affair. And I am very glad he did so."

"Yes, sir."

"Walter tells me you are a great lover of animals, especially horses."

"I am more fond of them, sir, than of anything else in the world, save
my mother," answered the boy, his eyes growing bright.

"And he also has told me about this new club of which I most heartily
approve. It will be an excellent thing for Walter. But of course you
will not he able to go out with the boys, not having a pony of your
own."

"No, sir," answered Tad in a firm voice.

"I take it you would be very happy to be able to join them on their
outings?"

"Indeed I should, Mr. Perkins."

"Well," glowed the banker, "at Walter's suggestion I have arranged it
so that in the future you shall not be denied this pleasure. Do you
happen to know where there are any ponies for sale at this moment?"

"Yes, sir. They have several at the McCormick farm about three miles
from town. They are very fine ponies, too, sir. One of them, I think,
would make an excellent mate for Jo-Jo, if you are considering getting
another one for Walter to drive or ride."