“A taste for reading and study. During my leisure hours I improved myself by study, and acquired a large part of the knowledge which I now possess. Indeed, it was one of my books that first put me on the track of the invention, which I afterwards made. So you see, my lad, that my studious habits paid me in money, as well as in another way.”
“I’m awful ignorant,” said Dick, soberly.
“But you are young, and, I judge, a smart boy. If you try to learn, you can, and if you ever expect to do anything in the world, you must know something of books.”
“I will,” said Dick, resolutely. “I aint always goin’ to black boots for a livin’.”
“All labor is respectable, my lad, and you have no cause to be ashamed of any honest business; yet when you can get something to do that promises better for your future prospects, I advise you to do so. Till then earn your living in the way you are accustomed to, avoid extravagance, and save up a little money if you can.”
“Thank you for your advice,” said our hero. “There aint many that takes an interest in Ragged Dick.”
“So that’s your name,” said Mr. Whitney. “If I judge you rightly, it won’t be long before you change it. Save your money, my lad, buy books, and determine to be somebody, and you may yet fill an honorable position.”
“I’ll try,” said Dick. “Good-night, sir.”
“Wait a minute, Dick,” said Frank. “Your blacking-box and old clothes are upstairs. You may want them.”
“In course,” said Dick. “I couldn’t get along without my best clothes, and my stock in trade.”