"It is a window fastener. You may think it a trifle, but it is the small inventions which from their nature come into common use, and thus pay the best."
"I can understand that. How long have you been at work on your invention?"
"A year. I had a little money when I began, and it has supported me while I was at work. Now that the invention is perfected, I am without funds. I may as well be plain, and say that I cannot pay my next week's board."
"Couldn't you get some man with money to help you?"
"It is what I have been hoping for. In fact, I called yesterday on a prominent merchant, and laid the matter before him."
"Who was it, Mr. Babcock?"
"Ezra Little."
Scott looked surprised.
"He is a relative of mine," he said. "How did he treat you?"
"He listened to what I had to say, and promised to write to me. He did so. Shall I show you the letter?"