Frank Massanet was silent for a moment. Richard's way pleased him, and he felt drawn towards the new-comer.
"My mother has been thinking of taking a boarder," he said slowly. "We have a spare hall bedroom. It is not very large, but it has good ventilation, and is neatly furnished. I used it when—when my father was alive."
"Would your mother take me?" asked Richard. "That is, could she afford to at four dollars a week?"
"I can't say."
"When I get an increase in wages I'll pay four and a half," went on the boy. "I would like to live with you," he continued open-heartedly.
Frank smiled.
"I'll speak to my mother to-night," said he, "and I'll let you know to-morrow morning."
CHAPTER XV.
NEW QUARTERS.
At six o'clock Frank Massanet announced the day's work ended, and, bidding his friend goodnight, Richard hurried off to West Street. His heart was light over his own good fortune, but heavy when he thought of the losses he had sustained earlier in the day.