True, he was not a man who had succeeded, as men reckon success. He had lived comfortably, but it had never occurred to him to lay up money, nor indeed had he had any opportunity to do so. He mentioned this as an objection to the trip which he had himself proposed.

 

"My lad," he said, "I am afraid I can't go with you, after all."

 

"Why not, Luke?"

 

"Because you're rich, compared with me."

 

"I have but a hundred dollars."

 

"And I well, lad, I'm ashamed to say so, but I have only fifteen."

 

"We'll share and share alike, Luke."

 

"No, lad. Luke Robbins is too proud to live upon a boy. I reckon I'd better stay at home."

 

"But I want you to go and take care of me, Luke. How can I travel alone?"

 

Luke brightened up.

 

"That puts a different face on it, Ernest. If you think you need me, I'll go."

 

"I do need you."

 

"Then go I will; but one thing is understood--I won't take any of your money."

 

"There won't be any trouble on that score, Luke."

 

So the two prepared for their trip. Ernest, with Luke's help, purchased an outfit², and on the morning of the third day the two started out together, neither having a very definite idea where they were going except that their course was westward³.

 

Luke knew very little of the States and Territories that lay between Oak Forks and the Pacific coast. Ernest, whose education was decidedly superior to his companion's, was able to give him some information. So they plodded⁴ on, making slow progress, but enjoying the unconventional life, and the scenery on the way.

 

They were in no hurry. They stopped to hunt and fish, and when the weather was unfavorable they stayed overnight at some wayside cabin. When the nights were fine they camped out, and enjoyed a sound rest under the open

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