"You mustn't become purse-proud, mother," said Luke, "because you have become suddenly rich."
"Can you be ready to take the first train to New York with me in the morning, Luke?" asked Roland Reed.
"Yes, sir; it starts at half-past seven."
"Your breakfast will be ready on time," said the widow, "and Luke will call you."
CHAPTER XVI — LUKE'S VISIT TO NEW YORK
The morning train to New York carried among its passengers Luke and his new friend. The distance was thirty-five miles, and the time occupied was a trifle over an hour. The two sat together, and Luke had an opportunity of observing his companion more closely. He was a man of middle age, dark complexion, with keen black eyes, and the expression of one who understood the world and was well fitted to make his way in it. He had already given the Larkins to understand that he had been successful in accumulating money.
As for Luke, he felt happy and contented. The tide of fortune seemed to have turned in his favor, or rather in favor of his family. The handsome weekly sum which would be received for the board of Mr. Reed's little daughter would be sufficient of itself to defray the modest expenses of their household. If he, too, could obtain work, they would actually feel rich.
"Luke," said his companion, "does your mother own the cottage where you live?"