"I hope you don't feel hard toward me?" persisted the man.
"Not at all," Al responded, readily. "You were very kind to offer me the money at the depot. I was a perfect stranger to you."
"But I sized you up as a square lad."
"It didn't take you long to change your mind, though."
"You must admit that I had some reason to change it."
"I do admit it. Appearances were very much against me, and if I had been in your place I should, very likely, have thought just what you did."
"Nevertheless, I'm sorry I was so hasty. Now, see here, young fellow, I've taken a liking to you—honest, I have. I'd like to help you. Now, I have an idea that you are in some sort of trouble."
"You are not far out of the way there," admitted the boy.
"Of course, it's none of my business, and I'm not one of the sort that cares much about other people's affairs; but—but what is your trouble? I only ask, thinking that I may be able to help you in some way."
Al hesitated, then said: