Cast Upon the Breakers
by
Horatio Alger
Part 3 out of 5
Rodney followed her into a handsome apartment and at a signal
seated himself on a sofa.
"Now," she said, "I am ready to listen to your message."
"Have you lost anything?" asked Rodney abruptly.
"Oh, have you found it?" exclaimed Mrs. Harvey, clasping her hands.
"That depends on what you have lost," answered Rodney, who felt
that it was necessary to be cautious.
"Certainly, you are quite right. I have lost a box containing
jewelry bought this morning at Tiffany's."
"What were the articles?"
"A diamond necklace and pin. They are intended as a present
for my daughter who is to be married. Tell me quick have you
found them?"
"Is this the box?" asked Rodney.
"Oh yes, yes! How delightful to recover it. I thought I should
never see it again. Where did you find it?"
"On Fifteenth Street beside Tiffany's store."
"And you brought it directly to me?"
"Yes, madam."
"Have you any idea of the value of the articles?"
"Perhaps they may be worth five hundred dollars."
"They are worth over a thousand. Are you poor?"
"Yes, madam. I am trying to make a living by selling papers,
but find it hard work."
"But you don't look like a newsboy."
"Till a short time since I thought myself moderately rich."
"That is strange. Tell me your story."
CHAPTER XVI.
A SURPRISING TURN OF FORTUNE.
Rodney told his story frankly. Mrs. Harvey was very sympathetic
by nature, and she listened with the deepest interest, and
latterly with indignation when Rodney spoke of his dismissal
from Mr. Goodnow's store.
"You have been treated shamefully," she said warmly.
"I think Mr. Goodnow really believes me guilty," rejoined Rodney.
"A dishonest boy would hardly have returned a valuable box of jewelry."
"Still Mr. Goodnow didn't know that I would do it."
"I see you are disposed to apologize for your late employer."
"I do not forget that he treated me kindly till this last occurrence."
"Your consideration does you credit. So you have really been
reduced to earn your living as a newsboy?"
"Yes, madam."
"I must think what I can do for you. I might give you money,
but when that was gone you would be no better off."
"I would much rather have help in getting a place."
Mrs. Harvey leaned her head on her hand and looked thoughtful.
"You are right" she said. "Let me think."
Rodney waited, hoping that the lady would be able to think of
something to his advantage.
Finally she spoke.
"I think you said you understood Latin and Greek?"
"I have studied both languages and French also. I should have
been ready to enter college next summer."
"Then perhaps I shall be able to do something for you. I live
in Philadelphia, but I have a brother living in West Fifty
Eighth Street. He has one little boy, Arthur, now nine years
of age. Arthur is quite precocious, but his health is delicate,
and my brother has thought of getting a private instructor for him.
Do you like young children?"
"Very much. I always wished that I had a little brother."
"Then I think you would suit my brother better as a tutor for
Arthur than a young man. Being a boy yourself, you would be not
only tutor but companion."
"I should like such a position very much."
"Then wait here a moment, and I will write you a letter of introduction."
She went up stairs, but soon returned.
She put a small perfumed billet into Rodney's hands. It was
directed to John Sargent with an address on West Fifty Eighth Street.
"Call this evening," she said, "about half past seven o'clock.
My brother will be through dinner, and will not have gone out at
that hour."
"Thank you," said Rodney gratefully.
"Here is another envelope which you can open at your leisure.
I cannot part from you without thanking you once more for
returning my jewelry."
"You have thanked me in a very practical way, Mrs. Harvey."
"I hope my letter may lead to pleasant results for you. If you
ever come to Philadelphia call upon me at No. 1492 Walnut Street."
"Thank you."
As Rodney left the house he felt that his ill fortune had
turned, and that a new prospect was opened up before him.
He stepped into the Windsor Hotel, and opened the envelope last
given him. It contained five five dollar bills.
To one of them was pinned a scrap of paper containing these
words: "I hope this money will be useful to you. It is less
than the reward I should have offered for the recovery of
the jewels."
Under the circumstances Rodney felt that he need not scruple to
use the money. He knew that he had rendered Mrs. Harvey a great
service, and that she could well afford to pay him the sum which
the envelopes contained.
He began to be sensible that he was hungry, not having eaten for
some time. He went into a restaurant on Sixth Avenue, and
ordered a sirloin steak. It was some time since he had indulged
in anything beyond a common steak, and he greatly enjoyed the
more luxurious meal. He didn't go back to selling papers, for
he felt that it would hardly be consistent with the position of
a classical teacher--the post for which he was about to apply.
Half past seven found him at the door of Mr. John Sargent.
The house was of brown stone, high stoop, and four stories
in height. It was such a house as only a rich man could occupy.
He was ushered into the parlor and presently Mr. Sargent came in
from the dining room.
"Are you Mr. Ropes?" he asked, looking at Rodney's card.
It is not usual for newsboys to carry cards, but Rodney had some
left over from his more prosperous days.
"Yes, sir. I bring you a note of introduction from Mrs. Harvey."
"Ah yes, my sister. Let me see it."
The note was of some length. That is, it covered three pages of
note paper. Mr. Sargent read it attentively.
"My sister recommends you as tutor for my little son, Arthur,"
he said, as he folded up the letter.
"Yes, sir; she suggested that I might perhaps suit you in that capacity."
"She also says that you found and restored to her a valuable box
of jewelry which she was careless enough to drop near Tiffany's."
"Yes, sir."
"I have a good deal of confidence in my sister's good judgment.
She evidently regards you very favorably."
"I am glad of that sir,"
"Will you tell me something of your qualifications? Arthur is
about to commence Latin. He is not old enough for Greek."
"I could teach either, sir."
"And of course you are well up in English branches?"
"I think I am."
"My sister hints that you are poor, and obliged to earn your
own living. How, then, have you been able to secure so good
an education?"
"I have only been poor for a short time. My father left me
fifty thousand dollars, but it was lost by my guardian."
"Who was your guardian?"
"Mr. Benjamin Fielding."
"I knew him well. I don't think he was an unprincipled man, but
he was certainly imprudent, and was led into acts that were
reprehensible. Did he lose all your money for you?"
"Yes, sir."
"What did you do?"
"Left the boarding school where I was being educated, and came
to this city."
"Did you obtain any employment?"
"Yes, sir; I have been employed for a short time by Otis
Goodnow, a merchant of Reade Street."
"And why did you leave?"
"Because Mr. Goodnow missed some articles from his stock, and I
was charged with taking them."
Rodney was fearful of the effect of his frank confession upon
Mr. Sargent, but the latter soon reassured him.
"Your honesty in restoring my sister's jewelry is sufficient
proof that the charge was unfounded. I shall not let it
influence me."
"Thank you, sir."
"Now as to the position of teacher, though very young, I don't
see why you should not fill it satisfactorily. I will call Arthur."
He went to the door and called "Arthur."
A delicate looking boy with a sweet, intelligent face, came
running into the room.
"Do you want me, papa?"
"Yes, Arthur. I have a new friend for you. Will you shake
hands with him?"
Arthur, who was not a shy boy, went up at once to Rodney and
offered his hand.
"I am glad to see you," he said.
Rodney smiled. He was quite taken with the young boy.
"What's your name?" the latter asked.
"Rodney Ropes."
"Are you going to stay and make us a visit?"
Mr. Sargent answered this question.
"Would you like to have Rodney stay?" he asked.
"Oh yes."
"How would you like to have him give you lessons in Latin and
other studies?"
"I should like it. I am sure he wouldn't be cross. Are you a
teacher, Rodney?"
"I will be your teacher if you are willing to have me."
"Yes, I should like it. And will you go to walk with me in
Central Park?"
"Yes."
"Then, papa, you may as well engage him. I was afraid you would
get a tiresome old man for my teacher."
"That settles it, Rodney," said Mr. Sargent, smiling.
"Now, Arthur, run out and I will speak further with Rodney
about you."
"All right, papa."
"As Arthur seems to like you, I will give you a trial. As he
suggested, I should like to have you become his companion as
well as teacher. You will come here at nine o'clock in the
morning, and stay till four, taking lunch with your pupil.
About the compensation, will you tell me what will be
satisfactory to you?"
"I prefer to leave that to you, sir."
"Then we will say fifteen dollars a week--today is Thursday.
Will you present yourself here next Monday morning?"
"Yes, sir."
"If you would like an advance of salary, you need only say so."
"Thank you, sir, but I am fairly provided with money for the present."
"Then nothing more need be said. As I am to meet a gentleman at
the Union League Club tonight, I will bid you good evening, and
expect to see you on Monday."
Rodney rose and Mr. Sargent accompanied him to the door, shaking
hands with him courteously by way of farewell.
Rodney emerged into the street in a state of joyous excitement.
Twenty five dollars in his pocket, and fifteen dollars a week!
He could hardly credit his good fortune.
CHAPTER XVII.
JASPER'S PERPLEXITY.
Mike Flynn was overjoyed to hear of Rodney's good fortune.
"Fifteen dollars a week!" he repeated. "Why you will be rich."
"Not exactly that, Mike, but it will make me comfortable.
By the way, as I have so much more than you, it will only
be fair for me to pay the whole rent."
"No, Rodney, you mustn't do that."
"I shall insist upon it, Mike. You would do the same in my place."
"Yes I would."
"So you can't object to my doing it."
"You are very kind to me, Rodney," said Mike, who had the warm
heart of his race. "It isn't every boy brought up like you who
would be willing to room with a bootblack."
"But you are not a bootblack now. You are a telegraph boy."
"There are plenty that mind me when I blacked boots down in front
of the Astor House."
"You are just as good a boy for all that. How much did you make
last week?"
"Four dollars salary, and a dollar and a half in extra tips."
"Hereafter you must save your rent money for clothes. We must
have you looking respectable."
"Won't you adopt me, Rodney?" asked Mike with a laughing face.
"That's a good idea. Perhaps I will. In that case you must
obey all my orders. In the first place, what are you most in
want in the way of clothing?"
"I haven't got but two shirts."
"That is hardly enough for a gentleman of your social position.
Anything else."
"I'm short on collars and socks."
"Then we'll go out shopping. I'll buy you a supply of each."
"But you haven't begun to work yet."
"No, but Mrs. Harvey made me a present of twenty five dollars.
We'll go to some of the big stores on Sixth Avenue where we can
get furnishing goods cheap."
Rodney carried out his purpose, and at the cost of four dollars
supplied his room mate with all he needed for the present.
"See what it is to be rich, Mike," he said. "It seems odd for
me to be buying clothes for my adopted son."
"You're in luck, Rodney, and so am I. I hope some time I can do
you a favor."
"Perhaps you can, Mike. If I should get sick, you might take my
place as tutor."
"You must know an awful lot, Rodney," said Mike, regarding his
companion with new respect.
"Thank you for the compliment, Mike. I hope Mr. Sargent will
have the same opinion."
The next day it is needless to say that Rodney did not resume
the business of newsboy. He was very glad to give it up.
He dressed with unusual care and took a walk down town.
As he passed Reade Street by chance Jasper was coming around
the corner. His face lighted up first with pleasure at seeing
Rodney, for it gratified his mean nature to triumph over the
boy whom he had ousted from his position, and next with
surprise at his unusually neat and well dressed appearance.
Rodney looked far from needing help. He might readily have been
taken for a boy of aristocratic lineage.
"Hallo!" said Jasper, surveying Rodney curiously.
"How are you this morning, Jasper?" returned Rodney quietly.
"Why ain't you selling papers?"
"I don't like the business."
"But you've got to make a living."
"Quite true."
"Are you going to black boots?"
"Why should I? Is it a desirable business?"
"How should I know?" asked Jasper, coloring.
"I didn't know but you might have had some experience at it.
I haven't."
"Do you mean to insult me?" demanded Jasper hotly.
"I never insult anybody. I will only say that you are as likely
to take up the business as I."
"I've got a place."
"How do you know but I have?"
"Because you were selling papers yesterday and are walking the
street today."
"That is true. But I have a place engaged for all that.
I shall go to work on Monday."
Jasper pricked up his ears.
"Where is it?" he asked.
"I don't care to tell at present."
"Is it true? Have you got a place?"
"Yes."
"I don't see how you could. Mr. Goodnow wouldn't give you
a recommendation."
"There is no reason why he should not."
"What, after your taking cloaks and dress patterns from the store?"
"I did nothing of the kind. Sooner or later Mr. Goodnow will find
out his mistake. Probably the real thief is still in his employ."
Jasper turned pale and regarded Rodney searchingly, but there was
nothing in his manner or expression to indicate that his remark
had been personal. He thought it best to turn the conversation.
"How much pay do you get--four dollars?"
"More than that."
"You don't get as much as you did at our store?"
"Yes; I get more."
Now it was Jasper's turn to show surprise. He did not know
whether to believe Rodney or not, but there was something in his
face which commanded belief.
"How much do you get?" he asked.
"You would not believe me if I told you."
"Try me," returned Jasper, whose curiosity was aroused.
"I am to get fifteen dollars a week."
Jasper would not have looked more surprised if Rodney had
informed him that he was to become a Cabinet minister.
"You're joking!" he ejaculated.
"Not at all."
"How could you have the face to ask such a price. Did you pass
yourself off as an experienced salesman?"
"No."
"I don't understand it at all, that is, if you are telling
the truth."
"I have told you the truth, Jasper. I have no object in
deceiving you. The salary was fixed by my employer."
"Who did you say it was?"
"I didn't say."
Jasper's cunning scheme was defeated. He felt disturbed to hear
of Rodney's good fortune, but he had a shot in reserve.
"I don't think you will keep your place long," he said in a
malicious tone.
"Why not?"
"Your employer will hear under what circumstances you left our
store, and then of course he will discharge you."
"You will be sorry for that won't you?" asked Rodney pointedly.
"Why of course I don't want you to have bad luck."
"Thank you. You are very considerate."
"Suppose you lose your place, shall you go back to selling papers?"
"I hope to find something better to do."
"Where are you going now?"
"To get some lunch."
"So am I. Suppose we go together."
"Very well, providing you will lunch with me."
"I don't want to impose upon you."
"You won't. We may not meet again for some time, and we shall
have this meal to remind us of each other."
They went to a well known restaurant on Park Row. Rodney ordered
a liberal dinner for himself, and Jasper followed his example
nothing loath. He was always ready to dine at the expense of
others, but even as he ate he could not help wondering at the
strange chance that had made him the guest of a boy who was
selling papers the day before.
He had nearly finished eating when a disturbing thought occurred
to him. Suppose Rodney didn't have money enough to settle the
bill, and threw it upon him.
When Rodney took the checks and walked up to the cashier's desk
he followed him with some anxiety. But his companion quietly
took out a five dollar bill, from his pocket and tendered it to
the cashier. The latter gave him back the right change and the
two boys went out into the street.
"You seem to have plenty of money," said Jasper.
"There are very few who would admit having that," smiled Rodney.
"I don't see why you sold papers if you have five dollar bills
in your pocket."
"I don't want to be idle."
"May I tell my uncle and Mr. Goodnow that you have got a place?"
"If you like."
"Well, good by, I must be hurrying back to the store."
Rodney smiled. He rather enjoyed Jasper's surprise and perplexity.
CHAPTER XVIII.
RODNEY'S SECRET IS DISCOVERED.
Jasper lost no time in acquainting his uncle with Rodney's
extraordinary good fortune. James Redwood was surprised, but
not all together incredulous.
"I don't understand it" he said, "but Ropes appears to be a boy
of truth. Perhaps he may have exaggerated the amount of his salary."
"I hardly think so, uncle. He gave me a tip top dinner down on
Park Row."
"He may have been in funds from selling the articles taken from
the store."
"That's so!" assented Jasper, who had the best possible reason
for knowing that it was not so.
"I wish the boy well," said his uncle. "He always treated me
respectfully, and I never had anything against him except the
loss of stock, and it is not certain that he is the thief."
"I guess there isn't any doubt about that."
"Yet, believing him to be a thief, you did not hesitate to
accept a dinner from him."
"I didn't want to hurt his feelings," replied Jasper,
rather sheepishly.
"Do you know what sort of a place he has got, or with what house?"
"No; he wouldn't tell me."
"He thought perhaps you would inform the new firm of the
circumstances under which he left us. I don't blame him,
but I am surprised that he should have been engaged without
a recommendation."
"Shall you tell Mr. Goodnow?"
"Not unless he asks about Ropes. I don't want to interfere with
the boy in any way."
In the store, as has already been stated, Jasper succeeded to
Rodney's place, and in consequence his pay was raised to seven
dollars a week. Still it was not equal to what it had been when
he was receiving additional money from the sale of the articles
stolen by Philip Carton and himself.
The way in which they had operated was this: Philip would come
in and buy a cloak or a dress pattern from Jasper, and the young
salesman would pack up two or three instead of one. There was
a drawback to the profit in those cases, as Carton would be
obliged to sell both at a reduced price. Still they had made a
considerable sum from these transactions, though not nearly as
much as Mr. Goodnow had lost.
After the discovery of the theft and the discharge of Rodney,
the two confederates felt that it would be imprudent to do any
more in that line. This suspension entailed heavier loss on
Carton than on Jasper. The latter had a fixed income and a home
at his uncle's house, while Philip had no regular income, though
he occasionally secured a little temporary employment.
In the meantime Rodney had commenced his tutorship. His young
pupil became very fond of him, and being a studious boy, made
rapid progress in his lessons.
Mr. Sargent felt that his experiment, rash as it might be
considered, vindicated his wisdom by its success. At the end of
a month he voluntarily raised Rodney's salary to twenty dollars
a week.
"I am afraid you are overpaying me, Mr. Sargent," said Rodney.
"That's my lookout. Good service is worth a good salary, and I
am perfectly satisfied with you."
"Thank you, sir. I prize that even more than the higher salary."
Only a portion of Rodney's time was spent in teaching. In the
afternoon he and his charge went on little excursions, generally
to Central Park.
One holiday, about four months after the commencement of
Rodney's engagement, he was walking in the Park when he fell in
with Jasper. Jasper's attention was at once drawn to the little
boy, whose dress and general appearance indicated that he
belonged to a wealthy family. This excited Jasper's curiosity.
"How are you, Rodney?" said Jasper adroitly. "It is a good
while since I met you."
"Yes."
"Who is the little boy with you?"
"His name is Arthur Sargent."
Rodney gave this information unwillingly, for he saw that his
secret was likely to be discovered.
"How do you do, Arthur?" asked Jasper, with unwonted affability,
for he did not care for children.
"Pretty well," answered Arthur politely.
"Have you known Rodney long?"
"Why, he is my teacher," answered Arthur in some surprise.
Jasper's eyes gleamed with sudden intelligence. So this was
Rodney's secret, and this was the position for which he was so
well paid.
Rodney bit his lip in vexation, but made no remark.
"Does he ever punish you for not getting your lessons?" asked
Jasper without much tact.
"Of course not" answered Arthur indignantly.
"Arthur always does get his lessons," said Rodney. "I suppose
you have a holiday from work today, Jasper."
"Yes; I am glad to get away now and then."
"I must bid you good morning now."
"Won't you let me call on you? Where do you live, Arthur?"
The boy gave the number of his house.
Jasper asked Arthur, thinking rightly that he would be more
likely to get an answer from him than from Rodney. He walked
away triumphantly, feeling that he had made a discovery that
might prove of advantage to him.
"Is that a friend of yours, Rodney?" asked little Arthur.
"I have known him for some time."
"I don't like him very much."
"Why?" asked Rodney with some curiosity.
"I don't know," answered the little boy slowly. "I can't
like everybody."
"Quite true, Arthur. Jasper is not a special friend of mine,
and I am not particular about your liking him. I hope you like me."
"You know I do, Rodney," and he gave Rodney's hand an assuring pressure.
Ten minutes after he left Rodney, Jasper fell in with Carton.
The intimacy between them had perceptibly fallen off. It had
grown out of business considerations.
Now that it was no longer safe to abstract articles from
the store, Jasper felt that he had no more use for his
late confederate. When they met he treated him with
marked coldness.
On this particular day Carton was looking quite shabby. In fact,
his best suit was in pawn, and he had fallen back on one
half worn and soiled.
"Hello!" exclaimed Jasper, and was about to pass on with a cool nod.
"Stop!" said Philip, looking offended.
"I am in a hurry," returned Jasper. "I can't stop today."
"You are in a hurry, and on a holiday?"
"Yes; I am to meet a friend near the lake."
"I'll go along with you."
Jasper had to submit though with an ill grace.
"Wouldn't another day do?"
"No; the fact is, Jasper, I am in trouble,"
"You usually are," sneered Jasper.
"That is so. I have been out of luck lately."
"I am sorry, but I can't help it as I see."
"How much money do you think I have in my pocket?"
"I don't know, I am sure. I am not good at guessing conundrums."
"Just ten cents."
"That isn't much," said Jasper, indifferently.
"Let me have a dollar, thats a good fellow!"
"You seem to think I am made of money," said Jasper sharply.
"I haven't got much more myself."
"Then you might have. You get a good salary."
"Only seven dollars."
"You are able to keep most of it for yourself."
"Suppose I am? You seem to know a good deal of my affairs."
"Haven't you any pity for an old friend?"
"Yes, I'll give you all the pity you want, but when it comes to
money it's a different matter. Here you are, a man of twenty
six, ten years older than me, and yet you expect me to help
support you."
"You didn't use to talk to me like that."
"Well, I do now. You didn't use to try to get money out of me."
"Look here, Jasper! I am poor, but I don't want you to talk to
me as you are doing."
"Indeed!" sneered Jasper.
"And I won't have it," said Carton firmly. "Listen to me, and
I will propose a plan that will help us both."
"What is it?"
"You can easily secrete articles, if you are cautious, without
attracting notice, and I will dispose of them and share the
money with you."
Jasper shook his head.
"I wouldn't dare to do it" he said. "Somebody might spy on me."
"Not if you are careful."
"If it were found out I would be bounced like Ropes."
"What is he doing? Have you seen him lately?"
"He is getting on finely. He is earning fifteen dollars a week."
"You don't mean it?"
"Yes I do."
"What firm is he working for?"
"For none at all. He is tutor to a young kid."
"I didn't know he was scholar enough."
"Oh yes, he knows Greek and Latin and a lot of other stuff."
"Who is the boy?"
"I don't feel at liberty to tell. I don't think he would care
to have you know."
"I'll tell you what you can do. Borrow five dollars of him for me."
"I don't know about that. If I were to borrow it would be for myself."
"You can do as you please. If you don't do something for me I
will write to Mr. Goodnow that you are the thief who stole the
cloaks and dress patterns."
"You wouldn't do that?" exclaimed Jasper in consternation.
"Wouldn't I? I am desperate enough to do anything."
After a little further conference Jasper agreed to do what was
asked of him. He did not dare to refuse.
CHAPTER XIX.
JASPER'S REVENGE
Rodney was considerably surprised one evening to receive a call
from Jasper in his room. He was alone, as Mike had been
detailed about a week ago for night duty. The room looked more
attractive than formerly. Rodney had bought a writing desk,
which stood in the corner, and had put up three pictures, which,
though cheap, were attractive.
"Good evening, Jasper," he said. "It is quite friendly of you
to call."
"I hadn't anything else on hand this evening, and thought I
would come round see how you were getting along."
"Take a seat and make yourself at home."
"Do you object to cigarettes?" asked Jasper, producing one from
a case in his pocket.
"I object to smoking them myself, but I don't want to dictate to
my friends."
"You look quite comfortable here," continued Jasper in a
patronizing tone.
"We try to be comfortable, though our room is not luxurious."
"Who do you mean by `we'? Have you a room mate?"
"Yes. Mike Flynn rooms with me."
"Who is he--a newsboy?"
"No. He is a telegraph boy."
"You don't seem to very particular," said Jasper, shrugging
his shoulders.
"I am very particular."
"Yet you room with an Irish telegraph boy."
"He is a nice boy of good habit, and a devoted friend.
What could I want more?"
"Oh, well, you have a right to consult your own taste."
"You have a nice home, no doubt."
"I live with my uncle. Yes, he has a good house, but I am not
so independent as if I had a room outide."
"How are things going on at the store?"
"About the same as usual. Why don't you come in some day?"
"For two reasons; I am occupied during the day, and I don't want
to go where I am considered a thief."
"I wish I was getting your income. It is hard to get along on
seven dollars a week."
"Still you have a nice home, and I suppose you have most of your
salary to yourself."
"Yes, but there isn't much margin in seven dollars. My uncle
expects me to buy my own clothes. You were lucky to get out of
the store. Old Goodnow ought to give me ten dollars."
"Don't let him hear you speak of him as OLD Goodnow, Jasper."
"Oh, I'm smart enough for that. I mean to keep on the right
side of the old chap. What sort of a man are you working for?"
"Mr. Sargent is a fine man."
"He isn't mean certainly. I should like to be in your shoes."
"If I hear of any similar position shall I mention your name?"
asked Rodney, smiling.
"No; I could not take care of a kid. I hate them."
"Still Arthur is a nice boy."
"You are welcome to him. What do you have to teach?"
"He is studying Latin and French, besides English branches."
"I know about as much of Latin and French as a cow. I couldn't
be a teacher. I say, Rodney," and Jasper cleared his throat,
"I want you to do me a favor."
"What is it?"
"I want you to lend me ten dollars."
Rodney was not mean, but he knew very well that a loan to Jasper
would be a permanent one. Had Jasper been his friend even this
consideration would not have inspired a refusal, but he knew
very well that Jasper had not a particle of regard for him.
"I don't think I can oblige you, Jasper," he said.
"Why not? You get fifteen dollars a week."
"My expenses are considerable. Besides I am helping Mike, whose
salary is very small. I pay the whole of the rent and I have
paid for some clothes for him."
"You are spending your money very foolishly," said Jasper frowning.
"Would I spend it any less foolishly if I should lend you ten dollars?"
"There is some difference between Mike Flynn and me. I am a gentleman."
"So is Mike."
"A queer sort of gentleman! He is only a poor telegraph boy."
"Still he is a gentleman."
"I should think you might have money enough for both of us."
"I might but I want to save something from my salary. I don't
know how long I shall be earning as much. I might lose my place."
"So you might."
"And I could hardly expect to get another where the pay would be
as good."
"I would pay you on installment--a dollar a week," urged Jasper.
"I don't see how you could, as you say your pay is too small for
you now."
"Oh, well, I could manage."
"I am afraid I can't oblige you, Jasper," said Rodney in a
decided tone.
"I didn't think you were so miserly," answered Jasper in vexation.
"You may call it so, if you like. You must remember that I am
not situated like you. You have your uncle to fall back upon in
case you lose your position, but I have no one. I have to
hustle for myself."
"Oh, you needn't make any more excuses. I suppose ten dollars
is rather a large sum to lend. Can you lend me five?"
"I am sorry, but I must refuse you."
Jasper rose from the chair on which he had been sitting.
"Then I may as well go," he said. "I am disappointed in you, Ropes.
I thought you were a good, whole souled fellow, and not a miser."
"You must think of me as you please, Jasper. I feel that I have
a right to regulate my own affairs."
"All I have to say is this, if you lose your place as you may very
soon, don't come round to the store and expect to be taken back."
"I won't" answered Rodney, smiling. "I wouldn't go back at any
rate unless the charge of theft was withdrawn."
"That will never be!"
"Let it be so, as long as I am innocent."
Jasper left the room abruptly, not even having the politeness to
bid Rodney good evening.
Rodney felt that he was quite justified in refusing to lend
Jasper money. Had he been in need he would have obliged him,
though he had no reason to look upon him as a friend.
No one who knew Rodney could regard him as mean or miserly.
Could he have read Jasper's thoughts as he left the house he
would have felt even less regret at disappointing him.
About two days afterward when Rodney went up to meet his pupil,
Mr. Sargent handed him a letter.
"Here is something that concerns you, Rodney," he said.
"It doesn't appear to be from a friend of yours."
With some curiosity Rodney took the letter and read it.
It ran thus:
Mr. JOHN SARGENT:
DEAR SIR--I think it my duty to write and tell you something
about your son's tutor--something that will surprise and shock you.
Before he entered your house he was employed by a firm on
Reade Street. He was quite a favorite with his employer, Mr.
Otis Goodnow, who promoted him in a short time. All at once it
was found that articles were missing from the stock. Of course
it was evident that some one of the clerks was dishonest.
A watch was set, and finally it was found that Rodney Ropes had
taken the articles, and one--a lady's cloak--was found in his
room by a detective. He was discharged at once without a
recommendation.
For a time he lived by selling papers, but at last he managed
to get into your house. I am sure you won't regard him as
fit to educate your little son, though I have no doubt he is
a good scholar. But his character is bad--I don't think he ought
to have concealed this from you out of friendship for you, and
because I think it is my duty, I take the liberty of writing.
If you doubt this I will refer to Mr. Goodnow, or Mr. James
Redwood, who had charge of the room in which Ropes was employed.
Yours very respectually,
A FRIEND.
"You knew all this before, Mr. Sargent" said Rodney, as he
handed back the letter.
"Yes. Have you any idea who wrote it?"
"I feel quite sure that it was a boy about two years older than
myself, Jasper Redwood."
"Is he related to the man of the same name whom he mentions?"
"Yes, he is his nephew."
"Has he any particular reason for disliking you, Rodney?"
"Yes, sir. He came round to my room Wednesday evening, and
asked me to lend him ten dollars."
"I presume you refused."
"Yes, sir. He is not in need. He succeeded to my place, and he
has a home at the house of his uncle."
"He appears to be a very mean boy. Anonymous letters are always
cowardly, and generally malicious. This seems to be no
exception to the general rule."
"I hope it won't affect your feelings towards me, Mr. Sargent."
"Don't trouble yourself about that Rodney. I am not so easily
prejudiced against one of whom I have a good opinion."
"I suppose this is Jasper's revenge," thought Rodney.
CHAPTER XX.
RODNEY LOSES HIS PUPIL.
Jasper had little doubt that his letter would lead to Rodney's
loss of position. It was certainly a mean thing to plot
another's downfall, but Jasper was quite capable of it. Had he
secured the loan he asked he would have been willing to leave
Rodney alone, but it would only have been the first of a series
of similar applications.
It was several days before Jasper had an opportunity of learning
whether his malicious plan had succeeded or not. On Sunday
forenoon he met Rodney on Fifth Avenue just as the church
services were over. He crossed the street and accosted the boy
he had tried to injure.
"Good morning, Ropes," he said, examining Rodney's face
curiously to see whether it indicated trouble of any kind.
"Good morning!" responded Rodney coolly.
"How are you getting along in your place?"
"Very well, thank you."
"Shall I find you at your pupil's house if I call there some afternoon?"
"Yes, unless I am out walking with Arthur."
"I wonder whether he's bluffing," thought Jasper. "I daresay
he wouldn't tell me if he had been discharged. He takes it
pretty coolly."
"How long do you think your engagement will last?" he asked.
"I don't know. I never had a talk with Mr. Sargent on that point."
"Do you still give satisfaction?"
Rodney penetrated Jasper's motives for asking all these questions,
and was amused.
"I presume if I fail to satisfy Mr. Sargent he will tell me so."
"It would be a nice thing if you could stay there three or four years."
"Yes: but I don't anticipate it. When Arthur get a little older
he will be sent to school."
"What will you do then?"
"I haven't got so far as that."
"I can't get anything out of him," said Jasper to himself.
"I shouldn't be a bit surprised if he were already discharged."
They had now reached Madison Square, and Jasper left Rodney.
The latter looked after him with a smile.
"I think I have puzzled Jasper," he said to himself. "He was
anxious to know how his scheme had worked. He will have to wait
a little longer."
"If Mr. Sargent keeps Ropes after my letter he must be a fool,"
Jasper decided. "I wonder if Ropes handles the mail. He might
have suppressed the letter."
But Rodney was not familiar with his handwriting, and would have
no reason to suspect that the particular letter contained
anything likely to injure him in the eyes of Mr. Sargent.
Later in his walk Jasper met Philip Carton. His former friend
was sitting on a bench in Madison Square. He called out to
Jasper as he passed.
"Come here, Jasper, I want to talk with you."
Jasper looked at him in a manner far from friendly.
"I am in a hurry," he said.
"What hurry can you be in? Come and sit down here. I MUST
speak to you."
Jasper did not like his tone, but it impressed him, and he did
not dare to refuse.
He seated himself beside Philip, but looked at him askance.
Carton was undeniably shabby. He had the look of a man who was
going down hill and that rapidly.
"I shall be late for dinner," grumbled Jasper.
"I wish I had any dinner to look forward to," said Carton.
"Do you see this money?" and he produced a nickel from
his pocket.
"What is there remarkable about it?"
"It is the last money I have. It won't buy me a dinner."
"I am sorry, but it is none of my business," said Jasper coolly.
"You are old enough to attend to your own affairs."
"And I once thought you were my friend," murmured Philip bitterly.
"Yes, we were friends in a way."
"Now you are up and I am down-- Jasper, I want a dollar."
"I dare say you do. Plenty want that."
"I want it from you."
"I can't spare it."
"You can spare it better than you can spare your situation."
"What do you mean by that?" asked Jasper, growing nervous.
"I'll tell you what I mean. How long do you think you would
stay in the store if Mr. Goodnow knew that you were concerned in
the theft from which he has suffered?"
"Was I the only one?"
"No; I am equally guilty."
"I am glad you acknowledge it. You see you had better keep
quiet for your own sake."
"If I keep quiet I shall starve."
"Do you want to go to prison?"
"I shouldn't mind so much if you went along, too."
"Are you crazy, Philip Carton?"
"No, I am not, but I am beinning to get sensible. If I go to
prison I shall at least have enough to eat, and now I haven't."
"What do you mean by all this foolish talk?"
"I mean that if you won't give me any money I will go to the
store and tell Mr. Goodnow something that will surprise him."
Jasper was getting thoroughly frightened.
"Come, Philip." he said, "listen to reason. You know how poor
I am."
"No doubt. I know you have a good home and enough to eat."
"I only get seven dollars a week."
"And I get nothing."
"I have already been trying to help you. I went to Ropes the
other day, and asked him to lend me five dollars. I meant it
for you."
"Did he give it to you?"
"He wouldn't give me a cent. He is mean and miserly!"
"I don't know. He knows very well that you are no friend of
his, though he doesn't know how much harm you have done him."
"He's rolling in money. However, I've put a spoke in his wheel,
I hope."
"How?"
"I wrote an anonymous letter to Mr. Sargent telling him that
Ropes was discharged from the store on suspicion of theft."
"You are a precious scamp, Jasper."
"What do you mean?"
"You are not content with getting Ropes discharged for something
which you yourself did----"
"And you too."
"And I too. I accept the amendment. Not content with that, you
try to get him discharged from his present position."
"Then he might have lent me the money," said Jasper sullenly.
"It wouldn't have been a loan. It would have been a gift.
But no matter about that. I want a dollar."
"I can't give it to you."
"Then I shall call at the store tomorrow morning and tell Mr.
Goodnow about the stolen goods."
Finding that Carton was in earnest Jasper finally, but with great
reluctance, drew out a dollar and handed it to his companion.
"There, I hope that will satisfy you," he said spitefully.
"It will--for the present."
"I wish he'd get run over or something," thought Jasper. "He seems
to expect me to support him, and that on seven dollars a week."
Fortunately for Jasper, Philip Carton obtained employment the
next day which lasted for some time, and as he was paid ten
dollars a week he was not under the necessity of troubling his
old confederate for loans.
Now and then Jasper and Rodney met, but there were no cordial
relations between them. Jasper could not forgive Rodney for
refusing to lend him money, and Rodney was not likely to forget
the anonymous letter by which Jasper had tried to injure him.
So three months passed. One day Mr. Sargent arrived at home
before it was time for Rodney to leave.
"I am glad to see you, Rodney," said his employer. "I have some
news for you which I am afraid will not be entirely satisfactory
to you."
"What is it, sir?"
"For the last three years I have been wishing to go to Europe
with my wife and Arthur. The plan has been delayed, because I
could not make satisfactory business arrangements. Now, however,
that difficulty has been overcome, and I propose to sail in
about two weeks."
"I hope you'll enjoy your trip, sir."
"Thank you. Of course it will terminate, for a time at least
your engagement to teach Arthur."
"I shall be sorry for that, sir, but I am not selfish enough to
want you to stay at home on that account."
"I thought you would feel that way. I wish I could procure you
another position before I go, but that is uncertain. I shall,
however, pay you a month's salary in advance in lieu of a notice."
"That is very liberal, sir."
"I think it only just. I have been very well pleased with your
attention to Arthur, and I know he has profited by your
instructions as well as enjoyed your companionship. I hope you
have been able to save something."
"Yes, sir, I have something in the Union Dime Savings Bank."
"That's well. You will remain with me one week longer, but the
last week Arthur will need for preparations."
Two weeks later Rodney stood on the pier and watched the stately
Etruria steam out into the river. Arthur and his father were on
deck, and the little boy waved his handkerchief to his tutor as
long as he could see him.
Rodney turned away sadly.
"I have lost a good situation," he soliloquized. "When shall I
get another?"
CHAPTER XXI.
CONTINUED ILL LUCK.
Rodney set himself to work searching for a new situation.
But wherever he called he found Some one ahead of him. At length
he saw an advertisement for an entry clerk in a wholesale house in
Church Street. He applied and had the good fortune to please
the superintendent.
"Where have you worked before?" he asked.
"At Otis Goodnow's, on Reade Street."
"How much were you paid there?"
"Seven dollars a week."
"Very well, we will start you on that salary, and see if you
earn it."
Rodney was surprised and relieved to find that he was not asked
for a recommendation from Mr. Goodnow, knowing that he could not
obtain one. He went to work on a Monday morning, and found his
duties congenial and satisfactory.
Seven dollars a week was small, compared with what he had
received as a tutor, but he had about two hundred and fifty
dollars in the Union Dime Savings Bank and drew three dollars
from this fund every week in order that he might still assist
Mike, whose earnings were small.
One of his new acquaintances in the store was James Hicks, a boy
about a year older than himself.
"Didn't you use to work at Otis Goodnow's?" asked James one day
when they were going to lunch.
"Yes."
"I know a boy employed there. He is older than either of us."
"Who is it?"
"Jasper Redwood. Of course you know him."
"Yes," answered Rodney with a presentiment of evil.
He felt that it would be dangerous to have Jasper know of his
present position, but did not venture to give a hint of this
to James.
His fears were not groundless. Only the day after James met
Jasper on the street.
"Anything new?" asked Jasper.
"Yes; we've got one of your old friends in our store."
"Who is it?"
"Rodney Ropes."
Jasper stopped short, and whistled. He was excessively
surprised, as he supposed Rodney still to be Arthur
Sargent's tutor.
"You don't mean it?" he ejaculated.
"Why not? Is there anything so strange about it?"
"Yes. Did Ropes bring a recommendation from Mr. Goodnow?"
"I suppose so. I don't know."
"If he did, it's forged."
"Why should it be?"
"Goodnow wouldn't give him a recommendation."
"Why wouldn't he?"
"Because he discharged Ropes. Do you want to know why?"
"Yes."
"For stealing articles from the store."
It was the turn of James Hicks to be surprised.
"I can't believe it," he said.
"Its true. Just mention the matter to Ropes, and you'll see he
won't deny it."
"I think there must be some mistake about it. Rodney doesn't
look like a fellow that would steal."
"Oh, you can't tell from appearances--Rogues are always plausible."
"Still mistakes are sometimes made. I'd trust Rodney Ropes
sooner than any boy I know."
"You don't know him as well as I do."
"You don't like him?" said James shrewdly.
"No I don't. I can't like a thief."
"You talk as if you had a grudge against him."
"Nothing but his being a thief. Well, what are you going to do
about it?"
"About what?"
"What I have just told you."
"I don't feel that I have any call to do anything."
"You ought to tell your employer."
"I am no telltale," said James scornfully.
"Then you will let him stay in the store, knowing him to be a thief?"
"I don't know him to be a thief. If he steals anything it will
probably be found out."
Jasper urged James to give information about Rodney, but he
steadily refused.
"I leave others to do such dirty work," he said, "and I don't
think any better of you, let me tell you, for your eagerness to
turn the boy out of his position."
"You are a queer boy."
"Think so if you like," retorted Hicks. "I might give my
opinion of you."
At this point Jasper thought it best to let the conversation drop.
He was much pleased to learn that Rodney had lost his
fine position as tutor, and was now in a place from which he
might more easily be ousted.
As he could not prevail upon James Hicks to betray Rodney he
decided to write an anonymous letter to the firm that employed him.
The result was that the next afternoon Rodney was summoned to
the office.
"Sit down Ropes," said the superintendent. "For what store did
you work before you came into our house?"
"Otis Goodnow's."
"Under what circumstances did you leave?"
"I was accused of theft."
"You did not mention this matter when you applied for a
situation here."
"No, sir. I ought perhaps to have done so, but I presumed in
that case you would not have given me a place."
"You are right he would not."
"Nor would I have applied had the charge been a true one.
Articles were certainly missing from Mr. Goodnow's stock,
but in accusing me they did me a great injustice."
"How long since you left Mr. Goodnow's?"
"Four months."
"What have you been doing since?"
"I was acting as tutor to the son of Mr. Sargent, of West Fifty
Eighth Street."
"A well known citizen. Then you are a scholar?"
"Yes, sir, I am nearly prepared for college."
"Of course he did not know you were suspected of dishonesty."
"On the contrary he did know it. I told him, and later he
received an anonymous letter, notifying him of the fact."
"We also have received an anonymous letter. Here it is. Do you
recognize the hand writing?"
"Yes," answered Rodney after examining the letter. "It was
written by Jasper Redwood."
"Who is he?"
"A boy employed by Mr. Goodnow. For some reason he seems to
have a spite against me."
"I admit that it is pretty small business to write an anonymous
letter calculated to injure another. Still we shall have to
take notice of this."
"Yes, sir, I suppose so."
"I shall have to bring it to the notice of the firm. What they
may do I don't know. If the matter was to be decided by me I
would let you stay."
"Thank you, sir," said Rodney gratefully.
"But I am not Mr. Hall. You can go now and I will see you again."
Rodney left the office fully persuaded that his engagement would
speedily terminate. He was right; the next day he was sent for again.
"I am sorry to tell you, Ropes," said the superintendent kindly
"that Mr. Hall insists upon your being discharged. He is a
nervous man and rather suspicious. I spoke in your favor but I
could not turn him."
"At any rate I am grateful to you for your friendly effort."
The superintendent hesitated a moment, and then said: "Will
this discharge seriously embarrass you? Are you short of money?"
"No, sir. I was very liberally paid by Mr. Sargent, and I
saved money. I have enough in the savings bank to last me
several months, should I be idle so long."
"I am glad of it. I hope you will remember, my boy, that this
is none of my doing. I would gladly retain you. I will say one
thing more, should Jasper Redwood ever apply for a situation
here, his name will not be considered."
So Rodney found himself again without a position. It seemed
hard in view of his innocence, but he had confidence to believe
that something would turn up for him as before. At any rate he
had enough money to live on for some time.
When Mike Flynn learned the circumstances of his discharge he
was very angry.
"I'd like to meet Jasper Redwood," he said, his eyes flashing.
"If I didn't give him a laying out then my name isn't Mike Flynn."
"I think he will get his desert some time, Mickey, without any
help from you or me."
"Should hope he will. And what'll you do now, Rodney?"
"I don't know. Sometimes I think it would be well to go to some
other city, Boston or Philadelphia, where Jasper can't get on
my track."
"Should hope you won't do it. I can't get along widout you."
"I will stay here for a few weeks, Mike, and see if anything
turns up."
"I might get you in as a telegraph boy."
"That wouldn't suit me. It doesn't pay enough."
Rodney began to hunt for a situation again, but four weeks
passed and brought him no success. One afternoon about four
o'clock he was walking up Broadway when, feeling tired, he stepped
into the Continental Hotel at the corner of Twentieth Street.
He took a seat at some distance back from the door, and in a
desultory way began to look about him. All at once he started
in surprise, for in a man sitting in one of the front row of
chairs he recognized Louis Wheeler, the railroad thief who had
stolen his box of jewelry.
Wheeler was conversing with a man with a large flapping
sombrero, and whose dress and general appearance indicated that
he was a Westerner.
Rodney left his seat and going forward sat down in the chair
behind Wheeler. He suspected that the Western man was in danger
of being victimized.
CHAPTER XXII.
AN OLD ACQUAINTANCE TURNS UP.
In his new position Rodney could easily hear the conversation
which took place between the Western man and his old
railroad acquaintance.
"I am quite a man of leisure," said Wheeler, "and it will give
me great pleasure to go about with you and show you our city."
"You are very obliging."
"Oh, don't mention it. I shall really be glad to have my
time occupied. You see I am a man of means--my father left
me a fortune--and so I am not engaged in any business."
"You are in luck. I was brought up on a farm in Vermont, and
had to borrow money to take me to Montana four years ago."
"I hope you prospered in your new home?"
"I did. I picked up twenty five thousand dollars at the mines,
and doubled it by investment in lots in Helena."
"Very neat, indeed. I inherited a fortune from my father--a
hundred and twenty five thousand dollars--but I never made a
cent myself. I don't know whether I am smart enough."
"Come out to Montana and I'll put you in a way of making some money."
"Really, now, that suggestion strikes me favorably. I believe
I will follow your advice. When shall you return to your
Western home?"
"In about a fortnight I think."
"You must go to the theater tonight. There is a good play on at
the Madison Square."
"I don't mind. When can I get ticket?"
"I'll go and secure some. It is only a few blocks away."
"Do so. How much are the tickets?"
"A dollar and a half or two dollars each."
"Here are five dollars, if it won't trouble you too much."
"My dear friend, I meant to pay for the tickets. However,
I will pay next time. If you will remain here I will be back
in twenty minutes."
Louis Wheeler left the hotel with the five dollars tucked away
in his vest pocket.
He had no sooner disappeared than Rodney went forward and
occupied his seat.
"Excuse me, sir," he said to the miner, "but do you know much of
the man who has just left you?"
"I only met him here. He seems a good natured fellow. What of him?"
"He said he was a man of independent means."
"Isn't he?"
"He is a thief and an adventurer."
The miner was instantly on the alert.
"How do you know this?" he asked.
"Because he stole a box of jewelry from me in the cars some
months ago."
"Did you get it again?"
"Yes; he left the train, but I followed him up and reclaimed
the jewelry."
"Was it of much value?"
"They were family jewels, and were worth over a thousand dollars."
"Do you think he wants to bunco me?"
"I have no doubt of it."
"I have given him money to buy theater tickets. Do you think he
will come back?"
"Yes. He wouldn't be satisfied with that small sum."
"Tell me about your adventure with him."
"I will do it later. The theater is so near that he might come
back and surprise us together. I think he would recognize me."
"Do you advise me to go to the theater?"
"Yes, but be on your guard."
"Where can I see you again?"
"Are you staying at this hotel?"
"Yes. Here is my card."
Rodney read this name on the card:
JEFFERSON PETTRIGREW.
"I wish you were going to the theater with us."
"It wouldn't do. Mr. Wheeler would remember me."
"Then come round and breakfast with me tomorrow--at eight
o'clock, sharp."
"I will, sir. Now I will take a back seat, and leave you to
receive your friend."
"Don't call him my friend. He seems to be a mean scoundrel."
"Don't let him suspect anything from your manner."
"I won't. I want to see him expose his plans." Five minutes
afterwards Louis Wheeler entered the hotel.
"I've got the tickets," he said, "but I had to buy them of a
speculator, and they cost me more than I expected."
"How much?"
"Two and a half apiece. So there is no change coming back to you."
"Never mind! As long as you had enough money to pay for them it
is all right."
As a matter of fact Wheeler bought the tickets at the box office
at one dollar and fifty cent each, which left him a profit of
two dollars. When he saw how easily the Western man took it he
regretted not having represented that the tickets cost three
dollars each.
However, he decided that there would be other ways of plundering
his new acquaintance. He took his seat again next to the miner.
"It is not very late," he said. "Would you like a run out to
Central Park or to Grant's Tomb?"
"Not today. I feel rather tired. By the way, you did not
mention your name."
"I haven't a card with me, but my name is Louis Wheeler."
"Where do you live, Mr. Wheeler?"
"I am staying with an aunt on Fifth Avenue, but I think of
taking board at the Windsor Hotel. It is a very high toned
house, and quite a number of my friends board there."
"Is it an expensive hotel?"
"Oh, yes, but my income is large and----"
"I understand. Now, Mr. Wheeler, I must excuse myself, as I
feel tired. Come at half past seven and we can start for the
theater together."
"Very well."
Wheeler rose reluctantly, for he had intended to secure a dinner
from his new acquaintance, but he was wise enough to take the hint.
After he left the room Rodney again joined Mr. Pettigrew.
"He didn't give me back any change," said the Western man.
"He said he bought the tickets of a speculator at two dollars and a
half each."
"Then he made two dollars out of you."
"I suppose that is the beginning. Well, that doesn't worry me.
But I should like to know how he expects to get more money out
of me. I don't understand the ways of this gentry."
"Nor I very well. If you are on your guard I think you won't be
in any danger."
"I will remember what you say. You seem young to act as adviser
to a man like me. Are you in business?"
"At present I am out of work, but I have money enough to last me
three months."
"Are you, like my new acquaintance, possessed of independent means?"
"Not now, but I was six months ago."
"How did you lose your money?"
"I did not lose it. My guardian lost it for me."
"What is your name?"
"Rodney Ropes."
"You've had some pretty bad luck. Come up to my room and tell
me about it."
"I shall be glad to do so, sir."
Mr. Pettigrew called for his key and led the way up to a plain
room on the third floor.
"Come in," he said. "The room is small, but I guess it will
hold us both. Now go ahead with your story."
In a short time Rodney had told his story in full to his new
acquaintance, encouraged to do so by his sympathetic manner.
Mr. Pettigrew was quite indignant, when told of Jasper's mean
and treacherous conduct.
"That boy Jasper is a snake in the grass," he said. "I'd like
to give him a good thrashing."
"There isn't any love lost between us, Mr. Pettigrew, but I
think it will turn out right in the end. Still I find it hard
to get a place in New York with him circulating stories about me."
"Then why do you stay in New York?"
"I have thought it might be better to go to Philadelphia or Boston."
"I can tell you of a better place than either."
"What is that?"
"Montana."
"Do you really think it would be wise for me to go there?"
"Think? I haven't a doubt about it."
"I have money enough to get there, but not much more. I should
soon have to find work, or I might get stranded."
"Come back with me, and I'll see you through. I'll make a
bargain with you. Go round with me here, and I'll pay your fare
out to Montana."
"If you are really in earnest I will do so, and thank you for
the offer."
"Jefferson Pettigrew means what he says. I'll see you through, Rodney."
"But I may be interfering with your other friend, Louis Wheeler."
"I shall soon be through with him. You needn't worry yourself
about that."
Mr. Pettigrew insisted upon Rodney's taking supper with him.
Fifteen minutes after Rodney left him Mr. Wheeler made
his appearance.
CHAPTER XXIII.
MR. WHEELER HAS A SET BACK.
Louis Wheeler had not seen Rodney in the hotel office, and
probably would not have recognized him if he had, as Rodney was
quite differently dressed from the time of their first meeting.
He had no reason to suppose, therefore, that Mr. Pettigrew had
been enlightened as to his real character.
It was therefore with his usual confidence that he accosted his
acquaintance from Montana after supper.
"It is time to go to the theater, Mr. Pettigrew," he said.
Jefferson Pettigrew scanned his new acquaintance with interest.
He had never before met a man of his type and he looked upon him
as a curiosity.
He was shrewd, however, and did not propose to let Wheeler know
that he understood his character. He resolved for the present
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