umble himself to save his place.

"I beg your pardon, sir," he said in a composed tone. "If I had known
who you were I wouldn't have spoken as I did."

"I had a claim to be treated like a gentleman, even if I had no
connection with the road," he said.

"If you say the boy's all right, I won't interfere with him," continued
the conductor.

"My testimony would clear him from any charge that might be brought
against him," said the president. "I saw him enter the car, and know he
has had no opportunity to take the ring."

"If he'll give me back the ring, that's all I want," said the young
lady.

"That I am willing to do, though I lose five dollars by it," said
Philip.

"Do so, my boy," said the president. "I take it for granted that the
young lady's claim is a just one."

Upon this Philip drew the ring from his finger and handed it to the
young lady, who went back to the car where her friends were sitting.

"I hope, sir," said the conductor anxiously, "that you won't be
prejudiced against me on account of this affair."

"I am sorry to say that I can't help feeling prejudiced against you,"
returned the president dryly; "but I won't allow this feeling to injure
you if, upon inquiring, I find that you are otherwise an efficient
officer."

"Thank you, sir."

"I am glad that my presence has saved this boy from being the victim of
an injustice. Let this be a lesson to you in future."

The conductor walked away, looking quite chop-fallen, and Philip turned
to his new friend.

"I am very much indebted to you, sir," he said. "But for you I should
have found myself in serious trouble."

"I am glad to have prevented an injustice, my lad. I am sorry I could
not save you from loss also. That enterprising rogue has gone off with
five dollars belonging to you. I hope the loss will not be a serious one
to you."

"It was more than a third part of my capital, sir," said Phil, rather
ruefully.

"I am sorry for that. I suppose, however, you are not dependent upon
your own resources?"

"Yes, sir, I am."

"Have you no parents, then?" asked Mr. Grant, with interest.

"No, sir; that is, I have a step-mother."

"And what are your plans, if you are willing to tell me?"

"I am going to New York to try to make a living."

"I cannot commend your plan, my young friend, unless there is a good
reason for it."

"I think there is a good reason for it, sir."

"I hope you have not run away from home?"

"No, sir; I left h