I used it when--when my father
was alive."
"Would your mother take me?" asked Richard. "That is, could she afford
to at four dollars a week?"
"I can't say."
"When I get an increase in wages I'll pay four and a half," went on
the boy. "I would like to live with you," he continued open-heartedly.
Frank smiled.
"I'll speak to my mother to-night," said he, "and I'll let you know
to-morrow morning."
CHAPTER XV.
NEW QUARTERS.
At six o'clock Frank Massanet announced the day's work ended, and,
bidding his friend goodnight, Richard hurried off to West Street. His
heart was light over his own good fortune, but heavy when he thought
of the losses he had sustained earlier in the day.
The Watch Below was crowded, and Doc Linyard presided at the pie-stand
and the desk. He noticed Richard's grave face, and surmised that all
was not right.
"You're late!" he exclaimed. "Come sit down to supper. I'll bet you
haven't eaten a mouthful."
"I've had bad luck," replied Richard. "Bad luck for you and good luck
for myself."
And, sitting down beside the desk, he made a clean breast of what had
transpired earlier in the day.
"I know I have been careless," he added, "and I don't deserve to be
trusted any more."
"Never mind," returned the old sailor cheerily.
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