The boys were not bad-hearted and were won over by Robert’s good humor.
“You’re a good fellow,” said the first speaker, “and I am sorry I was rude enough to laugh at you. There is a store where I think you can find what you want.”
He pointed to a clothing store. In front of which was a good display of ready-made clothing.
“Thank you,” said Robert.
He entered and the boys walked on.
If Robert had been better dressed he would have received immediate attention. As it was, he looked like a poor boy in want of work and not at all like a customer.
So, at all events, decided a dapper-looking clerk whose attention was drawn to the new arrival.
“Well, boy, what do you want?” he demanded roughly, approaching Robert.
“Civil treatment to begin with,” answered Robert with spirit.
“If you’ve come for a place, we don’t want any scarecrows here.”