of a tolling bell had fallen sadly upon his ear, and he had looked
into a grave where they laid his mother to her last dreamless rest. A
prevailing fever had effected what the fancied ailments of years had
failed to do, and Billy Bender was now an orphan, and alone in the
wide world. He knew that he had his own fortune to make, and after
settling his mother's affairs and finding there was nothing left for
him, he had come to the city, and on the morning which we have
mentioned went forth alone to look for employment, with no other
recommendation than the frank, honest expression of his handsome face.
It was rather discouraging, wearisome work, and Billy's heart began to
misgive him as one after another refused his request.

"It was foolish in me to attempt it," thought he, as he stopped once
more in front of a large wholesale establishment on M---- street.

Just then his eye caught the sign on which was lettered, "R.J. Selden
& Co." The name sounded familiar, and something whispered to him to
enter. He did so, and meeting in the doorway a tall, elegant-looking
young man, he asked for Mr. Selden.

"My uncle," returned the gentleman, who was none other than George
Moreland, "has not yet come down, but perhaps I can answer your
purpose just as well. Do you wish to purchase goods?"

Billy, thinking that every one must know his poverty, fancied there
was something satirical in the question, but he was mistaken; the
manner was natural to the speaker, who, as Billy made no direct reply,
again asked. "What would you like, sir?"

"Something to do, for I have neither money nor home," was Billy's