“Indeed, Mr. Woodruff, I would, but—but——”
“Never mind the buts, Harry. I’m going to talk with your father about it. Boxwell says he wishes you to take the clerk’s place in the store, so as to reduce expenses, but maybe I can fix that up. A bright, brave boy like you deserves a chance in life. Now I must go. By the way, here is a little trifle from Minnie and Mrs. Woodruff which you must not refuse. Boxwell put it in their heads to send it to you.”
As Mr. Woodruff finished, he brought forth a sealed envelope, and thrust it into Harry’s hand. Before the boy could utter any protest he was gone.
With his mother looking over his shoulder, Harry tore open the envelope. There were two things inside. One was a card, on which was written:
“Please accept the inclosed for your share of the expense of the coming tour of the Zero Club.”
Accompanying the card was a crisp, new twenty-dollar bill.
CHAPTER V.
GETTING READY TO START.
“Twenty dollars!” cried Harry, as he spread out the bill. “What do you think of that, mother?”
“It is a very handsome present, Harry. But ought you to accept the money?”
“I don’t know. I don’t like to, exactly, but the Woodruffs are rich, and they can easily afford it.”