the responsibility?"

"Gladly."

"Then that is settled. This arrangement will be in force for sixty days.
If, at the end of that time your father is no better, I do not doubt
that we will give you the regular appointment, if in the meantime you
fill the bill acceptably."

"I shall do my best."

"And I believe you will succeed. I like you, Stirling," said Mr. Leslie
frankly, "and I am greatly pleased at the way you have stood in the
breach at a critical time, and protected the company's interests. You
will continue to draw fifty-five dollars a month, and use your judgment
in incurring any expense necessary to keep things running smoothly until
we get a new express office built. What is in the safe?"

Bart was familiar with its contents. He itemized them, including some
fifty unclaimed parcels of small bulk that had accumulated during the
year.

"Get rid of all that stuff," ordered the superintendent briskly. "I
shall advise all the small offices in this division to ship in all their
uncalled-for matter. Advertise a sale, make your returns to the company,
and start with a new sheet. I think that is all there is any need of
discussing at present, but I will send instructions by wire or mail as
the occasion comes up. Count me your friend as long as you show the true
manhood you have displayed to-day in a situation that would have rattled
and frightened most boys--and grown men, too. Good-by."