"Well, it might be better," said the shiftless one. "But I have a scheme on hand."
"Another scheme, eh?"
"Yes, this is a very good one. There are enormous possibilities in it, sir, enormous!" and "Hank" fairly stood on his tiptoes to get this last word out with much emphasis.
"Well, I hope you succeed," said Mr. Hamilton, as he and his son went to the millionaire's private office.
The final details for the trips of father and son were arranged. Dick had his own bank account, and would not want for money. His father gave him some advice, and then the two said good-bye to each other, Dick having to leave before his father did, as the latter was to take an express to New York, where he would get a steamer for Europe. Grit, the dog, was to be left in charge of Henry Darby.
"Well, my boy," said Mr. Hamilton, as he shook hands with Dick, "remember what you are going for. You're under a big handicap, but I guess you will win. You did the other time, though it was a close shave."
"Good-bye," said Dick, unable to keep back the suspicion of a tear.
"Good-bye," replied Mr. Hamilton, turning hastily to his desk, and fumbling among some papers, which seemed to rattle unnecessarily loud.
On the way to the depot Dick met Captain Handlee. The veteran greeted the lad cordially.
"So you're off to learn to be a soldier?" he asked.