“As they reached the corner she slipped a silver piece into his hand. The car stopped, then whizzed on, leaving Jack staring at the quarter, hardly able to believe it.
“‘A good beginning,’ he murmured, and ran into a near-by store, where he purchased a few ears of popcorn and a small jar of molasses.
“Mother, much surprised, welcomed the gifts and boy with open arms.
“‘I earned them, Mother! Make some corn balls and candy while I try again,’ and away he went.
“This time he was not so successful. Every one seemed busy and hurried past him, not even glancing at the eager, earnest face.
“On one corner a hand-organ man was grinding out his music. Jack watched to see the people stop and drop pennies into his little cup.
“Suddenly the boy had an inspiration. He could sing like a bird. In fact he had been soloist of a boy choir in the town where they had lived before coming to the city.
“That work he loved, and was never so happy as, when clothed in his robes, walking up the aisle, singing while the great splendid organ pealed out its glorious music.
“One song, the Christmas Lullaby, was his special favourite. He always sang it at Christmas time. Why not sing it here on the street?
“It was sweeter than hand-organ music, and surely people ought to be willing to give a few pennies to hear it.