"Let me help you carry your valise," he said to the small passenger, as he darted across the narrow plank, and took hold of one side of the offending baggage. "Two can lug it better'n one."
The boy looked up as if surprised that a stranger should offer to help him, and then gave up one-half the burden to this welcome aid. This time the journey was made successfully; and as the valise was deposited on the steamer's deck, the little passenger gave a deep sigh of relief.
"So much done!" he said, in a satisfied way, as he took off his hat and wiped his forehead with a handkerchief that did not look much larger than a postage stamp. "Where are you goin'?" he then asked, turning to Tim.
"Why, I ain't goin' anywhere," replied the Captain's boy, not fully understanding the other's question.
"Oh!"—and the boy's face grew troubled—"I thought maybe you was goin' in the boat."
"So I am," answered Tim, now understanding the question. "I work here."
"Now that's nice;" and the little fellow sat down on his valise contentedly.
"You may think so; but if you knew Captain Pratt, you'd talk different."
"Why?"
"Perhaps you'll find out if you come on this boat much; but I guess I'd better not tell you."