"I saw Leo up in State Street. Your boy's name is Leo—isn't it?" asked the banker, just as though it derogated from his dignity to know the name of a poor boy like the barber's son.
"Yes, sir; his name is Leo," replied Maggie, taking up the conversation, so that the invalid might not be compelled to talk too much.
"He is driving quite a trade in white mice," laughed the great man.
"Has he met with any success, sir?" asked Maggie, who felt that everything depended upon Leo's exertions; and she hardly expected him to accomplish anything in the mouse business.
"Yes, he has been remarkably successful, I should say."
"I am so glad!"
"I bought the house he had with him for six dollars, and he has orders for two more just like it, at the same price. That will give him quite a lift, I hope."
"Indeed it will!" exclaimed Maggie, delighted with the good news. "Eighteen dollars for white mice, mon père," she added, turning to André.
"That is very good indeed!" said the barber. "Leo is a brave boy."
"Knowing that you had a family, André, and that your wages were not very large, I thought I would inquire into the matter a little. I should be very glad to help you."