and read it aloud."

Tom opened the letter and read as follows:

"Dear Father:--I must tell you, to begin with, that I have been
compelled to stop work in the shoe shop. The market is overstocked and
trade has become very dull.

"Of course, I felt quite bad when Mr. Leavitt told me this, for I feared
it would prevent my helping you pay for the cow, as I want so much to
do. I went round to several other shops, hoping to get in, but I found
it impossible. Still, I have succeeded in getting something to do that
will pay me better than work in the shop. If you were to guess all day,
I don't believe you would guess what business it is. So, to relieve your
suspense, I will tell you that I have engaged as assistant to Professor
Henderson, the famous magician and ventriloquist and am to start
to-morrow on a tour with him."

"Assistant to a magician!" exclaimed Mrs. Walton

"What does the boy know about magic?"

"It's a bully business," said Tom, enthusiastically. "I only wish I was
in Harry's shoes. I'd like to travel round with a magician first-rate."

"You're too thick-headed, Tom," said Marry.

"Shut up!" said Tom. "I guess I'm as smart as you, any day."

"Be quiet, both of you!" said Mr. Walton. "Now, Tom, go on with your
brother's letter."

Tom proceeded: "I am to take money at the door. We are going about
in the southern part of the State and shall visit some towns in
Massachusetts, the professor says. You know I've never been round any
and I shall like traveling and seeing new places. Professor Henderson
is very kind and I think I shall like him. He pays my traveling expenses
and five dollars a week, which is nearly twice as much money as I got
from Mr. Leavitt. I can't help thinking I am lucky in getting so good a
chance only a day after I lost my place in the shoe shop. I hope, yet,
to be able to pay for the cow when the money comes due.

"Love to all at home.

"Harry."

"Harry's lucky," said Mary. "He can get along."

"He is fortunate to find employment at once," said his father; "though
something which he can follow steadily is better. But the pay is good
and I am glad he has it."

"How long it seems since Harry was at home," said his mother. "I wish I
could see him."

"Yes, it would be pleasant," said Mr. Walton; "but the boy has his own
way to make, so we will be thankful that he is succeeding so well."

CHAPTER XXV. A STRANGE COMPANION

At ten o'clock the next day, Harry pre