k that is _his_ business, Percy. As to being a pauper, I don't
believe he will ever be that."

"Don't be too sure of it. Why, he told father he had only five hundred
dollars. How long do you think that's going to last him if he throws
away his money on carriage rides?"

"It's only for once, and, as I said, that isn't our business."

"I don't know about that, either. When he has spent all his money he'll
be coming upon father to support him."

"I don't believe he will," said Bert, to whom it was disagreeable to
hear the kind old man spoken of slightingly.

"You see if he doesn't. But it won't do any good. Father says as he
makes his bed he must lie on it. And I say, Bert Barton, it isn't very
creditable to you and your mother to help the old man squander his
money."

"I don't thank you for your advice, Percy Marlowe," retorted Bert, with
spirit. "If ever Uncle Jacob does come to want, I'll work for him, and
help him all I can."

"You! why you're as poor as poverty itself!" exclaimed Percy, with a
mocking laugh.

"Good morning!" said Bert shortly, provoked, but not caring to prolong
the discussion.

When he reached home, he gave Uncle Jacob an account of his conversation
with Percy.

The old man laughed.

"So Albert says that as I make my bed I must lie upon it?" he repeated.

"Yes, sir; but I hope you won't be troubled at that. You will always be
welcome here."

Uncle Jacob's eyes grew moist, and he regarded Bert with affection.

"You are a good boy and a true friend, Bert," he said, "and I shall not
forget it."

"I don't know but Percy was right, Uncle Jacob. It does seem extravagant
paying such a price for a ride."

"It's only for once in a way, Bert. You mustn't grudge the old man a
little enjoyment in his vacation. I shall be going to work next week."

"You will? Where?" asked Bert eagerly.

"In New York. An old California friend of mine, who is in charge of a
mine that has been put on the New York market, will give me a clerkship
and a small salary which will support me in comfort. So you see I am all
right."

"I am very glad to hear it, Uncle Jacob," said Bert joyfully. "I was
afraid you wouldn't find anything to do, and would have to spend all
your money on living."

"Come, Bert, that isn't much of a compliment to my ability. If I _am_
sixty-five, I am able to earn a living yet, and though twelve dollars a
week isn't much----"

"If I could earn twelve dollars a week I should feel rich,