imprudent; it would be politic to let the
boy introduce himself. I made all inquiries in my power, however, and
ascertained that Simon Fluke is a bachelor, reputed to be rich, and has
a flourishing business as a ship's chandler. As to his character, all I
can learn is, that he is looked upon as a man of honour and credit in
his business, although of somewhat eccentric habits. In regard to his
private character I could gain no information; he may be as hard-hearted
as a rock, or kind and generous. I went to his place of business in the
hopes of having the opportunity of forming an opinion for myself, but I
failed to see him, and therefore had to come away as wise as I went."

"What step do you advise us to take next?" asked the farmer.

"Send him up at once, and let him present himself at Simon Fluke's--say
who he is, that his parents are dead, and that he wishes for employment.
Do not let him appear like a beggar asking for alms; he will succeed
best by exhibiting an independent spirit, and showing that he is ready
to do any work which is given to him. We know he is quick, intelligent,
writes a beautiful hand, and has as good a head on his shoulders as many
a much older person."

"But surely we cannot send the boy up by himself," urged Mrs Rowe; "and
you, I suppose, cannot go again! David?"

"I'll go with him, mother," said John, the eldest son, "and willingly
bear the charge, for I should be glad to get a chance of seeing the big
city. If Simon Fluke were to refuse to receive young Owen, what would
become of the boy? I have heard of dreadful things happening to lads in
London, especially when they have no friends to care for them."

And so it was settled. John undertook to start the very next morning,
if Owen was willing to go.

Owen, who had been out in the garden making himself useful, now came in.
David gave him the information he had obtained, and inquired whether he
wished to pay a visit to his supposed relative?

"If he is likely to give me something to do, I am willing to go and ask
him," answered Owen.

"There is nothing like trying, and you can lose little by asking for
it," observed David.

Susan had prepared Owen's wardrobe to the best of her ability, so that
he was ready the next morning to start with John Rowe. They duly
reached the great city, and John and Owen managed to find their way to
Wapping. They walked about for some time, making inquiries for Paul
Kelson, Fluke and Company, w