have a map
somewhere. I'll just show you on it the position of the principal
streets, and that will give you a clearer idea of where we go."

The map was found and Jasper explained to Frank the leading
topographical features of the Island City.

One thing only was wanting now to make him contented, and this was
employment. But it was too late to make any further inquiries.

"I've been thinking, Frank," said Jasper, the next morning, "that you
might get the position as a cash-boy."

"What does a cash-boy do?"

"In large retail establishments every salesman keeps a book in which his
sales are entered. He does not himself make change, for it would not do
to have so many having access to the money-drawer. The money is carried
to the cashier's desk by boys employed for the purpose, who return with
the change."

"Do you think I can get a situation as cash-boy?"

"I will try at Gilbert & Mack's. I know one of the principal salesmen.
If there is a vacancy he will get it for you to oblige me."

They entered a large retail store on Broadway. It was broad and
spacious. Twenty salesmen stood behind the counter, and boys were
running this way and that with small books in their hands.

"How are you, Duncan?" said Jasper.

The person addressed was about Jasper Wheelock's age. He had a keen,
energetic look and manner, and would be readily singled out as one of
the leading clerks.

"All right, Wheelock. How are you?" he responded. "Do you want anything
in our line?"

"No goods; I want a place for this youngster. He's a friend of mine.
I'll answer for his good character."

"That will be satisfactory. But what sort of a place does he want?"

"He is ready to begin as cash-boy."

"Then we can oblige you, as one of our boys has fallen sick, and we have
not supplied his place. I'll speak to Mr. Gilbert."

He went up to Mr. Gilbert, a portly man in the back part of the store.
Mr. Gilbert seemed to be asking two or three questions. Frank waited the
result in suspense, dreading another disappointment, but this time he
was fortunate.

"The boy can stay," reported Duncan. "His wages are three dollars a
week."

It was not much, but Frank was well pleased to feel that at last he had
a place in the city.

He wrote a letter to Grace in the evening, announcing his success, and
expressing the hope that he would soon be able to send for her.

CHAPTER VII

THE CASH BOY HAS AN ADVENTURE

Four weeks passed. The duties of