ity. What would he do when that was gone?

It was clear that he must go to work as soon as possible. If his
guardian had remained in the city, probably through his influence a
situation might have been secured. Now nothing was to be looked for in
that quarter.

He bought a morning paper and looked over the Want Column. He found two
places within a short distance of the Astor House, and called at each.
One was in a railroad office.

"My boy," said the manager, a pleasant looking man, "the place was taken
hours since. You don't seem to get up very early in the morning."

"I could get up at any hour that was necessary," replied Rodney, "but I
have only just made up my mind to apply for a position."

"You won't meet with any luck today. It is too late. Get up bright and
early tomorrow morning, buy a paper, and make early application for any
place that strikes you as desirable."

"Thank you, sir. I am sure your advice is good."

"If you had been the first to call here, I should have taken you. I like
your appearance better than that of the boy I have selected."

"Thank you, sir."

"This boy may not prove satisfactory. Call in six days, just before
his week expires, and if there is likely to be a vacancy I will let you
know."

"Thank you, sir. You are very kind."

"I always sympathize with boys. I have two boys of my own."

This conversation quite encouraged Rodney. It seemed to promise success
in the future. If he had probably impressed one man, he might be equally
fortunate with another.

It was about half past twelve when he passed through Nassau Street.

All at once his arm was grasped, and a cheery voice said, "Where are you
going, Rodney?"

"Mr. Woods!" he exclaimed, with pleased recognition.

"Yes, it's your old friend Woods."

"You are not the only railroad friend I have met this morning."

"Who was the other?"

"The gentleman who obligingly took care of my jewel box for a short
time."

"You don't mean to say you have met him? Where did you come across him?"

"In front of the Astor House, almost two hours since."

"Did you speak to him?"

"He spoke to me. You will be glad to hear that he has recovered his own
casket of jewels."

Adin Woods smiled.

"He must think you are easily imposed upon," he said, "to believe any
such story. Anything more?"

"He said his friends would be very much surprised to hear that he had
been suspected of theft."

"So he wanted to clear himself with you?"