He said that he hoped by-gones would be by-gones; that he had been a wild boy, but that a career now opened upon him of which he hoped to prove worthy.
"There was a time, Uncle Lawrence," he said, "when I despised your warning; now I thank you for it." Lawrence held out his hand to his nephew: "Honesty is the best policy, at least, if nothing more," he said, smiling.

"You have a chance; I hope, with all my heart, you will use it well." There was little more to say, and of that little Gabriel said nothing.
Abel spoke of public affairs; and after a short time he took leave.
"Can the leopard change his spots ?" said Gabriel, looking at the senior partner.
"A bad man may become better," was all the answer; and the two merchants were busy again.
Returning to Wall Street, the Honorable Abel Newt met Mr.President Van Boozenberg.

They shook hands, and the old gentleman said, warmly, "I see ye goin' into your Uncle Lawrence's a while ago, as I was comin' along South Street.

Mr.Abel, Sir, I congratilate ee, Sir.

I've read your speech, and I sez to ma, sez I, I'd no idee of it; none at all.