BEFORE we close, we will sketch briefly some of the leading events in the life of our hero, and then take a final glance at the principal characters of our story.
Harrison continued in the employ of Mr. Kilby until the business of the firm of Grant & Co. was finally settled, and proved himself not only so faithful, but so well adapted to mercantile life, that, young as he was, the gentleman offered to take him into his store at the West, and give him a share of the profits, if he would consent to leave his native State.
But the youth could not for a moment entertain the question of leaving his mother in her feeble health, and he hesitated about assuming such a trust as would there devolve upon him until he had thoroughly learned the principles of the trade.
"If you will not accept my proposition," said his kind friend, with a smile, "I must do the next best thing for you, and find you a good place here."
He made many inquiries among his business friends, but found some objection to every situation that offered until he happened to meet an acquaintance at a public dinner, when the following conversation took place:
"Do you know of a good opening for a young man every way unexceptionable in character and habits?"
"We have a vacancy in our store; but I am anxious to find a youth to whom I promised to apply in case such an event should occur. Unfortunately I have lost his address."
"I can recommend my young friend highly," urged Mr. Kilby; and he related briefly the connection Harrison maintained to him.
"A fine fellow, I have no doubt," was the warm reply; "but I took a fancy to this lad, and I really want to find him. He had an open, ingenuous countenance, and eyes that did not quail when you looked him square in the face. He told me he supported his mother, too; and I like boys that do that. So, much as I should like to oblige you, I'll make a thorough search for my friend before I give him up."
"At any rate, you wont object to my calling with him?"