"It is not death. I haven't any 'folks.' I'm alone in the world.
It's because I've lost my property and am too poor to remain in school."

"That's too bad," said the driver in a tone of sympathy. "Where are you
goin'?"

"To the city."

"Are you goin' to work?"

"Yes, I shall have to."

"If you was a little older you might get a chance to drive a street car,
but I s'pose you're too young."

"Yes, I don't think they would take me."

"I've thought sometimes I should like such a chance myself," said Joel.
"I've got tired of the country. I should like to live in the city where
there's theaters, and shows, and such like. Do you know what the drivers
on street cars get?"

"No, I never heard."

"I wish you'd find out and let me know. You can send the letter to Joel
Phipps, Groveton. Then find out if it's easy to get such a chance."

"I will. I shall be glad to oblige you."