Curiosity and taste for speculation are as prevalent among children as with men, so this appeal produced its effect.
“Give me a package,” said Teddy O'Brien, a newsboy, stretching out a dirty hand, containing the stipulated sum. He also was watched curiously as he opened the package. He drew out a paper bearing the words—Two Cents.
“Bully for you, Teddy! You've had better luck than I,” said the bootblack.
The check was duly honored, and Teddy seemed satisfied, though the amount of candy he received probably could not have cost over half-a-cent. Still, he had drawn twice as large a prize as the first buyer, and that was satisfactory.
“Who'll take the next?” asked Paul, in a businesslike manner. “Maybe there's ten cents in this package. That's where you double your money. Walk up, gentlemen. Only five cents!”
Three more responded to this invitation, one drawing a prize of two cents, the other two of one cent each. Just then, as it seemed doubtful whether any more would be purchased by those present, a young man, employed in a Wall street house, came out of the post office.
“What have you got here?” he asked, pausing.
“Prize packages of candy! Money prize in every package! Only five cents!”
“Give me one, then. I never drew a prize in my life.”
The exchange was speedily made.