ly begun to doubt whether the accomplished young man had
as much influence with the firm as he had led him to suppose. But his
ambition would not permit him longer to be satisfied with the humble
sphere of a stable boy; and he determined, if he did not hear from
Edward, to apply for the situation himself.

The next day, having procured two hours' leave of absence from the
stable, he called at the home of Joe Flint to obtain further
particulars concerning Edward and his situation. He found the family
in much better circumstances than at his previous visit. Mrs. Flint
was sitting up, and was rapidly convalescing; Katy was busy and
cheerful; and it seemed a different place from that to which he had
been the messenger of hope and comfort two nights before.

They were very glad to see him, and poured forth their gratitude to
him so eloquently that he was obliged to change the topic. Mrs. Flint
was sure that her husband was an altered man. She had never before
known him to be so earnest and solemn in his resolutions to amend and
lead a new life.

But when Harry alluded to Edward, both Katy and her mother suddenly
grew red. They acknowledged that they had sent for him in their
extremity, but that he did not come till the next morning, when the
bounty of the stable boy had relieved them from the bitterness of
want. The mother dropped a tear as she spoke of the wayward son; and
Harry had not the heart to press the inquiries he had come to make.

After speaking as well as he dared to speak of Edward, he took his
leave, and hastened to the establishment of Wake & Wade, to apply for
the vacant place. He had put on his best clothes, and his appearance
this time was very creditable.

Entering the store, he inquired for Edward Flint; and that gentleman
was summoned to receive him.

"Hallo, Harry West!" said Edward, when he recognized his visitor. "I
declare I forgot all about you."

"I thought likely," replied Harry, willing to be very charitable to
the delinquent.

"The fact is, we have been so busy in the store I haven't had time to
call on you, as I promised."

"Never mind, now. Is the place filled?"

"No."

"I am glad to hear that. Do you think there is any chance for me?"

"Well, I don't know. I will do what I can for you."

"Thank you, Edward."

"Wait here a moment till I speak with one of the partners."

The clerk left him, and was absent but a moment, when Harry was
summoned to the private room of Mr. Wake.