that they belonged in one of the cities of
Maine, and had never been in Boston before. They were brothers; and
both their parents being dead, they said they were on their way to the
west, where they had an uncle, who had sent for them to come and live
with him. They had a good many questions to ask about Boston, and said
they meant to look around the city some the next day, as they must
resume their journey on Monday. Alfred said he would go with them, and
show them the principal sights; and Oscar, too, would have gladly
volunteered, were it not that his father required him to go to church
and the Sabbath-school on that day, and to stay in the house when not
thus engaged.

The boys had now reached the hotel, where the trunk had already
arrived. A room was appropriated to the young guests, and Alfred and
Oscar conducted them to it, and remained awhile in conversation with
them. By-and-bye, the oldest of the strangers asked Alfred if he would
go and show them where they could buy some good pistols. Alfred
readily agreed to this, and the four boys started off towards the shops
where such articles are sold. On their way through the crowded
streets, the new-comers found much to attract their attention. They
seemed inclined to stop at every shop window, to admire some object,
and it was nearly dark when they reached the place where they were to
make their purchase. Here, amid the variety of pistols that were
exhibited to them, they were for a time unable to decide which to
choose. At length, however, aided by the advice of Alfred and Oscar,
they picked out two that they concluded to buy. They also purchased a
quantity of powder and balls, and then desired to look at some dirks,
two of which they decided to take. Some fine pocket-knives next
arrested their attention, which were examined, and greatly admired by
all the boys. The oldest of the strangers, who did all the business,
concluded to take four of these, and then settled for all the articles
purchased. The bill was not very small, but his pocket-book was
evidently well supplied, and he paid it with out any difficulty.

After they had left the store, the oldest boy gave Oscar and Alfred,
each, one of the pocket-knives, to pay them for their trouble, as he
expressed it. They were much pleased with their present, and felt very
well satisfied with their afternoon's adventure. They were a little
surprised, however, that their new friends should think it nece