self. "I am glad
Henry didn't lose anything by me."

Another thought followed, and one which inspires confidence in Sam's
reformation: "I'd rather have the money stolen from me than steal it
from somebody else."

It was quite true that Sam's conscience had become more sensitive than
formerly. His meeting with Julia Stockton on board the Fall River boat
had kindled in him a new and honorable ambition to attain a
respectable position in society. In a strange city, separated from his
street acquaintances, it really seemed as if he stood some chance of
realizing his hope, when he was met at the outset with this
discouraging loss.

But Sam was not discouraged. He had been dependent upon his own
resources for too many years to give up easily. Moreover, he was
hopeful and sanguine by temperament, and determined to make the best
of his position. There was this to encourage him. He had paid a week's
board in advance, and therefore was sure of regular meals, and a
comfortable lodging for six days to come. In that time he might get a
situation.

"As you are alone, Mr. Barker," said Mrs. Campbell, "I am afraid I
must put you into the single room. I may have opportunities to let
this to two persons."

"All right," said Sam, "but I have only paid seven dollars. You said
you should expect eight for the small room."

"No matter about that for this week," said the landlady. "You have
been unfortunate, and I will take that into consideration."

"Thank you. When I'm a rich merchant I'll make it up to you."

"I hope you will become one, for your own sake," said Mrs. Campbell,
smiling.

When breakfast was over, Sam strolled out into the streets. He felt
that the sooner he got something to do the better. Certainly in his
situation there was no time to lose. He had found out that the leading
retail stores were on Washington Street, and it seemed to him a good
plan to begin there.

The first he selected was a dry-goods store. He entered, and looked
about him, inquiringly. A salesman asked him, briskly: "What can I
show you to-day?"

"If you'll show me a situation where I can make a living, you'll
oblige me," answered Sam.

"We don't keep such goods for sale," said the salesman, smiling.

"Then perhaps you give them away. Can I speak to the boss?"

"There he is," said the young man--"at the end of the store."

"What is his name?"

"Hunter."

Sam was not bashful. He went up to Mr. Hunter and called him by name.

"Can I