Julius drew the letter from his pocket and handed it to Mr. Taylor.
The letter read as follows:
“My Dear Nephew: This will be handed to you by a boy who has done me a service, the nature of which{53} the superintendent will explain to you. I do not know how you are situated, or whether you require the services of a boy. If you do, I think you can’t do better than to take this one. He is bright, sharp, and, as I have reason to believe, honest. I shall be glad if he can secure a good home.
Your uncle,
“John Taylor.”
Julius had already examined critically the personal appearance of Mr. Taylor, whom he regarded as his future employer and guardian. His past life had made him a good and quick observer of character. Street boys, obliged to fight their way, and struggle for a livelihood, are by their circumstances made preternaturally sharp. They acquire a judgment and self-reliance beyond their years, however defective they may be in the knowledge to be gained from books. Engaged in reading his uncle’s letter, Mr. Taylor did not notice the keen glance with which Julius regarded him. But the result was favorable.
“I guess I’ll like him,” said our hero to himself. “He looks like he might be kind. I hope he’ll take me.”
Mr. Taylor looked up with a smile.
“My uncle wants me to take you, my lad,” he said.
“Will you?” asked Julius.
“What do you say, Mr. O’Connor?” said Mr. Taylor. “Will you intrust this young man to me?”