"

Mr. Perkins looked curious, and Chester, considerably to his own
surprise, confided to him the story of his relations with the
bookkeeper.

"He's a scamp!" commented the man from Minneapolis. "Why does Mr.
Fairchild keep him. I wouldn't! I'd bounce him very quick."

"He has been with Mr. Fairchild five years and understands his business
thoroughly."

"Well, there is something in that; but I wouldn't like to have in my
employ a man whom I couldn't trust. Have you ever been out West?"

"No, sir."

"You ought to come out there. The city I represent is a smart one and
no mistake. Of course you've heard of the rivalry between Minneapolis
and St. Paul."

"Yes, sir."

"I don't take sides, for I live in both, but I think business
facilities in Minneapolis are greater. I think you are a boy who would
succeed at the West."

"I should like to go there some day. I own some property in Washington
Territory."

"You do?" exclaimed Paul Perkins, in great surprise. "Whereabouts?"

"In Tacoma. I own some lots there."

"Then let me tell you, my boy, that you will be a rich man."

"But I thought prices of land in Tacoma were small."

"So they are--at present; but it is the future terminus of the Northern
Pacific Railroad. When it is completed there will be a boom. How many
lots do you own?"

"Five."

"Take my advice and hold on to them. What square is this?"

They had reached Seventeenth Street.

"Union Square."

"It's a pretty place. Is Tiffany's near here?"

"Yes, sir; only two blocks away. We shall pass it."

"All right! Point it out to me. I'm going to buy a gold watch for
myself there. I've needed one for a long time, but I wanted the
satisfaction of buying one at Tiffany's. Anything that is sold there
must be A No. 1."

"I have no doubt of it, but I don't trade there much yet."

"No; you must wait till you have realized on your Western lots."

They turned down Fourteenth Street, and soon stood in front of Mr.
Fairchild's office. They entered, and this brings us to the point where
the last chapter ends.

CHAPTER XXI.

MR. PERKINS MAKES AN ACQUAINTANCE.

Dick Ralston and the bookkeeper stared at their Western friend in
undisguised amazement. Finally Mr. Mullins said, "What did I understand
you to call yourself?"

"Paul Perkins, of Minneapolis."

"And--you are staying at the Fifth Avenue Hotel?"

"Certainly. Didn't you send this boy with a message?" said Mr. Perkins,
rather impatient