“About five miles!” answered the hackman with unblushing falsehood.

“Is there no stage that goes to that part of the city?”

“No; your only way is to take a carriage.”

Though Robert had never before been in New York, he felt convinced that this was untrue and said quietly:

“Then I will walk.”

“It is too far, young man. Nobody walks up there.”

“Then I’ll be the first one to try it!” said Robert coolly.

“Wait a minute, youngster! I’ll take you for a dollar and a half.”

Robert did not answer, but crossed the street.

“Carry your bag, sir?” said a boy of about his own age, who seemed to be waiting for a job.