"I believe he does a few odd jobs now and then, but I don't suppose he earns much outside."
"I was talking with him this morning."
"You were!" ejaculated Stephen in a tone of curiosity. "Did you tell him you felt an interest in him?"
"No, and I don't want you to tell him so. I suggested that he could make a better income by leaving Chicago, and going farther West."
"I think I might like to do that, Uncle Thomas."
"Then why don't you?"
"I can't go without money."
"You could take up a quarter-section of land and start in as a farmer. I could give you a lift that way if I thought you were in earnest."
"I don't think I should succeed as a farmer," said Stephen, with a grimace.
"Too hard work, eh?"