reeable acquaintances. An unsociable traveler
misses many of the profitable results of his journey, besides finding
time hang heavily on his hands.

Just after leaving Bismarck, in North Dakota, Chester's attention was
called to an old man, whose white hair and wrinkled face indicated that
he had passed the age of seventy years.

The conductor came through the car, collecting tickets. The old man
searched for his, and an expression of dismay overspread his face.

"I can't find my ticket," he said.

"That is unfortunate. Where did you come from?"

"From Buffalo."

"When did you last see your ticket?"

"I stopped over one night in Bismarck, and had to share my room with a
young man, for the hotel was crowded. I think he must have picked my
pocket of the ticket."

"Did you know the ticket was missing when you boarded the train?"

"No, sir. I did not think to look."

"Your case is unfortunate. How far are you going?"

"To Tacoma. I have a son there."

"I am afraid you will have to pay the fare from here. I have no
discretion in the matter, and cannot allow you to ride without a
ticket."

"Don't you believe my ticket was stolen?" asked the old man, in a state
of nervous agitation.

"Yes, I believe it. I don't think a man of your age would deceive me.
But I cannot let you travel without paying for another."

"I haven't money enough," said the old man, piteously. "If you will
wait till I reach Tacoma my son will give me money to pay you."

"I am not allowed to do that. I think you will have to get out at the
next station."

The old man was much agitated.

"It is very hard," he sighed. "I--I don't know what to do."

Chester had listened to this conversation with great sympathy for the
unfortunate traveler, on account of his age and apparent helplessness.

"How much is the fare to Tacoma from this point?" he asked.

"In the neighborhood of fifty dollars," answered the conductor.

"Will your son be able to pay this?" asked Chester.

"Oh, yes," answered the old man. "William has been doin' well. He is
going to build a large hotel in Tacoma--he and another man."

"Then," said Chester, "I will advance you what money you need. You can
give me a memorandum, so that I can collect it from your son."

"Heaven bless you, young man!" said the old man, fervently. "You are
indeed a friend to me who am but a stranger. I am sure you will
prosper."

"Thank you."

"What a fellow you are, Chester!" said Edward.