"Now," said Rufus, "let us go over to my store, and look in."
"What, is it your store, Rufie?" asked Rose.
"Yes, little sister, it's part mine."
When they entered, they found George Black behind the counter, waiting on a customer, who directly went out.
"Well, George, how's business?" asked Rufus.
"It opens well," said his partner, cheerfully. "It's a good stand, and there's a good run of custom."
"This is my friend, Miss Manning," said Rufus, "and my little sister Rose."
"I am glad to see you, Miss Manning," said the young man. "I hope," he added, smiling, "you will give us a share of your patronage."
"We'll buy all our slate-pencils at Rufie's store, won't we, Miss Manning?" said Rose.
"Yes, I think so," answered Miss Manning, with a smile.