Three dollars was not a very large sum, to be sure, but to one who had been so near destitution as Philip it seemed very important.
Besides, he had discovered in his violin a source of income, whereas, hitherto, he had looked upon it merely as a source of amusement. This made him feel more independent and self-reliant.
He had walked perhaps two miles, when he heard the rattle of wheels behind him. He did not turn his head, for there was nothing strange in this sound upon a frequented road. He did turn his head, however, when he heard a strong voice calling “Hello!”
Turning, he saw that a young man who was driving had slackened the speed of his horse, and was looking toward him.
Philip halted, and regarded the driver inquiringly.
“You’re the young chap that played for a dance last night, ain’t you!” said the newcomer.
“Yes, sir.”
“Then you’re the one I want to see—jump in, and we’ll talk as we are going along.”
Philip had no objection to a ride, and he accepted the invitation with alacrity. The driver, he noticed, was a young man, of pleasant manners, though dressed in a coarse suit.
“I drove over to Jonas Webb’s to see you, and they told me you had just gone,” he continued. “I thought maybe you’d get up late, but you was up on time. Are you engaged for this evening?”