grown," said Joe good-naturedly.

"All right. I'll tell 'em to be sure and have it ready in two or
three years."

"That will be soon enough. You'd better order some for yourself at
the same time."

"Oh, I get in hot water every day."

The freckle-faced boy disappeared, and Joe sat down on the bed, to
reflect a little on his position and plans.

So here he was in New York, and on the way to California, too--that
is, he hoped so. How much can happen in a little while. Three days
before he had not dreamed of any change in his position.

"I hope I shan't have to go back again to Oakville. I won't go
unless I am obliged to," he determined.

He washed his hands and face, and went down-stairs. He found that
dinner was just ready. It was not a luxurious meal, but, compared
with the major's rather frugal table, there was great variety and
luxury. Joe did justice to it.

"Folks live better in the city than they do in the country," he
thought; "but, then, they have to pay for it. A dollar a day! Why,
that would make three hundred and sixty-five dollars a year!"

This to Joe seemed a very extravagant sum to spend on one person's