"Oh, well, of course it is only poor street boys who engage in it."
"I am aware that Luke is poor, and that he has to contribute to the support of his mother and brother. I hope, if you were poor, that Harold would be willing to work for you."
"I wouldn't sell papers," put in Harold.
"I don't suppose Luke sells papers from choice."
"Aunt Eliza, I don't see why you should so persistently compare Harold with that ragged errand boy of yours."
"Is he ragged? I am glad you noticed it. I must help him to a new suit."
This was far from a welcome suggestion to Mrs. Tracy, and she made haste to add: "I don't think he's ragged. He dresses well enough for his position in life."
"Still, I think he needs some new clothes, and I thank you for suggesting it, Louisa."
The next day, Luke, to his surprise, was asked to ac company Mrs. Merton to a ready-made clothing house on Clark Street, where he was presented with a fine suit, costing twenty dollars.
"How kind you are, Mrs. Merton!" said Luke.