. The
balance of his money he left in the hands of his friend Horace Ames,
upon whom he was authorized to draw if he should have need.

"I don't intend to carry all my money with me," he said to Luke
Robbins. "I might lose it."

"Even if you did, Ernest, you could draw on me. If you need it, do so
without any hesitation."

"You are a good friend, Luke," said Ernest warmly. "What should I do
without you?"

"I am beginning to wonder what I shall do without you, Ernest.
Suppose, now, this lawyer puts a fortune in your hands?"

"If he does, Luke, I am sure to need your help in some way. I will see
that we are not separated."

"Thank you, Ernest. I know you mean what you say. You may find a
better friend, but you won't find one that is more ready to serve you
than Luke Robbins."

"I am sure of that, Luke," said Ernest with a bright smile, as he
pressed the rough hand of his faithful friend.

Ernest did not loiter on his way, though he was tempted to stop in
Chicago, but he reflected that he would have plenty of chances to
visit that bustling city after his business had been attended to.

As he approached Buffalo on the train his attention was attracted to
two persons sitting in front of him. They were a father and son, as he
gathered from the conversation.

The son was about his own age and size, apparently, but rather more
slender in figure. He had a peevish expression, and Ernest doubted
whether he would like him.

"Father," Ernest heard him say, "won't you give me a little money? I
am dead broke."

The father frowned.

"I gave you five dollars when we set out on this journey," he said.

"Well, five dollars won't last forever," was the pert rejoinder.

"It ought to last more than four days, Clarence."

Ernest started. He knew that his cousin's name was Clarence. Could
this be Stephen Ray and his son?

Even if it were so, he felt that it would not be advisable to make
himself known. This business which was carrying him to New York might
bring him into conflict with Stephen Ray. If so, he would not care to
let his presence be known.

On arriving at Buffalo Ernest left the train. He had never visited
Niagara, and being now so near, he felt that he could not forego the
opportunity.

He registered at the Tefft House, and decided to remain twenty-four
hours. This would give him time to see the Falls.

Ernest had a room assigned him, and went up to it at once in order to
have the luxury of a good wash.