were examining him with equal interest.

"They are not unlike our boys of a similar grade, but seem sharper and
more intelligent," he said. "But surely," pointing to Rodney, "that boy
is not one of the--Arabs. Why, he looks like a young gentleman."

"He is a new comer. He only appeared tonight."

"He must have a history. May I speak with him?"

"By all means. Rodney, this gentleman would like to talk with you."

Rodney came forward with the ease of a boy who was accustomed to good
society, and said: "I shall be very happy to speak with him."



CHAPTER VIII.


RODNEY FINDS A PLACE.


"Surely," said the Englishman, "you were not brought up in the street?"

"Oh, no," answered Rodney, "I was more fortunate."

"Then how does it happen that I find you here--among the needy boys of
the city?"