“I want work, sir, for I am very poor,” replied John Lowe.
“Haven’t I seen you before, somewhere?” asked the gentleman. “I am sure I have.”
“I don’t know, sir. My name is John Lowe; I am a carpenter by trade.”
“John Lowe!” exclaimed the gentleman, grasping his hand. “Don’t you know me?”
“I do not, indeed, sir.”
“My name is Henry Small. You set me up in the newspaper business sixteen years ago.”
“I do remember; and I judge by your looks that the world has used you better than it has me.”
“It has used me very well—perhaps better than I deserve.”
John Lowe then told his story, with many tears.
“Do not weep,” said Henry Small. “I have done well since we parted sixteen years ago. The half dollar you lent me has been the foundation of my fortune. I have some thousands of dollars now; but had I only a dollar I would divide it with you.”