“Have you any idea what you intend to do?” went on the hotel proprietor. He was standing down by the dock watching Joe clean out one of the boats.

“I'm thinking of going to Philadelphia.”

“On a visit?”

“No, sir, to try my luck.”

“Oh, I see. It's a big city, my lad.”

“I know it, but, somehow, I feel I might do better there than in such a town as this,—and I am getting tired of hanging around the lake.”

“There is more money in Philadelphia than there is here, that is certain, Joe. But you can't always get hold of it. The big cities are crowded with people trying to obtain situations.”

“I'm sure I can find something to do, Mr. Mallison. And, by the way, when I leave, will you give me a written recommendation?”

“Certainly. You have done well since you came here. But you had better think twice before going to Philadelphia.”

“I've thought it over more than twice. I don't expect the earth, but I feel that I can get something to do before my money runs out.”