We will pass over two years, during which Dick ceased to be an office boy and became one of the most gentlemanly clerks in Mr. Bacon's store. His knickerbockers disappeared the day after the conversation he had with his sister, as detailed in the previous chapter, and he made his appearance at the store in a new suit of clothes, which so changed him that the boss and clerks hardly recognized him at first. The change developed a new line of witticism on the part of his young friends, but Dick took the bull by the horns in so energetic a way that the funny lads shut up in short order.
Dick now felt that he was a real man, except in years, and during the ensuing two years he deported himself along that line, and was made a clerk before the merchant had expected to raise him to that dignity; but the fact was when the knickerbockers went to the scrap heap Mr. Bacon decided that he looked too old to continue as his office boy, hence his promotion. During these two years Dick visited the Masons several times—spending the Christmas holidays with them twice, the Easter week-end once, and two weeks in each summer.
Thanksgiving was now approaching and he had received an invitation to come down and spend the interval between Wednesday afternoon till Monday morning, and Mr. Bacon very graciously gave him permission to do so. Dick was very glad to visit the Masons, not alone because he always received a royal welcome from the family as a whole, but because Madge Mason was now "sweet sixteen," and growing more charming every day. The fact that Madge was heiress to all her parents' worldly goods had really no bearing on his feelings toward the pretty miss. Of course it was nice to think that her future was provided for, but Dick liked her for herself alone, just as she entertained the same feelings toward him. Their friendship was firmly established, and both were never so happy as when together. Perhaps the fact that they were together so seldom, and then only for a short time, enhanced the feeling each felt toward the other. Presumedly the girl's father and mother noticed the growing interest that existed between their daughter and the young New York clerk. Certainly they put no obstacles in the young people's way, which may be taken as evidence that they approved of it. Madge's aunt had a clearer insight into the matter than any one else, because the girl made a confidante of her. The Mason automobile was at the railroad station in Carlin waiting for Dick, who had written that he would come by express which left Jersey City at five-thirty. In the auto, besides the gardener, who acted as chauffeur, sat Miss Madge, in a warm gown trimmed with fur, while her pretty head was adorned with a bewitching fur cap, tilted on one side. The train came in on time and Dick jumped off with other passengers, carrying a small suit-case in his hand. Madge saw him at once and waved her handkerchief at him. Dick saw the signal, recognized the girl, and lost no time in reaching the automobile.
"This is quite an honor, Miss Madge," said Dick, raising his derby and stepping in beside his charmer.
"Really, do you think so?" replied Madge, as the gardener started off.
"I certainly do. I never dreamed I should have so charming a companion on my ride to the house," he replied gallantly.
"Dear me, you say that awfully nice," returned the girl blushingly. "How are your mother and sisters?"
Dick assured her that they were quite well, and then asked after Mr. and Mrs. Mason and Miss Woods, the aunt.
"They're very well, indeed," said Madge.
"And how is Cleopatra?" asked Dick, who felt that so important a member of the family as Madge's pet cat must not be overlooked lest he incur the young lady's displeasure.