sual places, and was directed
here."

"Ropes," said Mr. Goodnow, "your innocence has been established. This
man," indicating Philip Carton, "has confessed that it was he and Jasper
who stole the missing articles."

"I am thankful that my character has been cleared."

"I am ready to take you back into my employ."

"Thank you, sir, but I have now no need of a position. I shall be glad
if you will retain Jasper."

"You are very generous to one who has done so much to injure you."

"Indirectly he put me in the way of making a fortune. If you will retain
him, Mr. Goodnow, I will guarantee to make up any losses you may incur
from him."

"How is this? Are you able to make this guarantee?"

"I am worth seventy five thousand dollars in money, besides being owner
of a large mining property in Montana."

"This is truly wonderful! And you have accumulated all this since you
left my store?"

"Yes, sir."

"Rodney," said Jasper, going up to his old rival, and offering his hand.
"I am sorry I tried to injure you. It was to save myself, but I see now
how meanly I acted."

"That speech has saved you," said the merchant. "Go back to your work. I
will give you another chance."

"Will you take me back also, Mr. Goodnow?" asked Philip Carton.

The merchant hesitated.

"No, Mr. Carton," said Rodney. "I will look out for you. I will send
you to Montana with a letter to my partner. You can do better there than
here."

Tears came into the eyes of the ex-clerk.

"Thank you," he said gratefully. "I should prefer it. I will promise to
turn over a new leaf; and justify your recommendation."

"Come to see me this evening at the Fifth Avenue Hotel, and I will
arrange matters."

"Shall you stay in the city long, Ropes?" asked the merchant.

"About a week."

"Come and dine with me on Tuesday evening."

"Thank you, sir."

Later in the day Rodney sought out his old room mate Mike Flynn. He
found Mike in a bad case. He had a bad cold, but did not dare to give up
work, because he wouldn't be able to meet his bills. He was still in the
employ of the District Telegraph Company.

"Give the company notice, Mike," said Rodney. "Henceforth I will take
care of you. You can look upon me as your rich uncle," he added with a
smile.

"I will be your servant, Rodney."

"Not a bit of it. You will be my friend. But you must obey me
implicitly. I am going to send you to school, and give you a chance
to learn something. Next week I sh