Making His Mark

by Jr. Horatio Alger

"But still," said the old man, "it seems strange to me that a boy of your age—— How old are you?"

"Sixteen."

"That a boy of sixteen should be so trusted."

"I am surprised, too, Mr. Nixon," said Gerald, frankly. "I hope I shall be found to deserve all that Mr. Nugent says of me. He is a fine man, and has been a good friend to me."

"He is an excellent man," said Mr. Nixon, with emphasis. "I like you, too, and I feel confident that you deserve what he says of you."

"I hope so, Mr. Nixon, and I want to be of service to you. Will you let me offer a suggestion?"

"By all means."

"Then don't you think it is unwise to keep your gold so exposed? I wonder you have not been robbed before."

"That is true. I have been imprudent. But I have been so miserably sick, I was unable to make any other arrangements. Now that you are here, I will think what I can do."

"Is there no bank where you could store it?"