With Joe still acting as mentor, he cashed the check, and on reporting for duty to the Sergeant-at-Arms, was gratified to learn that he had been given leave of absence for the day. Joe also, by some occult influence, managed to be excused. Barry's first move was to call on Congressman Carlton and to inform him of the amount of money he had received. Mr. Carlton was delighted, but somewhat taken aback when Barry handed him a ten-dollar note.
"What's this for?" he asked, somewhat stiffly.
"It's the money you advanced for my railroad fare to Washington."
The good-natured man burst into a hearty laugh. He clapped his big palm on Barry's shoulder and said jovially:
"Just put that away. You'll have lots of use for it. The money I sent you was a present."
"But, Mr. Carlton," insisted Barry, "mother made me promise that the first money I received should be used to pay you back the ten dollars you sent me for my ticket."
"Nonsense! I don't want it."
"But, I must give it to you," persisted Barry. "If I don't my mother will never forgive me."
Mr. Carlton accepted the note somewhat reluctantly.