CHAPTER XL.
JOE'S WELCOME HOME On arriving in New York both Joe and Mr.Bickford bought new suits of clothes.

Mr.Bickford purchased a blue dress suit, resplendent with brass buttons, and a gold watch and chain, which made a good deal of show for the money.

His tastes were still barbaric, and a quiet suit of black would not have come up to his idea of what was befitting a successful California miner.
He surveyed himself before the tailor's glass with abundant satisfaction.
"I guess that'll strike 'em at home, eh, Joe ?" he said.
"You look splendid, Mr.Bickford." "Kinder scrumptious, don't I ?" "Decidedly so." "I say, Joe, you'd better have a suit made just like this." Joe shuddered at the thought.

In refinement of taste he was decidedly ahead of his friend and partner.
"I'm going to buy a second-hand suit," he said.
"What!" ejaculated Joshua.
Joe smiled.
"I knew you'd be surprised, but I'll explain.

I want people to think at first that I have been unlucky." "Oh, I see," said Joshua, nodding; "kinder take 'em in." "Just so, Mr.Bickford." "Well, there is something in that." "Then I shall find out who my true friends are." "Just so." * * * * * It is not my purpose to describe Mr.Bickford's arrival in Pumpkin Hollow, resplendent in his new suit.