"Do you mean to say you are going to turn over a new leaf?" queried Sam with interest.
"Yes, if I ever get the chance."
Randolph Rover now joined the group, and Dick explained the situation. Mr. Rover questioned Baxter closely and found that he was without a cent in his pocket and that the hotel keeper had threatened to put him out if he was not able to pay up inside of the next twenty-four hours.
"See here, Baxter, you never were my friend, and you never deserved any good from me, but I don't like to see a dog suffer," said Dick. "I'll give you thirty shillings, and that will help you along a little," and he drew out his purse.
"And I'll give you the same," came from Tom.
"Ditto from me," said Sam. "But don't forget that what Dick says is true, nevertheless."
Ninety English shillings—about twenty-two dollars of our money—was more cash than Dan Baxter had seen in some time, his other money having been spent before he had taken his unexpected ocean trip, and his eyes brightened up wonderfully.
"I'll be much obliged to you for the—the loan," he stammered.
"I'll pay you back some time, remember."
"Never mind about that," replied Dick.
"My advice to you is, to take the first ship you can for home."