“I don't know,” said Samuel. “I'll do my best. I don't expect to go to Wall Street and make my fortune.”
“You needn't be smart!” growled Dan.
But the other was quite innocent of sarcasm. “What I mean is that I'll have to work,” said he. “I'm young and strong, and I'm not afraid to try. I'll find somebody to give me a chance; and then I'll work hard and learn and I'll get promoted. I've read of boys that have done that.”
“It's not a bad idea,” commented Adam.
“Go ahead,” said Dan.
“The only thing is,” began Samuel, hesitatingly, “I shall have to have a little money for a start.”
“Humph!” said Adam. “Money's a scarce thing here.”
“How much'll ye want?” asked the other.
“Well,” said the boy, “I want enough to feel safe. For if I go, I promise you I shall stay till I succeed. I shan't play the baby.”
“How do you expect to raise it?” was the next question.