"You have certainly done well," said Carl, respectfully.

"Well, I'm no slouch, if I do say it myself."

"I don't wonder your income pays the expenses of your vacation trip."

"It ought to, that's a fact, though I'm rather free handed and like to
spend money. My prospects are pretty good in another direction. Old Fred
Brandes has a handsome daughter, who thinks considerable of your humble
servant."

"Do you think there is any chance of marrying her?" asked Carl, with
interest.

"I think my chance is pretty good, as the girl won't look at anybody
else."

"Is Mr. Brandes wealthy?"

"Yes, the old man's pretty well fixed, worth nearly half a million, I
guess."

"Perhaps he will take you into the firm," suggested Carl.

"Very likely. That's what I'm working for."

"At any rate, you ought to save something out of your salary."

"I ought, but I haven't. The fact is, Carl," said Chauncy Hubbard, in a
burst of confidence, "I have a great mind to make a confession to you."