lp support you."

"You didn't use to talk to me like that."

"Well, I do now. You didn't use to try to get money out of me."

"Look here, Jasper! I am poor, but I don't want you to talk to me as you
are doing."

"Indeed!" sneered Jasper.

"And I won't have it," said Carton firmly. "Listen to me, and I will
propose a plan that will help us both."

"What is it?"

"You can easily secrete articles, if you are cautious, without
attracting notice, and I will dispose of them and share the money with
you."

Jasper shook his head.

"I wouldn't dare to do it," he said. "Somebody might spy on me."

"Not if you are careful."

"If it were found out I would be bounced like Ropes."

"What is he doing? Have you seen him lately?"

"He is getting on finely. He is earning fifteen dollars a week."

"You don't mean it?"

"Yes I do."

"What firm is he working for?"

"For none at all. He is tutor to a young kid."

"I didn't know he was scholar enough."

"Oh yes, he knows Greek and Latin and a lot of other stuff."

"Who is the boy?"

"I don't feel at liberty to tell. I don't think he would care to have
you know."

"I'll tell you what you can do. Borrow five dollars of him for me."

"I don't know about that. If I were to borrow it would be for myself."

"You can do as you please. If you don't do something for me I will write
to Mr. Goodnow that you are the thief who stole the cloaks and dress
patterns."

"You wouldn't do that?" exclaimed Jasper in consternation.

"Wouldn't I? I am desperate enough to do anything."

After a little further conference Jasper agreed to do what was asked of
him. He did not dare to refuse.

CHAPTER XIX.

JASPER'S REVENGE

Rodney was considerably surprised one evening to receive a call from
Jasper in his room. He was alone, as Mike had been detailed about a
week ago for night duty. The room looked more attractive than formerly.
Rodney had bought a writing desk, which stood in the corner, and had put
up three pictures, which, though cheap, were attractive.

"Good evening, Jasper," he said. "It is quite friendly of you to call."

"I hadn't anything else on hand this evening, and thought I would come
round see how you were getting along."

"Take a seat and make yourself at home."

"Do you object to cigarettes?" asked Jasper, producing one from a case
in his pocket.

"I object to smoking them myself, but I don't want to dictate to my
friends."

"You look quite comf