gratify his longings.

Late that same afternoon, on his way driving out to deliver a package
of goods to a summer residence just outside the town, he came upon
Walter and Ned, returning on their ponies from a short jaunt into the
country.

The two boys hailed him joyously.

Tad grinned and waved his hand.

"Hello! Aren't you going to stop to tali with a fellow?" called Ned,
as the riders came abreast of the grocery horse and pulled up.

Tad shook his head.

"Oh, come on; hold up a minute."

"Can't. I'm on business, you know," answered the boy, smiling
pleasantly. "I am working all day to-day for Mr. Langdon, and I
mustn't stop. I have a lot of goods to deliver before night."

"Then what do you say to our riding out and back with him, Walt?"
suggested Ned.

"All right. I guess we shall have plenty of time to do that and get
back for supper. Tad won't stay long. He's in too big a hurry,"
answered the banker's son, bringing his pony about, and galloping up
beside the wagon, which had continued on its way during the
conversation.