Luck and Pluck; or, John Oakley's Inheritance

by Jr. Horatio Alger

"Perhaps I can."

"But will your mother be willing?"

"I have no mother," said John.

"Your stepmother, then?"

"I might as well tell you, aunt, that there has been a serious difficulty between Mrs. Oakley and myself, and I have left home."

"Is it possible, John? Didn't your stepmother treat you right?"

"I will tell you all about it, aunt, and you shall judge."

It was a long story, but, as we already know all about it, it is unnecessary to give John's account. His aunt listened attentively, and sympathized fully with John in the matter.

"You have been badly treated, John," she said. "I am sure my poor brother would feel badly enough if he could know how Mrs. Oakley has driven you from home. You do not mean to go back?"