"It's as clear
as day. There is no necessity for your going with me now. You can
return to the store; but remember, not a word of this, even to
Massanet."
"I'll remember, sir."
When Richard returned to the stock-room, his friend, of course, wanted
to know what was up, but the boy only replied that it was all right,
and that Mr. Mann had requested him to keep silent.
Throughout the entire establishment there appeared to be the feeling
that something was about to happen--what, no one knew.
As the two boys were returning home that evening, they met the street
urchin Pep, who greeted them politely. He had a bigger bundle of papers
than ever, and seemed to be prospering in his street trade.
Nevertheless, he had a sober, earnest look upon his countenance that
caught Richard's eye immediately.
"What's up, Pep?" he asked kindly.
"Dad's worse, sir," replied the boy. "I don't think I can come up
Sunday, 'ceptin' he gets better."
"Wouldn't you like us to come down, any way?" asked Frank.
"I would, yes; but he wouldn't. His head ain't right, and he don't
want no one around 'ceptin' me."
"Well, will you come up to the house, and get some nice stuff I will
give you? Some eating and the like?" continued Frank.
"Yes, sir; thank you.
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