l disappointed, but did not venture to say so, not
wishing to increase his aunt's despondency. On Monday morning
he went back to Boston, and told the bookkeeper.

"It seems quite desirable that you should go to Montreal, Ben," said
young Porter.

"Of course that is out of the question, Mr. Porter."

"No; I think it can be managed."

Ben looked, as he felt, not a little surprised.

"It is some time," explained the bookkeeper, "since we sent an agent
to Montreal. We have been thinking of sending some one up there,
stopping at the principal towns on the way. You are rather young,
but if I recommend you I presume my uncle will let you go."

Of course Mr. Porter, senior, had to be consulted. Though not a
little doubtful about the expediency of sending so young a
representative of the house, he finally gave his consent, which was
communicated to Ben.

Ben was summoned to the countingroom, and received his
instructions, with a sum of money for expenses. At three o'clock
in the afternoon he was dismissed, though he was not to start till
the next morning.

Old Mr. Benton's door was open when Ben returned.

"What brings you home so soon?" he inquired.

"I am going to Montreal," said Ben.

"Come in and tell me about it."

The old man, clad in a ragged dressing-gown, was sitting in a
rocking-chair by the fire. The day was not cold, but his blood
was thin, and he felt the need of some artificial heat. He was
smoking a common clay pipe.

"Isn't this sudden--your going to Montreal?" asked Mr. Benton.

"Yes, sir; I think young Mr. Porter has made business there in order
to give a chance to go?"

"What do you mean to do?"

"I shall attend first to the business of the firm, and then call on this
lawyer, Mr. Brief."

"It is well thought of, and, Benjamin, try to get a chance to see the
new heir, Mr. Tremlett, and find out what use he is making of his
property."

"Yes, sir, I will."

"Have you money enough to pay your expenses, Benjamin?" asked
the old man, rather hesitatingly.

"Oh, yes, sir; the firm provides for that."

"To be sure. Of course they ought to do it," said Mr. Benton,
appearing to feel relieved.

"How long do you expect to be gone, Benjamin?"

"I don't know, sir; I am to stop in Burlington and one or two other
places. I may be gone ten days."

"I shall feel lonely without you, Benjamin."

"I am glad you value my society so much."

"I am a lonely man, Benjamin; I have never had m