ou know anything of Mr. Grey, who
used to be in business in this place?"

"I know a good deal of them--there were two."

"I know that, sir, but one died."

"Yes--it was John Grey."

"My father."

"Your father!" exclaimed the merchant, in astonishment.

"Yes, sir."

"But I thought John Grey's son died?"

"No, sir; that was a mistake. Can you tell me where my Uncle James
lives? I don't find his name in the directory."

"No; he moved away, after selling out the business to me. I was head
salesman in the establishment under the brothers Grey. Now the business
is mine."

"And you don't know where my uncle went?"

"He went to Minnesota, I think; but where, I cannot tell. I don't think
it was to St. Paul, or to any large place."

"How long ago was that, sir?"

"About five years since. But I always supposed John Grey's son was
lost. You have a strong family look, however."

"Do I?" asked Tom. "I don't remember my father."

"Where have you been all these years?"

"I will tell you, sir," said Tom, "if you have time to hear the story.
I didn't know who I was myself till a little while ago."

"Proceed. I am busy, but I have time to listen. Take a seat."

Tom told the story with which we are already familiar. Mr. Ferguson
listened with strong intent. When it was finished, he said:

"Young man, have you the confession of this Jacob with you?"

Tom drew it from his inner pocket, and submitted it to inspection. He
awaited the merchant's verdict.

"I recognize Jacob's handwriting," he said, at length. "He was a
fellow-clerk of mine. I remember, also, that he disappeared at the same
time with you. The story is a strange one, but I am inclined to think
it is true. What do you intend to do?"

"I want to find my uncle."

"I am afraid you will find that difficult. He has left no clew in this
city where he once lived. He sold out all his property, and has no
interest here."

"You think he went to Minnesota?"

"Yes; but I cannot tell where."

"I will go to Minnesota, then," said our hero. "Is it far off?"

"It is several hundred miles away, and a large place when you get
there. It costs money to travel. Are you well supplied?"

"I've got about fifteen dollars."

"Fifteen dollars!" repeated the merchant. "And you expect to undertake
such a task on that sum?"

"I'd like to have more money; but what's the use of waitin'? I ain't
gettin' richer."

"Have you any situation? Are you earning any money?"

"No