"Of course they are. You don't allow that when this 'ere company takes it into their heads to fit out a kid they're going to do it on second-hand rigging, do you?"
"I only asked the question 'cause I thought perhaps if they was all new I'd better wash my face an' hands first."
"That's right, Amateur; fix yourself out the best you know how. We want to see what kind of a looking kid we've taken on our hands."
Instead of immediately acting upon his own suggestion Seth hesitated, and after a moment the driver asked:
"What are you hanging in the wind now for? Got anything on your mind?"
"I'd like to know, sir, if I'm to be allowed to pay for these clothes when I get so I can earn money enough?"
"Bless your heart, Amateur, when you're regularly in the Department you shall come up and square the bills with Ninety-four if it so be you're inclined; if not, why, what we do comes free as air, and we're glad to give you a boost. All the payment we want is that you'll do us credit. I'd like to have the boys up at headquarters, when they look at you, say to themselves, 'That kid belongs to Ninety-four,' and in the saying of it I'd have 'em think you was way up—something out of the ordinary run of kids, don't you understand, Amateur?"
"If I can do anything to make you feel proud of me, Mr. Davis, I'll be mighty glad; but I promise you shan't be ashamed of having sent me there."
"I ain't counting on the possibility of that, Amateur, 'cause I believe I know you better. Now, get along and put yourself into condition, 'cause there's no knowing how soon we may get a call."
Before looking at the new clothing Seth washed his face and hands with scrupulous care, used the comb and brush again and again until positive each single hair was in its proper place, and then went to the floor above.