"I hope you will be fortunate and fill it very soon, Ben."
So the two parted on the most friendly terms, and the next day Ben started for New York in the highest of spirits.
After purchasing his ticket, he gave place to Squire Davenport, who also called for a ticket to New York. Now, it so happened that the squire had not seen Tom since the interview of the latter with our hero, and was in ignorance of his good luck.
"Are you going to New York, Benjamin?" he asked, in surprise.
"Yes, sir."
"Isn't it rather extravagant for one in your circumstances?"
"Yes, sir; if I had no object in view."
"Have you any business in the city?"
"Yes, sir; I am going to take a place."
Squire Davenport was still more surprised, and asked particulars. These Ben readily gave, for he was quite elated by his good fortune.