"I suppose Wayneboro is rather dull for you after living in the
city," he remarked.

"I should say so. This village is a dull hole, and yet father
expects me to stay here cooped up in a little country store. I won't
stay here long, you may be sure of that."

"Where will you go?"

"I don't know yet. I want to go to California, but I can't unless
the old man comes down with the requisite amount of tin. You'll soon
have your situation back again. I won't stand in your way."

"I'm not very particular about going back," said Herbert, "but I
must find something to do."

"Just so!" said Eben. "The place will do well enough for a boy like
you, but I am a young man, and entitled to look higher. By the way,
I've got something in view that may bring me in five thousand
dollars within a month."

Herbert stared at his companion in surprise, not knowing any short
cut to wealth.

"Do you mean it?" he asked, incredulously.

"Yes," said Eben.

"I suppose you don't care to tell what it is?"