ome business of that same kind," said Harry. "I was told
there were brokers' offices in Wall Street, where I could collect the
money without any trouble."

"I'll go with you," said the farmer, in a tone of satisfaction. "If
he'll buy yours, he'll buy mine."

"I shall be glad to have your company," said Harry, politely.

It flattered his vanity that a man old enough to be his grandfather was
disposed to be guided by him in a matter of such importance.

Just then a smooth voice was heard from the seat behind.

"Gentlemen," said a young man, showily dressed and with a profusion of
rings on his fingers, "excuse my interrupting you, but I may be able to
save you some trouble."

They naturally waited for an explanation of these words.

"I overheard you saying that you had some coupons to dispose of."

"Yes," replied the farmer, eagerly.

"I am myself a banker and broker, and deal in government securities. If
the amount is not too large, I will buy your coupons and pay for them at
once."

"That will be handy," said the farmer. "I've got thirty dollars in
cowpons."

"And you, my young friend?" said the so-called broker, addressing
Harry.

"I have rather more than that," said Harry, in a reserved tone.

Somehow, he was suspicious of the plausible stranger.

"I will pay you a higher price than most houses, besides saving you all
the trouble," said the broker, insinuatingly, as he drew out a capacious
wallet, and, opening it, exhibited a pile of bills.

The farmer immediately drew out his coupon.

"Let me see," said the broker; "thirty dollars, gold at the present
premium comes to thirty-six dollars."

"Thirty-six dollars!" repeated the farmer, complacently. "Sarah'll feel
rich when she gets that money."

"Here's your money," said the broker, producing three ten-dollar bills,
a five and a one. "The bills are new, you perceive."

The farmer put away the bills in his old wallet, and the stranger
slipped the coupon carelessly into his vest pocket.

"Now, my young friend, I am ready to attend to your matter," he said,
turning to Harry.

"I won't trouble you," said Harry, coldly; "I prefer to dispose of the
coupons in the city."

"Just as you like; but you would do better to deal with me."

"Why?" asked Harry.

"In the city they will allow you but a hundred and nineteen for gold."

"How is it you can afford to do better by me?" asked Harry, shrewdly.

"Our house makes a point of dealing liberally with t