D. & G. opened at 62⅜, and as soon as he got a chance the boy ran over to the bank, saw Mr. Black, who had charge of the department in question, and asked him to buy for his account 700 shares of D. & G. at the ruling figure, provided that in the meantime the stock did not go above 63.
Mr. Black ’phoned one of their brokers, but it was some little time before that number of shares was obtained, as it seemed to be scarce that morning. At any rate, it cost Jack 63, the 700 shares figuring up $44,100. Ten per cent of the purchase price, or $4,410, Jack drew and paid to Mr. Black.
When the Exchange closed for the day D. & G. was quoted at 64⅝, and Jack was therefore something like $1,000 to the good.
“I was up in the Bronx to-day, John, visiting the Deans,” said his mother, at the supper table. “They have a very nice place there, and it only cost them about $5,000. I think it would be a good idea if you went up that way next Sunday and took a look around. There are a lot of nice houses for sale in that locality. You have some money in bank now—enough to buy a nice little place. I am sure it would be much more comfortable to live in our own house and much healthier than to continue here, where the neighborhood is so crowded. Annie and I were talking the matter over before you came in. She’d like to go with you, and I am sure the exercise and fresh air would be good for her.”
“All right, mother,” agreed Jack. “We’ll take Ed along, too.”
“Will you?” said his sister, brightening up.
“Sure. He’ll be glad to go, sis. He thinks there isn’t another girl who can hold a candle to you.”
“The idea!” said Annie, with a blush.
“Yes, the idea!” he said, mimicking her. “What are you blushing about?”
“Why, I’m not blushing,” she answered, in evident confusion.