as really a lonely man. Of a reserved and retiring
disposition, he had no desire for publicity. As editor of one of the
leading papers in the city, he could express his views and remain
unknown to most of the readers. His editorials were always written
with great care and thought, and they were eagerly read by friends and
opponents alike. Such work had always given him considerable pleasure
as he felt that he was doing his part in moulding the thought of the
community along true and strong lines. But to-night it all seemed of
little avail. He had labored, but what had been the result? The only
one upon whom he had lavished his affection had disappointed him, and
was almost a stranger to him now. Mechanically he picked up a telegram
from the table and read it again.

"Am leaving to-night on the _Princess May_.

"TOM."

That was all. It was dated three days ago, from Skagway, Alaska.
Harmon held the telegram in his hand for some time, although he was not
looking at the words. He was thinking of the sender of that message,
wondering what was bringing him home. What would he do with him when
he arrived? he asked himself. He tried to think of something that
would satisfy Reynolds' restless spirit; that would give an outlet to
his abounding energy. He had fondly hoped that Tom would throw himself
into newspaper work, and thus make the _Telegram_ and _Evening News_ a
greater force than ever. New blood was needed on the staff, he was
well aware, and Reynolds was just the man for the work. He sighed as
he thought of the futility of his dreams, and how impossible it was to
make the young see with the eyes of age and experience.

For some time Harmon sat there, lost in deep thought. At length he
arose and prepared himself for dinner. He was about to leave the room,
when a knock sounded upon the door, and in another instant Tom Reynolds
stood before him. Eagerly Harmon rushed forward, seized him by the
hand, and bade him a hearty welcome.

"Tom, Tom!" he cried. "I am delighted to see you. I had no idea the
boat had arrived. Come, sit down and tell me all about yourself."

"Just a minute," Reynolds laughingly replied. "Have you had dinner
yet? No? Well, that's fortunate, as I want you to come and dine with
me at the 'Pacific.'"

"At the Pacific!" Harmon looked his surprise and disappointment. "Why
did you go there? I was expecting you here. And, besides, isn't it
rather expensive?"

"It