y, they found that the snow had
stopped coming down, and that the sun was shining brightly. They had
an early breakfast, and then, after settling with Mr. Pearsall, who
did not wish cash, but took goods his wife desired instead, they set
off for Pittston, which was scarcely half a mile distant.

Billy had had a good rest, and the city mentioned above was reached in
a short while. Here they arranged for an extra horse, that was hitched
up in front of their own. In this manner they started for Scranton
with more confidence.

The road was as rocky and uneven as before, but it being bright and
clear, they were enabled to avoid hollows with ease. They stopped at
Taylor for dinner, and arrived in Scranton an hour before nightfall,
tired out, but happy to think that their journey, for the balance of
the week at least, was over.

As soon as they had settled in a vacant store Matt left Andy in charge
and hurried to the post-office, to look for a letter from Ida
Bartlett. He was not disappointed; the letter was there, and he read
it with deep interest.

"Since receiving your letter," she wrote, "I have been watching Mr.
Fenton closely, and I am satisfied that he is much disturbed over the
fact that Mr. Gaston has left his employ and that he was threatened
with exposure. I have also taken the liberty to write to Mr. Gaston,
but have, as yet, received no reply. Will write again as soon as he
answers. It is a pity you cannot find out what became of your poor
father and the papers."

CHAPTER XXXVII.

MORE OF AUCTION LIFE.

"Yes, I would give every cent I am worth, and more, to learn what did
become of father," said Matt to Andy, after he had allowed his partner
to peruse the letter.

"I have no doubt you would, Matt," returned Andy feelingly. "I can
imagine how much it worries you--not knowing if he is dead or alive.
But you must keep a stout heart and trust to the future to clear up
the mystery."

"I'm trying to do that, but, Andy, it's hard work," and Matt's
handsome face took on an unusually sober look.

Knowing that nothing could be gained by discussing the matter, which
had been talked over a score of times previously, Andy changed the
subject. Business had opened very well, and he wished to go out and
have some circulars printed, by which even a larger crowd might be
attracted to the sale.

It remained clear for two days, and during that time both of the
young auctioneers were kept busy from eight o'cloc