“There is nothing I should like better,” said Julius, elated at the prospect of a journey.
“I thought you might like it,” said Mr. Taylor.
“I am glad you feel sufficient confidence in me to send me,” said our hero.
“You have given me reason to confide in you,” said Mr. Taylor, quietly. “You will judge of the extent of my confidence when I say that the bills which I shall give you to collect amount to a thousand dollars, or, perhaps, a little more.”
“I will bring back every cent,” said Julius, promptly.
“Every cent you succeed in collecting. I have no doubt of it. The only caution I have to give you is, to guard against being robbed. If it is supposed that{204} you have a considerable sum of money, you might be in danger of having it stolen.”
“It’ll take a smart thief to get it away from me,” said Julius, confidently. “I didn’t live fifteen years in the streets of New York for nothing. When do you want me to start?”
“To-morrow morning. I shall give you the horse and buggy, and we will plan the order of your journey to-night. You will stop at hotels, and expend whatever is needful. I will ask you only to keep an account of your expenses, to be submitted to me on your return.”
“Very well, sir. How long do you expect me to be gone?”
“That will depend on how much success you meet with. I should think a week might be sufficient. If you find it necessary to stay longer, do so; but let me know from time to time what progress you make in your mission.”