I am bound to say that as regards this business his trip might be pronounced a failure. There was little ready money in Jackson. Many of the people were tenants² of Mr. Percival, and found it difficult to pay the excessive rents demanded by his agent. Of course, they had no money to spare for extras. Even if they had been better off, there was little demand for stationery³ in the village. The people were chiefly farmers, and did not indulge in much correspondence.

 

When Frank returned to his boarding place on the afternoon of the first day, Mr. Hamlin asked him, not without solicitude⁴, with what luck he had met.

 

"I have sold twenty-five cents' worth of note paper," answered Frank, with a smile.

 

Mr. Hamlin looked troubled.

 

"How many places did you call at?" he inquired.

 

"About a dozen."

 

"I am afraid you will get discouraged."

 

"If you don't do better, you won't begin to pay expenses."

 

"That is true."

 

"But perhaps you may do better to-morrow."

 

"I hope so."

 

"I wish you could find something in Jackson that would induce you to remain here permanently⁵, and make your home with us. I would charge you only the bare cost of board."

 

"Thank you very much, Mr. Hamlin. I should enjoy being with you, but I don't believe I shall find any opening here. Besides, I like a more stirring life."

 

"No doubt—no doubt! Boys like a lively place. Well, I am glad you feel independent of your business."

 

"For a little time. I am afraid it wouldn't do for me to earn so little for any length of time."

 

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