re the committee of the picnic, and asked
whether he preferred to take his prizes in money or in the form of a
gold medal.

"In money," he said promptly.

"The medal would always remind you of your victory."

"They wouldn't receive it at a grocery store," said Ben.

"Then you are a family man?" said a member of the committee, smiling.

"Yes," said Ben; "I've got an aunt and cousin to provide for."

The money was accordingly placed in his hands. Two five-dollar
greenbacks were a rich reward for his afternoon's exertions, he
thought.

"I wish I could earn as much money every day," he thought.

"We would have no trouble then about getting along."

About half-past four o'clock, Ben and James left the picnic grounds,
and started on their way home. They had occasion to pass the cigar
store where Ben had been offered employment. The proprietor was
standing at the door.

"Have you made up your mind to accept my offer?" he asked
recognizing Ben.

"You don't offer enough," said Ben.

"Isn't three dollars a week enough for a boy like you?"

"Since I last saw you I've earned ten dollars," answered Ben.

"You have!" exclaimed the cigar dealer, in surprise. "I believe you
are deceiving me. You don't expect me to believe a story like that."

"There is the proof," said Ben, displaying the greenbacks.

"Are you sure you haven't stolen the money?" asked the dwarf
suspiciously.

"I am as sure as that you are no gentleman," retorted Ben, nettled by
his tone.

The cigar dealer began to jump up and down with rage, and shook
his fist violently at the two boys, who retired laughing.

Chapter VI

Mr. Dobson's Visit

It was a little after five o'clock when Ben entered his humble home.
He was in excellent spirits, as may be imagined. His aunt's face,
however, presented a decided contrast to his own.

"Well, Benjamin," she said, with a sigh, "I suppose you haven't found
anything to do."

"No, Aunt Jane, I have been to a picnic."

"I don't see how you can have the spirits to go to a picnic when we
are on the verge of starvation," said Mrs. Bradford reproachfully.

"Not so bad as that, Aunt Jane; we won't starve this week, anyway."

"Perhaps not; but I look forward to the future."

"So do I, Aunt Jane," Ben replied; "but there is this difference
between us. You look forward with discouragement, while I look
forward hopefully. You know my motto is, Wait and Hope!"

"You'll have plenty of waiting to