speak to you on business?" he asked.

"What kind of business?"

"I want a place," said Sam, bluntly.

"We are not engaging any new clerks at present. Where do you live?"

"I have just come from New York."

"Did you have any experience there in the dry-goods line?"

"No, sir."

"Then you know nothing about it."

"Oh, yes, sir; I can tell calico from silk."

"That's more than I can always do," said Mr. Hunter, jocosely. "I took
you for silk, and I find you to be calico."

"You've got me there," said Sam. "Then you can't give me anything to
do?"

"I don't think it would be for my advantage to engage you. Do you
think so?"

"I think it would be for mine," said Sam. "I guess I will look
further."

"I am afraid I don't know much about business," thought Sam. "I wish I
knew what I am fit for, and I'd go for it."

He kept on his way down Washington Street, and entered the next large
store, where he repeated his request for a place. Here he was not so
well treated.

"Clear out, you young loafer!" was the rude response.

"Thank you," said Sam, coolly. "You're extremely polite."

"I don't waste my politeness on such fellows as you," said the clerk,
disagreeably.

"I wouldn't," retorted Sam. "You don't seem to have any to spare."

"I guess I don't stand much chance there," he considered. "I wouldn't
want to be in the same store with that hog, anyway."

The next store was devoted to millinery. Just outside was a small
piece of paper on which Sam read "Little Girl Wanted."

He went in. Those in charge of the store he found to be females.

"You've got a notice in the window for help," said Sam.

"Yes," was the reply. "Do you want it for your sister?"

"I think not," replied Sam. "I haven't any sister, to begin with."

"Then what is your business?"

"I want a place for myself."

"Did you read the notice? It says 'Little Girl Wanted.' Are you a
little girl?"

"Not that I am aware of," said Sam; "but I can do a little girl's
work."

"Perhaps you would not be willing to take a little girl's pay."

"How much is the pay?"

"Two dollars a week."

"Declined with thanks," said Sam, promptly. "I don't like to
disappoint you, but that wouldn't pay for my wardrobe."

The lady smiled. "I'm sorry I can't do anything for you," she said,
amused.

"So am I," said Sam.

Presently he discovered a sign, "Boy Wanted," and this inspired in him
some hope. He entered, and made known his wishes.

"You are alto