prove so, for I am going to take him into my office."

"That's good. Then I shall see him often."

"Really, Rose, I was a little alarmed lest you should make him an offer
this evening."

"You needn't be afraid, papa. I will wait till I am a little bit
older."

"And then shall you offer yourself to Fred?"

"Perhaps I shall if I don't see any one I like better."

"You must remember he is poor."

"That doesn't make any difference. You can give us all the money we
want."

"A very satisfactory arrangement, upon my word! I am glad you don't
insist upon getting married at once, but give me a few hours to get
reconciled to the thought."

CHAPTER XXV.

ROSE WAINWRIGHT'S PARTY.

As Fred would make his debut in fashionable society at Rose
Wainwright's party, he was naturally solicitous to make a favorable
impression. He had for some time been intending to procure a new suit,
but hesitated on account of the expense. Now with a new position in
prospect, and a liberal salary he no longer delayed, but purchased a
neat black suit--a misfit--for seventeen dollars, and a few small
articles of which he stood in need.

The next thing required was to obtain some knowledge of dancing.
Fortunately he was acquainted with a gentleman who gave private as well
as class lessons, and was a very successful teacher. He called upon
Professor Saville, and asked him if he could qualify him to make a
creditable appearance at the party.

"How much time have you?" asked the professor.

"Ten days."

"Then come to me every evening, and I will guarantee to make you more
than an average dancer in that time."

"And your terms?"

"To you will be half price. I know very well, Fred, that you are not a
millionaire, and will adapt my terms to your circumstances."

Professor Saville kept his word, and when the eventful day arrived Fred
felt a degree of confidence in his newly-acquired skill. When he was
dressed for the party in his new suit, with a white silk tie and a pair
of patent leather shoes, it would have been hard to recognize him as a
poor train boy.

"You look nice, Fred," said Albert.

"Do I? I must give you a dime for that compliment. Now don't go and
spend it for whisky."

"I never drink whisky," said Albert, indignantly.

"I was only joking, Bertie. Well, mother, I will bid you good-evening."

"I wish you a pleasant time, Fred. Shall you be out late?"

"I can't tell, mother. It is so long since I have been to a fa