the passage, and was soon at the top of the stairs.

Again the little woman paused, for the number of names over doors seemed
to confuse her. Just across the passage in front of her, however, she
read over a half-glass door, and in large gilt letters, "Topman and
Gusher, General Commission Business." And just below, and across the
panes of ground glass, were the significant and attractive words: "Kidd
Discovery Company. Capital $150,000. Luke Topman, President. Philo
Gusher, Corresponding Secretary."

The little woman advanced and knocked timidly at the door, which was
opened by a nicely-clad and polite youth, whose business seemed to be to
admit customers. The little woman bowed and returned the young man's
salutation.

"A lady visitor, Mr. Gusher!" said the young man, motioning the lady to
enter. "That is Mr. Gusher, madam; junior partner of the firm."

A polished mahogany railing separated the vulgar customer from the
highly dignified looking clerks inside. Indeed, there was an air of
elegance about the establishment that somewhat surprised the little
woman at first, and caused her some embarrassment.

"Ah, madam; pardon! pardon!" said Mr. Gusher, rising from his desk at
the announcement and advancing to the railing. "I shall do myself ze
pleazure, and ze honor of receiving such commands as you shall confide
to ze firm," he continued, smiling and bowing gracefully.

"A little investment," returned the visitor, nervously. "I have a little
money, left by my husband, who is at sea. I have no immediate use for