, I could not
help him. Perhaps he may regret his refusal, when he is reduced to his
last penny. By the way, whenever you have to give up your stand, you may
come to me, and I will see what I can do for you."

"Thank you, sir."

"And now, about these shirts; I believe I agreed to pay a dollar and a
quarter each."

"Yes, sir."

"As they are of extra size, I think I ought to pay twelve shillings,
instead of ten."

"My mother thinks herself well paid at ten shillings."

"There must be a great deal of work about one. Twelve shillings are none
too much," and Mr. Preston placed nine dollars in Paul's hand.

"Thank you," said Paul, gratefully. "My mother will consider herself
very lucky."

When Mrs. Hoffman received from Paul a dollar and a half more than she
anticipated, she felt in unusually good spirits. She had regretted the
loss of her former poorly paid work, but it appeared that her seeming
misfortune had only prepared the way for greater prosperity. The trouble
was that it would not last. Still, it would tide over the dull time, and
when this job was over, she might be able to resume her old employment.
At any rate, while the future seemed uncertain, she did not feel like
increasing her expenditures on account of her increased earnings, but
laid carefully away three-quarters of her receipts to use hereafter in
case of need.

Meanwhile, Paul continued to take care of George Barry's business. He
had been obliged to renew the stock, his large sales having materially
reduced it. Twice a week he went up to see his principal to report
sales. George Barry could not conceal the surprise he felt at Paul's
success.

"I never thought you would do so well," he said. "You beat me."

"I suppose it's because I like it," said Paul. "Then, as I get only half
the profits, I have to work the harder to make fair wages."

"It is fortunate for my son that he found you to take his place,"
said Mrs. Barry. "He could not afford to lose all the income from his
business."

"It is a good thing for both of us," said Paul. "I was looking for a job
just when he fell sick."

"What had you been doing before?"

"I was in the prize-package business, but that got played out, and I
was a gentleman at large, seeking for a light, genteel business that
wouldn't require much capital."

"I shall be able to take my place pretty soon now," said the young man.
"I might go to-morrow, but mother thinks it imprudent."

"Better get back your s