"It was providential, your seeing the rock," he said to the engineer.
"We owe our lives to you."

"You do me more than justice," replied the engineer. "It was not I who
saved the train, but that boy."

All eyes were turned upon Robert, who, unused to being the center of so
many glances, blushed and seemed disposed to withdraw.

"How is that?" inquired the merchant.

"He saw the obstruction, and tried to remove it, but, not being able to
do so, took his station on the rock, and, at the risk of his own life,
drew my attention, and saved the train."

"It was a noble act, my boy; what is your name?"

"Robert Rushton."

"It is a name that we shall all have cause to remember. Gentlemen,"
continued the merchant, turning to the group around him, "you see before
you the preserver of your lives. Shall his act go unrewarded?"

"No, no!" was the general exclamation.

"I don't want any reward," said Robert, modestly. "Any boy would have
done as much."

"I don't know about that, my young friend. There are not many boys, or