tle way downtown, and then, crossing the City Hall Park, found
himself on Broadway.

A little below the Astor House he came to the stand of a
sidewalk-merchant, who dealt in neckties. Upon an upright framework hung
a great variety of ties of different colors, most of which were sold at
the uniform price of twenty-five cents each.

Paul was acquainted with the proprietor of the stand, and, having
nothing else to do, determined to stop and speak to him.

CHAPTER VII

A NEW BUSINESS

The proprietor of the necktie stand was a slender, dark-complexioned
young man of about twenty-five, or thereabouts.

His name was George Barry. Paul had known him for over a year, and
whenever he passed his stand was accustomed to stop and speak with him.

"Well, George, how's business?" asked Paul.

"Fair," said Barry. "That isn't what's the matter."

"What is it, then?"

"I'm sick. I ought not to be out here to-day."

"What's the matter with you?"

"I've caught a bad cold, and feel hot and feverish. I ought to be at
home and abed."

"Why don't you go?"

"I can't leave my business."

"It's better to do that than to get a bad sickness."

"I suppose it is. I am afraid I am going to have a fever. One minute I'm
hot, another I'm cold. But I can't afford to close up my business."

"Why don't you get somebody to take your place?"

"I don't know anybody I could get that I could trust. They'd sell my
goods, and make off with the money."

"Can you trust me?" asked Paul, who saw a chance to benefit himself as
well as his friend.

"Yes, Paul, I could trust you, but I'm afraid I couldn't pay you enough
to make it worth while for you to stand here."

"I haven't got anything to do just now," said Paul. "I was in the
prize-package business, but two fellows stole my stock in trade, and I'm
not going into it again. It's about played out. I'm your man. Just make
me an offer."

"I should like to have you take my place for a day or two, for I know
you wouldn't cheat me."

"You may be sure of that."

"I am sure. I know you are an honest boy, Paul. But I don't know what to
offer you."

"How many neckties do you sell a day?" asked Paul, in a businesslike
tone.

"About a dozen on an average."

"And how much profit do you make?"

"It's half profit."

Paul made a short calculation. Twelve neckties at twenty-five cents each
would bring three dollars. Half of this was a dollar and a half.

"I'll take your place for half pro