"Here is his letter. It came to hand this morning."
Squire Bates took the proffered letter and read as follows:
New York, July 15.
Dear Uncle and Aunt:—I have got so far on my way home from the West. I will remain here a day or two. Perhaps I can hear of a place, as I suppose there is nothing for me to do in Waterford. I think I shall be with you on Saturday.
Your affectionate nephew,
Dean Dunham.
"He doesn't appear to have made his fortune," said the squire, handing back the letter to the carpenter.
"He doesn't say whether he has prospered or not."
"If he had he wouldn't be looking for a boy's position in New York."
"Very likely you're right, Squire Bates. It's something that he has been able to get home to his friends."