"Yes."

"I don't know what he could do if he tried, but he doesn't exert himself
much. He says it isn't necessary for him, as his father is a rich man."

"How is it with you?"

"I only wish I had his chance," said Bert, warmly. "I am fond of study,
but I am poor, and must work for a living."

"You have the right idea, and he has not," said the old man,
sententiously.

At this moment a light buggy was driven swiftly by. Seated in it was a
boy about the age of Bert, apparently, but of slighter figure. The
horse, suddenly spying the old man, shied, and in a trice the buggy was
upset, and the young dude went sprawling on the ground.

Bert grasped the situation, and sprang to the rescue. He seized the
terrified horse, while the old man helped reverse the carriage, which
fortunately had not met with any material damage. The same may be said
of the young driver who, with mortified face, struggled to his feet,
and surveyed ruefully the muddy stains on his handsome suit.

"I hope you're not hurt, Percy," said Bert, with solicitude.

"I've spoiled my suit, that's all," returned Percy, shortly. "What made
you scare my horse?"

"I didn't," answered Bert, with spirit. "What right have you to charge
me with such a thing?"

"Then if it wasn't you, it was that old tramp you were talking with,"
persisted Percy, sullenly.

"Hush, Percy!" said Bert, apprehensive lest the old man's feelings might
be hurt. "You don't know who this gentleman is."

"I never met the gentleman before," rejoined Percy, with ironical
deference.

"Then let me introduce him as your uncle, Jacob Marlowe, from
California!"

Percy's face betrayed much more surprise than pleasure as he stammered,
"Is that true?"

"Yes," answered the old man, smiling calmly; "I have the honor to be
related to you, young gentleman."

"Does father know you are here?"

"No; I am going to call upon him."

Percy hardly knew what to think. He had heard his father speak of
"Uncle Jacob" and indulge in the hope that he had accumulated a fortune
in California. His shabby attire did not suggest wealth, certainly, but
Percy was wise enough to know that appearances are not always to be
relied upon. If this old man were wealthy, he would be worth
propitiating. At any rate, till he knew to the contrary he had better be
polite.

"Will you ride to the house with me, sir?" he asked, considerably to
Bert's surprise.

"No, thank you. There might be another upset. Jump into t