"I don't like the name Pepper—for a last name, I mean," said our hero, scratching his curly head. "Better make it Van Pelt & Company, for the present." And the next day an oilcloth sign was tacked up proclaiming the new firm, and notifying all that they dealt in newspapers, magazines, books, and school supplies. While Nelson tended the stand George Van Pelt went downtown to a jobbing house and bought some extra stock. In a few days business was in full blast and prospects looked very bright.
"I am glad to see you doing well," said Gertrude, on visiting the stand one Saturday, after giving her music lessons. "It looks quite like a place of business. It won't be long before you'll have a store."
"We'll have to save up for it," answered our hero.
He wanted the girl to stay a little while, but she could not, for Mrs. Kennedy was down with rheumatism and was next to helpless.
"She has been very kind to me and I wish to do what I can for her," said Gertrude.
"Is her stand closed?"
"No, Gladys Summers is running it for her. She has put her flowers in with the other stock."
"Gladys is good-hearted, too," was Nelson's comment.
Sam Pepper heard of the newsboy's new move two days after the stand was bought.
"Going into business with George Van Pelt, eh?" he observed, when Nelson came home that night.