He stood in the doorway, waiting for recognition.
"How do you do, Joe ?" said Major Norton cordially.

"I am glad to see you." Joe's face lighted up.
"Thank you, sir," he said.
"Shake hands, Joe." Major Norton was mean in money matters, but he had something of the gentleman about him.
Oscar held aloof.
"How do you do, Oscar ?" "I'm well," said Oscar.

"Have you been to California ?" "Yes." "You don't seem to have made your fortune," said Oscar superciliously, eying Joe's shabby clothing.
"I haven't starved," said Joe.
"Where did you get that suit of clothes ?" asked Oscar.
"I hope you'll excuse my appearance," said Joe.
"Well, Joe, do you want to come back to your old place ?" asked Major Norton.

"I've got a boy, but he doesn't suit me." "How much would you be willing to pay me, Major Norton ?" The major coughed.
"Well," said he, "I gave you your board and clothes before.

That's pretty good pay for a boy." "I'm older now." "I'll do the same by you, Joe, and give you fifty cents a week besides." "Thank you for the offer, Major Norton.