“I’d like to, but I’m afraid I never can,” said the boy wistfully.
“Why not?”
“I haven’t a good enough education.”
“It doesn’t always take education to make a good reporter,” said Mr. Emberg kindly. “Some of our best men would never take a prize at school. Yet they have a nose for news that makes them more valuable than the best college educated chaps.”
“A nose for news?” asked Larry, wondering what sort of a nose that was.
“Yes; to know a good story when they hear about it, and know how to go about getting it. That’s what counts. I hope you’ll have a nose for news, Larry.”
“I hope so,” replied the boy, yet he did not have much anticipation.
He was thinking more about the five dollars he was to earn every week than about his prospects as a reporter. He knew the money would be much needed, and he resolved to do all he could to merit a raise.
There was much rejoicing in the humble home that night when Larry told about his salary. Mrs. Dexter also had good news, for the firm for which she sewed had given her a finer grade of work, at which she could earn more money.
“We’ll get along fine, mother,” said Larry.