As Ben reached the Bowery he espied his two humble friends, Patsy and Mike, eyeing him wistfully.
“How are you, Patsy? How are you, Mike?” he said, offering his hand, to the great pride of the newsboys. “How did you like the play?”
“It was tip-top, and so was you,” answered Patsy enthusiastically.
“I saw you up in the gallery,” said Ben.
“Did you now?” asked the delighted Mike.
“Didn’t I tell you I knowed him, boys?” he added, turning to two or three friends when Ben had passed on.
CHAPTER XX.
BEN’S LETTER HOME.
Ben slept later than usual the next morning. He was awakened by his neighbor, Mr. Snodgrass, who entered his room, his face glowing with excitement. In his hand he held a morning paper.
“Ben, you’re famous!” he exclaimed.