It occurred to him that he could not earn a dollar more easily. Besides, he would be doing a favor to this very polite young man.
“All right, then!”
Five dollars of Phil's scanty hoard was handed to Mr. Lake, who, in return, gave Phil the ring, which he put on his finger.
He also handed Phil a scrap of paper, on which he penciled:
“LIONEL LAKE, No. 237 Broadway.”
“I'm ever so much obliged,” he said. “Good-by. I get out at the next station.”
Phil was congratulating himself on his good stroke of business, when the conductor entered the car, followed by a young lady. When they came to where Phil was seated, the young lady said:
“That is my ring on that boy's finger?”
“Aha! we've found the thief, then!” said the conductor. “Boy, give up the ring you stole from this young lady!”
As he spoke he placed his hand on Phil's shoulder.