n the way, he put his hand into his pocket to feel
of the old black wallet, that contained the proceeds of his first day's
work. He had never done a job before which produced more than half a
dollar, and the immense sum in his pocket seemed enough to make or break
an ordinary bank. Such a run of luck was almost incredible. Wouldn't his
mother be astonished when he handed her that two dollar bill!

He had some misgivings in regard to his mother's consent; for like all
good mothers, who love their sons, she did not like to have him exposed
to danger. But that two dollar bill, and the brilliant promise of
success which the future held out to him, would be strong arguments in
favor of the scheme, and he hoped to triumph over every objection she
could present.

Before he reached the cottage, Paul contrived to subdue some of his
enthusiasm, and walked into the kitchen, where his mother was getting
dinner, as coolly and indifferently as though nothing extraordinary had
happened. It was hard work for him to keep down the excitement that was
raging within, but he had determined not to made a fool of himself.

"Well, Paul, have you had a good time," said Mrs. Duncan, as he entered
the room.

"First-rate, mother," he replied; though he was not exactly pleased to
find that she regarded the trip to Rock Island in the light of a
pleasure excursion.

"Did you get as many fish as Captain Littleton wanted?"

"Yes, more too; I left six dozen perch and three handsome tautog in his
kitchen just now."

"You were lucky."

"I am good for as many as that every day. Look here, mother;" and he
pulled out his wallet, and took therefrom the two dollar bill. "What do
you think of that?"

"Did he give you all that?"

"He did."

"He is very liberal."

"That he is; but the fish came to about that; the tautog are worth a
quarter apiece."

"You have done bravely, my boy. If you could make half as much money as
that every day, we should have all we want, and more too."

"I can, mother; and I mean to do so," replied Paul, thinking this a good
opportunity to announce his magnificent intentions.

"You mustn't be too confident, Paul."

"I know I can."

"And, pray, what do you mean to do?" inquired Mrs. Duncan, with an
incredulous smile.

"I am going into the fishing business, mother."

"Into what?"

"Into the fishing business."

"What in the world do you mean by that?"

"I mean just what I say, mother!"

"Is the boy crazy?" d