“I guess that wasn't no cry o' fire after all,” he mused. “Well, if there's a fire I kin git out from here quick enough.”

The office building was a large one, running from one street to the next. On the street in the rear was a bookstore, the proprietor of which had advertised for a clerk.

Joe had applied for the position and was waiting for the proprietor to address him when, on chancing to look up, he saw Henry Davis rush past as if in a tremendous hurry.

“Hullo, that's the fellow who was with the old farmer,” he told himself.

“What can I do for you, young man?” asked the proprietor of the bookshop, approaching at that instant.

“I believe you wish a clerk,” answered our hero.

“Have you had experience in this line?”

“No, sir.”

“Then you won't do. I must have someone who is experienced.”

“I am willing to learn.”