I can get it soon if I do not have to pay money to the padrone." As may be inferred, Phil did not expect to return home in style.

A first-class ticket on a Cunarder was far above his expectations.

He would be content to go by steerage all the way, and that could probably be done for the sum he named.

So his sadness was but brief, and be soon became hopeful again.
He was aroused from his thoughts of home by a hand laid familiarly on his shoulder.

Turning, he saw a bootblack, whose adventures have been chronicled in the volume called "Ragged Dick." They had become acquainted some three months before, Dick having acted as a protector to Phil against some rough boys of his own class.
"Been buyin' stocks ?" asked Dick.
"I don't know what they are," said Phil, innocently.
"You're a green one," said Dick.