a while? I play a little on
the piano, and if you are fond of music, I will play for you. Usually I
have to be in the store, but this is my evening off."

"I shall be glad to stay, Miss Stubbs. I am fond of music."

"Mr. Harding often lingered with me in the evening hours. He liked to
hear me play."

"As I no doubt shall."

"Do you sing, Mr. Barton?"

"No; I wish I did."

Miss Angelica's piano was probably twenty-five years old, and was very
much out of tune. But even if it had been a Chickering Grand, her
playing would hardly have captivated a musical ear. She had little
taste, and the lessons she had taken had only given her the ability to
play a few easy tunes.

Bert found half an hour of Miss Angelica's music and society all he
cared to enjoy at one time. He therefore excused himself, and taking his
hat, went out for a walk. As he was a stranger in Harrisburg, he was not
particular in what direction he strolled, but naturally bent his steps
toward what appeared to be the central part of the city.

As he sauntered along, his attention was attracted to a flaring poster
on a dead wall, setting forth the attractive features of

THE STREETS OF GOTHAM.

_A Realistic Play of New York Life._

As given by a Star Combination of world-renowned Actors.

For one week only.

Reserved seats, 50 cents. Balcony, 25 cents.

Now Bert had seldom enjoyed an opportunity of attending a dramatic
performance, and felt strongly tempted to avail himself of the one that
now offered. He wished to be as economical as possible, and decided to
content himself with a seat in the balcony.

"Where is the theatre?" he asked of a boy who was studying the bill at
the same time with himself.

"Just round the corner. I'll show you," was the reply.

"Thank you."

"Are you goin' to see de play?" asked the boy with interest.

"I think I shall."

"I'd go myself if I had another nickel," said the young guide. "I've got
ten cents."

"But I thought twenty-five cents was the lowest price."

"I can go to de gallery for fifteen cents. De gallery is good enough for
me."

"If a nickel will help you, here is one."

"Thank you," said the boy. "It's a boss play, dey tell me."

"I hope it is, as I am going myself."

The theatre was near at hand, and the two boys soon stood before it. It
was rather early, being only a quarter past seven, but a small crowd of
boys was already waiting for a chance to obtain admission to the
g