The officers conveyed him to the prison, where he had an opportunity to reflect upon the folly of worldly wisdom.
"Philips, you have done well," said Mr. Collingsby, as the door closed upon the departing junior of the firm. "You have been honest and faithful, and I thank you."
"So do I," added the old gentleman. "It seems we haven't lost anything, after all."
"Philips has—"
"Philip, if you please, sir," I interposed.
"Excuse me; Philip has saved us from loss, and as he is very fond of boats, I propose to make him a present of the yacht belonging to Mr. Whippleton, as a testimonial of our gratitude. What do you say, father?"
"Certainly, Richard," replied the patriarch.
"I have already taken Mr. Faxon into the firm, and the business will continue as before. Of course we shall retain you as book-keeper, and your salary will hereafter be one thousand dollars a year."
"I thank you, gentlemen. I am very grateful to you for your kindness and consideration," I replied, satisfied that virtue is its own reward even in this world.
"Beyond this, I am greatly indebted to you for your services to my daughter."