I have no money; and if I can pay you in labor, I will be glad to do
so."

"I don't know that I could ask more than that," replied the grocer.
"If I did, I would be unreasonable. Let me see: I reckon I could
find a day's work for you about the store at least once a week, for
which I would allow you a credit of one dollar and a quarter. How
would that do?"

"It would be exactly what I would like. I can spare you a day
easily. And it is much better to work out an old debt than to be
idle."

"Very well, Gordon. Come to-morrow and work for me, and I will pass
a dollar and a quarter to your account. I like this. It shows you
are an honest man. Never fear but what you'll get along."

The approving words of the grocer encouraged Gordon very much. On
the next day he went as he had agreed and worked for Mr. Blake. When
he was about leaving the store at night, Blake called to him and
said--

"Here, Gordon; stop a moment. I want you to put up a pound of this
white crushed sugar; and a quarter of young hyson tea."

Gordon did as he was directed. Blake took the two packages from the
counter, and handing them to Gordon, said--

"Take them to your wife with my compliments, and tell her that I
wish her joy of an honest husband."