"You are a good boy to work for your mother. My poor boy has no mother;" and the gentleman looked sad. "What is your name?"
"Grit."
"Is that your real name?"
"No, sir, but everybody calls me so."
"For a good reason, probably. Willie, do you like to ride in the boat?"
"Yes, papa," answered the little boy, his bright eyes and eager manner showing that he spoke the truth.
"Grit," said Mr. Jackson, "I see we are nearly across the river. Unless you are due there at a specified time, you may stay out, and we will row here and there, prolonging our trip. Of course, I will increase your pay."
"I shall be very willing, sir," said Grit. "My boat is my own, and my time also, and I have no fixed hours for starting from either side."
"Good! Then we can continue our conversation. Is there a good hotel in Chester?"