six the porter came in with Frank's trunk. He had by this time lit
a fire, and while the water was boiling got some of his things out
of the box, and by hanging some clothes on the pegs on the back
of the door, and by putting the two or three favorite books he had
brought with him on to the mantelpiece, he gave the room a more
homelike appearance. He enjoyed his tea all the more from the
novelty of having to prepare it himself, and succeeded very fairly
for a first attempt with his bacon.

When tea was over he first washed up the things and then started for
a ramble. He followed the broad straight road to Waterloo Bridge,
stood for a long time looking at the river, and then crossed into
the Strand. The lamps were now alight and the brightness and bustle
of the scene greatly interested him. At nine o'clock he returned
to his lodgings, but was again obliged to sally out, as he found
he had forgotten candles.

After breakfast next morning he went out and bought a newspaper,
and set himself to work to study the advertisements. He was dismayed
to find how many more applicants there were for places than places
requiring to be filled. All the persons advertising were older than
himself, and seemed to possess various accomplishments in the way
of languages; many too could be strongly recommended from their
last situation. The prospect did not look hopeful. In the first
place he had looked to see if any required boy clerks, but this
species of assistant appeared little in demand; and then, although
he hoped that it would not come to that, he ran his eye down the
columns to see if any required errand boys or lads in manufacturing
businesses. He found, however, no such advertisements. However, as
he said to himself, it could not be expected that he should find a