the street. He crossed over, and standing outside,
began to examine them to see what was the scale of prices. While in this
position he was suddenly aroused by a slap on the back.

Turning he met the gaze of a young man of about thirty, who was smiling
quite cordially.

"Why, Frank, my boy, how are you?" he said, offering his hand.

"Pretty well, thank you," said our hero bewildered, for he had no
recollection of the man who had called him by name.

The other smiled a little more broadly, and thought:

"It was a lucky guess; his name is Frank."

"I am delighted to hear it," he continued. "When did you reach the
city?"

"This morning," said the unsuspecting Frank.

"Well, it's queer I happened to meet you so soon, isn't it? Going to
stay long?"

"I shall, if I can get a place."

"Perhaps I can help you."

"I suppose I ought to remember you," ventured our hero, "but I can't
think of your name."

"Jasper Wheelock. You don't mean to say you don't remember me? Perhaps
it isn't strange, as we only met once or twice in your country home. But
that doesn't matter. I'm just as ready to help you. By the way, have you
dined?"

"No."

"No more have I. Come in and dine with me."

"What'll you take?" asked Jasper Wheelock, passing the bill of fare to
Frank.

"I think I should like to have some roast beef," said Frank.

"That will suit me. Here, waiter, two plates of roast beef, and two cups
of coffee."

"How are they all at home?" asked Jasper.

"My mother has just died."

"You don't say so," said Jasper, sympathetically.

"My sister is well."

"I forgot your sister's name."

"Grace."

"Of course--Grace. I find it hard to remember names. The fact is, I have
been trying to recall your last name, but it's gone from me."

"Fowler."

"To be sure Frank Fowler. How could I be so forgetful."

The conversation was interrupted by the arrival of the coffee and roast
beet, which both he and his new friend attacked with vigor.

"What kind of pudding will you have?" asked the stranger.

"Apple dumpling," said Frank.

"That suits me. Apple dumpling for two."

In due time the apple dumpling was disposed of, and two checks were
brought, amounting to seventy cents.

"I'll pay for both," said Jasper. "No thanks. We are old acquaintances,
you know."

He put his hand into his pocket, and quickly withdrew it with an
exclamation of surprise:

"Well, if that isn't a good joke," he said. "I've left my money at