New York, Oct. 1, 1872.
STRIVE AND SUCCEED.
CHAPTER I
WALTER CONRAD’S MISSION.
A long train was running at moderate speed over a Wisconsin railroad. Among the passengers was a stout, gentlemanly-looking boy, who looked much more than sixteen, although he had not yet reached that age. On the seat beside him was a large carpetbag, which contained all the clothing he carried with him. As the conductor passed through the car, the boy asked:
“Are we near Benton?”
“It is the next station.”
“Is that the place to take the stage for Portville?”
“Yes.”