"I know you are a good, industrious boy, Paul, and I don't know how we
should get along without you. But it is necessary for me to do my part,
though it is small."

"Don't be anxious, mother; I am sure we can get along."

"But I am not willing that the whole burden of supporting the family
should come upon you. Besides, you are not sure how long you can retain
your present employment."

"I know that, mother; but something else will be sure to turn up. If I
can't do anything else, I can turn bootblack, though I would prefer
something else. There is no chance of my being out of work long."

"There are fewer things for me to do," said his mother, "but perhaps you
can think of something. I shall go out this afternoon, and try my luck
once more. If I do not succeed, I will consult with you this evening."

"Suppose I tell you that I have work for you, enough to last for two or
three weeks, that will pay five times as well as the work you have been
doing; what would you say to that?" asked Paul, smiling.

"Are you in earnest, Paul?" asked his mother, very much surprised.

"Quite in earnest, mother. There's a gentleman up-town that wants a
dozen shirts made, and is willing to pay ten shillings apiece."

"Ten shillings! Why, that's a dollar and a quarter."