The little girl and her mother had been taken to a nearby hotel, in order that the child’s garments could be removed.
“Jack Hazard.”
“And my name is Seymour Atherton. Well, Jack, you have placed my daughter and myself under the greatest of obligations to you. You are a brave lad. Your courage and presence of mind saved the life of our dearest treasure, and it would be utterly impossible for us to thank you sufficiently.”
“I hope you’ll not let that trouble you, sir. I’m glad to have been of service to you.”
“Young man, it would trouble us a great deal more than you have any idea of if we did not make some little return that will show our appreciation of your gallant deed.”
“But I don’t want to be paid for doing my duty, sir,” objected Jack, with a flush.
“I am not speaking about payment, my lad, in the sense you perhaps imagine. Such a service as you have rendered us is quite beyond monetary reward,” said the old gentleman, feelingly. “But it is not impossible that we can do something in another way. I like your face. It is a bright one, stamped with energy and determination. You will make your way in the world, I have not the least doubt. It will do you no harm to ‘have a friend at court,’ as the saying is. You must let us know you better.”
“I’ve no objection to that,” said the boy, with a frank smile.
“That’s right,” said Mr. Atherton, cheerfully. “Now, in the first place, you have almost ruined your clothes. It is only fair that you allow me to buy you a new suit at once.”
To this offer Jack made no objection.