"Yes," answered Tom with alacrity. "Will I be paid?"
"Of course. Can't you leave your blacking box somewhere and get your face and hands washed?"
"Yes, Mark; there's a small s'loon near by, where I hang out sometimes. Just wait for me and I'll be back in a jiffy."
Tom reappeared in a very short time with his appearance greatly improved by the application of cold water and soap.
"Mr. Swan," said Mark, smiling, "this is Mr. Thomas Trotter, the young gentleman I spoke to you about."
"Oh, stow that, Mark!" expostulated Tom; "I ain't Mr. Trotter. I'm Tom."
"Mr. Trotter," said the jeweler, smiling, for he had a sense of humor, "I have a letter here which I wish you to take to the address named."
"And to walk, sir."
"No; I will give you ten cents for car fare, and when you return and make your report you shall be paid for doing the errand."
"All right, governor."