ale to the country
boy, and with his joyous excitement there mingled the thought: "And I,
too, am going to live here. I shall have a share in the great city, and
mingle in its scenes every day."

Rob was used to the city, and took matters quietly. He was not
particularly impressed. Yet he could not help enjoying the walk, so
perfect was the weather. As they passed Lord & Taylor's, a lady came
out of the store.

"Why, mother," said Rob, "is that you?"

"Yes, Rob. I came in on a shopping excursion, and I want you to go with
me and take care of me."

Rob grumbled a little, but, of course, acceded to his mother's request.
So Chester was left alone with Mr. Conrad.

"How do you feel about coming to New York, Chester?" asked his friend.
"You are not afraid of failure, are you?"

"No, Mr. Conrad, I feel very hopeful. Something has happened to me
to-day that encourages me very much."

"What is it?"

Chester told the story of his meeting with Prof. Hazlitt, and the
proposition which had been made to him.

"Why, this is famous," exclaimed Conrad, looking pleased. "I know of
Prof. Hazlitt, though I never met him. He was once professor in a
Western college, but inheriting a fortune from his uncle, came to New
York to pursue his favorite studies. He does not teach now, but, I
believe, delivers an annual course of lectures before the students of
Columbia College. He is a shrewd man, and the offer of employment from
him is indeed a compliment. I am very glad you met him. He may throw
other work in your way."

"I hope I can give him satisfaction," said Chester. "It makes me feel
rich whenever I think of the sum I am to receive. Two hundred dollars
is a good deal of money."

"To a boy like you, yes. It doesn't go very far with me now. It costs a
good deal for me to live. How much do you think I have to pay for my
room--without board?"

"Three dollars a week," guessed Chester.

Mr. Conrad smiled.

"I pay ten dollars a week," he said.

Chester's breath was quite taken away.

"Why, I did not think the whole house would cost as much--for rent."

"You will get a more correct idea of New York expenses after a while.
Now, let me come back to your plans. You had better stay with me for a
few days."

"But I am afraid I shall be putting you to inconvenience, Mr. Conrad."

"No; it will be pleasant for me to have your company. On Monday morning
I will go with you to the office of the real estate broker who is to
employ yo