Part 11 (2/2)

However, those old days are over.”

The next day and the two following Rodney went about the city making application for positions, but every place seemed full.

On the third day Mr. Woods said, ”I shall have to leave you for a week or more, Rodney.”

”Where are you going?”

”To Philadelphia. There's a man there who is a capitalist and likes land investments. I am going to visit him, and hope to sell him several lots.

He once lived in this city, so he won't object to New York investments.”

”I hope you will succeed, Mr. Woods. I think if you are going away I had better give up the room, and find cheaper accommodations. I am getting near the end of my money.”

”You are right. It is best to be prudent.”

That evening Rodney found a room which he could rent for two dollars a week. He estimated that by economy he could get along for fifty cents a day for his eating, and that would be a decided saving.

He was just leaving the house the next morning, gripsack in hand, when on the steps he met Louis Wheeler, his acquaintance of the train.

”Where are you going?” asked Wheeler.

”I am leaving this house. I have hired a room elsewhere.”

Wheeler's countenance fell, and he looked dismayed.

”Why, I have just taken a room here for a week,” he said.

”You will find it a good place.”

”But--I wouldn't have come here if I hadn't thought I should have company.”

”I ought to feel complimented.”

Rodney was convinced that Wheeler had come in the hopes of stealing the casket of jewels a second time, and he felt amused at the fellow's discomfiture.

”You haven't got your jewel box with you?”

”No, I can take that another time.”

”Then it's still in the house,” thought Wheeler with satisfaction. ”It won't be my fault if I don't get it in my hands. Well, good morning,” he said. ”Come around and call on me.”

”Thank you!”

CHAPTER VII.

AT THE NEWSBOY'S LODGING HOUSE.

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