As it was necessary to know who the finder was, so that after the expiration of thirty days the money could be returned to him, he finally gave his name and address. When he had left the office, something about his eyes reminded the president that he had seen him, somewhere many years ago. Bringing out the Newsboys’ book he found among the first names recorded eleven years ago, this young man’s. Following the name was: “Seller, and shiner, age eleven, poor parents, smart boy,” and on leaving the street, as a seller, became a graduate member. So, he was a newsboy eleven years ago, and still retained the desire to do something for others.
About a week after the money was advertised, a very aged lady called. She minutely described the contents of the pocket-book; she said: “I was returning from a visit to my son, where I went to get $22.60 to pay taxes on my home. This amount included some back taxes. The property was already advertised for sale. What to do when I lost that money I did not know. My mental suffering was most intense. I walked from the depot towards the court house and did not miss my pocket-book until I crossed the bridge. Yes, this is mine.”
During the recital of her story her eyes were filled with tears, and she showed the mental strain under which she was laboring. When the pocket-book and the money were handed to her, the change in her demeanor was beautiful to behold. When the young man was told to whom the money belonged and the great good it did, he said:
“No money reward could pay me for this. I am only too glad we found the owner, especially as it belonged to so poor a woman.”
Does it pay to be a life-member of The Boyville Newsboys’ Association?
CHAPTER XXIV.
The finding of valuable articles and turning them over to the president, with a request to find the owner, is not a rule of the association.