"I own five lots of land there," answered Chester.

 

"Then I congratulate you. Lots are rising there, and are destined¹ to go to a still higher point."

 

"How do you account for that?" asked Prof. Hazlitt.

 

"In three months the Northern Pacific Railroad will be completed, and that will give a great impetus² to the growth of the town. I expect to live to see fifty thousand people there. Let me ask how you became possessed³ of these lots?"

 

"They were given to me by a friend now dead."

 

"What was his name?"

 

"Walter Bruce."

 

"Indeed! Why, I own three lots adjoining the Bruce lots. They are among the best located in the town."

 

"Would you advise me to keep them or sell if I have the chance?"

 

"To keep them, by all means. I shall keep mine. If, however, you wish to sell, I will myself pay you five hundred dollars each."

 

"Then I may consider myself worth twenty-five hundred dollars," said Chester, in a tone of satisfaction.

 

"Yes, and more if you are willing to wait."

 

"I think Mr. Bruce only gave twenty-five dollars apiece for them."

 

"Very likely. Mine only cost thirty dollars each."

 

"I shall begin to look upon you as a rich man, Chester," said Arthur Burks.

 

"Only a rich boy," corrected Chester, laughing. "I haven't begun to shave yet."

 

"I think I shall commence next week," remarked Arthur, rubbing his cheek vigorously.

 

"Since you own property in our neighborhood, Mr. Rand," said Prof. Nugent, "why don't you make us a visit?"

 

"I hope to some day when I can afford it," replied Chester, "but I didn't know till you told me just now that my lots were worth more than a trifle."

 

"If ever you do come, don't forget to call on me at the university. It is located in Salem, Oregon. I may be able to take a trip to Tacoma with you."

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