville, "but Herbert suits me, and I need cheerful company. "

"You ain't goin' to keep him long at that figger, be you, Mr. Melville?"asked Mr. Graham, bluntly. 

"I think we shall be together a considerable time, Mr. Graham. If, however, you should be willing to pay Herbert a larger salary, I mightfeel it only just to release him from his engagement to me. "

"Me pay more'n six dollars a week!" gasped Ebenezer. "I ain't quitecrazy. Why, it would take about all I get from the post office. "

"You wouldn't expect me to take less than I can earn elsewhere, Mr. Graham, " said Herbert. 

"No-o!" answered the storekeeper, slowly. He was evidently nonplused bythe absolute necessity of getting another clerk, and his inability tothink of a suitable person. 

"If Tom Tripp was with me, I might work him into the business, " saidEbenezer, thoughtfully, "but he's bound out to a farmer. "

An inspiration came to Herbert. He knew that his mother would be glad toearn something, and there was little else to do in Wayneboro. 

"I think, " he said, "you might make an arrangement with my mother, tomake up and sort the mail, for a time, at least. "

"Why, so I could; I didn't think of that, " answered Ebenezer, relieved. "Do you think she'd come over to-morrow mornin'?"

"If she can't, I will, " said Herbert. "I don't meet Mr. Melville tillnine o'clock. "

"So do! I'll expect you. I guess I'll come over and see your mother thisevenin', and see if I can't come to some arrangement with her. "

It may be added that Mr. Graham did as proposed, and Mrs. Carr agreedto render him the assistance he needed for three dollars a week. Itrequired only her mornings, and a couple of hours at the close of theafternoon, and she was very glad to convert so much time into money. 

"It makes me feel more independent, " she said. "I don't want tofeel that you do all the work, Herbert, and maintain the familysingle-handed. "

The same evening Herbert broached the plan of traveling with Mr. Melville. As might have been expected, his mother was at first startled, and disposed to object, but Herbert set before her the advantages, bothto himself and the family, and touched upon the young man's need of acompanion so skillfully and eloquently that she was at last brought toregard the proposal favorably. She felt that George Melville was one towhom she could safely trust her only boy. Moreover, her own time wouldbe partly occupied, owing to the arrangement she had just made to assistin the post office, so that Herbert carried his point. 

The tenth of October arrived, the date which George Melville had fixedupon for his departure. Mrs. Carr had put Herbert's wardrobe in order, and he had bought himself a capacious carpetbag and an umbrella, andlooked forward with eagerness to the day on which their journey was tocommence. He had long thought and dreamed of the West, its plains andcities, but had never supposed that it would be his privilege to makeacquaintance with them, at any rate, until he should have become twicehis present age. But the unexpected had happened, and on Monday he andGeorge Melville were to start for Chicago. 

CHAPTER XX. AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE IN CHICAGO. 

In due time our travelers reached Chicago, and put up at the PalmerHouse. Herbert was much impressed by the elegance of the hotel, itssumptuous furniture, and luxurious table. It must be considered that hewas an inexperienced traveler, though had he been otherwise he might beexcused for his admiration. 

"I have some business in Chicago, and shall remain two or three days, "said George Melville. 

Herbert was quite reconciled to the delay, and, as his services were notrequired, employed his time in making himself familiar with the famousWestern city. He kept his eyes open, and found something new andinteresting at every step. One day, as he was passing through the lowerportion of the city, his attention was called to a young man wheeling abarrow of cabbages and other vegetables, a little in advance of him. Of course, there was nothing singular about this, but there seemedsomething familiar in the figure of the young man. Herbert quickened hisstep, and soon came up with him. 

One glance was enough. Though disguised by a pair of overalls, andwithout a coat, Herbert recognized the once spruce dry-goods clerk, EbenGraham. 

Eben recognized Herbert at the same time. He started, and flushed withshame, not because of the theft of which he had been guilty, but becausehe was detected in an honest, but plebeian labor. 

"Herbert Carr!" he exclaimed, stopping short. 

"Yes, Eben; it is I!"

"You find me changed, " said Eben, dolefully. 

"No, I should recognize you anywhere. "

"I don't mean that. I have sunk very low, " and he glanced patheticallyat the wheelbarrow. 

"If you refer to your employment, I don't agree with you. It is anhonest business. "

"True, but I never dreamed when I stood behind the counter in Boston, and waited on fashionable ladies, that I should ever come to this. "

"He seems more ashamed of wheeling vegetables than of stealing, " thoughtHerbert, and he was correct. 

"How do you happen to be in this business, Eben?" he asked, with somecuriosity. 

"I must do it or starve. I was cheated out of my money soon after I camehere, and didn't know where to turn. "

Eben did not explain that he lost his money in a gambling house. He might have been cheated out of it, but it was his own fault, forventuring into competition with older and more experienced knaves thanhimself. 

"I went for thirty-six hours without food, " continued Eben, "when I fellin with a man who kept a vegetable store, and he offered to employ me. Ihave been with him ever since. "

"You were fortunate to find employment, " said Herbert. 

"Fortunate!" repeated Eben, in a tragic tone. "How much wages do youthink I get?"

"I can't guess. "

"Five dollars a week, and have to find myself, " answered Eben, mournfully. "What would my fashionable friends in Boston say if theycould see me?"

"I wouldn't mind what they said as long as you are getting an honestliving. "

"How do you happen to be out here?" asked Eben. 

His story was told in a few words. 

"You are always in luck!" said Eben, enviously. "I wish I had yourchance. Is Mr. Melville very rich?"

"He is rich; but I don't know how rich. "

"Do you think he'd lend me money enough to get home?"

"I don't know. "

"Will you ask him?"

"I will tell him that you made the request, Eben, " answered Herbert, cautiously. "Have you applied to your father?"

"To the old man? Yes. He hasn't any more heart than a grindstone, " saidEben, bitterly. "What do you think he wrote me?"

"He refused, I suppose. "

"Here is his letter, " said Eben, drawing from his pocket a greasy halfsheet of note paper. "See what he has to say to his only son. "

This was the letter:

"EBEN GRAHAM: I have received your letter, and am not surprised to hearthat you are in trouble. 'As a man sows, so also shall he reap. ' A youngman who will rob his father of his hard earnings is capable of anything. You have done what you could to ruin me, and deserve what you have got. You want me to send you money to come home, and continue your wickedwork--I shall not do it. I wash my hands of you; I have already givennotice, through the country paper that I have given you your time, andshall pay no more debts of your contracting. 

"I am glad to hear that you are engaged in an honest employment. It isbetter than I expected. I would not have been surprised if I had heardthat you were in jail. My advice to you is to stay where you are andmake yourself useful to your employer. He may in time raise your wages. Five years hence, if you have turned over a new leaf and led an honestlife, I may give you a place in my store. At present, I would ratherleave you where you are. 

"EBENEZER GRAHAM. "

"What do you say to that? Isn't that rather rough on an only son, eh?"said Eben. 

It occurred to Herbert that Eben hardly deserved very liberal treatmentfrom his father, notwithstanding he was an only son. 

"Oh, the old man is awfully mean and close-fisted, " said Eben. "He caresmore for money than for anything else. By the way, how does Melvilletreat you?"

"Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, emphasizing the Mr. , "is always kind andconsiderate. "

"Pays you well, eh?"

"He pays me more than I could get anywhere else. "

"Pays all your hotel and traveling expenses, eh?"

"Of course. "

"And a good salary besides?"

"Yes. "

"Herbert, " said Eben, suddenly, "I want you to do me a favor. "

"What is it?"

"You've always known me, you know. When you was a little chap, and cameinto the store, I used to give you sticks of candy. "

"I don't remember it, " answered Herbert, truthfully. 

"I did, all the same. You were so young that you don't remember it. "

"Well, Eben, what of it?"

"I want you to lend me ten dollars, Herbert, in memory of old times. "

Herbert was generously inclined, on ordinary occasions, but did not feelso on this occasion. He felt that Eben was not a deserving object, evenhad he felt able to make so large a loan. Besides, he could not forgetthat the young man who now asked a favor had brought a false charge ofstealing against him. 

"You will have to excuse me, Eben, " he answered. "To begin with, Icannot afford to lend so large a sum. "

"I would pay you back as soon as I could. "

"Perhaps you would, " said Herbert, "though I have not much confidencein it. But you seem to forget that you charged me with stealing only ashort time since. I wonder how you have the face to ask me to lend youten dollars, or any sum. "

"It was a mistake, " muttered Eben, showing some signs of confusion. 

"At any rate, I won't say anything more about it while you are introuble. But you must excuse my declining to lend you. "

"Lend me five dollars, then, " pleaded Eben. 

"What do you want to do with it?"

"To buy lottery tickets. I am almost sure I should win a prize, and thenI can pay you five dollars for one. "

"I wouldn't lend any money for that purpose to my dearest friend, " saidHerbert "Buying lottery tickets is about the most foolish investment youcould make. "

"Then I won't buy any, " said Eben. "Lend me the money and I will use itto buy clothes. "

"You will have to excuse me, " said Herbert, coldly. 

"I didn't think you'd be so mean, " whined Eben, "to a friend indistress. "

"I don't look upon you as a friend, and for very good reasons, " retortedHerbert, as he walked away. 

Eben looked after him with a scowl of hatred. 

"I'd like to humble that boy's pride, " he muttered, as he slowly resumedhis march. 

CHAPTER XXI. COL. WARNER. 

When Herbert returned to the hotel he found George Melville in thereading room in conversation with a tall and dignified-looking stranger. 

"Is that your brother, Mr. Melville?" asked the latter, as Herbert cameforward and spoke to Melville. 

"No, Colonel, he is my young friend and confidential clerk, HerbertCarr. "

"Glad to make your acquaintance, Mr. Carr, " said the colonel, affably, extending his hand as he spoke. 

"This is Col. Warner, Herbert, " explained George Melville. 

Herbert, who was naturally polite, shook hands with the colonel, andsaid he was glad to make his acquaintance. 

"I have been talking with Mr. Melville, " said the colonel. "I am sorryto hear that he is traveling in search of health. "

"Yes, sir; I hope he will find his journey beneficial. "

"Oh, not a doubt of it! Not a doubt of it! I've been there myself. Doyou know, when I was twenty-five, which I take to be about the age ofyour employer, I thought I should die of consumption?"

"I shouldn't have supposed it, sir, " said Herbert, and Melville, too, felt surprised, as he noticed the stalwart proportions of the formerconsumptive. 

"Ha! ha! I dare say not, " said the colonel, laughing. "I don't look muchlike it now, eh?"

"No, you certainly don't, colonel, " said Melville. "I am curious to knowhow you overcame the threatened danger. "

"I did what you are doing, sir; I came West. "

"But the mere coming West did not cure you, did it?"

"No, sir; it was the life I lived, " returned Col. \Varner. "I didn'tstay in the cities; I went into the wilderness. I lived in a log-cabin. I bought a horse, and rode every day. I kept in the open air, and, aftera while, I found my strength returning and my chest expanding, and in atwelvemonth I could afford to laugh at doctors. "

"And you have never had a return of the old symptoms?" asked Melville, with interest. 

"Never, except four years afterwards, when I went to New York andremained nearly a year. I am now fifty, and rather hale and hearty formy years, eh?"

"Decidedly so. "

"Let me advise you to follow my example, Mr. Melville. "

"It was my intention when I started West to live very much as youindicated, " said Melville. "Now that I have heard your experience, I amconfirmed in my resolve. "

"Good! I am glad to hear it. When do you leave Chicago?"

"To-morrow, probably. "

"And how far West do you intend to go?"

"I have thought of Colorado. "

"Couldn't do better. I know Colorado like a book. In fact, I own somevaluable mining property there, up in--ahem! Gilpin County. By theway--I take it you are a rich man--why don't you invest in that way?Perhaps, however, you have it in view?"

"No, I haven't thought of it, " answered Melville. "The fact is, I am notanxious to become richer, having enough for all my present needs. "

"Just so, " said the colonel. "But you might marry. "

"Even if I did--"

"You would have money enough, " said Col. Warner, finishing the sentencefor him. "Well, I am delighted to hear it. I am very well fixedmyself--in fact, some of my friends call me, ha! ha!--the nabob. But, as I was saying I am rich enough and to spare, and still--you may besurprised--still I have no objection to making a little more money. "

Col. Warner nodded his head vigorously, and watched George Melville tosee the effect upon him of this extraordinary statement. 

"Very natural, colonel, " said Melville. "I believe most people want tobe richer. Perhaps if I had vigorous health I might have the same wish. At present my chief wish is to recover my health. "

"You'll do it, sir, you'll do it--and in short order, too! Then you canturn your attention to money-making. "

"Perhaps so, " said Melville, with a smile. 

"If not for yourself, for your young friend here, " added the colonel. "Itake it he is not rich. "

"I have my fortune still to make, Col. Warner, " said Herbert, smiling. 

"The easiest thing in the world out here, my boy!" said the colonel, paternally. "So you start to-morrow?" he inquired, turning to Melville. 

"I think of it. "

"Egad! I've a great mind to accompany you, " said the colonel. "Whyshouldn't I? I've got through all my business in Chicago, and I like thepure air of the prairies best. "

"We shall be glad of your company, colonel, " said Melville, politely. 

"Thank you, sir; that decides me. I'll see you again and fix the hour ofgoing, or rather I'll conform myself to your arrangements. "

"Very well, colonel. "

"What do you think of my new acquaintance, Col. Warner, Herbert?" askedMelville when they were alone. 

"He seems to have a very good opinion of himself, " answered Herbert. 

"Yes, he is very well pleased with himself. He isn't a man exactly to mytaste, but he seems a representative Western man. He does not look muchlike a consumptive?"

"No, sir. "

"I feel an interest in him on that account, " said Melville, seriously. "If at any time I could become as strong and stalwart I would willinglysurrender one-half, nay nine-tenths of my fortune. Ill health is a greatdrag upon a man; it largely curtails his enjoyments, and deprives him ofall ambition. "

"I don't see why his remedy wouldn't work well in your case, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, earnestly. 

"Perhaps it may. At any rate, I feel inclined to try it. I am glad thecolonel is going to travel with us, as I shall be able to question himabout the details of his cure. He seems a bluff, genial fellow, andthough I don't expect to enjoy his companionship much, I hope to derivesome benefit from it. "

"By the way, Mr. Melville, I met an old acquaintance while I was outwalking, " said Herbert. 

"Indeed!"

"Eben Graham. "

"How did he look--prosperous?"

"Hardly--he was wheeling a barrow of vegetables. "

"Did you speak with him?"

"Yes; he wanted to borrow money. "

"I am not surprised at that; I thought it time for him to be out ofmoney. Did you lend him?"

"No; I found he wanted money to buy a lottery ticket. I told him Iwouldn't lend money to my best friend for that purpose. "

"Very sensible in you, Herbert. "

"If he had been in distress, I might have let him have a few dollars, notwithstanding he treated me so meanly at Wayneboro, but he seems to beearning a living. "

"I presume he doesn't enjoy the business he is in?"

"No; he complains that he has lowered himself by accepting such aplace. "

"It doesn't occur to him that he lowered himself when he stole moneyfrom his father, I suppose. "

"It doesn't seem to. "

Later in the day Herbert came across Col. Warner in the corridor of thehotel. 

"Ha! my young friend!" he said, affably. "I am glad to meet you. "

"Thank you, sir. "

"And how is your friend?"

"No change since morning, " answered Herbert, slightly smiling. 

"By the way, Herbert--your name is Herbert, isn't it--may I offer you acigar?" said Col. Warner. 

The colonel opened his cigar-case and extended it to Herbert. 

"Thank you, sir, but I don't smoke. "

"Don't smoke? That is, you don't smoke cigars. May I offer you acigarette?"

"I don't smoke at all, colonel. "

"Indeed, remarkable! Why, sir, before I was your age I smoked. "

"Do you think it good for consumption?" asked Herbert. 

"Ha, ha, you have me there! Well, perhaps not. Do you know, " said thecolonel, changing the conversation, "I feel a great interest in yourfriend. "

"You are very kind. "

"'Upon my soul, I do. He is a most interesting young man. Rich, too! Iam glad he is rich!"

"He would value health more than money, " said Herbert. 

"To be sure, to be sure! By the way, you don't know how much propertyyour friend has?"

"No, sir, he never told me, " answered Herbert, surprised at thequestion. 

"Keeps such matters close, eh? Now, I don't. I never hesitate to own upto a quarter of a million. Yes, quarter of a million! That's the size ofmy pile. "

"You are fortunate, Col. Warner, " said Herbert, sincerely. 

"So I am, so I am! Two years hence I shall have half a million, if allgoes well. So you won't have a cigar; no? Well, I'll see you later. "

"He's a strange man, " thought Herbert. "I wonder if his statementscan be relied upon. " Somehow Herbert doubted it. He was beginning todistrust the colonel. 

CHAPTER XXII. A MOUNTAIN STAGE. 

We pass over several days, and change the scene. We left Herbert andMelville in the Palmer House in Chicago, surrounded by stately edificesand surging crowds. Now everything is changed. They are in a mountainousdistrict, where a man might ride twenty miles without seeing a house. They are, in fact, within the limits of what was then known as theTerritory of Colorado. It is not generally known that Colorado containsover a hundred mountain summits over ten thousand feet above the sealevel. It is perhaps on account of the general elevation that it isrecommended by physicians as a good health resort for all who aretroubled with lung complaints. 

At the time of which I speak most of the traveling was done by stage. Now railroads unite the different portions with links of steel, and maketraveling less cumbersome and laborious. There was one of the party, however, who did not complain, but rather enjoyed the jolting of thelumbering stage-coach. 

Col. Warner was of the party. He professed to feel an extraordinaryinterest in George Melville, and was anxious to show him the countrywhere he had himself regained his health. 

"Lonely, sir!" repeated the colonel, in answer to a remark of GeorgeMelville. "Why, sir, it's a populous city compared with what it was in'55, when I was out here. I built myself a cabin in the woods, and oncefor twelve months I didn't see a white face. "

"Were there many Indians, Colonel?" asked Herbert. 

"Indians? I should say so. Only twenty miles from my cabin was an Indianvillage. "

"Did they trouble you any?" asked Herbert, curiously. 

"Well, they tried to, " answered the colonel. "One night as I lay awake Iheard stealthy steps outside, and peeping through a crevice between thelogs just above the head of my bed--by the way, my bed was the skin ofa bear I had myself killed--I could see a string of Utes preparing tobesiege me. "

"Were you afraid?" asked Herbert, a little mischievously, for he knewpretty well what the colonel would say. 

"Afraid!" repeated the colonel, indignantly. "What do you take me for? Ihave plenty of faults, " continued Col. Warner, modestly, "but cowardiceisn't one of them. No, sir; I never yet saw the human being, white, black, or red, that I stood in fear of. But, as I was saying, theredskins collected around my cabin, and were preparing to break in thedoor, when I leveled my revolver and brought down their foremost man. This threw them into confusion. They retreated a little way, thenadvanced again with a horrible yell, and I gave myself up for lost. ButI got in another shot, bringing down another warrior, this time the sonof their chief. The same scene was repeated. Well, to make a long storyshort, I repulsed them at every advance, and finally when but three wereleft, they concluded that prudence was the better part of valor, andfled, leaving their dead and wounded behind them. "

"How many were there of them?" asked Herbert. 

"Well, in the morning when I went out I found seven dead redskins, andtwo others lying at the point of death. "

"That was certainly a thrilling adventure, Colonel, " said GeorgeMelville, smiling. 

"Egad, I should say so. "

"I confess I don't care to meet with any such. "

"Oh, no danger, no danger!" said the colonel, airily. "That is, comparatively speaking. In fact, the chief danger is of a differentsort. "

"Of the sleigh upsetting and tipping us out into some of the canyons, Isuppose you mean?"

"No, I speak of the gentlemen of the road--road agents as they aregenerally called. "

"You mean highwaymen?"

"Yes. "

"Is there much danger of meeting them?" asked Melville. 

"Well, there's a chance. They are quite in the habit of attackingstage-coaches, and plundering the passengers. Sometimes they make richhauls. "

"That must be rather inconvenient to the passengers. " said Melville. "Can't the laws reach these outlaws?"

"They don't seem to. Why, there are men who have been in the businessfor years, and have never been caught. "

"Very true, " said a fellow traveler. "There's Jerry Lane, for instance. He has succeeded thus far in eluding the vigilance of the authorities. "

"Yes, " said the colonel, "I once saw Lane myself. Indeed he did me thehonor of relieving me of five hundred dollars. "

"Couldn't you help it?" asked Herbert. 

"No; he covered me with his revolver, and if I had drawn mine Ishouldn't have lived to take aim at him. "

"Were you in a stage at the time?"

"No, I was riding on horseback. "

"Is this Lane a large man?" asked George Melville. 

"Not larger than myself, " continued the colonel. 

"Where does he live--in some secret haunt in the forest, I suppose?"

"Oh, no, he doesn't confine himself to one place. He travels a gooddeal. Sometimes he goes to St. Louis. I have heard that he sometimeseven visits New York. "

"And is he not recognized?"

"No; he looks like anything but an outlaw. If you should see him youmight think him a prosperous merchant, or banker. "

"That's curious!" said Herbert. 

"The fact is, " said the colonel, "when you travel by stage-coachesin these solitudes you have to take the chances. Now I carry my moneyconcealed in an inner pocket, where it isn't very likely to be found. Ofcourse I have another wallet, just for show, and I give that up when Ihave to. "

There was a stout, florid gentleman present, who listened to theabove conversation with ill-disguised nervousness. He was a New Yorkcapitalist, of German birth, going out to inspect a mine in which heproposed purchasing an interest. His name was Conrad Stiefel. 

"Good gracious!" said he, "I had no idea a man ran such a risk, or Iwould have stayed at home. I decidedly object to being robbed. "

"Men are robbed in a different way in New York, " said George Melville. 

"How do you mean, Mr. Melville?"

"By defaulting clerks, absconding cashiers, swindlers of excellentsocial position. "

"Oh, we don't mind those things, " said Mr. Stiefel. "We can look outfor ourselves. But when a man points at you with a revolver, that isterrible!"

"I hope, my dear sir, you take good care of your money. "

"That I do, " said Stiefel, complacently. "I carry it in a belt around mywaist. That's a good place, hey?"

"I commend your prudence, sir, " said the colonel. "You are evidently awise and judicious man. "

"They won't think of looking there, hey?" laughed Stiefel. 

"I should say not. "

"You may think what you like, Mr. Stiefel, " said a tall, thin passenger, who looked like a book peddler, "but I contend that my money is in asafer place than yours. "

"Indeed, Mr. Parker, I should like to know where you keep it, " said Col. Warner, pleasantly. 

"You can't get at it without taking off my stockings, " said the tallman, looking about him in a self-satisfied manner. 

"Very good, 'pon my soul!" said the colonel. "I really don't know but Ishall adopt your hiding place. I am an old traveler, but not too old toadopt new ideas when I meet with good ones. "

"I think you would find it to your interest, Colonel, " said Parker, looking flattered. 

"Well, well, " said the colonel, genially, "suppose we change thesubject. There isn't much chance of our being called upon to produce ourmoney, or part with it. Still, as I said a while since, it's best tobe cautious, and I see that you all are so. I begin to feel hungry, gentlemen. How is it with you?"

"Are we anywhere near the place for supper?" asked Stiefel. "I wish Icould step into a good Broadway restaurant; I feel empty. "

"Only a mile hence, gentlemen, we shall reach Echo Gulch, where we haltfor the night. There's a rude cabin there, where they will provide uswith supper and shelter. "

This announcement gave general satisfaction. The colonel proved to beright. The stage soon drew up in front of a long one-story building, which bore the pretentious name of the Echo Gulch Hotel. 

CHAPTER XXIII. A STARTLING REVELATION. 

A stout, black-bearded man stood in front of the hotel to welcomethe stage passengers. He took a clay pipe from his lips and nodded awelcome. 

"Glad to see you, strangers, " he said. "Here, Peter, you black rascal, help the gentlemen with their baggage. "

The door was thrown open, and the party filed into a comfortless lookingapartment, at one end of which was a rude bar. 

One of the passengers, at least, seemed to know the landlord, for Col. Warner advanced to greet him, his face beaming with cordiality. 

"How are you, John?" he said. "How does the world use you?"

The landlord growled something inaudible. 

"Have a drink, colonel?" was the first audible remark. 

"Don't care if I do. It's confounded dry traveling over these mountainroads. Walk up, gentlemen. Col. Warner doesn't drink alone. "

With the exception of Herbert and George Melville, the passengers seemedinclined to accept the offer. 

"Come along, Melville, " said the colonel; "you and your friend must joinus. "

"Please excuse me, colonel, " answered Melville. "I would prefer not todrink. "

"Oh, nonsense! To oblige me, now. "

"Thank you; but I am traveling for my health, and it would not beprudent. "

"Just as you say, Melville; but a little whisky would warm you up and doyou good, in my opinion. "

"Thank you all the same, colonel; but I think you must count me out. "

The colonel shrugged his shoulders and beckoned Herbert. 

"You can come, anyway; your health won't prevent. "

Melville did not interfere, for he knew it would give offense, but hehoped his young clerk would refuse. 

"Thank you, " said Herbert; "I won't object to a glass of sarsaparilla. "

"Sarsaparilla!" repeated the colonel, in amazement. "What's that?"

"We don't keep no medicine, " growled the landlord. 

"Have you root-beer?" asked Herbert. 

"What do you take me for?" said the landlord, contemptuously. "I haven'tgot no root-beer. Whisky's good enough for any man. "

"I hope you'll excuse me, then, " said Herbert. "I am not used to anystrong drinks. "

"How old are you?" asked the colonel, rather contemptuously. 

"Sixteen. "

"Sixteen years old and don't drink whisky! My young friend, youreducation has been sadly neglected. "

"I dare say it has, " answered Herbert, good-naturedly. 

"Gentlemen, " said Col. Warner, apologetically, "the boy is a stranger, and isn't used to our free Western ways. He's got the makings of a manin him, and it won't be long before he'll get over his squeamishness, and walk up to the bar as quick as any one of us. "

Herbert and Melville stood apart, while the rest of the company emptiedtheir glasses, apparently at a gulp. It was clear that their refusal hadcaused them to be regarded with dislike and suspicion. 

The accommodations of the Echo Gulch Hotel were far from luxurious. Thechambers were scarcely larger than a small closet, clap-boarded but notplastered, and merely contained a bedstead. Washing accommodations wereprovided downstairs. 

Herbert and George Melville were assigned to a single room, to whichthey would not have objected had the room been larger. It was of no useto indulge in open complaints, however, since others had to fare in thesame way. 

"This isn't luxury, Herbert, " said Melville. 

"No, " answered the boy; "but I don't mind it if you don't. "

"I am afraid I may keep you awake by my coughing, Herbert. "

"Not if I once get to sleep. I sleep as sound as a top. "

"I wish I did; but I am one of the wakeful kind. Being an invalid, Iam more easily annoyed by small inconveniences. You, with your sturdyhealth, are more easily suited. "

"Mr. Melville, I had just as lief sleep downstairs in a chair, and giveyou the whole of the bed. "

"Not on my account, Herbert. I congratulate myself on having you for aroommate. If I had been traveling alone I might have been packed awaywith the colonel, who, by this time, would be even less desirable as abedfellow than usual. "

The worthy colonel had not been content with a single glass of whisky, but had followed it up several times, till his utterance had becomethick, and his face glowed with a dull, brick-dust color. 

Col. Warner had been assigned to the adjoining chamber, or closet, whichever it may be called. He did not retire early, however, whileHerbert and George Melville did. 

Strangely enough, Herbert, who was usually so good a sleeper, aftera short nap woke up. He turned to look at his companion, for it was amoonlight night, and saw that he was sleeping quietly. 

"I wonder what's got into me?" he thought; "I thought I should sleeptill morning. "

He tried to compose himself to sleep, but the more effort he made thebroader awake he became. Sometimes it seems as if such unaccountabledeviations from our ordinary habits were Heaven-sent. As Herbert layawake he suddenly became aware of a conversation which was beingcarried on, in low tones, in the next room. The first voice he heard, herecognized as that of the colonel. 

"Yes, " he said, "some of the passengers have got money. There's thatStiefel probably carries a big sum in gold and notes. When I wasspeaking of the chance of the stage being robbed, he was uncommonnervous. "

"Who's Stiefel?" was growled in another voice, which Herbert had nodifficulty in recognizing as the landlord's. 

"Oh, he's the fat, red-faced German. From his talk, I reckon he's comeout to buy mines somewhere in Colorado. "

"We'll save him the trouble. "

"So we will--good joke, John. Oh, about this Stiefel, he carries hismoney in a belt round his waist. I infer that it is gold. "

"Good! What about the others?"

"There's a tall, thin man--his name is Parker, " proceeded the colonel;"he's smart, or thinks he is; you'll have to pull his stockings off toget his money. Ha, ha!"

"How did you find out, colonel?" asked the landlord, in admiration. 

"Drew it out of him, sir. He didn't know who he was confiding in. He'llwonder how the deuce his hiding place was suspected. "

Other passengers were referred to who have not been mentioned, and ineach case the colonel was able to tell precisely where their money waskept. 

"How about that milksop that wouldn't drink with us?" inquired thelandlord, after a while. 

"Melville? I couldn't find out where he keeps his cash. Probably hekeeps it in his pocket. He doesn't look like a cautious man. "

"Who's the boy?"

"Only a clerk or secretary of Melville's. He hasn't any money, and isn'tworth attention. "

"Very glad to hear it, " thought Herbert. "I don't care to receive anyattention from such gentry. But who would have thought the colonel wasin league with stage robbers? I thought him a gentleman. "

Herbert began to understand why it was that Col. Warner, if that washis real name, had drawn the conversation to stage robbers, and artfullymanaged to discover where each of the passengers kept his supply ofmoney. It was clear that he was in league with the landlord of the EchoGulch Hotel, who, it was altogether probable, intended to waylay thestage the next day. 

This was a serious condition of affairs. The time had been when, inreading stories of adventure, Herbert had wished that he, too, mighthave some experience of the kind. Now that the opportunity had come, ourhero was disposed to regard the matter with different eyes. 

"What can be done, " he asked himself, anxiously, "to escape the dangerwhich threatens us to-morrow?"

CHAPTER XXIV. A MORNING WALK. 

Herbert found it difficult to sleep from anxiety. He felt that theburden was too great for him alone to bear, and he desired to speak onthe subject to George Melville. But there was a difficulty about doingthis undetected, on account of the thinness of the partitions betweenthe rooms. If he could hear Col. Warner, the latter would also be ableto hear him. 

The stage was to start at seven o'clock the next morning, and beforethat time some decision must be made. The first question was, shouldthey, or should they not, take passage, as they had anticipated?

At half-past five, Herbert, turning in bed, found his bedfellow awake. 

"Mr. Melville, " he whispered, "I have something important tocommunicate, and cannot do so here on account of the danger of beingheard in the next room. Are you willing to dress and take a little walkwith me before breakfast?"

George Melville's physical condition did not make him usually favorableto early rising, but he knew Herbert well enough to understand that hehad a satisfactory reason for his request. 

"Yes, Herbert, " he said, "I will get up. "

Not a word was exchanged, for Mr. Melville's discretion prevailed overhis curiosity. In ten minutes both were fully dressed and descended thestairs. 

There was no one stirring except a woman, the landlord's wife, who waslighting the fire in order to prepare breakfast. 

She regarded the two with surprise, and perhaps a little distrust. 

"You're stirrin' early, strangers, " she said. 

"Yes, " answered Melville, courteously, "we are going to take a littlewalk before breakfast; it may sharpen our appetites. "

"Humph!" said the woman; "that's curious. I wouldn't get up so early ifI wasn't obliged. There ain't much to see outdoors. "

"It is a new part of the country to us, " said Melville, "and we may nothave another chance to see it. "

"When will breakfast be ready?" asked Herbert. 

"Half an hour, more or less, " answered the woman, shortly. 

"We will be back in time, " he said. 

The landlady evidently thought their early-rising a singular proceeding, but her suspicions were not aroused. She resumed her work, and Herbertand his friend walked out through the open door. 

When they had reached a spot a dozen rods or more distant, Melvilleturned to his young clerk and asked:

"Well, Herbert, what is it?"

"I have discovered, Mr. Melville, that our stage is to be stopped to-dayand the passengers plundered. "

"How did you discover this?" asked Melville, startled. 

"By a conversation which I overheard in the next chamber to us. "

"But that chamber is occupied by Col. Warner. "

"And he is one of the conspirators, " said Herbert, quietly. 

"Is it possible?" ejaculated Melville. "Can we have been so deceived inhim? Does he propose to waylay the stage?"

"No, I presume he will be one of the passengers. "

"Tell me all you know about this matter, Herbert. Who is engaged withhim in this plot?"

"The landlord. "

"I am not much surprised at this, " said Melville, thoughtfully. "He isan ill-looking man, whose appearance fits the part of highwayman verywell. Then you think the colonel is in league with him?"

"I am sure of that. Don't you remember how skillfully Col. Warner drewout of the passengers the hiding places of their money yesterday?"

"Yes. "

"He has told all to the landlord, and he will no doubt make use of theknowledge. That is all, Mr. Melville. I could not rest till I had toldyou, so that you might decide what to do. "

"It seems quite providential that you were kept awake last night, Herbert, otherwise this blow would have come upon us unprepared. Evenwith the knowledge that it impends, I hardly know what it is best for usto do. "

"We might decide not to go in the stage, " suggested Hebert. 

"But we should have to go to-morrow. We cannot stay here, and there isno other way of traveling. As the colonel seems to think I have money, there would be another attack to-morrow. Besides, where could we stayexcept at this hotel, which is kept, as it appears, by the principalrobber. "

"That is true, " said Herbert, puzzled; "I didn't think of that. "

"I would quite as soon stand my chance of being robbed in the stage, asbe attacked here. Besides, I cannot make up my mind to desert my fellowpassengers. It seems cowardly to send them off to be plundered withoutgiving them a hint of their danger. "

"Couldn't we do that?"

"The result would be that they would not go, and there is no knowing howlong we should be compelled to remain in this secluded spot. "

"Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, suddenly, "a thought has just struck me. "

"I hope it may show us a way out of our danger. "

"No, I am sorry to say that it won't do that. "

"What is it, Herbert?"

"You remember that mention was made yesterday in the stage of a certainfamous bandit named Jerry Lane?"

"Yes, I remember. "

"Do you think it is possible that he and Col. Warner may be one and thesame?"

"That is certainly a startling suggestion, Herbert. What reason have youfor thinking so?"

"It was only a guess on my part; but you remember that the colonel saidhe was a man about his size. "

"That might be. "

"And he did not confine himself to the Western country, but might be metwith in New York, or St. Louis. We met the colonel in Chicago. "

"It may be as you surmise, Herbert, " said George Melville, after apause. "It did occur to me that our worthy landlord might be the famousoutlaw in question, but the description to which you refer seems to fitthe colonel better. There is one thing, however, that makes me a littleincredulous. "

"What is that, Mr. Melville?"

"This Jerry Lane I take to be cool and courageous, while the colonelappears to be more of a boaster. He looks like one who can talk betterthan he can act. If I had ever seen a description of his appearance, Icould judge better. "

The two had been walking slowly and thoughtfully, when they werestartled by a rough voice. 

"You're out early, strangers?"

Turning swiftly, they saw the dark, forbidding face of the landlord, whohad approached them unobserved. 

"Did he hear anything?" thought Herbert, anxiously. 

"Yes, we are taking a little walk, " said Melville, pleasantly. 

"Breakfast will be ready soon. You'd better be back soon, if you'regoin' by the stage this morning. You are goin', I reckon?" said thelandlord, eyeing them sharply. 

"We intend to do so, " said Melville. "We will walk a little farther, andthen return to the house. "

The landlord turned and retraced his steps to the Echo Gulch Hotel. 

"Do you think he heard anything that we were saying?" asked Herbert. 

"I think not. "

"I wonder what brought him out here?"

"Probably he wanted to make sure that we were going in the stage. Heis laudably anxious to have as many victims and as much plunder aspossible. "

"You told him you were going in the stage?"

"Yes, I have decided to do so. "

"Have you decided upon anything else, Mr. Melville?"

"Not positively; but there will be time to think of that. Did you hearwhere we were to be attacked?"

"At a point about five miles from here, " said Herbert. 

This he had gathered from the conversation he had overheard. 

When the two friends reached the hotel, they found Col. Warner alreadydownstairs. 

"Good-morning, gentlemen!" he said. "So you have taken a walk? I neverwalk before breakfast, for my part. "

"Nor do I often, " said Melville. "In this case I was persuaded by myyoung friend. I am repaid by a good appetite. "

"Can't I persuade you to try a glass of bitters, Mr. Melville?" askedthe colonel. 

"Thank you, colonel. You will have to excuse me. "

"Breakfast's ready!" announced the landlady, and the stage passengerssat down at a long, unpainted, wooden table, where the food was ofthe plainest. In spite of the impending peril of which they, only, hadknowledge, Herbert ate heartily, but Melville seemed preoccupied. 

CHAPTER XXV. MELVILLE MAKES A SENSATION. 

Col. Warner seemed in very good spirits. He ate and drank with violentenjoyment, and was as affable as usual. George Melville regarded himwith curiosity. 

"The man does not appear like a desperado or outlaw, " he thought. "Thereis nothing to distinguish him from the majority of men one meets inordinary intercourse. He is a problem to me, I should like to studyhim. "

Col. Warner did not fail to observe the unconscious intentness withwhich Melville regarded him, and, for some reason, it did not pleasehim. 

"You have lost your appetite, Mr. Melville, " he said, lightly. "You havebeen looking at me until--egad!--if I were a vain man, I should concludethere was something striking about my appearance. "

"I won't gainsay that, Colonel, " answered Melville, adroitly. "I confessI am not very hungry, and I will further confess that I have somethingon my mind. "

"Indeed! Better make me your father confessor, " said the colonel, whosesuspicion or annoyance was removed by this ready reply. 

"So I may, after a while, " said Melville. 

He took the hint, and ceased to regard the colonel. 

The latter made himself generally social, and generally popular. 

The stage drove round to the door after breakfast, and there was theusual bustle, as the passengers bestowed themselves inside. 

George Melville had intended to watch narrowly the landlord and Col. Warner, to detect, if possible, the secret understanding which mustexist between them. But he was deprived of an opportunity, for the verygood reason that the landlord had disappeared, and was not again seenbefore their departure. 

The driver gathered up his reins, cracked his whip, and the stagestarted. Herbert looked at George Melville a little anxiously, notknowing what course he had decided to take. They two, it will beremembered, were the only ones who knew of the intended attack. 

Before the stage started, Melville quietly took the opportunity to handhis pocketbook to Herbert, saying, briefly: "It will be safer with youin case of an attack. "

"But won't it be considered suspicious that you have no money aboutyou?" suggested Herbert. 

"I have a roll of bills in my pocket-fifty dollars, " answered Melville. 

They had no further opportunity of speaking, as one of the passengerscame up where they were standing. 

Herbert had already taken his seat in the coach, when his employer said:"Herbert, wouldn't you like to ride outside with the driver?"

"Yes, sir, " answered Herbert, promptly, for he understood, that this wasMr. Melville's wish. 

"It will give us more room, and you will have a better view. "

"Yes, sir; I shall like it. "

In a quick manner Herbert made the change, taking care not to looksignificantly at Melville, as some boys might have done, and thusexcited suspicion. 

For the first mile there was very little conversation. 

Then Col. Warner spoke. 

"Well, gentlemen, " he said, "we are fairly on our way. Let us hopenothing will mar our pleasure. "

"Do you anticipate anything?" asked George Melville. 

"I! Why should I? We have a skillful driver, and I guarantee he won'ttip us over. "

"Mr. Melville was, perhaps, referring to the chance of the stage beingstopped by some enterprising road agent, " suggested Parker. 

"Oho! Sits the wind in that quarter?" said the Colonel, laughinglightly. "Not the least chance of that--that is, the chance is veryslight. "

"You spoke differently yesterday, " said the German capitalist. 

"Did I? I didn't mean it, I assure you. We are as safe here as if wewere riding in the interior of New York. I suppose I was only whilingaway a few idle minutes. "

"I am glad to hear it, " said the German. "I shouldn't like to meet anyof these gentlemen. "

"Nor I, " answered Melville; "but I am prepared to give him or them awarm reception. "

As he spoke he drew a revolver from his pocket. He sat next to the door, and in an exposed situation. 

"Put up your shooting iron, Mr. Melville, " said Col. Warner, exhibitinga slight shade of annoyance. "Let me exchange places with you. I shouldprefer the post of danger, if' there is any. "

"You are very kind, Colonel, " said Melville, quietly, "but I don't careto change. I am quite satisfied with my seat. "

"But, my dear sir, I insist--" said the Colonel, making a motion torise. 

"Keep your seat, Colonel! I insist upon staying where I am, " answeredMelville. 

He was physically far from formidable, this young man, but there was aresolute ring in his voice that showed he was in earnest. 

"Really, my dear sir, " said the Colonel, trying to conceal hisannoyance, "you have been quite misled by my foolish talk. I did notsuppose you were so nervous. "

"Possibly I may have a special reason for being so, " returned GeorgeMelville. 

"What do you mean?" demanded the Colonel, quickly. "If you have, we areall interested, and ought to know it. "

"The Colonel is right, " said the German. "If you know of any danger, itis only fair to inform us all. "

"I am disposed to agree with you, gentlemen, " said Melville. "Briefly, then, I have good reason to think that this company of passengers hasbeen marked for plunder. "

Col. Warner started, but, quickly recovering himself, he laugheduneasily. 

"Tush!" he said, "I put no faith in it. Some one has been deceiving you, my friend. "

But the other passengers took it more seriously. 

"You evidently know something that we do not, " said Parker. 

"I do, " answered Melville. 

Col. Warner looked at him searchingly, but did not speak. 

Now was the time to test George Melville's nerve. He was about to take abold step. 

"Gentlemen, " he said, "I regret to say that I have every reason tobelieve there is a man in this stage who is in league with the roadagents. "

This statement naturally made a sensation. 

There were seven passengers, and each regarded the rest with new-bornsuspicion. There seemed, on the whole, about as much reason to suspectone man as another, and each, with the exception of Melville, foundhimself looked upon with distrust. 

"Pooh, Melville! You must have had bad dreams!" said Col. Warner, whowas the first to recover his self-possession. "Really, I give you creditfor a first-class sensation. As for you, gentlemen, you may take stockin this cock-and-bull story, if you like; I shall not. I, for one, haveno fear of my fellow passengers. I regard them all as gentlemen, andshall not allow myself to be disturbed by any silly fears. "

The air of calm composure with which the Colonel spoke served totranquilize the rest of the passengers, who wished to put credit in hisassurance. 

"The Colonel speaks sensibly, " said Mr. Parker, "and unless Mr. Melvilleassigns a reason for his remarkable belief, I am disposed to think wehave taken alarm too quick. "

"Of course, of course; all sensible men will think so, " said theColonel. "My friend, we shall be tempted to laugh at you if you insiston entertaining us with such hobgoblin fancies. My advice is, to put upthat weapon of yours, and turn your attention to the scenery, whichI can assure you, gentlemen, is well worthy of your admiration. Justobserve the walls of yonder canyon, and the trees growing on thepoints. "

"Gentlemen, " said Melville, "I should be glad to take the view of thelast speaker, if I had not positive proof that he is the man who hasagreed to deliver us into the hands of a road agent within the space ofhalf an I hour!"

"Sir, you shall answer for this!" exclaimed the Colonel, furiously, ashe struggled to secure the weapon, his face livid with passion. 

But two passengers, one the German, who, though short, was verypowerful, forcibly prevented him. 

CHAPTER XXVI. A COUNCIL OF WAR. 

"Are you sure of what you say?" asked a passenger, turning with apuzzled look from George Melville, who, in the midst of the generalexcitement produced by his revelation, sat, not unmoved indeed, butcomparatively calm. Courage and physical strength are by no meansinseparable, and this frail young man, whose strength probably was notequal to Herbert's, was fearless in the face of peril which would dauntmany a stalwart six-footer. 

In reply to this very natural question, George Melville repeated theessential parts of the conversation which had taken place between Col. Warner and the landlord. 

Col. Warner's countenance changed, and he inwardly execrated theimprudence that had made his secret plan known to one of the intendedvictims. 

"Is this true, Col. Warner?" asked Parker. 

"No, it's a lie!" returned the colonel, with an oath. 

"Gentlemen!" said George Melville, calmly, "you can choose which youwill believe. I will only suggest that this man managed very adroitlyto find out where each one of us kept his money. You can also considerwhether I have any cause to invent this story. "

It was clear that the passengers were inclined to put faith inMelville's story. 

"Gentlemen!" said the Colonel, angrily, "I never was so insulted in mylife. I am a man of wealth, traveling on business; I am worth a quarterof a million at least. To associate me with road agents, whom I have asmuch reason to fear as you, is most ridiculous. This young man may bewell-meaning, but he is under a most extraordinary hallucination. It ismy belief that he dreamed the nonsense he has been retailing to you. "

"Ask the driver to stop the stage, " said Mr. Benson, a gentleman fromPhiladelphia. "If Mr. Melville's story is trustworthy, we may at anytime reach the spot where the highwayman is lurking. We must have ageneral consultation, and decide what is to be done. "

This proposal was approved, and the driver drew up the stage. 

"I don't propose to remain in the company of men who so grossly misjudgeme, " said the Colonel, with dignity, as he made a motion to leave hisfellow passengers. 

"Stay here, sir!" said Mr. Benson, in a tone of authority. "We cannotspare you yet. "

"Do you dare to detain me, sir?" exclaimed Warner, menacingly. 

"Yes, we do, " said the German. "Just stay where you are, Mr. Colonel, till we decide what to do. "

As each one of the company had produced his revolver, the Colonelthought it prudent to obey. 

"I am disgusted with this fooling, " he said, "You're all a pack ofcowards. "

"Driver, " said George Melville, "has this stage ever been robbed?"

"Several times, " the driver admitted. 

"When was the last time?"

"Two months since. "

"Where did it happen?"

"About a mile further on. "

"Did you ever see this gentleman before?" he asked, pointing to thecolonel. 

"Yes, " answered the driver, reluctantly. 

"When did he last ride with you?"

"On the day the stage was robbed, " answered the driver. 

The passengers exchanged glances, and then, as by a common impulse, all turned to Col. Warner, to see how he would take this damagingrevelation. Disguise it as he might, he was clearly disconcerted. 

"Is this true, colonel?" asked Benson. 

"Yes, it is, " answered Col. Warner, with some hesitation. "I was robbed, with the rest. I had four hundred dollars in my wallet, and the roadagent made off with it. "

"And yet you just now pooh-poohed the idea of a robbery, and said suchthings were gone by. "

"I say so now, " returned the colonel, sullenly. "I have a good deal ofmoney with me, but I am willing to take my chances. "

"Doubtless. Your money would be returned to you, in all probability, if, as we have reason to believe, you have a secret understanding with thethieves who infest this part of the country. "

"Your words are insulting. Let go my arm, sir, or it will be the worsefor you. "

"Softly, softly, my good friend, " said the German. "Have you anyproposal to make, Mr. Melville?"

"Only this. Let us proceed on our journey, but let each man draw hisrevolver, and be ready to use it, if need be. "

"What about the colonel?"

"He must go along with us. We cannot have him communicating with ourenemies outside. "

"Suppose I refuse, sir?"

"Then, my very good friend, I think we shall use a little force, " saidthe German, carelessly pointing his weapon at the captive. 

"I will go upon compulsion, " said the colonel, "but I protest againstthis outrage. I am a wealthy capitalist from Chicago, who knows nomore about road agents than you do. You have been deceived by thisunsophisticated young man, who knows about as much of the world as afour-year-old child. It's a fine mare's nest he has found. "

This sneer did not disturb the equanimity of George Melville. 

"I should be glad to believe the colonel were as innocent as he claims, "he said, "but his own words, overheard last night, contradict what heis now saying. When we have passed the spot indicated for the attack, wewill release him, and give him the opportunity he seeks of leaving ourcompany. "

The passengers resumed their places in the stage, with the exception ofHerbert, who again took his seat beside the driver. George Melville hadnot mentioned that it was Herbert, not himself, who had overheard theconversation between the colonel and the land lord, fearing to exposethe boy to future risk. 

Col. Warner sat sullenly between the German and Benson. He was evidentlyill at ease and his restless glances showed that he was intent upon someplan of escape. Of this, however, such was the vigilance of his guards, there did not seem much chance. 

The stage kept on its way till it entered a narrow roadway, lined on oneside by a thick growth of trees. 

Melville, watching the colonel narrowly, saw that, in spite of hisattempt at calmness, his excitement was at fever heat. 

The cause was very evident, for at this point a tall figure bounded fromthe underbrush, disguised by a black half mask, through which a pair ofblack eyes blazed fiercely. 

"Stop the stage!" he thundered to the driver, "or I will put a bulletthrough your head. "

The driver, as had been directed, instantly obeyed. 

CHAPTER XXVII. COL. WARNER CHANGES FRONT. 

It may seem a daring thing for one man to stop a stage full ofpassengers, and require them to surrender their money and valuables, butthis has been done time and again in unsettled portions of the West. Forthe most part the stage passengers are taken by surprise, and the roadagent is known to be a desperado, ready to murder in cold blood anyonewho dares oppose him. 

In the present instance, however, the passengers had been warned oftheir danger and were ready to meet it. 

Brown--for, of course, the masked man was the landlord--saw fourrevolvers leveled at him from inside the stage. 

"Let go that horse, my friend, or you are a dead man!" said ConradStiefel, calmly. "Two can play at your game. "

Brown was taken by surprise, but he was destined to be still moreastonished. 

Col. Warner protruded his head from the window, saying:

"Yes, my friend, you had better give up your little plan. It won'twork. "

Such language from his confederate, on whom he fully relied, whollydisconcerted the masked robber. 

"Well, I'll be blowed!" he muttered, staring, in ludicrous perplexity, at his fellow conspirator. 

"Yes, my friend, " said the colonel, "I shall really be under thenecessity of shooting you myself if you don't leave us alone. We are allarmed and resolute. I think you had better defer your little scheme. "

Brown was not quick-witted. He did not see that his confederate wastrying cunningly to avert suspicion from himself, and taking the onlycourse that remained to him. Of course, he thought he was betrayed, andwas, as a natural consequence, exasperated. 

He released his hold on the horses, but, fixing his eyes on the colonelfiercely, muttered:

"Wait till I get a chance at you! I'll pay you for this. "

"What an idiot!" thought Warner, shrugging his shoulders. "Why can't hesee that I am forced to do as I am doing? I must make things plain tohim. "

He spoke a few words rapidly in Spanish, which Brown evidentlyunderstood. His face showed a dawning comprehension of the state ofaffairs, and he stood aside while the stage drove on. 

"What did you say?" asked Conrad Stiefel, suspiciously. 

"You heard me, sir, " said the colonel, loftily. "You owe your rescuefrom this ruffian to me. Now, you can understand how much you havemisjudged me. "

Conrad Stiefel was not so easily satisfied of this. 

"I heard what you said in Mexican, or whatever lingo it is, but I didn'tunderstand it. "

"Nor I, " said Benson. 

"Very well, gentlemen; I am ready to explain. I told this man that if heever attempted to molest me I should shoot him in his track. "

"Why didn't you speak to him in English?" asked Stiefel. 

"Because I had a suspicion that the fellow was the same I met once inMexico, and I spoke to him in Spanish to make sure. As he understood, Iam convinced I was right. "

"Who is it, then?" asked Benson. 

"His name, sir, is Manuel de Cordova, a well-known Mexican bandit, who seems to have found his way to this neighborhood. He is a recklessdesperado, and, though I addressed him boldly, I should be very sorry tomeet him in a dark night. "

This explanation was very fluently spoken, but probably no one presentbelieved what the colonel said, or exonerated him from the charge whichGeorge Melville had made against him. 

Five miles further on Col. Warner left the stage. 

"Gentlemen, " he said, "I am sorry to leave this pleasant company, but Ihave a mining claim in this neighborhood, and must bid you farewell. I trust that when you think of me hereafter, you will acquit me of theinjurious charges which have been made against me. I take no credit tomyself for driving away the ruffian who stopped us, but hope you won'tforget it. "

"No one interfered with the colonel when he proposed to leave the stage. Indeed, the passengers were unanimous in accepting his departure as arelief. In spite of his plausible representations, he was regarded withgeneral suspicion. 

"I wish I knew the meaning of that Spanish lingo, " said the German, Conrad Stiefel. 

"I can interpret it for you, Mr. Stiefel, " said George Melville, quietly. "I have some knowledge of Spanish. "

"What did he say?" asked more than one, eagerly. 

"He said: 'You fool! Don't you see the plot has been discovered? Itwasn't my fault. I will soon join you and explain. '"

This revelation made a sensation. 

"Then he was in league with the road agent, after all?" said Parker. 

"Certainly he was. Did you for a moment doubt it?" said Melville. 

"I was staggered when I saw him order the rascal away. "

"He is a shrewd villain!" said Benson. "I hope we shan't encounter himagain. "

CHAPTER XXVIII. THE CONSPIRATORS IN COUNCIL. 

It is needless to say that Col. Warner's intention in leaving the stagewas to join his fellow conspirator. There was no advantage in remaininglonger with his fellow travelers, since the opportunity of plunderingthem had passed, and for the present was not likely to return. Hehad been a little apprehensive that they would try to detain him onsuspicion, which would have been awkward, since they had numbers ontheir side, and all were armed. But in that unsettled country he wouldhave been an elephant on their hands, and if the idea entered the mindsof any one of the stage passengers, it was instantly dismissed. 

When the stage was fairly on the way, Col. Warner went to a house wherehe was known, and asked for a horse. 

"Any news, colonel?" asked the farmer, as he called himself. Really hewas in league with the band of which Warner was the chief. 

"No, " answered the Colonel, gloomily. "No, worse luck! There might havebeen, but for an unfortunate circumstance. "

"What's that?"

"There's plenty of good money in that stage coach and Brown and I meantto have it, but some sharp-eared rascal heard us arranging the detailsof the plan, and that spoiled it. "

"Is it too late now?" asked the farmer, eagerly. "We can follow them, and overtake them yet, if you say so. "

"And be shot for our pains. No, thank you. They are all on the alert, and all have their six-shooters in readiness. No, we must postponeour plan. There's one of the fellows that I mean to be revenged uponyet--the one that ferreted out our secret plan. I must bide my time, butI shall keep track of him. "

Soon the Colonel, well-mounted, was on his way back to the rude innwhere he had slept the night before. 

Dismounting he entered without ceremony, and his eyes fell upon thelandlord's wife, engaged in some household employment. 

"Where's Brown?" he asked, abruptly. 

"Somewheres round, " was the reply. 

"How long has he been home?"

"A matter of two hours. He came home awfully riled, but he wouldn't tellme what it was about. What's happened?"

"We've met with a disappointment--that's what's the matter. "

"Did the passengers get the better of you?" asked the woman, for she wasin her husband's guilty secrets, and knew quite well what manner of manshe had married. 

"They found out our little game, " answered Warner, shortly, for he didnot see any advantage in wasting words on his confederate's wife. "Whichway did Brown go?"

"Yonder, " answered Mrs. Brown, pointing in a particular direction. 

Col. Warner tied his horse to a small sapling, and walked in thedirection indicated. 

He found the landlord sullenly reclining beneath a large tree. 

"So you're back?" he said, surveying Warner with a lowering brow. 

"Yes. "

"And a pretty mess you've made of the job!" said the landlord, bitterly. 

"It's as much your fault--nay, more!" said his superior, coolly. 

"What do you mean?" demanded Brown, not over cordially. 

"You would persist in discussing our plan last night in my room, thoughI warned you we might be overheard. "

"Well?"

"We were overheard. "

"What spy listened to our talk?"

"The young man, Melville--the one traveling with a boy. He kept it tohimself till the stage was well on its way, and then he blabbed thewhole thing to all in the stage. "

"Did he mention you?"

"Yes, and you. "

"Why didn't you tell him he lied, and shoot him on the spot?"

"Because I shouldn't have survived him five minutes, " answered thecolonel, coolly, "or, if I had, his companions would have lynched me. "

Brown didn't look as if he would have been inconsolable had thisoccurred. In fact, he was ambitious to succeed to the place held by thecolonel, as chief of a desperate gang of outlaws. 

"I might have been dangling from a branch of a tree at this moment, hadI followed your plan, my good friend Brown, and that would have beenparticularly uncomfortable. "

"They might have shot me, " said Brown, sullenly. 

"I prevented that, and gave you timely warning. Of course it's adisappointment, but we shall have better luck next time. "

"They've got away. "

"Yes, but I propose to keep track of Melville and the boy, and have myrevenge upon them in time. I don't care so much about the money, butthey have foiled me, and they must suffer for it. Meanwhile, I want yourhelp in another plan. "

The two conferred together, and mutual confidence was re-established. 

CHAPTER XXIX. A NEW HOME IN THE WOODS. 

George Melville had no definite destination. He was traveling, not forpleasure, but for health, and his purpose was to select a residencein some high location, where the dry air would be favorable for hispulmonary difficulties. 

A week later he had found a temporary home. One afternoon Herbert andhe, each on horseback, for at that time public lines of travel werefewer than at present, came suddenly upon a neat, one-story cottage inthe edge of the forest. It stood alone, but it was evidently the homeof one who aimed to add something of the graces of civilization to therudeness of frontier life. 

They reined up simultaneously, and Melville, turning to Herbert, said:"There, Herbert, is my ideal of a residence. I should not be satisfiedwith a rude cabin. There I should find something of the comfort which weenjoy in New England. "

"The situation is fine, too, " said Herbert, looking about himadmiringly. 

The cottage stood on a knoll. On either side were tall and statelytrees. A purling brook at the left rolled its silvery current down agentle declivity, and in front, for half a mile, was open country. 

"I have a great mind to call and inquire who lives here. " said Melville. "Perhaps we can arrange to stay here all night. "

"That is a good plan, Mr. Melville. "

George Melville dismounted from his horse, and, approaching, tapped withthe handle of his whip on the door. 

"Who's there?" inquired a smothered voice, as of one rousing himselffrom sleep. 

"A stranger, but a friend, " answered Melville. 

There was a sound as of some one moving, and a tall man, clad in a roughsuit, came to the door, and looked inquiringly at Melville and his boycompanion. 

Though his attire was rude, his face was refined, and had theindefinable air of one who would be more at home in the city than in thecountry. 

"Delighted to see you both, " he said, cordially, offering his hand. "Idon't live in a palace, and my servants are all absent, but if you willdeign to become my guests I will do what I can for your comfort. "

"You have anticipated my request, " said Melville. "Let me introducemyself as George Melville, an invalid by profession, just come from NewEngland in search of health. My young friend here is Herbert Carr, myprivate secretary and faithful companion, who has not yet found out whatit is to be in poor-health. Without him I should hardly have dared tocome so far alone. "

"You are very welcome, Herbert, " said the host, with pleasantfamiliarity. "Come in, both of you, and make yourselves at home. "

The cottage contained two rooms. One was used as a bedchamber, the otheras a sitting room. On the walls were a few pictures, and on a smallbookcase against one side of the room were some twenty-five books. There was an easel and an unfinished picture in one corner, and a smallcollection of ordinary furniture. 

"You are probably an artist, " suggested Melville. 

"Yes, you have hit it. I use both pen and pencil, " and he mentioned aname known to Melville as that of a popular magazine writer. 

I do not propose to give his real name, but we will know him as RobertFalkland. 

"I am familiar with your name, Mr. Falkland, " said Melville, "but I didnot expect to find you here. "

"Probably not, " answered Falkland. "I left the haunts of civilizationunexpectedly, some months ago, and even my publishers don't know where Iam. "

"In search of health?" queried Melville. 

"Not exactly. I did, however, feel in need of a change. I had beenrunning in a rut, and wanted to get out of it, so I left my lodgings inNew York and bought a ticket to St. Louis; arrived there, I determinedto come farther. So here I have been, living in communion with nature, seeing scarcely anybody, enjoying myself, on the whole, but sometimeslonging to see a new face. "

"And you have built this cottage?"

"No; I bought it of its former occupant, but have done somethingtowards furnishing it; so that it has become characteristic of me and mytastes. "

"How long have you lived here?"

"Three months; but my stay is drawing to a close. "

"How is that?"

"Business that will not be put off calls me back to New York. In fact, Ihad appointed to-morrow for my departure. "

Melville and Herbert exchanged a glance. It was evident that the samethought was in the mind of each. 

"Mr. Falkland, " said George Melville, "I have a proposal to make toyou. "

The artist eyed him in some surprise. 

"Go on, " he said. 

"I will buy this cottage of you, if you are willing. "

Falkland smiled. 

"This seems providential, " he said. "We artists and men of lettersare apt to be short of money, and I confess I was pondering whether mycredit was good with anybody for a hundred dollars to pay my expensesEast. Once arrived there, there are plenty of publishers who will makeme advances on future work. "

"Then we can probably make a bargain, " said Mr. Melville. "Please nameyour price. "

Now, I do not propose to show my ignorance of real estate values inColorado by naming the price which George Melville paid for his homein the wilderness. In fact, I do not know. I can only say that he gaveFalkland a check for the amount on a Boston bank, and a hundred in cashbesides. 

"You are liberal, Mr. Melville, " said Falkland, gratified. "I am afraidyou are not a business man. I have not found that business men overpay. "

"You are right, I am not a business man, " answered Melville, "thoughI wish my health would admit of my being so. As to the extra hundreddollars, I think it worth that much to come upon so comfortable a homeready to my hand. It will really be a home, such as the log cabin Ilooked forward to could not be. "

"Thank you, " said Falkland; "I won't pretend that I am indifferentto money, for I can't afford to be. I earn considerable sums, but, unfortunately, I never could keep money, or provide for the future. "

"I don't know how it would be with me, " said Melville, "for I am oneof those, fortunate or otherwise, who are born to a fortune. I havesometimes been sorry that I had not the incentive of poverty to induceme to work. "

"Then, suppose we exchange lots, " said the artist, lightly. "I shouldn'tobject to being wealthy. "

"With all my heart, " answered Melville. "Give me your health, yourliterary and artistic talent, and it is a bargain. "

"I am afraid they are not transferable, " said the artist, "but we won'tprolong the discussion now. I am neglecting the rites of hospitality;I must prepare supper for my guests. You must know that here in thewilderness I am my own cook and dishwasher. "

"Let me help you?" said Melville. 

"No, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, "it is more in my line. I have oftenhelped mother at home, and I don't believe you have had any experience. "

"I confess I am a green hand, " said Melville, laughing, "but, as Irishgirls just imported say, 'I am very willing. '"

"On the whole, I think the boy can assist me better, " said Falkland. "So, Mr. Melville, consider yourself an aristocratic visitor, whileHerbert and myself, sons of toil, will minister to your necessities. "

"By the way, where do you get your supplies?" asked Melville. 

"Eight miles away there is a mining camp and store. I ride over thereonce a week or oftener, and bring home what I need. "

"What is the name of the camp?"

"Deer Creek. I will point out to Herbert, before I leave you, the bridlepath leading to it. "

"Thank you. It will be a great advantage to us to know just how tolive. "

With Herbert's help an appetizing repast was prepared, of which allthree partook with keen zest. 

The next day Falkland took leave of them, and Melville and his boycompanion were left to settle down in their new home. 

CHAPTER XXX. A TERRIBLE MOMENT. 

Melville's purchase comprised not only the cottage, but its contents, pictures and books included. This was fortunate, for though Herbert, who was strong, and fond of outdoor sports, such as hunting and fishing, could have contented himself, Melville was easily fatigued, and spent atleast half of the day in the cabin. The books, most of which were new tohim, were a great and unfailing resource. 

Among the articles which Falkland left behind him were two guns, ofwhich Herbert and Melville made frequent use. Herbert had a naturaltaste for hunting, though, at home, having no gun of his own, he hadnot been able to gratify his taste as much as he desired. Often afterbreakfast the two sallied forth, and wandered about in the neighboringwoods, gun in hand. Generally Melville returned first, leaving Herbert, not yet fatigued, to continue the sport. In this way our hero acquired askill and precision of aim which enabled him to make a very respectablefigure even among old and practiced hunters. 

One morning, after Melville had returned home, Herbert was led, by theardor of the chase, to wander farther than usual. He was aware of this, but did not fear being lost, having a compass and knowing his bearings. All at once, as he was making his way along a wooded path, he wasstartled by hearing voices. He hurried forward, and the scene upon whichhe intruded was dramatic enough. 

With arms folded, a white man, a hunter, apparently, stood erect, andfacing him, at a distance of seventy-five or eighty feet, was an Indian, with gun raised, and leveled at the former. 

"Why don't you shoot, you red rascal!" said the white man. "You've gotthe drop on me, I allow, and I am in your power. "

The Indian laughed in his guttural way; but though he held the gunpoised, he did not shoot. He was playing with his victim as a cat playswith a mouse before she kills it. 

"Is white man afraid?" said the Indian, not tauntingly, but with realcuriosity, for among Indians it is considered a great triumph ifa warrior can inspire fear in his foe, and make him show the whitefeather. 

"Afraid!" retorted the hunter. "Who should I be afraid of?"

"Of Indian. "

"Don't flatter yourself, you pesky savage, " returned the white man, coolly, ejecting a flood of tobacco juice from his mouth, for though hewas a brave man, he had some drawbacks. "You needn't think I am afraidof you. "

"Indian shoot!" suggested his enemy, watching the effect of thisannouncement. 

"Well, shoot, then, and be done with it. "

"White man no want to live?"

"Of course I want to live. Never saw a healthy white man that didn't. IfI was goin' to die at all, I wouldn't like to die by the hands of a redrascal like you. "

"Indian great warrior, " said the dusky denizen of the woods, straightening up, and speaking complacently. 

"Indian may be great warrior, but he is a horse thief, all the same, "said the hunter, coolly. 

"White man soon die, and Indian wear his scalp, " remarked the Indian, ina manner likely to disturb the composure of even the bravest listener. 

The hunter's face changed. It was impossible to reflect upon such a fatewithout a pang. Death was nothing to that final brutality. 

"Ha! White man afraid now!" said the Indian, triumphantly--quick toobserve the change of expression in his victim. 

"No, I am not afraid, " said the hunter, quickly recovering himself; "butit's enough to disgust any decent man to think that his scalp willsoon be dangling from the belt of a filthy heathen like you. However, Isuppose I won't know it after I'm dead. You have skulked and dogged mysteps, you red hound, ever since I punished you for trying to steal myhorse. I made one great mistake. Instead of beating you, I should haveshot you, and rid the earth of you once for all. "

"Indian no forget white man's blows. White man die, and Indian berevenged. "

"Yes, I s'pose that's what it's coming to, " said the hunter, in a toneof resignation. "I was a 'tarnal fool to come out this mornin' withoutmy gun. If I had it you would sing a different song. "

Again the Indian laughed, a low, guttural, unpleasant laugh, whichHerbert listened to with a secret shudder. It was so full of malignity, and cunning triumph, and so suggestive of the fate which he reserved forhis white foe, that it aggravated the latter, and made him impatient tohave the blow fall, since it seemed to be inevitable. 

"Why don't you shoot, you red savage?" he cried. "What are you waitingfor?"

The Indian wished to gloat over the mental distress of his foe. He likedto prolong his own feeling of power--to enjoy the consciousness that, atany moment, he could put an end to the life of the man whom he hatedfor the blows which he felt had degraded him, and which he was resolvednever to forget or forgive. It was the same feeling that has often ledthose of his race to torture their hapless victims, that they may, aslong as possible, enjoy the spectacle of their agonies. For this reasonhe was in no hurry to speed on its way the fatal bullet. 

Again the Indian laughed, and, taking aim, made a feint of firing, butwithheld his shot. Pale and resolute his intended victim continued toface him. He thought that the fatal moment had come, and braced himselfto meet his fate; but he was destined to be disappointed. 

"How long is this goin' to last, you red hound?" he demanded. "If I'vegot to die, I am ready. "

"Indian can wait!" said the savage, with a smile of enjoyment. 

"You wouldn't find it prudent to wait if I were beside you, " said thehunter. "It's easy enough to threaten an unarmed man. If some friendwould happen along to foil you in your cowardly purpose---"

"White man send for friend!" suggested the Indian, tauntingly. 

Herbert had listened to this colloquy with varying emotions, and hisanger and indignation were stirred by the cold-blooded cruelty of thesavage. He stood motionless, seen by neither party, but he held hisweapon leveled at the Indian, ready to shoot at an instant's warning. Brought up, as he had been, with a horror for scenes of violence, and afeeling that human life was sacred, he had a great repugnance to use hisweapon, even where it seemed his urgent duty to do so. He felt that onhim, young as he was, rested a weighty responsibility. He could save thelife of a man of his own color, but only by killing or disabling ared man. Indian though he was, his life, too, was sacred; but when hethreatened the life of another he forfeited his claim to consideration. 

Herbert hesitated till he saw it was no longer safe to do so--till hesaw that it was the unalterable determination of the Indian to kill thehunter, and then, his face pale and fixed, he pulled the trigger. 

His bullet passed through the shoulder of the savage. The latter uttereda shrill cry of surprise and dismay, and his weapon fell at his feet, while he pressed his left hand to his wounded shoulder. 

The hunter, amazed at the interruption, which had been of such essentialservice to him, lost not a moment in availing himself of it. He boundedforward, and before the savage well knew what he purposed, he had pickedup his fallen weapon, and, leveling it at his wounded foe, fired. 

His bullet was not meant to disable, but to kill. It penetrated theheart of the savage, and, staggering back, he fell, his face distortedwith rage and disappointment. 

"The tables are turned, my red friend!" said the hunter, coolly. "It'syour life, not mine, this time!"

At that moment Herbert, pale and shocked, but relieved as well, pressedforward, and the hunter saw him for the first time. 

"Was it you, boy, who fired the shot?" asked the hunter, in surprise. 

"Yes, " answered Herbert. 

"Then I owe you my life, and that's a debt Jack Holden isn't likely toforget!"

CHAPTER XXXI. JACK HOLDEN ON THE INDIAN QUESTION. 

It is a terrible thing to see a man stretched out in death who but aminute before stood full of life and strength. Herbert gazed at the deadIndian with a strange sensation of pity and relief, and could hardlyrealize that, but for his interposition, it would have been the hunter, not the Indian, who would have lost his life. 

The hunter was more used to such scenes, and his calmness was unruffled. 

"That's the end of the dog!" he said, touching with his foot the deadbody. 

"What made him want to kill you?" asked Herbert. 

"Revenge, " answered Holden. 

"For what? Had you injured him?"

"That's the way he looked at it. One day I caught the varmint stealin'my best hoss. He'd have got away with him, too, if I hadn't come homejust as I did. I might have shot him--most men would--but I hate to takea man's life for stealin'; and I took another way. My whip was lyin'handy, and I took it and lashed the rascal over his bare back a dozentimes, and then told him to dust, or I'd serve him worse. He left, butthere was an ugly look in his eyes, and I knew well enough he'd try toget even. "

"How long ago was this?"

"Most a year. It's a long time, but an Indian never forgets an injury oran insult, and I knew that he was only bidin' his time. So I always wentarmed, and kept a good lookout. It was only this mornin' that he caughtme at a disadvantage. I'd been taking a walk, and left my gun at home. He was prowlin' round, and soon saw how things stood. He'd have killedme sure, if you hadn't come in the nick of time. "

"I am glad I was near, " said Herbert, "but it seems to me a terriblething to shoot a man. I'm glad it wasn't I that killed him. "

"Mebbe it was better for me, as he was my enemy, " said Jack Holden. "Itwon't trouble my conscience a mite. I don't look upon an Indian as aman. "

"Why not?"

"He's a snake in the grass--a poisonous serpent, that's what I callhim, " said Jack Holden. 

Herbert shook his head. He couldn't assent to this. 

"You feel different, no doubt. You're a tenderfoot. You ain't used tothe ways of these reptiles. You haven't seen what I have, " answeredHolden. 

"What have you seen?" asked Herbert, judging correctly that Holdenreferred to some special experience. 

"I'll tell you. You see, I'm an old settler in this Western country. I've traveled pretty much all over the region beyond the Rockies, andI've seen a good deal of the red men. I know their ways as well as anyman. Well, I was trampin' once in Montany, when, one afternoon, I and mypard--he was prospectin'--came to a clearin', and there we saw a sightthat made us all feel sick. It was the smokin' ruins of a log cabin, which them devils had set on fire. But that wasn't what I referredto. Alongside there lay six dead bodies--the man, his wife, two boys, somewhere near your age, a little girl, of maybe ten, and a baby--allbutchered by them savages, layin'--in the hunter's vernacular--in theirgore. It was easy to see how they'd killed the baby, by his brokenskull. They had seized the poor thing by the feet, and swung him againstthe side of the house, dashin' out his brains. "

Herbert shuddered, and felt sick, as the picture of the ruined home andthe wretched family rose before his imagination. 

"It was Indians that did it, of course, " proceeded Holden. "They're bornsavage, and such things come natural to them. "

"Are there no good Indians?" asked the boy. 

"There may be, " answered Jack Holden, doubtfully, "though I haven't seenmany. They're as scarce as plums in a boardin' house puddin', I reckon. "

I present this as Jack Holden's view, not mine. He had the prejudicesof the frontier, and frontiersmen are severe judges of their Indianneighbors. They usually look at but one side of the picture, and arenot apt to take into consideration the wrongs which the Indianshave undeniably received. There is another extreme, however, and thesentimentalists who deplore Indian wrongs, and represent them as abrave, suffering and oppressed people, are quite as far away from a justview of the Indian question. 

"What's your name, youngster?" asked Holden, with the curiosity naturalunder the circumstances. 

"Herbert Carr. "

"Do you live nigh here?"

Herbert indicated, as well as he could, the location of his home. 

"I know--you live with Mr. Falkland. Are you his son?"

"No; Mr. Falkland has gone away. "

"You're not living there alone, be you?"

"No; I came out here with a young man--Mr. Melville. He bought thecottage of Mr. Falkland, who was obliged to go East. "

"You don't say so. Why, we're neighbors. I live three miles from here. "

"Did you know Mr. Falkland?"

"Yes; we used to see each other now and then. He was a good fellow, but mighty queer. What's the use of settin' down and paintin' pictures?What's the good of it all?"

"Don't you admire pictures, Mr. Holden?" asked Herbert. 

"That's that you called me? I didn't quite catch on to it. "

"Mr. Holden. Isn't that your name?"

"Don't call me mister. I'm plain Jack Holden. Call me Jack. "

"I will if you prefer it, " said Herbert, dubiously. 

"Of course I do. We don't go much on style in the woods. Won't you comehome with me, and take a look at my cabin? I ain't used to company, butwe can sit down and have a social smoke together, and then I'll manageto find something to eat. "

"Thank you, Mr. Holden--I mean, Jack--but I must be getting home; Mr. Melville will be feeling anxious, for, as it is, I shall be late. "

"Is Mr. Melville, as you call him, any way kin to you?"

"No; he is my friend and employer. "

"Young man?"

"Yes; he is about twenty-five. "

"How long have you two been out here?"

"Not much over a week. "

"Why isn't Melville with you this morning?"

"He is in delicate health--consumption--and he gets tired sooner than Ido. "

"I must come over and see you, I reckon. "

"I hope you will. We get lonely sometimes. If you would like to borrowsomething to read, Mr. Melville has plenty of books. "

"Read!" repeated Jack. "No, thank you. I don't care much for books. Anewspaper, now, is different. A man likes to know what's going on in theworld; but I leave books to ministers, schoolmasters, and the like. "

"If you don't read, how do you fill up your time, Jack?"

"My pipe's better than any book, lad. I'm goin' to set down and have asmoke now. Wish I had an extra pipe for you. "

"Thank you, " said Herbert, politely, "but I don't smoke. "

"Don't smoke! How old are you?"

"Sixteen. "

"Sixteen years old, and don't smoke! Why, where was you raised?"

"In the East, " answered Herbert, smiling. 

"Why, I smoked before I was three foot high, I was goin' to say. Icouldn't get along without smokin'. "

"Nor I without reading. "

"Well, folks will have their different tastes, I allow. I reckon I'll begoin' back. "

"Shan't you bury him?" asked Herbert, with a glance at the dead Indian. 

"No; he wouldn't have buried me. "

"But you won't leave him here? If you'll bury him, I'll help you. "

"Not now, boy. Since you make a point of it, I'll come round to-morrow, and dig a hole to put him in. I'll take the liberty of carryin' home hisshootin' iron. He won't need it where he's gone. "

The two parted in a friendly manner, and Herbert turned his facehomeward, grave and thoughtful. 

CHAPTER XXXII. THE BLAZING STAR MINE. 

Toward noon the next day George Melville and Herbert were resting from acountry trip, sitting on a rude wooden settee which our hero had made ofsome superfluous boards, and placed directly in front of the house, whena figure was seen approaching with long strides from the shadow of theneighboring woods. It was not until he was close at hand that Herbertespied him. 

"Why, it's Mr. Holden!" he exclaimed. 

"Jack Holden, my lad, " said the hunter, correcting him. "Is this the manyou're living with?"

Jack Holden was unconventional, and had been brought up in a rude schoolso far as manners were concerned. It did not occur to him that hisquestion might have been better framed. 

"I am Mr. Melville, " answered that gentleman, seeing that Herbert lookedembarrassed. "Herbert is my constant and valued companion. "

"He's a trump, that boy!" continued Holden. "Why, if it hadn't been forhim, there'd been an end of Jack Holden yesterday. "

"Herbert told me about it. It was indeed a tragic affair. The sacrificeof life is deplorable, but seemed to have been necessary, unless, indeed, you could have disabled him. "

"Disabled him!" echoed the hunter. "That wouldn't have answered by along shot. As soon as the reptile got well he'd have been on my trailag'in. No, sir; it was my life or his, and I don't complain of the waythings turned out. "

"Have you buried him?" asked Herbert. 

"Yes, I've shoved him under, and it's better than he deserved, thesneakin' rascal. I'm glad to make your acquaintance, Mr. Melville. Didn't know I had changed neighbors till the boy there told meyesterday. I've tramped over this mornin' to give you a call. "

"You are very kind, Mr. Holden. Sit down here beside us. "

"I'm more at home here, " answered Holden, stretching himself on theground, and laying his gun beside him. "How do you like Colorado?"

"Very much, as far as I have seen it, " said Melville. "Herbert probablytold you my object, in coming here?"

"He said you were ailin' some way. "

"Yes, my lungs are weak. Since I have been here, I am feeling better andstronger, however. "

"There don't seem to be anything the matter with the boy. "

"Nothing but a healthy appetite, " answered Herbert, smiling. 

"That won't hurt anybody. Mr. Melville, do you smoke?"

"No, thank you. "

"Queer! Don't see how you can do without it? Why, sir, I'd been homesickwithout my pipe. It's company, I tell you, when a chap's alone and gotno one to speak to. "

"I take it, Mr. Holden, you are not here for your health?"

"No, I should say not; I'm tough as a hickory nut. When I drop off it'smore likely to be an Indian bullet than any disease. I'm forty-sevenyears old, and I don't know what it is to be sick. "

"You are fortunate, Mr. Holden. "

"I expect I am. But I haven't answered your question. I'm interested inmines, Mr. Melville. Have you ever been to Deer Creek?"

"Yes, I went over with Herbert to visit the store there one day lastweek. "

"Did you ever hear of the Blazing Star Mine?"

"No, I believe not. "

"I own it, " said Holden. "It's a good mine, and would make me rich if Ihad a little more money to work it. "

"Are the indications favorable, then?" asked Melville. 

"It looks well, if that's what you mean. Yes, sir; the Star is afirst-class property. "

"Then it's a pity you don't work it. "

"That's what I say myself. Mr. Melville, I've a proposal to make toyou. "

"What is it, Mr. Holden?"

"If you could manage to call me Jack, it would seem more social like. "

"By all means, then, Jack!" said Melville smiling. 

"You give me money enough to develop the mine, and I'll make half of itover to you. "

"How much is needed?" asked Melville. 

"Not over five hundred dollars. It's a bargain, I tell you. "

"I do not myself wish to assume any business cares, " said Melville. 

Jack Holden looked disappointed. 

"Just as you say, " he responded. 

"But Herbert may feel differently, " continued Melville. 

"I'd like the lad for a partner, " said Holden, briskly. 

"But I have no money!" said Herbert, in surprise. 

George Melville smiled. 

"If the mine is a good one, " he said, "I will advance you the moneynecessary for the purchase of a half interest. If it pays you, you maybecome rich. Then you can repay the money. "

"But suppose it doesn't, Mr. Melville, " objected Herbert, "how can Iever repay you so large a sum?"

"On the whole, Herbert, I will take the risk. "

"You are very kind, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, his face glowing withanticipation. To be half owner of a mine, with the chance of making alarge sum of money, naturally elated him. 

"Why shouldn't I be, Herbert? But I want to see the mine first. "

"Can't you go over this afternoon?" asked Holden, eager to settle thematter as soon as possible. 

"It is a long journey, " said Melville, hesitating. 

"You can stay overnight, " said Jack Holden, "and come back in themorning. "

"Very well; let us go then--that is, after dinner. Herbert, if youwill set the table, we will see if we can't offer our friend here somerefreshment. He is hungry, I am sure, after his long walk. "

"You've hit it, Mr. Melville, " said Holden. "I allow I'm as hungry as awolf. But you don't set down to table, do you?"

"Oh, yes, " answered Mr. Melville, smiling pleasantly. 

"I ain't used to it, " said Holden; "but I was once. Anyhow, it won'tmake no difference in the victuals. "

When dinner was ready the three sat down, and did ample justice to it;but Jack Holden made such furious onslaughts that the other two couldhardly keep pace with him. Fortunately, there was plenty of food, forMelville did not believe in economical housekeeping. 

After dinner they set out for Deer Creek. As has been already explained, it was the name of a mining settlement. Now, by the way, it is aprosperous town, though the name has been changed. Then, however, everything was rude and primitive. 

Jack Holden led the way to the Blazing Star Mine, and pointed out itscapabilities and promise. He waited with some anxiety for Melville'sdecision. 

"I don't understand matters very well, " said Melville, "but I am willingto take a good deal on trust. If you desire it, I will buy half themine, paying you five hundred dollars for that interest. That is, I buyit for Herbert. "

"Hooray!" shouted Holden. "Give us your hand, pard. You are my partnernow, you know. "

As he spoke he gripped Herbert's hand in a pressure which was so strongas to be painful, and the necessary business was gone through. 

So Herbert found himself a half owner of the Blazing Star Mine, of DeerCreek, Colorado. 

"I hope your mine will turn out well, Herbert, " said Melville, smiling. 

"I wish it might for mother's sake!" said Herbert, seriously. 

"It won't be my fault if it don't, " said his partner. "I shall stay herenow, and get to work. "

"Ought I not to help you?" asked Herbert. 

"No; Mr. Melville will want you. I will hire a man here to help me, andcharge it to your share of the expenses. "

So the matter was arranged; but Herbert rode over two or three times aweek to look after his property. 

CHAPTER XXXIII. GOOD NEWS FROM THE MINE. 

"Well, Herbert, what news from the mine?" asked Melville, two weekslater, on Herbert's return from Deer Creek, whither he had gone alone. 

"There are some rich developments, so Jack says. Do you know, Mr. Melville, he says the mine is richly worth five thousand dollars. "

"Bravo, Herbert! That would make your half worth twenty-five hundred. "

"Yes, " said the boy complacently; "if we could sell at that figure, Icould pay you back and have two thousand dollars of my own. Think ofthat, Mr. Melville, " continued Herbert, his eyes glowing with pride andpleasure. "Shouldn't I be a rich boy?"

"You may do even better, Herbert. Don't be in a hurry to sell. Thatis my advice. If the present favorable indications continue, you mayrealize a considerably larger sum. "

"So Jack says. He says he is bound to hold on, and hopes I will. "

"You are in luck, Herbert. "

"Yes, Mr. Melville, and I don't forget that it is to you I am indebtedfor this good fortune, " said the boy, earnestly. "If you hadn't boughtthe property for me, I could not. I don't know but you ought to get someshare ef the profits. "

George Melville shook his head. 

"My dear boy, " he said, "I have more than my share of money already. Sometimes I feel ashamed when I compare my lot with others, and considerthat for the money I have, I have done no work. The least I can do is toconsider myself the Lord's trustee, and do good to others, when it fallsin my way. "

"I wish all rich men thought as you do, Mr. Melville; the world would behappier, " said Herbert. 

"True, Herbert. I hope and believe there is a considerable number who, like myself, feel under obligations to do good. "

"I shall be very glad, on mother's account, if I can go home with moneyenough to make her independent of work. By the way, Mr. Melville, Ifound a letter from mother in the Deer Creek post office. Shall I readit to you?"

"If there is nothing private in it, Herbert. "

"There is nothing private from you, Mr. Melville. "

It may be explained that Deer Creek had already obtained such prominencethat the post-office department had established an office there, andlearning this, Herbert had requested his mother to address him at thatplace. 

He drew the letter from his pocket and read it aloud. 

We quote the essential portions. 

"'I am very glad to hear that you have made the long journey in safety, and are now in health. '"

Herbert had not mentioned in his home letter the stage-coach adventure, for he knew that it would disturb his mother to think that he had beenexposed to such a risk. 

"It will do no good, you know, " he said to Mr. Melville, and his friendhad agreed with him. 

"'It is very satisfactory to me, ' continued Herbert, reading from theletter, 'that you are under the charge of Mr. Melville, who seems tome an excellent, conscientious young man, from whom you can learn onlygood. '"

"Your mother thinks very kindly of me, " said Melville, evidentlypleased. 

"She is right, too, Mr. Melville, " said Herbert, with emphasis. 

"'It will no doubt be improving to you, my dear Herbert, to travel undersuch pleasant auspices, for a boy can learn from observation as well asfrom books. I miss you very much, but since the separation is for youradvantage, I can submit to it cheerfully. 

"'You ask me about my relations with Mr. Graham. I am still in the postoffice, and thus far nearly the whole work devolves upon me. Except inone respect, I am well treated. Mr. G-. Is, as you know, very penurious, and grudges every cent that he has to pay out. When he paid me lastSaturday night the small sum for which I agreed to assist him, he hadmuch to say about his large expenses, fuel, lights, etc. , and asked meif I wouldn't agree to work for two dollars a week, instead of three. Iconfess, I was almost struck dumb by such an exhibition of meanness, andtold him that it would be quite impossible. Since then he has spent someof the time himself in the office, and asked me various questionsabout the proper way of preparing the mail, etc. , and I think it is hisintention, if possible, to get along without me. I don't know, ifhe absolutely insists upon it, but it would be better to accept thereduction than to give up altogether. Two dollars a week will count inmy small household. '

"Did you ever hear of such meanness, Mr. Melville?" demanded Herbert, indignantly. "Here is Mr. Graham making, I am sure, two thousand dollarsa year clear profit, and yet anxious to reduce mother from three to twodollars a week. "

"It is certainly a very small business, Herbert. I think some men becomemeaner by indulgence of their defect. "

"I shall write mother to give up the place sooner than submit to such areduction. Three dollars a week is small enough in all conscience. "

"I approve the advice, Herbert. If Mr. Graham were really cramped formoney, and doing a poor business, it would be different. As it is, itseems to me he has no excuse for his extreme penuriousness. "

"How pleasant it would be to pay a flying visit to Wayneboro, " saidHerbert, thoughtfully. "One never appreciates home until he has leftit. "

"That pleasure must be left for the future. It will keep. "

"Very true, and when I do go home I want to go well fixed. "

Herbert had already caught the popular Western phrase for a man well todo. 

"We must depend on the Blazing Star Mine for that, " said Melville, smiling. My young readers may like to know that, while Herbert wasprospering financially, he did not neglect the cultivation of hismind. Among the books left by Mr. Falkland were a number of standardhistories, some elementary books in French, including a dictionary, atreatise on natural philosophy, and a German grammar and reader. 

"Do you know anything of French or German, Mr. Melville?" inquired ourhero, when they made their first examination of the library. 

"Yes, Herbert, I am a tolerable scholar in each. "

"I wish I were. "

"Would you like to study them?"

"Yes, very much. "

"Then I will make you a proposal. You are likely to have considerabletime at your disposal. If you will study either, or both, I will be yourteacher. "

"I should like nothing better, " said Herbert, eagerly. 

"Moreover, if you wish to study philosophy, I will aid you, though weare not in a position to illustrate the subject by experiments. "

Herbert was a sensible boy. Moreover, he was fond of study, and he sawat once how advantageous this proposal was. He secured a privatetutor for nothing, and, as he soon found, an excellent one. ThoughMr. Melville had never been a teacher, he had an unusual aptitude forteaching, and it is hard to decide whether he or Herbert enjoyed morethe hours which they now regularly passed in the relation of teacher andpupil. 

It must be said, also, that while George Melville evinced an aptitudefor teaching, Herbert showed an equal aptitude for learning. The taskswhich he voluntarily undertook most boys would have found irksome, buthe only found them a source of pleasure, and had the satisfaction, aftera very short time, to find himself able to read ordinary French andGerman prose with comparative ease. 

"I never had a better pupil, " said George Melville. 

"I believe I am the first you ever had, " said Herbert, laughing. 

"That is true. I spoke as if I were a veteran teacher. "

"Then I won't be too much elated by the compliment. "

CHAPTER XXXIV. TWO OLD ACQUAINTANCES REAPPEAR. 

In the rude hotel kept by the outlaw, whom we have introduced under thename of Brown, there sat two men, to neither of whom will my readersneed an introduction. They have already appeared in our story. 

One was Brown himself, the other Col. Warner, or, as we may as wellconfess, Jerry Lane, known throughout the West as an unscrupulousrobber and chief of a band of road agents, whose depredations had beencharacterized by audacity and success. 

Brown was ostensibly an innkeeper, but this business, honest enough initself, only veiled the man's real trade, in which he defied alike thelaws of honesty and of his country. The other was by turns a gentlemanof property, a merchant, a cattle owner, or a speculator, in all ofwhich characters he acted excellently, and succeeded in making theacquaintance of men whom he designed to rob. 

The two men wore a sober look. In their business, as in those morelegitimate, there are good times and dull times, and of late they hadnot succeeded. 

"I want some money, captain, " said Brown, sullenly, laying down a blackpipe, which he had been smoking. 

"So do I, Brown, " answered Warner, as we will continue to call him. "It's a dry time with me. "

"You don't understand me, captain, " continued Brown. "I want you to giveme some money. "

"First you must tell me where I am to get it, " answered Warner, with ashrug of his shoulders. 

"Do you mean to say you have no money?" asked Brown, frowning. 

"How should I have?"

"Because in all our enterprises you have taken the lion's share, thoughyou haven't always done the chief part. You can't have spent the whole. "

"No, not quite; but I have nothing to spare. I need to travel about, and--"

"You've got a soft thing, " grumbled Brown. "You go round and have a goodtime while I am tied down to this fourth-rate tavern in the woods. "

"Well, it isn't much more than that, " said Warner, musingly. 

"Do you expect me to keep a first-class hotel?" demanded Brown, defiantly. 

"No, of course not. Brown, " continued Warner, soothingly, "don't let usquarrel; we can't afford it. Let us talk together reasonably. "

"What have you to say?"

"This, that it isn't my fault if things have gone wrong. Was it my faultthat we found so little cash in that last store we broke open?"

"Nineteen dollars!" muttered Brown, contemptuously. 

"Nineteen dollars, as you say. It didn't pay us for our trouble. Well, Iwas as sorry as you. I fail to see how it was my fault. Better luck nexttime. "

"When is the next time to be?" asked Brown, somewhat placated. 

"As soon as you please. "

"What is it?"

"I will tell you. You remember that stagecoach full of passengers thatfooled us some time since?"

"I ought to. "

"I always meant to get on the track of that Melville, who spoiled ourplot by overhearing us and giving us away to the passengers. He is veryrich, so the boy who was with him told me, and I have every reason torely upon his statement. Well, I want to be revenged upon him, and, atthe same time, to relieve him of the doubtless large sum of money whichhe keeps with him. "

"I'm with you. Where is he?"

"I have only recently ascertained--no matter how. He lives in a smallcabin, far from any other, about eight miles from the mining town ofDeer Creek. "

"I know the place. "

"Precisely. No one lives there with him except the boy, and it would beeasy enough to rob him. I saw a man from Deer Creek yesterday. He tellsme that Melville has bought for the boy a half share in a rich mine, andis thought to have at least five thousand dollars in gold and bills inhis cabin. "

Brown's eyes glistened with cupidity. 

"That would be a big haul, " he said. 

"Of course, it would. Now, Brown, while you have been grumbling at me Ihave been saving this little affair for our benefit--yours and mine. Wewon't let any of the rest of them into it, but whatever we find we willdivide, and share alike. "

"Do you mean this, captain?"

"Yes, I mean it, friend Brown. You shan't charge me with taking thelion's share in this case. If there are five thousand dollars, as myinformant seems to think, your share shall be half. "

"Twenty-five hundred dollars!"

"Exactly; twenty-five hundred dollars. "

"That will pay for my hard luck lately, " said Brown, his face clearing. 

"Very handsomely, too. "

"When shall we start?"

"To-morrow morning. We will set out early in the morning; and, by theway, Brown, it's just as well not to let your wife or anyone else knowwhere we are going. "

"All right, " answered Brown, cheerfully. 

The next morning the two worthies set out their far from meritoriouserrand. Brown told his wife vaguely, in reply to her questioning, thathe was called away for a few days on business. 

If he expected to evade further question by this answer, he wasmistaken. Mrs. Brown was naturally of a jealous and suspicioustemperament, and doubt was excited in her breast. 

"Where shall I say you have gone if I am asked?" she said. 

"You may say that you don't know, " answered Brown, brusquely. 

"I don't think much of a man who keeps secrets from his wife, " said Mrs. Brown, coldly. 

"And I don't think much of a man who tells everything to his wife, "retorted Brown. "It's all right, Kitty, You needn't concern yourself. But the captain and I are on an expedition, which, to be successful, needs to be kept secret. "

Mrs. Brown was not more than half convinced, but she was compelled toaccept this statement, for her husband would vouchsafe no other. 

That part of the State into which they journeyed was not new ground toeither. They were familiar with all the settled portion of Colorado, andhad no difficulty in finding the cabin occupied by George Melville. 

Now it happened that they reached the modest dwelling in the woods aboutthree o'clock in the afternoon. Herbert had ridden over to Deer Creekto look after his mining property, and it was not yet time to expect himback. George Melville was therefore left alone. 

Knowing, as my young readers do, his literary tastes, they willunderstand that, though left alone, he was not lonely. The stock ofbooks which he had bought from his predecessor was to him an unfailingresource. Moreover, he had taken up Italian, of which he knew a little, and was reading in the original the "Divina Comedia" of Dante, a workwhich consumed many hours, and was not likely soon to be over. To-day, however, for some reason Melville found it more difficult than usual tofix his mind upon his pleasant study. Was it a presentiment of comingevil that made him so unusually restless? At all events, the hours, which were wont to be fleet-footed, passed with unusual slowness, and hefound himself longing for the return of his young friend. 

"I don't know what has got into me to-day, " said Melville to himself. "It's only three o'clock, yet the day seems very long. I wish Herbertwould return. I feel uneasy. I don't know why. I hope it is not apresage of misfortune. I shall not be sure that something has nothappened to Herbert till I see him again. "

As he spoke George Melville rose from his chair, and was about to puton his hat and take a short walk in the neighboring woods, when he heardthe tramp of approaching horses. Looking out from the window, he saw twohorsemen close at hand. 

He started in dismay, for in the two men he was at no loss inrecognizing his stagecoach companion, Col. Warner, and the landlord whohad essayed the part of a road agent. 

CHAPTER XXXV. MELVILLE IN PERIL. 

Col. Warner and his companion enjoyed the effect of their presence upontheir intended victim, and smiled in a manner that boded little good toMelville, as they dismounted from their steeds and advanced to the doorof the cabin. 

"How are you, Melville?" said Warner, ironically. "I see you have notforgotten me. "

"No, I have not forgotten you, " answered Melville, regarding his visitoruneasily. 

"This is my friend, Mr. Brown. Perhaps you remember him?"

"I do remember him, and the circumstances under which I last saw him, "replied Melville, rather imprudently. 

Brown frowned, but he did not speak. He generally left his companion todo the talking. 

"Being in the neighborhood, we thought we'd call upon you, " continuedCol. Warner. 

"Walk in, gentlemen, if you see fit, " said Melville. "I suppose it wouldbe only polite to say that I am glad to see you, but I have some regardfor truth, and cannot say it. "

"I admire your candor, Mr. Melville. Walk in, Brown. Ha! upon my word, you have a nice home here. Didn't expect to see anything of the kindin this wilderness. Books and pictures! Really, now, Brown, I am quitetempted to ask our friend, Melville, to entertain us for a few days. "

"I don't think it would suit you, " said Melville, dryly. "You areprobably more fond of exciting adventure than of books. "

"Does the boy live with you?" asked Warner, dropping his bantering tone, and looking about his searchingly. 

"Yes, he is still with me. "

"I don't see him. "

"Because he has gone to Deer Creek on business. "

When Melville saw the rapid glance of satisfaction interchanged by thetwo visitors he realized that he had made an imprudent admission. Hesuspected that their design was to rob him, and he had voluntarilyassured them that he was alone, and that they could proceed withoutinterruption. 

"Sorry not to see him, " said Warner. "I'd like to renew our pleasantacquaintance. "

Melville was about to reply that Herbert would be back directly, when itoccurred to him that this would be a fresh piece of imprudence. It woulddoubtless lead them to proceed at once to the object of their visit, while if he could only keep them till his boy companion did actuallyreturn, they would at least be two to two. Even then they would be by nomeans equally matched, but something might occur to help them. 

"I suppose Herbert will return by evening, " he replied. "You can see himif you remain till then. "

Another expression of satisfaction appeared upon the faces of his twovisitors, but for this he was prepared. 

"Sorry we can't stay till then, " said Warner, "but business ofimportance will limit our stay. Eh, Brown?"

"I don't see the use of delaying at all!" growled Brown, who was notas partial as his companion to the feline amusement of playing with hisintended victim. With him, on the contrary, it was a word, and a blow, and sometimes the blow came first. 

"Come to business!" continued Brown, impatiently, addressing hisassociate. 

"That is my purpose, friend Brown. "

"Mr. Melville, it is not solely the pleasure of seeing you that has ledmy friend and myself to call this afternoon. "

Melville nodded. 

"So I supposed, " he said. 

"There is a little unfinished business between us, as you will remember. I owe you a return for the manner in which you saw fit to throwsuspicion upon me some time since, when we were traveling together. "

"I shall be very glad to have you convince me that I did you aninjustice, " said Melville. "I was led to believe that you and yourfriend now present were leagued together to rob us of our money andvaluables. If it was not so--"

"You were not very far from right, Mr. Melville. Still it was not politeto express your suspicions so rudely. Besides, you were instrumental indefeating our plan. "

"I can't express any regret for that, Col. Warner, or Jerry Lane, as Isuppose that is your real name. "

"I am Jerry Lane!" said Warner, proudly. "I may as well confess it, since it is well that you should know with whom you have to deal. When Isay that I am Jerry Lane, you will understand that I mean business. "

"I do, " answered Melville, quietly. 

"You know me by reputation?" said the outlaw, with a curious pride inhis unenviable notoriety. 

"I do. "

"What do men say of me?"

"That you are at the head of a gang of reckless assassins andoutlaws, and that you have been implicated in scores of robberies andatrocities. "

This was not so satisfactory. 

"Young man, " said Lane--to drop his false name--"I advise you to becareful how you talk. It may be the worse for you. Now, to come tobusiness, how much money have you in the house?"

"Why do you ask, and by what right?"

"We propose to take it. Now answer my question. "

"Gentlemen, you will be very poorly paid for the trouble you have takenin visiting me. I have very little money. "

"Of course, you say so. We want an answer. "

"As well as I can remember I have between forty and fifty dollars in mypocketbook. "

Brown uttered an oath under his breath, and Lane looked uneasy. 

"That's a lie!" said Brown, speaking first. "We were told you had fivethousand dollars here. "

"Your informant was badly mistaken, then. I am not very wise, perhaps, in worldly matters, but I certainly am not such a fool as to keep solarge a sum of money in a lonely cabin like this. "

"Perhaps not so much as that, " returned Lane. "I don't pretend to sayhow much you have. That is for you to tell us. "

George Melville drew from his pocket a wallet, and passed it to theoutlaw. 

"Count the money for yourself, if you wish, " he said. "You can verify mystatement. "

Lane opened the wallet with avidity, and drew out the contents. It wasapparent at the first glance that the sum it contained was small. It wascounted, however, and proved to amount to forty-seven dollars and a fewsilver coins. 

The two robbers looked at each other in dismay. Was it possible thatthis was all? If so, they would certainly be very poorly paid for theirtrouble. 

"Do you expect us to believe, Mr. Melville, " said Jerry Lane, sternly, "that this is all the money you have?"

"In this cabin--yes. "

"We are not so easily fooled. It is probably all you carry about withyou; but you have more concealed somewhere about the premises. It willbe best for you to produce at once, unless you are ready to pass in yourchecks. "

"That means, " said Melville, growing pale in spite of himself, for heknew from report the desperate character of his guests, "that means, Isuppose, that you will kill me unless I satisfy your rapacity. "

"It does, " said Lane, curtly. "Now for your answer!"

"Gentlemen, I cannot accomplish impossibilities. It is as I say. Themoney in your hands is all that I have by me. "

"Do you mean to deny that you are rich?" asked Lane. 

"No, I do not deny it. That is not the point in question. You ask me toproduce all the money I have with me. I have done so. "

"Do you believe this, Brown?" asked the captain, turning to hissubordinate. 

"No, I don't. "

"It is strictly true. "

"Then, " said Brown, "you deserve to die for having no more money forus. "

"True, " chimed in Lane. "Once more, will you produce your secret hoard?"

"I have none. "

"Then you must be dealt with in the usual way. Brown, have you a rope?"

"Yes. "

"Is there a convenient tree near by. "

"We'll find one. "

The two seized Melville, and, despite his resistance, dragged himviolently from the cabin, and adjusted a rope about his neck. The youngman was pale, and gave himself up for lost. 

CHAPTER XXXVI. THE MINE IS SOLD. 

While his friend was in peril, where was Herbert?

For him, too, it had been an exciting day--Deer Creek had been excitedby the arrival of a capitalist from New York, whose avowed errand it wasto buy a mine. Reports from Deer Creek had turned his steps thither, andall the mine owners were on the qui vive to attract the attention of themonied man. It was understood that he intended to capitalize the mine, when purchased, start a company, and work it by the new and improvedmethods, which had replaced the older and ruder appliances at firstemployed. 

Mr. Compton, though not a mining expert, was a shrewd man, who weighedcarefully the representations that were made to him, and reserved hisopinion. It was clear that he was not a man who would readily be takenin, though there were not wanting men at Deer Creek who were ready topalm off upon him poor or worthless mines. About the only mine ownerswho did not seek him were the owners of the Blazing Star, both ofwhom were on the ground. The mine was looking up. The most recentdevelopments were the most favorable, and the prospects were excellent. They might, indeed, "peter out" as the expression is, but it did notseem likely. 

"Jack, " said Herbert, "shall we invite Mr. Compton to visit our mine?"

"No, " answered Jack Holden; "I am willing to keep it. "

"Wouldn't you sell?"

"Yes, if I could get my price. "

"What is your price?"

"Twenty-five thousand dollars for the whole mine!"

"That is twelve thousand five hundred for mine, " said Herbert, his cheekflushing with the excitement he felt. 

"You've figured it out right, my lad, " said his partner. 

"That would leave me twelve thousand after I have paid up Mr. Melvillefor the sum I paid in the beginning. "

"Right again, my lad. "

"Why, Jack!" exclaimed Herbert. "Do you know what that means? It meansthat I should be rich--that my mother could move into a nicer house, that we could live at ease for the rest of our lives. "

"Would twelve thousand dollars do all that?"

"No; but it would give me a fund that would establish me in business, and relieve me of all anxiety. Jack, it's too bright to be real. "

"We may not be able to sell the mine at that figure, Herbert. Don'tlet us count our chickens before they are hatched, or we may bedisappointed. I'm as willin' to keep the mine as to sell it. "

"Jack, here is Mr. Compton coming, " said Herbert. 

The capitalist paused, and addressing Herbert, said:

"Have you anything to do with the mine, my lad?"

"I am half owner, " answered Herbert, promptly, and not without pride. 

"Who is the other half owner?"

"Mr. Holden, " answered Herbert, pointing out Jack. 

"May I examine the mine?"

"You are quite welcome to, sir. "

Possibly the fact that this mine alone had not been pressed upon himfor purchase, predisposed Mr. Compton to regard it with favor. Everyfacility was offered him, and Jack Holden, who thoroughly understood hisbusiness, gave him the necessary explanations. 

After an hour spent in the examination, Mr. Compton came to business. 

"Is the mine for sale?" he asked. 

"Yes, sir. "

"What is your price?"

"Twenty-five thousand dollars. "

"Is that your lowest price?"

"It is. "

Jack Holden wasted no words in praising the mine, and this produced afavorable impression on the capitalist with whom he was dealing. 

"I'll take it, " he answered. 

"Then it's a bargain. "

Herbert found it difficult to realize that these few words had made hima rich boy. He remained silent, but in his heart he was deeply thankful, not so much for himself, as because he knew that he was now able torejoice his mother's heart, and relieve her from all pecuniary cares oranxieties. 

"You've made a good bargain, sir, if I do say it, " said Jack Holden. "For my own part, I wasn't so particular about selling the mine, but myyoung partner here is differently placed, and the money will come handyto him. "

"You are rather young for a mine owner, " said Mr. Compton, regardingHerbert with some curiosity. 

"Yes, sir; I believe I am the youngest mine owner here. "

"Are you a resident of this State?"

"Only temporarily, sir. I came here with a friend whose lungs are weak. "

"You expect to return to the East soon?"

"Yes, sir. "

"When you do, come to see me. I am a commission merchant in Boston. Ifit is your intention to follow a business life, I may be able to findyou a place. "

"Thank you, sir; I should like nothing better. "

"To-morrow, " said Mr. Compton, "I will come here and complete thepurchase. "

"Jack, " said Herbert, when the new purchaser of the mine had left them, "there is no work for us here. Come with me, and let us together tellMr. Melville the good news. "

"A good thought, my lad!"

So the two mounted their horses, and left Deer Creek behind them. Theylittle suspected how sorely they were needed. 

CHAPTER XXXVII. TO THE RESCUE. 

Herbert and his companion drew near the forest cabin, which had been thehome of the former, without a suspicion that George Melville was in suchdire peril. The boy was, indeed, thinking of him, but it was rather ofthe satisfaction his employer would feel at his good fortune. 

"Somehow I feel in a great hurry to get there, Jack, " said Herbert. "Ishall enjoy telling Mr. Melville of my good luck. "

"He's a fine chap, that Melville, " said Jack Holden, meaning nodisrespect by this unceremonious fashion of speech. 

"That he is! He's the best friend I ever had, Jack, " returned Herbert, warmly. 

"It's a pity he's ailing. "

"Oh, he's much stronger than he was when he came out here. All theunfavorable symptoms have disappeared. "

"Maybe he'll outgrow it. I had an uncle that was given up to die ofconsumption, when he was about Melville's age, and he died only lastyear at the age of seventy-five. "

"That must have been slow consumption, Jack, " said Herbert, smiling. "If Mr. Melville can live as long as that, I think neither he nor hisfriends will have reason to complain. "

"Is he so rich, lad?"

"I don't know how rich, but I know he has plenty of money. How muchpower a rich man has, " said Herbert, musingly. "Now, Mr. Melville haschanged my whole life for me. When I first met him I was working forthree dollars a week. Now I am worth twelve thousand dollars!"

Herbert repeated this with a beaming face. The good news had not lostthe freshness of novelty. There was so much that he could do now thathe was comparatively rich. To do Herbert justice, it was not of himselfprincipally that he thought. It was sweet to reflect that he could bringpeace, and joy, and independence to his mother. After all, it is thehappiness we confer that brings us the truest enjoyment. The selfish manwho eats and drinks and lodges like a prince, but is unwilling to sharehis abundance with others, knows not what he loses. Even boys and girlsmay try the experiment for themselves, for one does not need to be richto give pleasure to others. 

"Come, Jack, let us ride faster; I am in a hurry, " said Herbert, whenthey were perhaps a quarter of a mile distant from the cabin. 

They emerged from the forest, and could now see the cottage and itssurroundings. They saw something that almost paralyzed them. 

George Melville, with a rope round his neck, stood beneath a tree. Col. Warner was up in the tree swinging the rope over a branch, while Brown, big, burly and brutal, pinioned the helpless young man in his strongarms. 

"Good heavens! Do you see that?" exclaimed Herbert. "It is the roadagents. Quick, or we shall be too late!"

Jack had seen. He had not only seen, but he had already acted. Quickas thought he raised his weapon, and covered Brown. There was a sharpreport, and the burly ruffian fell, his heart pierced by the unerringbullet. 

Herbert dashed forward, and, seizing the rope, released his friend. 

"Thank Heaven, Herbert! You have saved my life!" murmured Melville, intones of heartfelt gratitude. 

"There's another of them!" exclaimed Jack Holden, looking up into thetree, and he raised his gun once more. 

"Don't shoot!" exclaimed the man, whom we know best as Col. Warner;"I'll come down. "

So he did, but not in the manner he expected. In his flurry, for he wasnot a brave man, outlaw though he was, he lost his hold and fell at thefeet of Holden. 

"What shall we do with him, Mr. Melville?" asked Jack. "He deserves todie. "

"Don't kill him! Bind him, and give him up to the authorities. "

"I hate to let him off so easy, " said Jack, but he did as Melvillewished. But the colonel had a short reprieve. On his way to jail, abullet from some unknown assailant pierced his temple, and Jerry Lane, the notorious road agent, died, as he had lived, by violence. 

CHAPTER XXXVIII. CONCLUSION. 

It had been the intention of George Melville to remain in Colorado allwinter, but his improved health, and the tragic event which I have justnarrated, conspired to change his determination. 

"Herbert, " he said, when the business connected with the sale of themine had been completed, "how would you like to go home?"

"With you?"

"Yes, you don't suppose I would remain here alone?"

"If you feel well enough, Mr. Melville, there is nothing I should likebetter. "

"I do feel well enough. If I find any unfavorable symptoms coming back, I can travel again, but I am anxious to get away from this place, whereI have come so near losing my life at the hands of the outlaws. "

There was little need of delay. Their preparations were soon made. Therewas an embarrassment about the cottage, but that was soon removed. 

"I'll buy it of you, Mr. Melville, " said Jack Holden. 

"I can't sell it to you, Mr. Holden. "

"I will give you a fair price. "

"You don't understand me, " said George Melville, smiling. "I will notsell it, because I prefer to give it. "

"Thank you, Mr Melville, but you know I am not exactly a poor man. Thesale of the mine---"

"Jack, " said Melville, with emotion, "would you have me forget thatit is to you and Herbert that I owe my rescue from a violent andignominious death?"

"I want no pay for that, Mr. Melville. "

"No, I am sure you don't. But you will accept the cabin, not as pay, butas a mark of my esteem. "

Upon that ground Jack accepted the cottage with pleasure. Herbert triedto tempt him to make a visit to the East, but he was already in treatyfor another mine, and would not go. 

The two stayed a day in Chicago on their way to Boston. 

"I wonder if Eben is still here?" thought Herbert. 

He soon had his question answered. In passing through a suburban portionof the great city, he saw a young man sawing wood in front of a meandwelling, while a stout negro was standing near, with his hands inhis pockets, surveying the job. He was the proprietor of a coloredrestaurant, and Eben was working for him. 

Alas, for Eben! The once spruce dry-goods clerk was now amiserable-looking tramp, so far as outward appearances went. His clotheswere not only ragged, but soiled, and the spruce city acquaintances whomhe once knew would have passed him without recognition. 

"Eben!"

Eben turned swiftly as he heard his name called, and a flush of shameoverspread his face. 

"Is it you, Herbert?" he asked, faintly. 

"Yes, Eben. You don't seem very prosperous. "

"I never thought I should sink so low, " answered Eben, mournfully, "asto saw wood for a colored man. "

"What are you talkin' about?" interrupted his boss, angrily. "Ain't I asgood as a worfless white man that begged a meal of vittles of me, coz hewas starvin'? You jest shut up your mouf, and go to work. "

Eben sadly resumed his labor. Herbert pitied him, in spite of his follyand wickedness. 

"Eben, do you owe this man anything?" he added. 

"Yes, he does. He owes me for his dinner. Don't you go to interfere!"returned the colored man. 

"How much was your dinner worth?" asked Herbert, putting his hand intohis pocket. 

"It was wuf a quarter. "

"There is your money! Now, Eben, come with me. "

"I've been very unfortunate, " wailed Eben. 

"Would you like to go back to Wayneboro?" asked Herbert. 

"Yes, anywhere, " answered Eben, eagerly. "I can't make a livin' here. Ihave almost starved sometimes. "

"Eben, I'll make a bargain with you. If I will take you home, will youturn over a new leaf, and try to lead a regular and industrious life?"

"Yes, I'll do it, " answered Eben. 

"Then I'll take you with me to-morrow. "

"I shouldn't like my old friends to see me in these rags, " said Eben, glancing with shame at his tattered clothes. 

"They shall not. Come with me, and I will rig you out anew. "

"You're a good fellow, Herbert, " said Eben, gratefully. "I'm sorry forthe way I treated you. "

"Then it's all right, " said Herbert. Herbert kept his promise. He tookEben to a barber shop, where there were also baths, having previouslypurchased him a complete outfit, and Eben emerged looking once more likethe spruce dry-goods salesman of yore. 

 *****

One day not long afterwards Mrs. Carr was sitting in her little sittingroom, sewing. She had plenty of leisure for this work now, for Mr. Graham had undertaken to attend to the post-office duties himself. Itwas natural that she should think of her absent boy, from whom she hadnot heard for a long time. 

"When shall I see him again?" she thought, wearily. 

There was a knock at the outer door. 

She rose to open it, but, before she could reach it, it flew open, andher boy, taller and handsomer than ever, was in her arms. 

"Oh, Herbert!"

It was all she could say, but the tone was full of joy. 

"How I have missed you!"

"We will be together now, mother. "

"I hope so, Herbert. Perhaps you can find something to do in Wayneboro, and even if it doesn't pay as well--"

"Mother, " interrupted Herbert, laughing, "is that the way to speak to arich boy like me?"

"Rich?"

"Yes, mother, I bring home twelve thousand dollars. "

Mrs. Carr could not believe it at first, but Herbert told his story, andshe gave joyful credence at last. 

Eben did not receive as warm a welcome, but finally his father waspropitiated, and agreed to give his son employment in his own store. He's there yet. His hard experience in the West has subdued his pride, and he has really "turned over a new leaf, " as he promised Herbert. Hisfather will probably next year give him a quarter interest in the firm, and the firm's name will be

"EBENEZER GRAHAM & SON. "

Herbert and his mother have moved to Boston. Our hero is learningbusiness in the counting room of Mr. Compton. They live in a pleasanthouse at the South End, and Mr. Melville, restored to a very fairmeasure of health, is boarding, or, rather, has his home with them. Heis devoting his time to literary pursuits, and I am told that he is theauthor of a brilliant paper in a recent number of the North AmericanReview. Herbert finds some time for study, and, under the guidance ofhis friend and former employer, he has already become a very creditablescholar in French, German and English literature. He enjoys his presentprosperity all the better for the hardships through which he passedbefore reaching it. 

THE END