be a turning-point, and to mark the beginning of a new chapter of
experiences. Was it to be for good or ill? That we are not prepared
to reveal. It will be necessary for the reader to follow his career,
step by step, and decide for himself.

Of course, Luke had no thought of this when he set out. To him it
had been a marked day on account of the skating match, but this
had turned out a disappointment. He accomplished his errand, which
occupied a considerable time, and then set out on his return. It was
half-past eight, but the moon had risen and diffused a mild radiance
over the landscape. Luke thought he would shorten his homeward way
by taking a path through the woods. It was not over a quarter of a
mile, but would shorten the distance by as much more. The trees were
not close together, so that it was light enough to see. Luke had
nearly reached the edge of the wood, when he overtook a tall man,
a stranger in the neighborhood, who carried in his hand a tin box.
Turning, he eyed Luke sharply.

"Boy, what's your name?" he asked.

"Luke Larkin," our hero answered, in surprise.

"Where do you live?"

"In the village yonder."

"Will you do me a favor?"

"What is it, sir?"