which possesses one of the most productive mines in the world. It's
sure to yield fifty per cent. on the investment. Now, all you have
to do is to sell out your Erie shares, and invest in our stock, and
I'll insure you a fortune in three years. How many shares did you
say you had?"

"I didn't say, that I remember," said Dick. "Your offer is very kind
and obligin', and as soon as I get time I'll see about it."

"I hope you will," said the stranger. "Permit me to give you my
card. 'Samuel Snap, No. -- Wall Street.' I shall be most happy to
receive a call from you, and exhibit the maps of our mine. I should
be glad to have you mention the matter also to your friends. I am
confident you could do no greater service than to induce them to
embark in our enterprise."

"Very good," said Dick.

Here the stranger left the table, and walked up to the desk to
settle his bill.

"You see what it is to be a man of fortun', Frank," said Dick, "and
wear good clothes. I wonder what that chap'll say when he sees me
blackin' boots to-morrow in the street?"

"Perhaps you earn your money more honorably than he does, after
all," said Frank. "Some of these mining companies are nothing but
swindles, got up to cheat people out of their money."

"He's welcome to all he gets out of me," said Dick.