"
The stock-clerk listened carefully to the story Richard had to tell.
"Depend upon it there is something in the wind. You had better watch
Norris; he may be getting you into trouble."
"I half wish I had told the firm of Norris's actions," said Richard.
"Perhaps it would have been best," replied Frank.
On the way home that night the two met Pep. The urchin had evidently
been waiting for Richard, for he ran up at once.
"I've got something for you, Mr. Dare," he exclaimed, and shifting his
bundle of papers he drew out a silver dollar from his ragged clothes.
"Here is one of de dollars I owes yer. I'll have de odder one in a few
days, I guess."
"Did you earn it?" asked Richard, without taking the proffered coin.
"Yes, sir, honestly too, sellin' papers."
"And how is your father? Any better?"
"Not much, sir. That pneumony hangs on so."
"Perhaps you had better keep this money. You may need it for medicine."
"No, sir, I'm earning enough to buy that now. I want you to take this.
I'd feel better if yer did. If it wasn't fer dad I a-given it to yer
long ago."
"All right then." Richard slipped the coin in his pocket. "I'd like
to see your father once, and see how you live. Maybe I and my friend
here, Mr. Massanet, can help you a bit.
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