Arthur made his way to a railroad ticket-office and purchased a ticket to Chicago.
Victor turned away to hide the indignant tears that rose to his eyes as he thought of his companion’s base desertion. It was on his lips to beg Arthur to buy another ticket, but his pride checked him. He felt that he had humiliated himself enough already.
On their way back they passed a periodical store.
On the window outside was a sign—
“Boy Wanted!”
“There’s your chance for a situation, Victor,” said Arthur, half in joke.
Victor looked at the sign, and made up his mind. It was absolutely necessary for him to get employment, and he might as well work here as anywhere.
“Wait a minute,” he said.
He went in, expecting to meet a man, but found that the shop was kept by a middle-aged woman. Victor had never been obliged to rough it, and he colored up with embarrassment as he prepared to apply for the place.
“I see you want a boy,” he said.