"Is that so? What regiment was he in?"
"I don't know. He was in Boston at the time, and was drafted from there."
"My father went from here. But he might be able to put me on some sort of a track," added Richard, who was unwilling to let even the smallest chance escape him.
"I'll ask him about it when he's strong enough. How much would the pension money amount to?"
"Not less than a thousand dollars—perhaps twice that."
"Phew! It's worth workin' for."
"Yes, indeed!" put in Mrs. Linyard. "I hope you get it, Mr. Dare; you deserve it."
When Richard returned to his boarding-place he met Frank Massanet at the door. He could see by his friend's face that he had not met with success.
"I tried twenty-six places," reported Frank. "Every one had all the help needed. One man offered to put me on the road, selling goods on commission, but I was to pay my own expenses. The offer didn't appear good and I declined it. How did you make out?"
Richard told him. Of course Frank was surprised.