As Rupert lifted it, Sylvester took from his pocket the purse from which Rupert had paid the car fare and handed it to him.
"Accept it," he said, "in return for your friendly services."
"You are paying me too liberally, Mr. Sylvester."
"Let me judge of that."
In the street Rupert did not wait to examine the purse. It was growing late, and he was in haste to get home. He feared that his mother might feel anxious about him, and he made his way as quickly as possible to the nearest Elevated station.
The train was only partly full, and Rupert found a seat near the door. He placed the basket on the floor in front of him.
Next to him sat a young woman rather showily dressed. Rupert casually took out the purse which had just been given him with the intention of examining the contents, but it occurred to him that he might find a more suitable place than an Elevated car, and he put it back again. His actions had, however, been noticed by the girl at his side.
At Fiftieth Street she rose to leave the car, but had not quite reached the door when she put her hand into her pocket and uttered a cry.
"I have been robbed," she exclaimed.
"Of what have you been robbed?" asked the guard.