“Yes, sir.”

“Bless my soul, my boy! And what are you going to do now?”

“I don't know; but I will not go on as I have been doing. I can't, Mr. Grayson, and you must not ask it. I would rather sweep the streets. I have just seen poor Charley Gilbert and Mrs. Gilbert. He has not a dollar in the world, and is going West, he tells me.”

Peter reflected for a moment. It was all he could do to hide his delight.

“And what do your people say?”

“My aunt says I am an idiot, and Corinne won't speak to me.”

“And your uncle?”

“Nothing, to me. He told Garry that if I didn't come back in three days I should never enter his house or his office again.”

“But you are going back? Are you not?”

“No,—never. Not if I starve!”