"It seems, my boy, that you are already acquainted with my daughter and grandson." "Yes, sir.

I was fortunate enough to meet them to-day." "You relieved my daughter from some embarrassment." "I am glad to have had the opportunity, sir." Frank's manner was easy and self-possessed, and it was evident that Mr.
Percival was favorably impressed by him.
"Take a seat," he said, "while I ask you a few questions." Frank bowed and obeyed.
"Let me sit in your lap, Frank," said Freddie.
Our hero took the little boy in his lap.
With Freddie, it was certainly a case of friendship at first sight.
"Won't he trouble you ?" asked his grandfather.
"No, sir.

I like young children." Mr.Percival now proceeded to interrogate Frank.
"Your name is Frank Courtney.

Have you been long in the city ?" "No, sir; only a few weeks." "What led you to come here ?" "I wished to earn my living." "What that necessary?
You do not look like a poor boy." "I was brought up to consider myself rich," said Frank.
"Indeed! Did you lose your property ?" "Perhaps I had better tell you how it happened, sir." "If you don't object, I should be glad to hear." Frank gave a brief statement of his position, and the circumstances that led him to leave his home and go out into the world.
Mr.Percival listened thoughtfully.
"It is a singular story," he said, after a pause.

"Your stepfather's in Europe, then ?" "Yes, sir; at least he sailed for Europe." "Have you heard from him ?" "No, sir." "Do you expect to hear ?" "I think not." "He can't feel much interest in you." "I don't think he does," answered Frank.