er for him to put this power
in the hands of the enemy. Obviously the receipt belonged to James
Long, who had lost it.

Fortunately, Chester had the address of the mechanic on East Twentieth
Street, and he resolved, though it would cost him quite a walk, to call
and give him the paper. In twenty minutes after locking the office he
found himself in front of a large tenement house, which was occupied by
a great number of families. He found that Long lived on the third floor
back.

He knocked at the door. It was opened to him by a woman of forty, who
had a babe in her arms, while another--a little girl--was holding onto
her dress.

"Does Mr. James Long live here?" asked Chester.

"Yes."

"Is he at home?"

"No, but I am expecting him home from work every minute. Will you come
in, or shall I give him your message?"

"Perhaps I had better see him, if it won't inconvenience you."

"Oh, no, if you will excuse my poor rooms," said Mrs. Long, pleasantly.

"I am poor myself, and am not used to fine rooms."

"Take the rocking-chair," said Mrs. Long, offering him the best chair
in the room. "If you will excuse me, I will go on preparing my
husband's supper."

"Certainly. Shall I take the baby?"

"Oh, I wouldn't like to trouble you."

"I like babies."

Chester had seen that the baby's face was clean, and that it looked
attractive. Babies know their friends instinctively, and this
particular baby was soon in a frolic with its young guardian.

"I guess you are used to babies," said the mother, pleased.

"No, I am the only baby in my family, but I am fond of children."

I may remark here that manly boys generally do like children, and I
haven't much respect for those who will tease or tyrannize over them.

In ten minutes a heavy step was heard on the stairs, and James Long
entered. His face was sober, for, after his interview with Chester
Rand--he had not had time for a second call--he began to fear that he
should have to pay his month's rent over again, and this to him would
involve a severe loss.

He looked with surprise at Chester, not immediately recognizing him.

"I come from Mr. Fairchild's office," explained Chester.

"Oh, yes; I remember seeing you there. Has the receipt been found?" he
added, eagerly.

"Yes."

James Long looked very much relieved.

"I am very glad," he sighed. "Mr. Mullins wouldn't have believed me.
What does he say now?"

"He doesn't know that the receipt is found."

"How is