place," he said. "Perhaps it may be all for the best."

Yet on the day succeeding he had some sober hours. How differently
he had been situated only three months before. Then he had a home and
relatives. Now he was practically alone in the world, with no home
in which he could claim a share, and he did not even know where his
step-mother and Jonas were. Sunday forenoon he attended church, and
while he sat within its sacred precincts his mind was tranquilized, and
his faith and cheerfulness increased.

On Monday he bought the Herald, and made a tour of inquiry wherever he
saw that a boy was wanted. But in each place he was asked if he could
produce a recommendation from his last employer. He decided to go back
to his old place and ask for one, though he was very reluctant to ask
a favor of any kind from a man who had treated him so shabbily as Mr.
Pitkin. It seemed necessary, however, and he crushed down his pride and
made his way to Mr. Pitkin's private office.

"Mr. Pitkin!" he said.

"You here!" exclaimed Pitkin, scowling. "You needn't ask to be taken
back. It's no use."

"I don't ask it," answered Phil.

"Then what are you here for?"

"I would like a letter of recommendation, that I may obtain another
place."

"Well, well!" said Pitkin, wagging his head. "If that isn't impudence."

"What is impudence?" asked Phil. "I did as well as I could, and that I
am ready to do for another employer. But all ask me for a letter from
you."

"You won't get any!" said Pitkin abruptly.

"Where is your home?"

"I have none except in this city."

"Where did you come from?"

"From the country."

"Then I advise you to go back there. You may do for the country. You are
out of place in the city."

Poor Phil! Things did indeed look dark for him. Without a letter of
recommendation from Mr. Pitkin it would be almost impossible for him to
secure another place, and how could he maintain himself in the city? He
didn't wish to sell papers or black boots, and those were about the only
paths now open to him.

"I am having a rough time!" he thought, "but I will try not to get
discouraged."

He turned upon his heel and walked out of the store.

As he passed the counter where Wilbur was standing, the young man said:

"I am awfully sorry, Philip. It's a shame! If I wasn't broke I'd offer
to lend you a fiver."

"Thank you all the same for your kind offer, Wilbur," said Phil.

"Come round and see me."

"So I will--soon."