"If I can find Joel a satisfactory place in the city I will do so," said Harry, "but I ought to say that my employer only pays me high wages out of favor."
"I'll take ten," said Joel eagerly. "You know you and me was always friends, Harry."
"Joel always liked you," said politic Mr. FoX. — Harry knew better, but he was on good terms with the world, and he did not dispute this statement.
"I'll do what I can," he said. "Meanwhile, Mr. Fox, I should like to make Joel and his sister a small present."
He gave them each a ten-dollar bill, which made Joel's eyes sparkle with joy.
Mr. Fox renewed his suggestion that Harry select him as a "guardeen," but Harry politely but firmly declined to entertain the proposal. Nevertheless, when he left the house, he was warmly urged to come again and often. He understood the reason of the cordiality, and knew very well that if he had come back poor his reception would have been very different.
Before going back to New York he made a visit of a couple of days to his old friend and employer, Professor Hemmenway, the prestidigitateur, who was delighted with the success of his young friend. He offered Harry a new engagement, but of course it was declined.
In New York he met Jack, and inquired how he had fared.
"I found my step-father dying," answered Jack. "In fact he drank himself to death after wasting all mother's property. But I have bought her a small house, and insured her an income sufficient to keep her comfortable. The last will require some of my principal, but I shall be earning good wages, and can make it up when I return home."
"When do you sail, Jack?"